Valve Actuator Coupling With Rotational Lock for Tool-Free Assembly
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing valve technologies face challenges in efficiently connecting valve rods to drive elements without the need for additional tools and counter-holding, leading to complex assembly processes and limited rotational freedom, which complicates the use of uniform actuators for various valve types and sizes.
Innovation Solution
A valve drive system with a drive element that can be translated and rotated within a housing, featuring interlocking contours that engage perpendicularly to the actuating axis, allowing easy assembly and disassembly without tools, and enabling a uniform interface for different valve bodies through intermeshing threads and intermediate bodies.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the drive element is fixed to block rotation during assembly, then assembly is simplified, but rotational freedom is lost during operation
Solution Approach 1:
The locking mechanism transitions from a static blocked state during assembly to a dynamic unlocked state during operation. The drive element is designed with rotational freedom that can be activated when needed, allowing the system to adapt its degree of freedom based on the operational phase.
Solution Approach 2:
The drive element is pre-configured with the capability for rotational movement but this capability is temporarily restrained during assembly to simplify the assembly process. The restriction is removed after assembly is complete, allowing the preliminary action to serve its purpose without permanently limiting operational flexibility.
2Reliability
If additional tools and counter-holding are required for assembly, then connection security is improved, but assembly complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The drive element incorporates a self-locking mechanism that automatically secures the valve rod connection without requiring external tools or counter-holding devices. The design enables the component to perform its own securing function, eliminating the need for additional assembly aids.
Solution Approach 2:
A controllable locking mechanism serves as an intermediary between the drive element and the valve rod, providing secure connection during assembly while allowing controlled release during operation. This intermediary component mediates between the need for secure assembly and operational flexibility.
3Adaptability or versatility
If uniform interfaces are used for different valve types, then adaptability is improved, but manufacturing precision requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The drive element is designed with a universal interface that can accommodate multiple valve types and sizes through a standardized connection mechanism. This universal design allows the same actuator to perform multiple functions across different valve applications.
Solution Approach 2:
The interface design incorporates adjustable parameters such as modular components or variable positioning features that allow the uniform interface to adapt to different valve specifications. By changing certain parameters within the interface design, the system maintains precision while achieving broad compatibility.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Facilitates quick and tool-free connection of valve rods to drive elements, supports modular configuration of valve devices with identical parts, reducing production costs and enhancing the actuator's versatility for multiple valve types and sizes.
Implementation Method 1
a compression spring supported on the drive housing presses the drive element in the direction of the contour fixed to the drive housing
Data Source
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AI summary
A valve actuator (1) comprising an actuator housing (10) and an actuator element (12), in particular a pneumatic piston or a control diaphragm, movably mounted within the actuator housing (10) is provided. In an assembly state of the valve actuator (1), at least a first contour (314) of the actuator element (12) engages with at least a second contour (316) fixed to the actuator housing (10), such that rotation of the actuator element (12) about an actuating axis (310) is blocked in at least one direction of rotation.