Valve Actuator Sliding Ring Locking Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing valve actuation devices are difficult to handle, requiring complex assembly and disassembly processes, and lack secure locking mechanisms to prevent unauthorized access or easy removal.
Innovation Solution
The device incorporates elastically deformable retaining and latching hooks that engage with an adapter, assisted by a sliding ring mechanism, allowing for easy assembly and secure locking without specialized tools, and simple disassembly by hand.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a complex locking mechanism with multiple components is used to secure the housing to the adapter, then the security against unauthorized access is improved, but the assembly and disassembly process becomes more difficult and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The locking mechanism is segmented into multiple independent rod-like latching hooks that can be actuated individually or collectively. Each hook functions as an independent locking element that can engage or disengage from the adapter, allowing the system to provide secure locking while enabling simplified operation through individual hook actuation.
Solution Approach 2:
The latching hooks are designed to be movable rather than fixed, allowing them to transition between engaged and disengaged states. This dynamic capability enables the housing to be securely locked during operation while allowing quick release when needed, resolving the contradiction between security and ease of operation.
2Reliability
If specialized tools are required for disassembly to ensure security, then protection against unauthorized access is improved, but the ease of repair and maintenance deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The locking mechanism is designed to be self-actuating through the sliding ring component. The sliding ring, when moved along the rods, automatically actuates all latching hooks simultaneously to engage or disengage. This self-service mechanism eliminates the need for specialized tools while maintaining security, as the same user-operated sliding ring controls both the locked and unlocked states.
3Reliability
If multiple latching hooks are used to secure the housing, then the locking reliability is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple latching hooks are merged into a unified control system through the sliding ring mechanism. Instead of requiring separate actuators for each hook, a single sliding ring component controls all hooks simultaneously. This merging approach maintains high locking reliability through multiple engagement points while reducing operational complexity by providing centralized control.
Solution Approach 2:
The sliding ring serves multiple functions: it acts as a control lever for actuating the latching hooks, provides structural support for the housing, and serves as a user interface for both locking and unlocking operations. This multi-functionality reduces the need for additional specialized components, thereby reducing overall device complexity while maintaining reliable locking.
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
Enables straightforward assembly and secure attachment to valves without additional actuation, while allowing easy disassembly by hand, enhancing user convenience and security.
Implementation Method 1
at least two rod-like retaining hooks offset from one another in the circumferential direction, which are arranged pivotably on the housing and run parallel to the axis of the same and, in the locking position, also engage in the groove-like depression of the adapter with projections attached to their ends
Implementation Method 2
on the outside on the housing is fitted with a sliding ring, which is adjustable in the axial direction and surrounds the snap-in hooks and the retaining hooks, which is made of elastically deformable material
Data Source
AI summary
A device for actuating a valve is described, the valve having a spring-loaded plunger adjustable in its axial direction between an open position and a closed position. The device comprises a housing that, in its working position, is fixed to an adapter connected to the valve. The housing contains an actuating element coupled to the valve plunger in its working position and at least two circumferentially offset, rod-like locking hooks (16) that, in the locked position, engage with projections at their ends in a groove-like recess (9) of the adapter (7). The housing also contains at least two circumferentially offset, rod-like retaining hooks (19) that are pivotably mounted on the housing and, in the locked position, also engage with projections at their ends in the groove-like recess (9) of the adapter (7).An axially adjustable sliding ring (23) is attached to the outside of the housing. This ring surrounds the locking hooks (16) and retaining hooks (19), which are made of elastically deformable material. In the initial state of the device, the sliding ring is held in a rest position, leaving the projections on the ends of the locking hooks (16) and retaining hooks (19) exposed. When the housing is placed on the adapter (7), the sliding ring (23), after being axially displaced towards the valve (2), is positioned so that it surrounds the projections on the locking hooks (16) and retaining hooks (19), which engage in the recess (9) of the adapter (7), and rests against them.