Valve Adapter Assembly for Rapid Actuator Conversion
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Solution Overview
Problem
In oil and gas production, converting between manual and automated valve actuation mechanisms is challenging due to incompatible drive components, such as yokes, which complicates the transition from one actuation mode to another, especially when switching between different types of automated actuators like pneumatic, hydraulic, or manual actuators.
Innovation Solution
A valve conversion system that includes an adapter assembly with a force converter and quick connect fittings, allowing for rapid installation and conversion between different actuation mechanisms by translating external rotating forces into axial forces, enabling the use of various actuators without removing the valve from service.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a manually actuated valve is converted to an electrically actuated valve by changing drive components, then the valve can operate in multiple modes, but the incompatibility of drive components like yokes creates challenges for the conversion process
Solution Approach 1:
The adapter assembly is divided into separate modular components including an adapter body, force converter, and coupling mechanisms. This segmentation allows each component to be independently designed for specific functions, enabling the adapter to interface with multiple actuator types while keeping the overall conversion process manageable and systematic.
Solution Approach 2:
The adapter assembly is designed as a universal interface that can accommodate multiple actuator types (manual, electric, pneumatic, hydraulic) through a single standardized connection system. The force converter mechanism provides multi-functionality by translating different input forces into the required axial motion for the valve stem, eliminating the need for multiple specialized adapters.
2Adaptability or versatility
If actuator conversion is performed by removing and replacing drive components, then different actuation mechanisms can be implemented, but the conversion process becomes time-consuming and requires valve removal from service
Solution Approach 1:
The adapter assembly is pre-configured with all necessary coupling mechanisms and force converter components before installation. The standardized interface design allows the adapter to be pre-assembled and then quickly attached to the valve, eliminating the need for time-consuming on-site customization and reducing valve downtime during actuator conversion.
Solution Approach 2:
The adapter assembly serves as an intermediary component between the valve stem and the actuator. This mediator allows different actuator types to be connected to the same valve without modifying the valve itself, enabling rapid actuator swapping while the valve remains installed and operational, thus minimizing downtime.
3Adaptability or versatility
If a force converter is used to translate external rotating force into axial force, then compatibility between different actuator types is achieved, but the adapter assembly structure becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The force converter employs a screw mechanism that replaces complex mechanical gear systems with a simpler threaded connection. The rotating motion from the actuator directly translates to axial force through the screw thread, eliminating the need for multiple gears, belts, or linkages while maintaining effective force transmission and compatibility across different actuator types.
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 efficient and rapid switching between different valve actuation mechanisms, reducing downtime and operational costs by allowing operators to change between automated and manual actuators without compromising the valve's functionality, while maintaining compatibility through the adapter assembly and force converter.
Implementation Method 1
a force converter coupled to the adapter element, the force converter translating an external rotating force into an axial force
Data Source
AI summary
A valve assembly includes a valve body, a valve bonnet, coupled to the valve body, an opening extending through the valve body and the valve bonnet, along a longitudinal axis, and a valve stem. The valve assembly also includes a valve member positioned at an end of the valve stem and arranged within the opening, the valve member being movable, along the longitudinal axis, between an open position and a closed position, an actuator housing coupled to the bonnet, and an adapter assembly coupled to the actuator housing. The adapter assembly includes an adapter element, the adapter element coupled to the valve stem and a force converter coupled to the adapter element, the force converter translating an external rotating force into an axial force.