Bi-directional Valve Assembly Angled Sealing Line
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional flapper valves are unidirectional, only sealing and holding pressure in one direction, which limits their functionality in fluid conduits used in oil or gas reservoirs and wellheads.
Innovation Solution
A valve assembly with a sealing member that is pivotally and axially movable, capable of sealing along a non-planar, angled sealing line, allowing bi-directional pressure retention and improved space efficiency, featuring a spade or teardrop-shaped sealing member that pivots through less than 90° to switch between open and sealing configurations, actuated by a hydraulic system.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a conventional flapper valve is used, then the valve structure is simple, but the valve can only seal and hold pressure in one direction (unidirectional)
Solution Approach 1:
The sealing function is segmented into two distinct sealing surfaces on the sealing member. The first sealing surface seals against the first valve seat for one-directional flow, while the second sealing surface seals against the second valve seat for reverse flow. This segmentation allows bidirectional sealing capability while maintaining a relatively simple overall valve structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The sealing member is designed with multiple sealing surfaces that can seal against different valve seats, making it a multi-functional component. This single sealing member performs the function of what would traditionally require multiple separate sealing elements, enabling bidirectional pressure retention without significantly increasing device complexity.
2Reliability
If a sealing member pivots through 90° to switch between open and sealing configurations, then the sealing is reliable, but the valve requires more space and is more prone to jamming
Solution Approach 1:
The sealing member pivots through less than 90° (a partial rotation) to achieve the sealing configuration. The valve is designed so that the sealing surfaces engage at an intermediate angle, eliminating the need for a full 90° rotation. This partial action reduces the space required for valve operation and decreases the likelihood of jamming while maintaining reliable sealing through proper positioning of the sealing surfaces.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the sealing line is perpendicular to the longitudinal axis, then the valve structure is simple, but the valve cannot retain pressure in both directions
Solution Approach 1:
The sealing line is configured at an angle relative to the longitudinal axis of the conduit, creating an asymmetric sealing arrangement. This angled configuration allows the sealing member to engage both valve seats effectively for bidirectional pressure retention. The asymmetry in the sealing line orientation is compensated by the symmetric placement of the two valve seats, maintaining overall structural balance while achieving enhanced functionality.
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 bi-directional fluid flow control and pressure retention, enhancing the operational efficiency and space utilization in fluid conduits by using a self-cleaning mechanism that maintains a reliable seal without requiring a full 90° rotation, thus preventing jamming and ensuring effective sealing in both directions.
Implementation Method 1
the valve assembly can retain pressure across the seal in both directions
Implementation Method 2
The sealing member can be pivotally coupled to a hydraulic actuation system
Data Source
AI summary
A valve assembly comprises a conduit having a throughbore and defining a longitudinal axis, a sealing member that is moveable between an open configuration in which the throughbore of the conduit is open, and a sealing configuration in which the sealing member is arranged to substantially obturate the throughbore of the conduit, wherein in the sealing configuration, the sealing member seals the throughbore along a sealing line at least a part of which is angled relative to a direction perpendicular to the axis of the throughbore.