Butterfly Valve Disc Introduction Groove for Secure Seal Retention
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Solution Overview
Problem
The construction and replacement of traditional butterfly valve discs with integrated seal elements are complex, time-consuming, and prone to damage due to the need for precise assembly and fixing of multiple disc plates, which increases the risk of incorrect positioning and subsequent damage during operation.
Innovation Solution
A single continuous valve disc with a main groove and introduction groove configuration allows for secure and efficient insertion and removal of the seal element in a parallel direction, eliminating the need for multiple disc plates and simplifying the construction process, while the seal element is retained in the main groove to prevent damage and ensure proper sealing.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If multiple disc plates are used to form the main groove, then the seal element can be retained in the groove, but the construction becomes complex and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple disc plates into a single continuous valve disc body. The main groove is formed directly in this single body, eliminating the need for multiple separate plates while maintaining the groove's ability to retain the seal element. This reduces construction complexity and assembly time while preserving the sealing function.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent segments the valve disc construction process by separating the groove formation from the disc body. The main groove and introduction groove are formed as distinct features in the single disc body, allowing the seal element to be inserted through the introduction groove and retained in the main groove without requiring multiple plates.
2Manufacturing precision
If multiple disc plates are fixed together, then the main groove is formed, but the assembly process is prone to damage and incorrect positioning
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple disc plates into a single continuous valve disc body, eliminating the need for assembly operations. The main groove is formed directly in this single body through machining or additive manufacturing, ensuring precise positioning without the risks of incorrect assembly. This significantly improves ease of manufacture while maintaining manufacturing precision.
3Force
If the seal element is loosely engaged with the valve disc, then friction is minimized, but the seal element may become damaged or dislodged
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses the nested doll principle by placing the seal element inside the main groove of the valve disc. The groove provides a protective cavity that secures the seal element, preventing it from becoming dislodged or damaged while allowing it to remain loosely engaged for minimal friction. The introduction groove provides access for installation and replacement.
4Ease of repair
If traditional assembly methods are used, then the valve disc can be constructed, but replacement of seal elements is time-consuming and complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the seal element from the main groove through the introduction groove, allowing for easy removal and replacement. The introduction groove serves as an access pathway that enables technicians to retrieve the seal element without disassembling the entire valve disc structure, significantly reducing repair time and complexity while maintaining ease of repair.
Data Source
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AI summary
A valve disc (10) for a butterfly valve (2) is disclosed. The valve disc (10) comprises a disc body (22), a main groove (24) suitable for receiving a seal element (42), and an introduction groove (26). The disc body (22) comprises first and second faces (28, 30), an outer periphery (34), and at least one engagement means (36) configured to receive a shaft (8) for coupling the valve disc (10) to a valve body (4) of the butterfly valve (2). The main groove (24) extends along the outer periphery (34) to form a continuous groove. The introduction groove (26) has a centreline (CL2) and extends from a groove mouth (58) opening in one of the faces (28, 30) of the disc body (22) to an intersection (60) with the main groove (24). The main groove (24) is so dimensioned and configured that a seal element (42) can only be inserted into or removed from the main groove (24) via the introduction groove (26). Optionally, the valve disc (10) is a single continuous body of material.