Anti-Tamper Valve Locking Screw With Dedicated Expansion Tool
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing valve systems for fluid distribution lack reliable anti-tampering mechanisms, as they can be operated using commercially available tools, allowing unauthorized access and tampering.
Innovation Solution
A valve system with a dedicated tool featuring a hollow stem, pin, spring, and balls, coupled with a cup screw that requires precise alignment and no axial thrust for operation, making it difficult to actuate with standard tools.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a screw with a shaped head and complementary tool tip is used to prevent tampering, then security against unauthorized access is improved, but the operation becomes complex and requires axial thrust that is difficult to apply
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the traditional screw-thread mechanical fastening system with a bayonet-style coupling system. The tool engages with the screw head through a specific geometric interface requiring rotational motion only, eliminating the need for axial thrust during tightening. This substitution maintains security through the specialized tool interface while dramatically improving ease of operation.
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of requiring the tool to push axially against the screw head during tightening (conventional approach), the invention inverts the mechanism: the tool engages radially and tightens through pure rotation. The screw head geometry is designed so that rotational motion of the tool automatically drives the screw into the threaded hole without requiring the operator to apply axial force.
2Reliability
If a specialized shaped screw and tool are used to prevent tampering, then security is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The invention segments the fastening function into two distinct components: a specialized screw head with geometric engagement features and a corresponding tool with matching interface. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized independently - the screw head provides security through its unique geometry while the tool provides the operational interface, simplifying the overall design compared to a monolithic complex fastening mechanism.
Solution Approach 2:
The screw head features asymmetric geometric elements including a specific pattern of flats, recesses, or protrusions that create a unique tool interface. This asymmetric design ensures that only the specially shaped tool can engage and operate the screw, providing security against tampering while maintaining relatively simple manufacturing of both the screw and tool components.
3Strength
If axial thrust is required to tighten the screw firmly, then the screw can be secured properly, but the operation becomes difficult and requires special technique
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the conventional screw fastening mechanism that requires axial thrust with a bayonet-style rotational coupling system. The tool engages with the screw head through a geometric interface where rotational motion directly drives the screw into the threaded hole, eliminating the need for the operator to apply axial force during tightening while still achieving secure fastening through the rotational engagement.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention introduces dynamic motion characteristics to the fastening operation: the tool is designed to engage radially and then tighten through a controlled rotational path. This dynamic approach transforms the static axial-force requirement into a dynamic rotational operation, making the tightening process more intuitive and easier to perform while maintaining adequate fastening strength.
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
The solution provides a secure and reliable mechanism for setting valve positions, preventing unauthorized access by ensuring only the dedicated tool can effectively engage and operate the attachment screw, enhancing security and ease of use.
Implementation Method 1
the pin having a terminal section constantly engaged with said balls under the action of the spring acting between an inner shoulder of the hollow stem and a collar of the pin
Data Source
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AI summary
Valve for fluids comprising a body housing a rotatable shutter, a control rod (11) for said shutter protruding from the body (10) and which can be actuated by means of a manoeuvring member (20) which can be attached to said rod (11) in several different angular positions by means of an attachment screw (30), said screw (30) being shaped in such a way as to be able to be screwed/unscrewed with a dedicated tool (50) so as to prevent tampering of the valve, wherein said screw is a cup screw in which the tip of said dedicated tool (50) can be engaged with expansion.