Valve Operator Arm Sliding Head for Precise Positioning
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing valve operator systems for underground valves require complex articulated arms and braking mechanisms to position the valve operator effectively, which are costly and difficult to manage.
Innovation Solution
A valve operator system with a pivotally attached arm and sliding track allows the valve operator head to be positioned over any valve location within a wide arc by pivoting the arm and sliding the head along the track, eliminating the need for complicated articulated arms and braking mechanisms.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If complex articulated arms and braking mechanisms are used to position the valve operator, then positioning accuracy is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system divides the positioning function into two independent segments: arm positioning (coarse positioning) and head positioning along the track (fine positioning). This segmentation allows each component to be simpler while achieving overall high positioning accuracy through the combination of both segments.
Solution Approach 2:
The track serves as an intermediary element between the arm and the valve operator head. It provides a guided path that constrains the head's movement to a linear trajectory along the arm's length, enabling precise positioning without requiring complex articulated mechanisms at the head itself.
2Stability of the object's composition
If expensive braking arrangements are used to prevent arm movement, then stability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses self-locking pins that automatically engage with holes in the arm to prevent bouncing and movement. The gravitational force and operational forces themselves contribute to keeping the pins engaged in the holes, eliminating the need for active braking mechanisms while maintaining stability.
3Adaptability or versatility
If complicated articulated arms are used to position the valve operator, then positioning capability is improved, but ease of operation worsens
Solution Approach 1:
The arm is designed to be dynamically positionable at multiple discrete locations along its arc of motion, with each position lockable by a pin. This allows the operator to easily move the arm to different positions and lock it in place, providing versatility without requiring complex articulated mechanisms that would be difficult to operate.
Data Source
AI summary
A valve operator system having an arm for pivotal mounting to a vehicle and a valve operator head slidingly engaged with a track on the arm. The arm may be pivoted through a wide arc to easily reach a target valve, with the valve operator head easily slid into position. The valve operator head preferably includes a series of rollers that engage longitudinal rods positioned in the opposing rails of a track mounted to the arm. A single track on top of the arm may be used, or two tracks positioned on opposing side surfaces of the arm. Pins or a locking bolt may be used to affix the valve operator head in place once moved into the desired position above the target valve and the arm can be locking into position with a drum brake or locking pins.