Valve Manual Override Actuation via External Pressing Element
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing valve devices with manual override mechanisms face difficulties in operation under unfavorable space conditions, particularly in accessing the actuating end section for locking the working position, which restricts the functionality of the manual override device.
Innovation Solution
An additional actuation unit with a transversely movable actuating slide interacts with a pressing element, allowing for both touch and locking operations of the actuating plunger, even when the actuating end section is difficult to access, by being positioned outside the valve housing and using a compact design that can be retrofitted.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the actuating end section is sunk into the valve housing to avoid unwanted actuation, then safety is improved, but accessibility for locking the working position deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a new spatial dimension by providing an external actuation unit with a pressing element that acts on the actuating end section from outside the valve housing. This allows the actuating end section to remain sunk (improving safety) while providing external access (improving operability) through a different spatial approach - using a pressing motion from the exterior rather than requiring direct access to the sunk element.
Solution Approach 2:
The pressing element serves as an intermediary tool that transmits actuation force to the actuating end section indirectly. Instead of directly manipulating the sunk actuating end section, the user operates the pressing element which then applies force to move the actuating plunger, thereby solving the accessibility problem while maintaining the sunk position for safety.
2Ease of operation
If an additional actuation unit with pressing element is added to enable touch actuation, then accessibility is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The additional actuation unit is designed to provide multiple functions: it enables touch actuation for users with limited dexterity, maintains compatibility with existing rotary locking mechanisms, and can be integrated into various valve housing configurations. This multi-functionality justifies the added complexity by delivering broad operational benefits.
Solution Approach 2:
The actuating plunger is designed with dynamic characteristics - it can be temporarily displaced by the pressing element for touch actuation, then automatically returns to its basic position via a spring device. This dynamic behavior allows the system to accommodate the additional actuation mechanism without requiring permanent structural changes or complex locking arrangements.
3Duration of action of moving object
If the actuating plunger is designed to be releasably locked in working position, then duration of action is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates due to restricted accessibility
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the dimensionality change principle again by providing external access to the actuating end section through the pressing element. This allows the rotary locking operation to be performed from outside the valve housing, maintaining the ability to lock the working position for extended durations while eliminating the accessibility restrictions that would otherwise prevent proper locking operation.
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3
Figure 4~5
AI summary
The device (1) has an actuator (3) provided with an actuating slide (65), which is connected with a pressing element (64). The pressing element is transversely and manually moved along a stroke direction of an actuating plunger (37) for carrying out operation of pressing of the pressing element. The pressing element is not actuated when the pushing element is positioned in an in-operative position, and the pressing element is actuated when the pressing element is in an operative position.