Valve Assembly Set Point Verification Apparatus
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional devices are inadequate for both setting and verifying the set point of valve assemblies, particularly those with large springs generating high forces, requiring multiple cumbersome devices for these tasks.
Innovation Solution
An apparatus that combines components to assume different configurations, enabling both the setting and verification of the set point in a single device, using a force coupling component to direct a load to valve components, allowing for compression and verification of spring members.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If conventional devices are used to set or test the set point, then the set point can be adjusted or verified, but separate devices are required for each function, increasing device complexity and operational burden
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the set point setting function and the set point verification function into a single testing device. The device includes a load application mechanism that can apply loads to the spring member to set the set point, and a measurement mechanism that can measure the spring force to verify the set point, integrating multiple functions that previously required separate devices into one unified system.
Solution Approach 2:
The testing device is designed with universal functionality to perform both setting and verification operations. The load application mechanism can operate in different modes: applying controlled loads for setting the set point during installation, and measuring spring forces for verifying the set point during periodic inspections, making the device adaptable to multiple operational requirements.
2Reliability
If separate devices are used for setting and verifying set point, then each device can be optimized for its specific function, but storage, maintenance, and operational logistics become more difficult
Solution Approach 1:
By merging the setting and verification functions into one device, the patent eliminates the need for technicians to transport, store, and maintain multiple separate devices. The unified device simplifies operational logistics while maintaining the reliability of both functions through integrated design.
3Force
If multiple large devices are used to handle high spring forces, then the required forces can be managed, but the devices become unwieldy and difficult to use on site
Solution Approach 1:
The patent integrates the load application mechanism and measurement mechanism into a single compact device that can handle high spring forces. The load application mechanism includes a force generating component that can apply sufficient load to compress large springs, while the integrated design maintains portability and ease of operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses a load application mechanism as an intermediary between the operator and the high-force spring system. This mechanism translates operator input into controlled high forces needed for setting and verifying set points on valve assemblies with large springs, making the process manageable and portable.
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
Simplifies the process of setting and verifying the set point, eliminating the need for separate devices and effectively managing high forces, ensuring accurate operation of valve assemblies.
Implementation Method 1
Pressure relief valves and other safety valves, for example, use a spring (and/or like resilient member) in a compressed state to maintain the valve assembly in a closed position. This spring exerts a spring force to locate a disc element in contact with a nozzle element to prevent flow of the working fluid through the device.
Implementation Method 2
These devices can apply a load to the spring member, for example, in a direction that corresponds to movement of the disc element relative to the nozzle element to change the valve assembly from the closed condition to the open condition.
Implementation Method 3
An apparatus that combines components to assume different configurations, enabling both the setting and verification of the set point in a single device, using a force coupling component to direct a load to valve components, allowing for compression and verification of spring members.
Data Source
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AI summary
Embodiments of an apparatus that provide functions to set and to verify the set point of a valve assembly in a single device. These embodiments forgo the need to use of two separate devices, one each to accomplish the tasks to set the set point and to verify the set point. Rather, the apparatus incorporates components, in particular a spindle connection member (248), a plunger connection member (250) and a force directing member (252), that can assume different configurations including a first configuration that facilitates the task for setting the set point and a second configuration that facilitates the task of verifying the set point.