Wireless Gas Shutoff Valve with Magnetic Actuation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing manual gas shutoff valves pose safety risks to workers and delay emergency responses due to the need for manual operation, especially in fire or structural damage scenarios, as they require utility workers to enter buildings to isolate gas supplies.
Innovation Solution
Development of remotely actuatable fluid isolation valves using wireless communication networks, enabling low-cost, tamper-proof, and failsafe shutoff of gas and water supply lines with self-forming and adaptive wireless networks, incorporating miniaturized controllers and magnetic mechanisms for low-leakage sealing and automatic actuation based on sensor data.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If manual operation of shutoff valves is used, then the valve can be reliably closed, but worker safety is compromised and emergency response is delayed
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual mechanical operation with wireless electronic actuation. A wireless transceiver receives remote commands and actuates the valve through an actuator mechanism, eliminating the need for workers to physically enter hazardous areas. The valve body includes a wireless communication module that enables remote control while maintaining reliable closure through automated actuation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a wireless communication system as an intermediary between the operator and the valve. The wireless transceiver and control module serve as mediators that transmit actuation commands remotely, allowing valve operation without direct human intervention in hazardous environments. This intermediary system maintains reliability while removing workers from safety risks.
2Reliability
If manual operation of shutoff valves is used, then the valve can be closed, but emergency response time is increased
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements preliminary action by pre-positioning the wireless transceiver and control module within the valve assembly, ready to receive and execute remote commands immediately. The system is pre-configured with wireless communication capabilities and actuation mechanisms, enabling instant response to emergency situations without waiting for manual intervention. Sensors can detect hazardous conditions and trigger automatic actuation, further reducing response time.
Solution Approach 2:
The replacement of manual mechanical operation with automated wireless actuation eliminates the time delay associated with worker deployment and manual valve operation. The electronic control system can receive and execute commands instantly, enabling rapid emergency response while maintaining reliable valve closure through the actuator mechanism.
3Object-affected harmful factors
If wireless control electronics are added to enable remote actuation, then worker safety is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies universality by designing the wireless control module to perform multiple functions: receiving remote commands, processing actuation signals, monitoring valve status, and enabling two-way communication. This multi-functional approach consolidates several components into a single integrated module, reducing overall system complexity while maintaining worker safety through remote operation capabilities.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges the wireless transceiver, control module, and actuation mechanism into an integrated valve assembly. By combining these previously separate components into a unified system, the patent reduces complexity while achieving remote actuation. The control module is integrated within the valve body, and the actuator is coupled directly to the closure mechanism, creating a streamlined system that maintains safety without excessive complexity.
4Use of energy by moving object
If low energy actuators are used to enable battery operation, then device portability and autonomy are improved, but actuation force is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by using a spring-loaded actuator mechanism that stores mechanical energy and releases it rapidly during actuation. The spring provides the necessary force to move the valve closure element, while the low-power wireless control module only needs to trigger the release mechanism. This dynamic approach allows battery-operated actuators to generate sufficient actuation force without requiring high continuous power consumption.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements preliminary action by pre-tensioning springs or storing mechanical energy in the actuator mechanism before actuation is needed. This allows the low-power wireless control module to initiate actuation by simply releasing the pre-stored energy, rather than requiring the battery to directly drive a high-power motor. The preliminary energy storage enables sufficient actuation force with minimal energy consumption during the actual actuation event.
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 safe and timely shutoff of gas lines during emergencies, reducing risks to workers and first responders, while allowing for remote operation and data reporting, enhancing safety and reducing operational costs by eliminating the need for manual intervention.
Implementation Method 1
A variety of simple magnetic valve operating mechanisms can be implemented with the miniaturized electronic control circuits and the valve body
Data Source
AI summary
A low-cost safety valve for gas lines and similar supply lines that can be remotely activated via a secure wireless link employing a low leakage sealing mechanism that is compatible with low energy actuators to for extended battery life. A miniaturized controller and wireless electronics assembly provides the control mechanism for actuating the valve, as well as reporting data regarding the valve status to wireless interrogators or external networks via an ad hoc wireless network. A variety of simple magnetic valve operating mechanisms can be implemented with the miniaturized electronic control circuits and the valve body. Such control actuation mechanisms enable automatic resetting or manual resetting valves. The gas line shut off valve can provide important safety benefits at an affordable price.