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  • 专利说明
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    • 专利摘要:
    SYSTEM FOR ACTUATING A VALVE AND APPLIANCES FOR ACTUATING A VALVE. The present invention relates to a system for actuating a valve (102) comprising an apparatus (100) comprising: a cylindrical housing (112) having a valve end and an annular housing surface (116 near the end of a valve). valve; a valve stem (106), a portion of the valve stem which is positioned within the housing (112) and another portion of the valve stem which extends from the valve end of the housing (112) and is operable to be connected to a valve (102), wherein the valve stem (106) moves between an extended position and a retracted position, wherein the valve stem (106) extends further away from the valve end in the extended position that in the retracted position; and a helmet (104) operable to be connected to the valve (102), wherein the rod (106) passes through the helmet (104), the housing (112) is releasably connected to the helmet (104 ), engaging the helmet (104) and rotating the housing (112) of a released position to a locked position, wherein the housing (112) rotates less than one total revolution between the released and locked positions.
    公开号:BR112015015752B1
    申请号:R112015015752-1
    申请日:2013-12-23
    公开日:2021-07-06
    发明作者:Keith M. Adams；Lloyd R. Cheatham
    申请人:Ge Oil & Gas Pressure Control Lp；
    IPC主号:
    专利说明:

    FIELD OF THE INVENTION
    [001] The present invention relates, in general, to valves for mineral recovery wells and, in particular, to actuators to actuate valves. BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
    [002] A gate valve is a valve that has a body and a cavity through the body. A gate is positioned transverse to the body and moves linearly to obstruct flow through the cavity or to allow flow through the cavity. Some gates have an opening that lines up with the cavity to allow for flow. The gate may be normally open and thus the gate is closed when it is moved linearly to push the gate out of alignment with the cavity. Alternatively, a gate can be normally closed and thus the gate opens when it is moved linearly to position the opening in alignment with the cavity. Regardless of whether the gate is normally open or normally closed, the gate is moved or actuated by a valve actuator.
    [003] The valve actuator is a pneumatic, piston or hydraulic type actuator that pushes a stem towards the valve to open or close the valve. A bonnet is connected to the valve, with the stem extending through the bonnet, and then the actuator is connected to the bonnet. Valve actuators are typically connected to the bonnet by threaded connections or by screws through a flange. Threads are expensive to manufacture and are easily damaged. Machining screw holes in the actuator and drilling and tapping thread holes in an adapter ring or helmet is costly. Threaded connections also have the disadvantage that the actuator input rotates around the actuator axis during installation. If the actuator is fully tightened and the inlet ends up in the wrong place, the operating supply line to the inlet needs to be moved. DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
    [004] This application discloses embodiments of a valve actuator having a housing with a quick-connect apparatus for connecting to a corresponding helmet, a quick-connect apparatus for connecting to a corresponding piston head assembly, or a fitting apparatus. quick connection to connect to both a matching helmet and a matching piston head mount. In various embodiments, the valve actuator housing includes a plurality of protrusions on an annular surface which pass between a plurality of corresponding protrusions on an annular bonnet surface. The housing can then rotate until the protrusions are axially aligned, in a locked position, thus preventing axial movement of the housing relative to the helmet. A fastener can then prevent rotational movement of the housing relative to the helmet so that the housing remains in the locked position. Similarly, a piston head includes a plurality of protrusions on an annular surface which pass between a plurality of corresponding protrusions on an annular housing surface. The piston head can then rotate until the protrusions are axially aligned, in a locked position, thus preventing axial movement of the piston head relative to the housing. A fastener can then prevent rotational movement of the piston head relative to the housing so that the piston head remains in the locked position.
    [005] More specifically, an actuator side of the helmet has a flange that has an annular groove machined in the middle of the outer diameter (“OD”) of the flange. There are several slots that are machined into the end of the helmet that create access channels, or slots, from the end of the helmet to the machined groove in the helmet flange. There are several locking lugs that are integral to the actuator housing or lower adapter ring. The actuator mount is elevated above the installed spring mount and over the helmet mount. The locking lugs line up with the slots on the top of the helmet. The actuator is pushed over the bonnet until the actuator lugs reach the bottom on the bottom side of the groove machined in the flange portion of the bonnet.
    [006] The actuator is then rotated in either direction until the integral anti-rotation lock lines up with any slot. The anti-rotation lock has a hinge pin that installs into the actuator housing through a cross-drill hole. There is a small spring loaded pin that is part of the lock that is depressed and allows the lock to enter any slot in the helmet. The depressed spring pin then fits into a drilled cross hole in the actuator housing. The quick connect can also be rotationally locked, using a locking pin instead of an anti-rotation lock.
    [007] The embodiments of an actuator include a piston head assembly, also referred to as a power head, which connects to the housing. The piston head has a flange that has a groove machined into the OD of the flange. A plurality of slots are machined into the head end that create access channels, or slots, from the head end to the slot machined in the head. The portion of the flange between the slits are locking protrusions. There are also a plurality of locking lugs which are integral to the actuator housing with a plurality of slots therebetween.
    [008] The actuator power head assembly is raised over the installed housing. The housing locking lugs line up with the slots in the bottom of the head. The power head is pushed over the housing until the protrusions reach the bottom on the back side of the slot machined in the flange portion of the head. The power head is then rotated in either direction until an integral anti-rotation fastener lines up with one of the slots. The anti-rotation fastener assembly can include a hinge pin that is installed into the actuator housing through a cross-drill hole. A detent can be used to hold the fastener in the locked position. Alternatively, the housing or quick connect power head can be rotationally locked using a locking pin instead of a fastener assembly.
    [009] Embodiments of an apparatus for actuating a valve include a cylindrical housing having a valve end and an annular housing surface near the valve end, a valve stem, a portion of the valve stem that is positioned within the housing and another portion of the valve stem which extends from the valve end of the housing and is operable to be connected to a valve member, such as the gate, the valve stem which moves between an extended position and a position retracted, in which the valve stem extends further from the valve end in the extended position than in the retracted position and an operable cap to be connected to the valve, the stem passing through the cap, the housing that can be connected from detachable mode to the helmet by engaging the helmet and rotating the housing from a released position to a locked position, where the housing rotates less than one full revolution between the released and locked positions.
    [010] In embodiments, the housing includes a plurality of separate housing protrusions around the annular housing surface, wherein the housing projections protrude from the annular housing surface to define a plurality of slots therebetween. The helmet includes a plurality of separate helmet protrusions around an annular helmet surface, the helmet protrusions projecting from the annular helmet surface to define a plurality of helmet slots therebetween, each of which of the housing protrusions is operable to pass axially through one of the respective slots among the helmet slots when the housing is in a released position and, after passing through the helmet slots, the housing is rotatable at least until a portion of one or more of the housing protrusions is axially aligned with a portion of a respective helmet protrusion such that the helmet protrusions prevent axial movement of the housing in at least one direction.
    [011] In embodiments, the helmet further includes a radial groove having one side defined by an annular shoulder and the other side defined by a surface of the helmet protrusions facing towards the annular shoulder, wherein the housing protrusions slide within the annular groove when moving between the locked position and the released position.
    [012] In embodiments, the housing protrusions are on an inner diameter surface of the housing and the helmet protrusions are on an outer diameter surface of the helmet. Embodiments may include a fastener assembly, wherein the fastener prevents the housing from rotating relative to the helmet when the housing is in the locked position. The fastener assembly may include a grip tab connected to one of the housing and the helmet, wherein the grip tab is positioned in one of the slots and engages one or more of the protrusions in the locked position to prevent the housing from rotating in regarding the helmet. In embodiments, the grip tab is positioned in an opening of the housing, the grip tab is pivotable between a secured position and an unfastened position, wherein the grip tab further comprises a fastener body having a contour corresponding to an outside diameter contour of the housing close to the opening so that the fastener body is flush with the outside diameter contour in the secured position. In embodiments, a gate valve is connected to the bonnet, where the gate valve moves between an open position and a closed position in response to movement of the stem.
    [013] Embodiments of an apparatus for actuating a valve include a cylindrical housing having a valve end, a piston end and an annular piston end surface, wherein a plurality of circumferentially spaced piston end bosses protrude from the piston end annular surface to define a plurality of piston end slots therebetween. Embodiments may also include a piston head releasably connectable to the piston end of the housing, wherein the piston head has an inlet, a cylindrical piston housing, wherein the piston housing has a plurality of protrusions of separate piston housing around an annular piston housing surface, wherein the piston housing protrusions project from the annular piston housing surface to define a plurality of piston housing slots therebetween, at that each of the piston housing protrusions is operable to pass axially through one of the respective piston end slots when the piston head is in a released position and, after passing through the piston end slots, the head is rotatable at least until a portion of one or more of the piston housing protrusions is axially aligned with a portion. tion of a respective piston end boss such that the piston end bosses prevent axial movement of the piston head in at least one direction to define a locked position. Embodiments may also include a piston within the piston housing, where the piston moves between an extended position and a retracted position in response to pressure means from the inlet, where the piston is closest to the valve end at the extended position which in the retracted position, a downward stop in contact with the piston, wherein the downward stop is urged towards the valve end of the housing, when the piston moves towards the extended position, and a plurality of protrusions of separate housing surface around an annular housing surface, wherein housing projections project from the annular housing surface to define a plurality of slits therebetween. Embodiments may further include a helmet operable to be connected to a valve, wherein the helmet has a plurality of separate helmet protrusions around an annular helmet surface, wherein the helmet protrusions protrude from the annular surface of helmet to define a plurality of helmet slots therebetween, wherein each of the housing protrusions is operable to pass axially through a respective slot between the helmet slots when the housing is in a released position and after passing through of the helmet slots, the housing is rotatable at least until a portion of one or more of the housing protrusions is axially aligned with a portion of a respective helmet protrusion such that the helmet protrusions prevent axial movement of the housing in at least one direction to define a locked position. A stem may extend through the bonnet and contact the downward stop so that when the downward stop is pushed towards the valve end, the stem extends further through the bonnet towards the valve. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
    [014] In order that the manner in which the functions, advantages and objectives of the invention, as well as others that will become evident, can be achieved and understood in more detail, a more particular description of the invention briefly summarized above can be made by way of reference for carrying out the same, which is illustrated in the attached drawings, which drawings form a part of this descriptive report. It should be noted, however, that the drawings illustrate only one preferred embodiment of the invention and, therefore, should not be considered as limiting its scope, as the invention may admit other equally effective embodiments. Figure 1 is a side sectional environmental view of a valve with a valve actuator that has a quick connection between the actuator and the bonnet, in accordance with an embodiment of the invention. Figure 2 is an enlarged view of the valve actuator quick connect of Figure 1. Figure 3 is an enlarged view of the valve actuator fastener assembly of Figure 1. Figure 4 is a side sectional environmental view of a valve with a power head valve actuator and a quick connection between the housing and each of the power head and the helmet, according to an embodiment of the invention. Figure 5 is a cross-sectional view of the connection between the power head and actuator housing of Figure 4, taken along line 5-5. Figure 6 is a cross-sectional view of the fastener assembly of Figure 5, taken along line 6-6. Figure 7 is an enlarged view of the quick connection between the actuator and the helmet of Figure 4. DESCRIPTION OF ACHIEVEMENTS OF THE INVENTION
    [015] The present invention is described in more detail hereinafter, in relation to the attached drawings that illustrate embodiments of the invention. This invention can, however, be embodied in many different ways and should not be construed as being limited to the illustrated embodiments presented herein. Rather, these embodiments are provided so that this invention is detailed and complete and fully conveys the scope of the invention to those skilled in the art. Like numbers refer to like elements throughout the document and privileged notation, if used, indicates like elements in alternative embodiments.
    [016] Referring to Figure 1, an actuator 100 is shown. Actuator 100 is used to open or close valve 102 to which actuator 100 is connected. Valve 102 is connected to fluid containment members, such as tubular members or a container, and selectively limits fluid flow therethrough. As one skilled in the art can see, valve 102 can be a gate valve or any other type of valve that is actuated by the extension of a linear member. Cap 104 is connected to valve body 102. Stem 106 passes through cap 104 and packing retainer 108 with the protruding end of stem 106 operatively connectable to a member, such as a gate, of the valve. 102. Actuator 100 is used to actuate valve 102 by pushing stem 106 down toward valve 102.
    [017] Referring to Figures 1 and 2, the actuator housing 112 includes a cylindrical body that has an inside diameter ("ID") surface 114. The housing 112 is manufactured from any of a variety of techniques that includes, for example, stamping, extrusion and casting. In embodiments, housing 112 has no welds or joints on the interior surfaces, such as surface ID 114. Housing 112 may be fabricated from NACE certified materials. The lower end of housing 112 includes a passage defined by inner diameter 116. Housing projections 118 project inwardly from ID 116 and are spaced around ID 116 to define slots 120 therebetween. The cap 104 and valve 102 prevent fluid flow from valve 102 to actuator 100. In other words, there is an absence of fluid communication between valve 102 and actuator 100. In embodiments, actuator housing 112 can be removed of the cap 104 while fluid is present in valve 102 and no fluid flows out of valve 102 through cap 104 or the other way around.
    [018] The helmet 104 includes the lower flange 122 which extends radially from the helmet body 124. The lower flange 122 includes screw holes 126. The screws 128 pass through the screw holes 126 to connect the helmet 104 to the body. valve 102. At the opposite end of the bonnet 104, from the lower flange 122, the locking flange 130 extends radially from the helm body 124 and includes the top surface 132. The outer diameter of the locking flange 130 is less than or approximately equal to the inside diameter of the ID 116 so that the ID 116 can fit over the locking flange 130.
    [019] The groove 134 is an annular groove in the outer diameter of the locking flange 130. The lower side wall of the groove 134 defines an upwardly facing shoulder 136. The width of the groove 134, which is defined in terms of axial length along of the geometric axis of the helmet 104 is greater than or approximately equal to the axial length of the housing protrusions 118. The diameter of the rear wall of the groove 138 is less than or approximately equal to the internal diameter defined by the housing protrusions 118.
    [020] The slots 140 are axial slots in the outer diameter of the locking flange 130 that extend from the top surface 132 to the slot 134. A plurality of slots 140 are separated around the circumference of the locking flange 130 to define helmet protrusions 142 between them. The radial depth of each slot 140 is typically less than or equal to the radial depth of slot 134, but may be greater than the radial depth of slot 134. The circumferential arc length of each slot 140 is approximately equal to or greater than the arc length of the housing projections 118. The housing projections 118 thus have the ability to pass axially through the slots 140. After passing through the slots 140, the housing projections 118 are positioned in the groove 134 below the helmet projections 142 , but are not axially aligned to the helmet protrusions 142 in a released position. Housing projections 118 contact shoulder 136, thus interrupting further downward movement of housing 112 relative to helmet 104. Because housing projections 118 are axially below helmet projections 142, housing 112 can rotate relative to to the helmet 104. When the housing 112 rotates, relative to the helmet 104, to a position where the helmet protrusions 142 are axially above the housing protrusions 118, the housing 112 is in a locked position. In the locked position, helmet protrusions 142 prevent an axial upward movement of housing protrusions 118. In embodiments, less than one revolution of housing 112 is required to move housing 112 from the released position to the locked position. In realizations, housing 112 can move as little as %, 1/3, %, 1/6, 1/8, 1/10, or 1/16 of a revolution, depending on the size and number of bosses, to move from the released position to the locked position. As can be seen by one skilled in the art, no fluid from the valve 102 is near the bonnet protrusions 142 and the housing protrusions 118 and thus there may be an absence of seals between the lower end of the housing 112 and the upper end of the helmet 104. Therefore, in embodiments, if any fluid is present within the lower end of the housing 102, at least a portion of that fluid may pass through the passage defined by the inner diameter 116 and flow into the area outside the housing 102 and outside the helmet. 104.
    [021] With respect to Figure 3, a rotational lock 144 can prevent rotation of the housing 112, relative to the helmet 104, when housing 112 is in the locked position. The rotational lock 144 includes a fastener body 146 that has one or more gripping tabs 148 that project inwardly therefrom when the fastener body is positioned in the fastener opening 150. The fastener opening 150 is a passageway through of the side wall of housing 112. In embodiments, no seal is required of opening 150 because there is an absence of pressurized fluid in housing 112 near opening 150. Indeed, in embodiments, there is an absence of seals between opening 150 and the body of fastener 146. The fastener body 146 is pivotally connected to the housing 112 by the pin 152 which passes through a side cavity or through the cross-drill hole of the body 112. The fastener body 146 is hinged over the pin 152 between a unfastened position and a stuck position. Detent 153 is a spring-loaded plunger that projects from one or both sides of fastener body 146. Detent 153 engages side cavity 154 of body 112 to selectively prevent fastener body 146 from pivoting. with respect to housing 112. When fastener body 146 is hinged radially outwardly from housing 112, in the unclamped position, detent 153 contacts an outer diameter surface of housing 112 to prevent fastener body 146 from pivoting. inward to the locked position. As one skilled in the art can appreciate, other mechanisms can be used to hold fastener body 146 in place. Gripping tab 148 also includes tab sidewalls 160. Gripping tab 148 is positioned in housing 112 slightly above housing ledges 118 so that at least a portion of gripping tab 148 is in the same axial location as the ledges of helmet 142 when housing 112 is resting on helmet 104.
    [022] In embodiments, a spring (not shown) can tilt fastener body 146 radially inward. A portion of the gripping tab 148, such as the bottom 156, contacts a top edge (not shown in Figure 3) of the helmet protrusion 142 when the housing 112 is placed on the helmet 104, thereby offsetting the gripping tab 148 radially outward. A bottom edge 156 may have a taper to facilitate such deflection.
    [023] Referring to Figures 2 and 3, with the gripping tab 148 positioned radially outward from the housing 112, in the unsecured position, the housing projections 118 rest on the shoulder 136 and the housing 112 is rotated towards the locked position. Detent 153 holds gripping tab 148 in a radially outward and unfastened position. An operator then compresses detent 153 to allow gripping tab 148 to pivot inwardly to the secured position. When gripping tab 148 pivots to a position where detent 153 is aligned with side cavity 154, a portion of detent 153 is urged by the inner spring (not shown) into side cavity 154. In that secured position, detent 153 engages with side cavity 154 to arrest grip tab 148 in the secured position and thereby prevent grip tab 148 from moving to the unfastened position. In the secured position, the grip tab side walls 160 engage the side walls 162 of the helmet protrusions 142, thereby preventing further rotation of the housing 112 in any direction relative to the helmet 104. grip 148 is contoured by a radius generally corresponding to the outer diameter profile of housing 112. Other types of rotational lock 144 may be used. For example, a pin (not shown) may be inserted through an opening (not shown) of housing 112 into a cavity (not shown) of helmet 104. Or a different type of fastening mechanism may be used.
    [024] At the opposite end of housing 112, from ID 116, is flange 168 which flares outwardly from housing 112. Flange 168 has an upward facing surface 170 which is a smooth surface to form a seal . A plurality of bolt holes 174 are separated around flange 168. A cap 178 is connected to housing 112. Cap 178 is an annular plate that has an outer diameter approximately equal to the outer diameter of flange 168. Sealing surface 180 is a generally smooth, downwardly facing cap surface 178 that lines up with the upwardly facing surface 170 of the flange 168. A plurality of screw holes 184 are spaced around the cap 178 to align with the screw holes 174. of cap 186 pass through screw holes 184 to threadedly engage screw holes 174 to secure cap 178 to housing 112. Other configurations can be used to secure cap 178 to housing 112, such as screws that are inserted through bolt holes 174 to threadedly engage bolt holes 184, bolts that pass through both members and are secured with nuts (not shown), gram. pos (not shown) or necklaces (not shown).
    [025] Inlet 188 is an orifice through cap 178 and is spaced inward from sealing surface 180. Inlet 188 is connected to a source of pressurized media fluid that can selectively supply a pressurized media fluid through the inlet 188. The pressurized medium fluid source includes rigid or flexible tubing or tubing 190. The pressurized medium is typically a fluid such as compressed air, nitrogen, well gas, or other types of gas or liquid.
    [026] Indicator housing 194 is a housing that includes an indicator hole 196 for receiving an indicator rod 198. Indicator rod 198 includes a cylindrical rod 200 that projects through cap 178. Bearing 202 is a bearing surface in a Indicator hole ID 196 to guide stem 198. Seal assembly 204 is a seal that dynamically seals around indicator stem rod 200. Alternatively, seal assembly 204 can be a seal cartridge, a lip shaped seal V-ring with an O-ring or other types of seals to dynamically seal around a stick.
    [027] Plate 208 is an annular plate positioned in housing 112. Plate 208 is generally perpendicular to the geometric axis of housing 112. Plate 208 may span the internal diameter of housing 112 and slidably or sealingly engage with the surface of inside diameter of housing 112. Alternatively, plate 208 may span a portion of the inside diameter of housing 112, but not extend to the inside diameter surface. Plate 208 includes a central cavity 210. Plate surface 208 is contoured so that the radially outward portions are axially of the radially inward portions. As shown in Figure 1, the outer diameter region of the plate is located axially closer to the valve end of the housing than to the central portion of the plate. In embodiments, the plate 208 has an upwardly-facing convex surface and an upwardly-facing concave surface, wherein the concave surface is spaced radially outwardly from the convex surface. Alternatively, plate 208 may have another shape, such as, for example, a generally flat shape.
    [028] Plate 208 includes a hub 212 and an outer plate 214. Hub 212 includes center cavity 210 which has ID threads on an ID surface. Hub 212 also includes a sealing surface on a central cavity ID 210. The outer diameter of hub 212 includes OD threads and an OD sealing surface. Outer plate 214 is an annular ring that connects to hub 212 so that plate 208 includes outer plate 214 and hub 212. convex, and then extends horizontally to the ID surface 114. The ID cavity of the outer plate 214 includes ID threads to threadably engage the OD threads of the hub 212. A seal is positioned in a seal groove in the outer plate cavity 214 and sealingly engages with the OD sealing surface of hub 212. Sidewall seal 234 is positioned in groove 236 located on an outside diameter of outer plate 214 and thus is located on a diameter of plate 208. Side wall seal 234 sealingly engages ID surface 114 of housing 112 to provide a dynamic seal between ID surface 114 and plate 208. In embodiments, a wear ring (not shown in Figure 1) may be po is located in groove 236. As can be seen by one skilled in the art, a wear ring can reduce friction between the outside diameter of plate 208 and the ID 114 surface of housing 112. The wear ring (not shown in Figure 1 ) does not have the same sealing properties as the sidewall seal 234.
    [029] The space connected by housing 112, plate 208 and cover 178 is defined as a pressure chamber 238. Fluid introduced through inlet 188 results in an increase in pressure, which causes plate 208 to move down. Alternatively, a conventional plate which may have a generally flat shape and which does not extend to the surface of ID 114 and a conventional diaphragm can be used.
    [030] Coupling 242 is releasably connected to the center of plate 208. Coupling 242 includes a cylindrical body 244, a shoulder 246 and an upper body 248. Body 242 threadably engages with cavity 210 of plate 208. Stem 198 is releasably connected to upper body 248 by means of a snap ring 250 which resides in corresponding grooves in each of a cavity in the lower end of stem 198 and the outer diameter of upper body 248. downwardly facing cylindrical 266 is located on the lower end of body 244. Alternatively, a conventional seal nut (not shown) and stem may be used.
    [031] Diaphragm 284 is a flexible diaphragm that extends at least from surface ID 114 to coupling 242. As shown in Figure 1, diaphragm 284 is positioned between sealing surface 180 of cap 178 and the surface 170 of flange 168. Bolt hole passages may be separated around diaphragm 284 in alignment with cap screws 186 so that cap screws 186 pass through diaphragm 284 when it is positioned between cap 178 and the flange 168. The cap screws 186 are torqued to propel each sealing surface towards the diaphragm 284. The diaphragm 284 thus acts as a seal, sealingly engaging each of the sealing surfaces 180 , 170.
    [032] An inside diameter hole 288 is located in the center of diaphragm 284. The lower portion of coupling 242 passes through hole 288 to engage the threads of center cavity 210. Diaphragm surfaces 284 are positioned between shoulder 246 of the coupling 242 and plate 208. As shown in Figure 1, an upwardly facing surface of hub 212 sealingly engages a lower surface of diaphragm 284 and shoulder 246 sealingly engages an upper surface of diaphragm 284. As coupling 242 is tightened toward plate 208, diaphragm 284 is compressed between plate 208 and shoulder 246. When diaphragm 284 is in position, pressure chamber 238 is defined by diaphragm 284 and cap 178.
    [033] Downward stop 290 is a cylindrical member for transmitting axial force between plate 208 and rod 106. Downward stop 290 includes cylindrical body 292 and shoulder 294 extending therefrom. The upward facing surface of shoulder 294 contacts the downward facing surface of plate 208. A nozzle 296 extends axially from the upper end of downward stop 290. When actuator 100 is mounted, nozzle 296 is positioned in cavity 266 , thus concentrically aligning both members.
    [034] The lower end of the down stop 290 includes the threaded cavity 298, which has threads on an ID surface, for threadedly engaging with a threaded end of the rod 106. As noted by one skilled in the art, the connection between the down stop 290 and the stem 106 can be any one of several types of connections and is not limited to threaded connections. The outer diameter of the lower end of downstop 290 includes a threaded collar 300 and may include any number of spacer rings 302. Threaded collar 300 contacts another member, such as packing retainer 108, located at the lower end of housing 112. to stop further downward displacement of the downward stop 290. Threaded collar 300 is adjusted so that it stops downward movement and thus stem 106 is in the proper position to fully open or fully close valve 102. The rings spacers 302 can be added or removed so that a gate passage (not shown) of gate valve 102 is properly aligned with a passage (not shown) of gate valve 102. A set screw is used to hold the threaded collar 300 in position.
    [035] Spring 308 encircles downward stop 290 and at least a portion of rod 106 and extends generally from the top of helmet 104 to the downward facing surface of shoulder 294. Spring 308 is compressed as the plate 208 moves from the top position to the bottom position. When fluid pressure from inlet 188 is reduced, spring 308 urges plate 208 upward, away from valve 102. As can be seen by one skilled in the art, fluid force within valve 102 can act on stem 106 within valve 102 to urge stem 106 upward. Spring 308 and upward force on rod 106 may work together or independently to move plate 208 upward.
    [036] During operation, cap 104 is connected to valve 102 by screws 128. Stem 106 extends upward through packing retainer 108 from cap 104. Downward stop 290 is threadedly connected to stem 106 and spring 308 is positioned between downward stop 290 and helmet 104 to urge downward stop 290 upward. The actuator top assembly, which includes housing 112, plate 208, diaphragm 284, stem 198, coupling 242 and cap 178, is assembled. The upper actuator mount is placed on the helmet 104. As the upper actuator mount is lowered onto the helmet 104, each of the housing protrusions 118 passes through a respective slot 140 and then the housing protrusions 118 come to rest over shoulder 136 of groove 134. The axial movement of housing 112, relative to helmet 104, is not yet restricted, and thus housing 112 is in a released position. As the upper actuator assembly, including the housing 112, moves downwardly, the grip tab 148 contacts one of the helmet protrusions 142, causing the grip tab 148 to pivot radially outwardly.
    [037] When the housing protrusions 118 rest on the shoulder 136, the gripping tab 148 remains in contact with one of the helmet protrusions 142 and remains hinged outwards. The upper actuator assembly is then rotated, relative to the helmet 104, with housing protrusions 118 pivoting along slot 134, until at least a portion of each housing protrusion 118 is axially aligned with at least one portion of a respective helmet boss 142. The upper actuator assembly is thus rotated from the released position to a locked position. The helmet protrusions 142 thus resist upward movement of the housing protrusions 118 and the shoulder 136 resists the downward movement of the housing protrusions 118, thereby preventing axial movement of the upper actuator assembly relative to the helmet. 104. Nozzle 296 enters cavity 266 and plate 208 rests on down-stop 290 as housing 112 rests on helmet 104.
    [038] As the housing 112 rotates with respect to the helmet 104, the grip tab 148 rotates along the helmet protrusion 142 with which it is in contact until the grip tab 148 is no longer radially aligned with that helmet protrusion 142. Once the grip tab 148 is freed from the helmet protrusion 142 and the detent 153 is depressed, the grip tab 148 pivots inwardly to a secured position. Upon inward pivoting, gripping tab 148 is held in secured position by detent 153 which engages side cavity 154 and is positioned in a slot 140 between two helmet protrusions 142. Tab side walls 160 contact a surface of each of the respective protrusions among the helmet protrusions 142, thus preventing rotation of the housing 112 relative to the helmet 104. In embodiments, the fastener body 146 has an outer surface 164 with a profile generally corresponding to the diameter profile. outer diameter of housing 112 near fastener opening 150. When gripping tab 148 is in the secured position, the outer diameter contour of outer surface 164 is generally flush with the outer diameter surface of housing 112 near fastener opening 150.
    [039] To remove the upper actuator assembly, a tool (not shown), such as a thin rod or a screwdriver, is inserted into the side cavity 154 and used to depress detent 153, thereby propelling detent 153 out of the side cavity 154. Once the detent 153 no longer engages the side cavity 154, the fastener body 148 is urged outward, out of the secured position and into an unsecured position, e.g. a flat tool under the bottom edge of the fastener body. In the unattached position, the gripping tab 148 is no longer radially aligned with the helmet protrusions 142. The upper actuator assembly thus can be rotated, relative to the helmet 104, until the housing protrusions 118 are axially aligned with the helmet slots 140, at which point the actuator top assembly can be removed from the helmet 104. Housing protrusions 118 pass through the slots 140 as the actuator top assembly is removed.
    [040] As shown in Figure 1, inlet 188 is radially offset from the center of cap 178. If tubing 190 is a rigid pipe or tube or flexible tubing that is less than a given length, inlet 188 needs to be aligned with tubing 190 when housing 112 is in the locked position so that tubing 190 can be connected to inlet 188. Housing 112 must rotate, at most, the arc length of a protrusion to move from the released position to the stuck position. If there are, for example, eight housing protrusions 118 and eight helmet protrusions 142, each with eight housing slots 120 and helmet slots 140 between them, respectively, the housing rotates approximately 1/16 of a turn to move. from the released position to the locked position. This allows the operator to determine the final position of input 188 at the time housing 112 is placed in helmet 104. In embodiments, input 188 rotates between approximately 1 and 180 degrees when housing 112 is moved between the released position and the locked position. In embodiments, inlet 188 rotates between approximately 10 and 90 degrees when housing 112 is moved between the released position and the locked position. In embodiments, inlet 188 rotates between approximately 15 and 45 degrees when housing 112 is moved between the released position and the locked position. In embodiments, inlet 188 rotates between approximately 22 and 30 degrees when housing 112 is moved between the released position and the locked position. If the gripping tab 148 is held in the unfastened position, the housing 112 may rotate through one or more of the locked and non-locked positions and, after releasing the gripping tab 148, reach the next locked position and be secured in the place.
    [041] After the housing 112 is connected to the bonnet 104, the valve 102 is actuated, introducing a pressurized medium through the inlet 188 in the pressure chamber 238. The pressurized medium exerts a downward force on the diaphragm 284 and the plate 208, which urges plate 208, stop 290 downwards, and stem 106 downward to actuate valve 102. As plate 208 moves downward, coupling 242, which is connected to plate 208, also moves down. Indicator rod 198, which is connected to coupling 242, also moves downward. From outside the actuator 100, the extension and retraction of the stem 198 provides a visual indication of the position of the plate 208 and thus the state of the valve 102.
    [042] Referring now to Figure 4, actuator 310 is a piston-type actuator to actuate valve 312. Actuator 310 includes housing 314, which is releasably connected to cap 316. extends downward through housing 314 and actuates valve 312. Piston head 320, also called power head, is detachably connected to housing 314. Piston head 320 includes a cylindrical body 322. Piston 324 is positioned within the piston chamber 326 of the body 322. A cylindrical cavity 328 is situated at a lower end of the piston 324. The seals 330 form a seal between the piston body 324 and an inside diameter of the body 322. Each of the port 332 and port 334 is an opening through body 322 in communication with piston chamber 326. Port 332 is used to introduce a pressurized medium into piston chamber 326. Port 334 can be used as an inlet or an outlet to release the medium at par tir of piston chamber 326. Port 334 may be capped, connected to an outlet line, and may include a pressure relief device. Indicator rod 336 extends upward from upwardly facing surface 338 of piston 324. Indicator rod 336 extends through hole 340 in top of body 322. Seal assembly 342 forms a seal between hole 340 and indicator rod 336.
    [043] Downward stop 344 is in contact with a lower surface of piston 324. Nozzle 346 extends upward from the center of downward stop 344 and is positioned within cavity 328 in the base of piston 324. 318 is connected to downward stop 344 so that downward movement of piston 324 through downward stop 344 urges rod 318 downward. Spring 348 urges stop 344 downward and thus rod 318 and piston 324 upward.
    [044] Referring to Figures 4 and 5, the upper end of the housing 314, which can be considered the piston end, includes a passage defined by the inner diameter 350. The housing protrusions 352 project inwardly from the ID 350 and are spaced around ID 350 to define slots 354 therebetween. The piston head body 322 includes the locking flange 356 which extends radially from the body 322. The outer diameter of the locking flange 356 is less than or approximately equal to the inner diameter of the ID 350, so that the ID 350 can fits over locking flange 356. Flange 356 includes downward facing surface 358.
    [045] Groove 360 is an annular groove in the outer diameter of locking flange 356. The upper side wall of groove 360 defines a downward facing shoulder 362. The width of groove 360, which is defined in terms of the axial length along of the geometric axis of the body 322, is greater than or approximately equal to the axial length of the housing protrusions 352. The diameter of the rear wall of the slot 364 is less than or approximately equal to the inside diameter of the housing protrusions 352.
    [046] Slots 366 are axial slots in the outer diameter of locking flange 356 that extend from the downward facing surface 358 of flange 356 to slot 360. A plurality of slots 366 are spaced around the circumference of the locking flange 356 to define the head protrusions 368 therebetween. The radial depth of each slot 366 is typically less than or equal to the radial depth of slot 360, but may be greater than the radial depth of slot 360. The circumferential arc length of each slot is approximately equal to or greater than the circumferential arc length of the housing protrusions 352. The housing protrusions 352 thus have the ability to pass axially through the slots 366. After passing through the slots 366, the housing projections 352 are positioned in the slot 360 above the head projections 368. Housing protrusions 352 contact shoulder 362, thereby stopping further downward movement of body 322 relative to housing 314. Because housing protrusions 352 are axially above head protrusions 368, piston head 320 may rotate with respect to housing 314. When piston head 320 rotates, relative to housing 314, to a position where head lugs 368 are ax ally below the housing protrusions 352, the piston head 320 is in a locked position. In the locked position, housing protrusions 352 prevent axial upward movement of head protrusions 368.
    [047] A rotational lock 370 can prevent the rotation of the piston head 320, relative to the housing 314, when the piston head 320 is in the locked position. Rotational latch 370 includes fastener body 372 which has one or more fastener tabs 374 that project inwardly therefrom when fastener body 372 is positioned in fastener opening 376. Fastener opening 376 is an opening through the side wall of housing 314. Fastener body 372 is hingedly connected to housing 314 by pin 378 which passes through a side cavity or a cross-drill hole of housing 314. Fastener body 372 pivots over pin 378 between a locked position and an unfastened position. Detent 379 is a spring-loaded plunger that protrudes from one or both sides of fastener body 372. Detent 379 engages a side cavity (not shown) of housing 314 to selectively prevent the body from fastener 372 pivots with respect to housing 314. When fastener body 372 is hinged radially outward from housing 314 in the unclamped position, detent 379 contacts an outer diameter surface of housing 314 to prevent fastener body from 372 pivots inward to the stuck position. Gripping tab 374 also includes tab sidewalls 386. Gripping tab 374 is positioned on housing 314 slightly above housing protrusions 352 so that at least a portion of gripping tab 374 is in the same axial location as the head protrusions 368.
    [048] Referring now to Figure 6, in embodiments, grip tab 374 includes a tapered top 382 facing up and inward when grip tab 374 is positioned in fastener opening 376. Tapered top 382 contacts an edge 384 of the head protrusion 368 when the piston head 320 is placed in the housing 314, thereby deflecting the gripping tab 374 radially outward.
    [049] Again with reference to Figures 4 and 5, when shoulder 362 lands on housing protrusions 352 and housing 314 is rotated to the locked position, gripping tab 374 releases head protrusion 368 in which it is radially situated, in which the gripper tab 374 is held in the unfastened position by the detent 379 which contacts an outer diameter surface of the housing 314. An operator then depresses the detent 379 to allow the gripper tab 374 to pivot inwardly. to the stuck position. Once in the locked position, detent 379 is urged into the side cavity (not shown) of housing 314 by a spring (not shown). In the secured position, gripping tab side walls 386 engage with side walls 390 of head protrusions 368, thus preventing further rotation of piston head 320 in any direction relative to housing 314. Outer surface 372 of rotational lock 370 is surrounded by a radius that generally corresponds to the outer diameter profile of housing 314.
    [050] Other types of rotational lock 370 can be used. For example, a pin (not shown) can be inserted through an opening (not shown) of housing 314 into a radial cavity (not shown) of piston head 320. Or a different type of clamping mechanism can be used.
    [051] Figures 4 and 7 show a quick connect type of connection between the 314 housing and the 316 helmet. Other types of helmet housing connections can be used with the 320 quick disconnect piston head. housing 314, which may be considered the valve end, includes a passage defined by internal diameter 394. Housing projections 396 project inwardly from ID 394 and are spaced around ID 394 to define slots 398 therebetween. . The helmet 316 includes the lower flange 400 that extends radially from the helmet body 402. The lower flange 400 is connected to the valve body 312, for example, by screws (not shown in Figure 4). At the opposite end of helmet 316 from bottom flange 400, locking flange 404 extends radially from helmet body 402 and includes top surface 406. The outside diameter of locking flange 404 is less than or approximately equal to ID 394 inside diameter so that the ID 394 can fit over the 404 locking flange.
    [052] Groove 408 is an annular groove in the outer diameter of locking flange 404. The lower side wall of groove 408 defines an upwardly facing shoulder 410. The width of groove 408, which is defined in terms of the axial length along of the geometric axis of the helmet 316, is greater than or approximately equal to the axial length of the housing protrusions 396. The diameter of the rear wall of the groove 412 is less than or approximately equal to the inside diameter of the housing protrusions 396.
    [053] Slots 414 are axial slots in the outer diameter of locking flange 404 that extend from top surface 406 to slot 408. A plurality of slots 414 are spaced around the circumference of locking flange 404 to define protrusions of helmet 416 among them. The radial depth of each slot 414 is typically less than or equal to the radial depth of slot 408, but may be greater than the radial depth of slot 408. The circumferential arc length of each slot is approximately equal to or greater than the arc length of the housing projections 396. The housing projections 396 thus have the ability to pass axially through the slots 414. After passing through the slots 414, the housing projections 396 are positioned in the slot 408 below the helmet projections 416 Housing protrusions 396 contact shoulder 410, thereby stopping further downward movement of housing 314 relative to helmet 316. Because housing protrusions 396 are axially below helmet protrusions 416, housing 314 may rotate in relative to helmet 316. When housing 314 rotates, relative to helmet 316, to a position where helmet protrusions 416 are axial Just above housing protrusions 396, housing 314 is in a locked position. In the locked position, helmet protrusions 416 prevent axial upward movement of housing protrusions 396.
    [054] A rotational lock 418 can prevent the rotation of the housing 314, relative to the helmet 316, when the housing 314 is in the locked position. The rotational lock 418 includes the fastener body 420 which has a gripping tab 422 that projects inwardly therefrom when the fastener body is positioned in the fastener opening 424. The fastener body 420 is pivotally connected to the housing 314 by pin 426. Fastener body 420 pivots over pin 426 between an unattached position and a secured position. A detent 427 engages the side cavity of the housing 314 (not shown in Figure 7) to hold the grip tab 422 in the locked position.
    [055] The grip tab 422 may include a tapered bottom facing downwards and inwardly when the grip tab 422 is positioned in the fastener opening 424. The tapered bottom may contact the top edge of the helmet protrusion 416 when the housing 314 is placed on the helmet 316, thereby deflecting the gripping tab 422 radially outward. The grip tab 422 is positioned in the housing 314 slightly above the housing protrusions 396 so that at least a portion of the grip tab 422 is in the same axial location as the helmet protrusions 416.
    [056] When housing protrusions 396 land on shoulder 410 and housing 314 is rotated to the locked position, gripping tab 422 is released, depressing detent 427 and gripping tab 422 can then be released. move to a locked position where at least a portion of grip tab 422 is in slot 414. Detent 427 can engage side cavity (not shown) to hold grip tab 422 in the locked position. In the secured position, the gripping tab side walls engage with the side walls of the housing protrusions 396, thus preventing further rotation of the housing 314 in any direction relative to the helmet 316. The outer surface of the gripper body 420 is contoured by a radius generally corresponding to the outer diameter profile of the housing 314.
    [057] Other types of rotational lock 418 can be used. For example, a pin (not shown) may be inserted through an opening (not shown) of housing 314 into a cavity (not shown) of helmet 316. Or a different type of fastener mechanism may be used.
    [058] In embodiments, the ends of housing 314 are interchangeable, so that housing 314 can be reversed during installation. In other words, the passage diameters, boss sizes, slot sizes and other functional parts used to connect each of the piston head 320 and the helmet 316 are substantially identical. In embodiments, the valve end of housing 314 and the piston end of housing 314 are substantially similar, so that each of the valve end and the piston end is operable to be connected to one of the piston head and the helmet.
    [059] Although the invention has been shown or described in only some of its forms, it should be evident to those skilled in the art that it is not limited to this, but is susceptible to various changes without departing from the scope of the invention.
    权利要求:
    Claims (19)
    [0001]
    1. SYSTEM FOR ACTUATING A VALVE (102), characterized in that it comprises an apparatus (100) comprising: a cylindrical housing (112) having a valve end and an annular housing surface (116) proximate the valve end; a valve stem (106), a portion of the valve stem which is positioned within the housing (112) and being unprotected in a longitudinal direction within the housing (112) relative to a pressure chamber (238) sealed within the housing (112) and another portion of the valve stem which extends from the valve end of the housing (112) and is operable to be connected to a valve (102), wherein the valve stem (106) moves between a extended position and a retracted position, wherein the valve stem (106) extends further away from the valve end in the extended position than in the retracted position; and a helmet (104) operable to be connected to the valve (102), wherein the rod (106) passes through the helmet (104) and limited in the longitudinal direction by the helmet (104), the housing (112) being so connected. separable from the helmet (104) by engaging the helmet (104) and rotating the housing (112) from a released position to a locked position, wherein the housing (112) rotates less than one total revolution between the released positions. and locked, the housing (112) holding the pressure chamber (238) sealed in the released position and when separated from the cap (104) and separated from the valve stem (106).
    [0002]
    A SYSTEM according to claim 1, characterized in that the housing (112) comprises a plurality of housing projections (118) spaced apart around the housing annular surface (116), wherein the housing projections (118) protrude from the annular housing surface (118) to define a plurality of slots (120) therebetween; and the helmet (104) comprises a plurality of helmet protrusions (142) spaced apart around an annular helmet surface (130), wherein the helmet protrusions (142) project from the annular helmet surface (130) to define a plurality of helmet slots (140) therebetween, each of the housing protrusions (118) operable to pass axially through one of the respective helmet slots (140) when the housing (112) is in a released position and, after passing through the helmet slots (140), the housing (112) is rotatable at least until a portion of one or more of the housing protrusions (118) is axially aligned with a portion of a respective helmet protrusion (142) such that the helmet protrusions (142) prevent axial movement of the housing (112) in at least one direction.
    [0003]
    A SYSTEM according to claim 1, characterized in that it further comprises a fastener assembly (146), wherein the fastener (146) prevents the housing (112) from rotating relative to the helmet (104) when the housing (112 ) is in the locked position.
    [0004]
    4. SYSTEM according to claim 3, characterized in that the fastener assembly (146) comprises a gripping tab (148) connected to one of the housing (112) and the helmet (104), wherein the gripping tab ( 148) is positioned in one of the slots (120, 140) and engages one or more of the protrusions (118, 142) in the locked position to prevent the housing (112) from rotating relative to the helmet (104).
    [0005]
    A SYSTEM according to claim 4, characterized in that the gripping tab (148) is positioned in an opening of the housing (112), the gripping tab (148) being pivotable between a secured position and an unfastened position, in that the gripping tab (148) further comprises a fastener body (146) having a contour corresponding to an outer diameter contour of the housing (112) near the opening so that the fastener body (146) is level. with the outer diameter contour in the locked position.
    [0006]
    The SYSTEM of claim 1, further comprising: a plate (208) positioned within the housing (112) and encompassing at least a portion of the internal diameter of the housing (112); a diaphragm (284) spanning the diameter of the housing (112), the diaphragm (284) being at least partially supported by the plate (208); and a downward stop (290) in contact with the plate (208) and connected to the stem (106), wherein pressurized means through an inlet urges the diaphragm (284) towards the valve end (102) and the diaphragm (284) urges plate (208) and stop (290) downward toward valve end (102) to urge stem (106) toward extended position.
    [0007]
    The system of claim 6, characterized in that the plate (208) spans the inner diameter of the housing (114) and further comprises a seal (180) between the plate (208) and the housing (112).
    [0008]
    The system of claim 1, further comprising a piston (324) within the housing (112), the piston (324) moving axially within the housing (112) in response to pressure means from an inlet, the piston (324) causing the rod (106) to move from a retracted position to an extended position.
    [0009]
    9. SYSTEM according to claim 1, characterized in that it further comprises a valve assembly connected to the bonnet (104), the valve assembly being movable between an open position and a closed position in response to the movement of the stem (106) and wherein there is an absence of fluid communication between the valve assembly and the housing (112).
    [0010]
    10. APPARATUS (310) FOR ACTUATING A VALVE (312), characterized in that the apparatus (310) comprises: a cylindrical housing (314) having a valve end (312), a piston end (328) and an annular surface of piston end (328), a plurality of circumferentially spaced piston end protrusions (328) projecting from the piston end annular surface (328) to define a plurality of piston end slots (328) between the same; a piston head (320) is releasably connected to the piston end (328) of the housing (314), the piston head (320) comprising: an inlet (350), a cylindrical piston housing (326) ), wherein the piston housing (326) has a plurality of piston housing projections (352) spaced apart around an annular surface (350) of piston housing (326), wherein the piston housing projections ( 352) project from the annular surface (350) of piston housing (326) to define a plurality of piston housing slots (354) therebetween, wherein each of the piston housing protrusions (352) is operable to pass axially through a respective slot (354) among the piston end slots (354) (328) when the piston head (320) is in a released position and, after passing through the slots (354) of piston end (328), the piston head (320) is swivel at least until a portion of one or more of the piston housing bosses (352) is axially aligned with a portion of a respective piston end boss (352), so that the piston end bosses (352) prevent axial movement of the piston head (320) in at least one direction to define a locked position, and a piston (324) within the piston housing (326), wherein the piston (324) moves between an extended position and a retracted position at responding to pressure means from the inlet, wherein the piston is closer to the valve end (312) in the extended position than in the retracted position; a downward stop (344) in contact with the piston (324), wherein the downward stop (344) is urged towards the valve end (312) of the housing (314) when the piston (324) moves in direction to the extended position; a plurality of spaced housing protrusions (352) around an annular housing surface (350), wherein the housing projections (352) project from the annular housing surface (350) to define a plurality of slots ( 354) between them; a helmet (316) operable to be connected to a valve (312), wherein the helmet (316) has a plurality of helmet protrusions (396) spaced apart around an annular helmet surface (394), wherein the protrusions helmet slots (396) project from the helmet annular surface (394) to define a plurality of helmet slots (400) therebetween, each of the housing protrusions (352) being operable to pass axially through. a respective slot (400) among the helmet slots (400) when the housing (314) is in a released position and, after passing through the helmet slots (400), the housing (314) is rotatable at least until a portion of one or more of the housing protrusions (352) is axially aligned with a portion of a respective helmet protrusion (396), so that the helmet protrusions (396) prevent axial movement of the housing (314) at at least one direction to set a lock position , wherein the housing (314) maintains a sealed pressure chamber in the released position and when detached from the helmet (316); and a rod (318), wherein the rod extends through the bonnet (316) and connects to the downward stop (344) so that when the downward stop (344) is urged towards the valve end ( 312), the stem (318) extends further through the cap (316) towards the valve (312).
    [0011]
    APPARATUS (310) according to claim 10, characterized in that the valve end (312) and the piston end (328) are similar, so that each of the valve end (312) and the piston end. piston (328) is operable to be connected to one of the piston housing (326) and the helmet (316).
    [0012]
    APPARATUS (310) according to claim 10, characterized in that the helmet (316) further comprises a radial groove (360) having one side defined by an annular shoulder (362) and the other side defined by a surface of the protrusions. helmet shells (316) facing toward the annular shoulder (362) wherein the housing protrusions (352) slide into the annular groove (360) as they move between the locked position and the released position.
    [0013]
    APPARATUS (310) according to claim 10, characterized in that the housing projections (352) are on an inner diameter surface of the housing (350) and the helmet projections (316) are on an outer diameter surface of the helmet (316).
    [0014]
    APPARATUS (310) according to claim 10, characterized in that it further comprises a fastener assembly (372), wherein the fastener (372) prevents the housing (314) from rotating relative to the helmet (316) when the housing (314) is in the locked position.
    [0015]
    15. APPARATUS (310) according to claim 14, characterized in that the fastener assembly (372) comprises a grip flap (374) connected to one of the housing (314) and the helmet (316), wherein the flap The gripper (374) is positioned in one of the slots and engages one or more of the protrusions in the locked position to prevent the housing (314) from rotating relative to the helmet (316).
    [0016]
    16. APPARATUS (310) according to claim 15, characterized in that the gripping tab (374) is positioned in an opening of the housing (314), the gripping tab (374) being pivotable between a secured position and a non-lockable position. fastened, wherein the gripping tab (374) further comprises a fastener body (420) having a contour corresponding to an outer diameter contour of the housing (314) near the opening, so that the fastener body (420) ) is level with the outer diameter contour in the locked position.
    [0017]
    17. APPARATUS (310) FOR ACTUATING A VALVE (312), characterized in that the apparatus (310) comprises: a cylindrical housing (314) having a valve end (312), a piston end (328) and an annular surface of piston end (328), a plurality of circumferentially spaced piston end protrusions (352) projecting from the piston end annular surface (328) to define a plurality of piston end slots (328) between the the same, the housing (314) maintaining a pressure chamber (238) sealed in a released position relative to a helmet (316) which is operable to be connected to the valve and when the housing (314) is separated from the helmet (316) ; a piston head (320) is releasably connected to the piston end of the housing (328), the piston head (320) comprising: an inlet (350), a cylindrical piston housing (326), at that the piston housing (326) has a plurality of piston housing projections (352) spaced apart around an annular surface (350) of the piston housing (326), wherein the piston housing projections (341) abut. project from the annular surface (350) of the piston housing (326) to define a plurality of piston housing slots (354) therebetween, wherein each of the piston housing protrusions (352) is operable to pass. axially through a respective slot (354) among the piston end slots (354) when the piston head (320) is in a released position and, after passing through the piston end slots (328), the head piston (320) is rotatable at least until a portion of a or more of the piston housing lugs (352) is axially aligned to a portion of a respective piston end lug (352) so that the piston end lugs (352) prevent axial movement of the piston head (320) in at least one direction to define a locked position, and a piston (324) within the piston housing (326), wherein the piston (324) moves between an extended position and a retracted position in response to means pressure from the inlet, wherein the piston is closer to the valve end (312) in the extended position than in the retracted position; a downward stop (344) in contact with the piston (324), wherein the downward stop (344) is urged towards the valve end (312) of the housing (314) when the piston (324) moves in direction to the extended position; a rod (318), wherein the rod (318) extends through the bonnet (316) and contacts the downward stop (344) so that when the downward stop (344) is urged towards the valve end (312), the stem (318) extends further through the cap (316) towards the valve (312); a plurality of spaced housing protrusions (352) around an annular housing surface (350), wherein the housing projections (352) project from the annular housing surface (350) to define a plurality of slots ( 354) between them; and a helmet (316), wherein the helmet (316) has a plurality of helmet protrusions (396) spaced apart around an annular helmet surface (394), wherein the helmet protrusions (396) protrude from of the annular helmet surface (394) to define a plurality of helmet slots (400) therebetween, each of the housing protrusions (352) operable to pass axially through a respective slot (400) among the slots. of helmet (400) when the housing (314) is in a released position and, after passing through the helmet slots (400), the housing (314) is rotatable at least until a portion of one or more of the protrusions of housing (352) is axially aligned to a portion of a respective helmet protrusion (396), such that the helmet protrusions (396) prevent axial movement of the housing (314) in at least one direction to define a locked position. .
    [0018]
    The apparatus (310) of claim 17, further comprising a clamp assembly (372), wherein the clamp assembly (372) prevents the piston head (320) from rotating relative to the housing ( 314) when the piston head (320) is in the locked position.
    [0019]
    19. APPARATUS (310) according to claim 18, characterized in that the fastener assembly (372) comprises a grip tab (374) connected to the housing (314), wherein the grip tab (374) is positioned in a of the slots (400) and engages one or more of the piston head lugs (368) in the locked position to prevent the housing (314) from rotating relative to the helmet (316).
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    法律状态:
    2018-11-21| B06F| Objections, documents and/or translations needed after an examination request according [chapter 6.6 patent gazette]|
    2020-08-11| B06U| Preliminary requirement: requests with searches performed by other patent offices: procedure suspended [chapter 6.21 patent gazette]|
    2021-06-08| B09A| Decision: intention to grant [chapter 9.1 patent gazette]|
    2021-07-06| B16A| Patent or certificate of addition of invention granted [chapter 16.1 patent gazette]|Free format text: PRAZO DE VALIDADE: 20 (VINTE) ANOS CONTADOS A PARTIR DE 23/12/2013, OBSERVADAS AS CONDICOES LEGAIS. |
    优先权:
    申请号 | 申请日 | 专利标题
    US201261747479P| true| 2012-12-31|2012-12-31|
    US61/747,479|2012-12-31|
    US13/832,884|2013-03-15|
    US13/832,884|US9212758B2|2012-12-31|2013-03-15|Quick connect valve actuator|
    PCT/US2013/077412|WO2014105789A1|2012-12-31|2013-12-23|Quick connect valve actuator|
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