Valve system and methods thereof

A valve system comprising a valve body having an opening and an interior; a davit system comprising: a first pillar having an upper end and a lower end, wherein the lower end of the first pillar is attached to the valve body; a second pillar having an upper end and a lower end, wherein the lower end of the second pillar is attached to the valve body; a pivot arm having a first end and a second end, wherein the first end of the pivot arm is rotationally attached to the upper end of the first pillar, the second end of the pivot arm is removably attached to the upper end of the second pillar and the pivot arm straddles the valve body opening when the second end of the pivot arm touches the upper end of the second pillar; and a closure cap system comprising a closure cap, wherein a means for sealing the closure cap is disposed between the closure cap and the valve body; and a cap stem having an upper end and a lower end, wherein the lower end of the cap stem is attached to the closure cap and the upper end of the cap stem is disposed through a central portion of the pivot arm; and wherein a means for lifting and lowering the closure cap engages the cap stem to lift or lower the closure cap is disclosed. A method of using the valve system is also disclosed.

FEDERALLY SPONSORED RESEARCH STATEMENT

Not Applicable (N/A)

REFERENCE TO MICROFICHE APPENDIX

FIELD OF INVENTION

The present invention relates generally to an improved valve system and methods thereof and, more particularly, to an improved valve system with dual-pillar davit system and a threadless closure cap and methods thereof.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Many large valves (e.g., pigging valves) have removable closure caps. The weight of the closure cap becomes cumbersome as the size of the valve increases. For example, the closure cap on a twenty (20) inch diameter pigging valve cannot be removed without use of a davit system.

Generally, prior art davit systems use a single pillar davit system with a cantilever beam to open and support a closure cap. The weight of the closure cap for larger valves (e.g., larger than about twenty (20) inches in diameter) deforms the cantilever beam, making it difficult to align the closure cap with the valve properly.

Typically, closure caps are threaded. Misalignments between the closure cap and the valve can damage or gall the threads, causing the threads to freeze. Threaded closure caps also have other disadvantages. When opening (or closing) the valve, it takes time and effort to unthread (or thread) multiple turns of a cumbersome closure cap. Further, after continuous use under pressure, the threads could shear over time.

Thus, an improved valve system with a dual-pillar davit system and a threadless closure cap is needed to eliminate these problems.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

In an embodiment, a valve system comprises (a) a valve comprising a valve body having an opening and an interior, wherein the valve may be operated to a closed or to an open position; (b) a davit system comprising a first pillar having an upper end and a lower end, wherein the lower end of the first pillar is attached to an upper surface of the valve body; a second pillar having an upper end and a lower end, wherein the lower end of the second pillar is attached to an upper surface of the valve body; a pivot arm having a first end and a second end, wherein the first end of the pivot arm is rotationally attached to the upper end of the first pillar, wherein the second end of the pivot arm is removably attached to the upper end of the second pillar and wherein the pivot arm straddles the valve body opening when the second end of the pivot arm touches the upper end of the second pillar; and (c) a closure cap system comprising a closure cap adapted to seal the valve body opening, wherein a means for sealing the closure cap is disposed between the closure cap and the valve body when the closure cap is in a closed position; and a cap stem having an upper end and a lower end, wherein the lower end of the cap stem is attached to the closure cap and the upper end of the cap stem is disposed through a central portion of the pivot arm; and wherein a means for lifting and lowering the closure cap engages the cap stem to lift or lower the closure cap.

In an embodiment, the valve body has a first end and a second end, the first end of the valve body is fluidly connected to a first adapter or connection pipe and the second end of the valve body is fluidly connected to a second adapter or connection pipe. In an embodiment, the valve body is connected to the first adapter or connection pipe via a bolted connection and the second end of the valve body is connected to the second adapter or connection pipe via a bolted connection. In an embodiment, the first adapter or connection pipe has an equalizer valve disposed through a wall of the first adapter or connection pipe.

In an embodiment, the valve system further comprises a pivot arm bearing, wherein the pivot arm bearing is disposed between the first end of the pivot arm and the upper end of the first pillar. In an embodiment, the valve system further comprises an upper collar thrust bearing and a lower collar thrust bearing, wherein the pivot arm bearing is disposed between the upper collar trust bearing and the lower collar thrust bearing.

In an embodiment the upper end of the first pillar is adapted to accept a cap nut and the upper end of the second pillar is adapted to accept a collar nut.

In an embodiment, the first end of the pivot arm touches a pivot collar of the first pillar and the second end of the pivot arm touches a pivot collar of the second pillar.

In an embodiment, the second end of the pivot arm further comprises a pivot arm handle.

In an embodiment, the means for sealing a closure cap comprises a closure cap O-ring. In an embodiment, the means for sealing a closure cap comprises a cap-to-clamp connection between the valve body and the closure cap.

In an embodiment, the closure cap is a threadless closure cap.

In an embodiment, the valve system further comprises a means for rotating a closure cap, wherein the means for rotating a closure cap engages the closure cap to rotate from an open position to a closed position or from the closed position to the open position. In an embodiment, the means for rotating a closure cap comprises a rack having rack teeth, a gear having an upper end and a lower end and gear teeth on an outer surface, and a gear screw having an upper end and a lower end, wherein the gear is attached to the upper end of the gear screw and the closure cap is attached to the lower end of the gear screw and wherein the rack teeth and the gear teeth engage each other to rotate the closure cap from the open position to the closed position or from the closed position to the open position. In an embodiment, the rack is attached to an upper surface of the closure cap adjacent to the valve body.

In an embodiment, the means for rotating a closure cap further comprises a gear bearing, wherein the gear bearing is disposed between the gear and the upper end of the gear screw. In an embodiment, the means for rotating a closure cap further comprises a hand wrench or gear handle adapted to fit the upper end of the gear screw.

In an embodiment, the means for rotating a closure cap comprises a horizontal handle attached to an upper surface of the closure cap.

In an embodiment, the valve system further comprises a stop plate having a first end and a second end, wherein the stop plate is attached to an upper surface of the closure cap adjacent to the rack and the valve body.

In an embodiment, the valve system further comprises a lock plate, wherein the lock plate is attached to an upper surface of the valve body adjacent to the first end of the stop plate and the valve body opening.

In an embodiment, the valve system comprises a lock plate system, wherein the lock plate system is attached to an upper surface of the valve body and mechanically connected to an upper surface of the closure cap.

In an embodiment, the means for lifting and lowering a closure cap comprises a cap handle or hand wheel attached to an upper end of the cap stem, wherein the cap stem is a threaded cap stem. In an embodiment, the means for lifting and lowering a closure cap further comprises an upper pivot plate, a lower pivot arm plate and a threaded cap stem nut, wherein the upper pivot plate is attached to an upper surface of the pivot arm, the lower pivot arm plate is attached to a lower surface of the pivot arm plate, the threaded cap stem nut is disposed between the upper pivot arm plate and the lower pivot arm plate. In an embodiment, a spring is disposed between the upper pivot arm plate and the threaded cap nut. In an embodiment, a stop block is disposed between the cap handle or hand wheel and the upper pivot arm plate.

In an embodiment, the means for lifting and lowering a closure cap comprises a slotted cap stem and a jack system attached to an upper surface of the pivot arm.

In an embodiment, a method of opening a valve system comprises the steps (a) providing the valve system as discussed above; (b) operating a valve to a closed position to prevent flow from a pipeline; (c) rotating a gear to align a closure cap with a valve body opening; (d) aligning the closure cap with the valve body opening; (e) rotating a cap handle or hand wheel to lift the closure cap through the valve body opening; (f) lifting the closure cap through the valve body opening; (g) rotating a pivot arm to access an interior of the valve body; and (h) accessing the interior of the valve body.

In an embodiment, step b) comprises operating the valve to a closed position to remove a pig.

In an embodiment, step c) comprises rotating the gear until a stop plate touches a stop plate screw. In an embodiment, step c) comprises rotating the gear by a handle until a stop plate touches a stop plate screw.

In an embodiment, step g) comprises g-1) loosening a collar nut to rotate a pivot arm, and step g-2) comprises rotating the pivot arm to access the interior of the valve body. In an embodiment, step g) comprises g-1) loosening a collar nut to rotate a pivot arm, and step g-2) comprises rotating the pivot arm by pushing a handle to access the interior of the valve body.

In an embodiment, step h) comprises accessing the interior of the valve body to lift a received pig up through the valve body opening.

In an embodiment, a method of closing a valve system comprises the steps (a) providing the valve system as discussed above; (b) rotating a pivot arm to align a closure cap with a valve body opening; (c) aligning the closure cap with the valve body opening; (d) rotating a cap handle or a hand wheel to lower a closure cap through a valve body opening; (e) lowering the closure cap through the valve body opening; (f) rotating a gear to close the closure cap to the valve body; (g) closing the closure cap to the valve body; (h) operating the valve to an open position to permit flow from a pipeline.

In an embodiment, step b) comprises rotating the pivot arm until the pivot arm touches the pivot collar of the second pillar. In an embodiment, step b) comprises rotating the pivot arm by pulling a handle until the pivot arm touches the pivot collar of the second pillar. In an embodiment, step b) comprises b-1) rotating the pivot arm until the pivot arm touches a pivot collar of the second pillar, and b-2) tightening a collar nut to secure the pivot arm to the pivot collar of the second pillar. In an embodiment, step b) comprises b-1) rotating the pivot arm by pulling a handle until the pivot arm touches a pivot collar of the second pillar, and b-2) tightening a collar nut to secure the pivot arm to the pivot collar of the second pillar.

In an embodiment, step d) comprises rotating the hand wheel until a stop block touches an upper pivot arm plate.

In an embodiment, step f) comprises rotating the gear until a stop plate touches a stop screw. In an embodiment, step f) comprises rotating the gear by a handle until a stop plate touches a stop screw.

In an embodiment, step h) comprises automatically actuating or manually operating the valve to an open position to receive a pig.

In an embodiment, the method further comprises the step i) closing a bleed fitting and an equalizer valve. In an embodiment, step i) comprises i-1) inserting a lock plate into a bleed fitting, and i-2) closing an equalizer valve and the bleed fitting.

These and other objects, features and advantages will become apparent as reference is made to the following detailed description, preferred embodiments, and examples, given for the purpose of disclosure, and taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings and appended claims.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS OF THE INVENTION

The following detailed description of various embodiments of the present invention references the accompanying drawings, which illustrate specific embodiments in which the invention can be practiced. While the illustrative embodiments of the invention have been described with particularity, it will be understood that various other modifications will be apparent to and can be readily made by those skilled in the art without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention. Accordingly, it is not intended that the scope of the claims appended hereto be limited to the examples and descriptions set forth herein but rather that the claims be construed as encompassing all the features of patentable novelty which reside in the present invention, including all features which would be treated as equivalents thereof by those skilled in the art to which the invention pertains. Therefore, the scope of the present invention is defined only by the appended claims, along with the full scope of equivalents to which such claims are entitled.

Valve System

FIG. 1Aillustrates an upper, right side perspective view of an improved valve system according to an embodiment of the present invention, showing a dual-pillar davit system and a gear and rack assembly for a closure cap; andFIG. 1Billustrates a detailed view of the gear and rack-level assembly for the exemplary valve system ofFIG. 1A.FIG. 1Cillustrates a side view of the exemplary valve system ofFIG. 1A, showing the dual-pillar davit system.

FIG. 2illustrates a cross sectional view of an exemplary valve system according to an embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 3Aillustrates an exploded view of an exemplary valve system according to an embodiment of the present invention, showing a dual-pillar system and a threadless closure cap; andFIG. 3Billustrates a detailed view of the dual pillar and a threadless closure cap system for the exemplary valve system ofFIG. 3A.

As shown inFIGS. 1A-1C and 2-3B, the valve system100,200,300comprises a valve body102,302having an opening and an interior, and a closure cap190,290,390. In an embodiment, the valve body102,302opening may be shaped to accommodate the closure cap215,315. In an embodiment, the closure cap215,315may have a plurality of extensions, as discussed below.

In an embodiment, the closure cap215,315may be a threadless closure cap.

In an embodiment, the valve system100,200,300may be operated to a closed position or to an open position. Automatic or manual operation of valves from an open position to a closed position or vice versa is well known in the art. In an embodiment, the valve system100,200,300may be closed to prevent flow from, for example, a pipeline or other equipment. In an embodiment, if the valve system100,200,300is a pigging valve, the valve system100,200,300may be closed to remove a received pig.

In an embodiment, the valve body102,302has a first end and a second end, wherein the first end of the valve body102,302may be fluidly connected to a first adapter or connection pipe104,304via a first fastener system106,306and the second end of the valve body102,302may be fluidly connected to a second adapter or connection pipe108,308via a second fastener system110,310. Fasteners are well known in the art. In an embodiment, the first adapter or connection pipe104,304may be connected to a pipeline or other equipment; and the second adapter or connection pipe108,308may be connected to a pipeline or other equipment.

In an embodiment, the first adapter or connection pipe104,304may further comprise an optional equalizer valve assembly155,355disposed through a wall of the first adapter or connection pipe104,304; and/or the second adapter or connection pipe108,308may further comprise an optional equalizer valve assembly155,355disposed through a wall of the second adapter or connection pipe108,308.

FIG. 4Aillustrates a cross-sectional view of a trapezoidal thread connection between a valve body102,302and an adapter or connection pipe104,108,304,308for an exemplary valve system according to an embodiment of the present invention.

Means for Sealing Closure Cap

In an embodiment, the valve system100,200,300further comprises a means for sealing the closure cap215,315. In an embodiment, the means for sealing the closure cap may comprise a closure cap O-ring316. O-rings are well known in the art. For example, the closure cap O-ring316may be disposed between the closure cap215,315and the valve body102,302when the closure cap215,315is in a closed position.

In an embodiment, the valve body102,302and the closure cap215,315may be connected via a threadless connection to hold the closure cap215,315in place under pressure. For example, a cap-to-clamp type connection may be used to hold the closure cap215,315in place under pressure. In an embodiment, a closure cap215,315may have a plurality of extensions. As shown inFIGS. 3A-3B, the closure cap315may have four extensions.

In an embodiment, the extensions of the closure cap215,315may be rotated to be disposed within a clamp in the valve body102,302. For example, the four extensions of the closure cap215,315may be rotated a quarter turn to be disposed with the four clamps in the valve body102,302, as shown inFIGS. 3A-3B and 4B.

FIG. 4Billustrates a cross-sectional view of a cap-to-clamp type connection between a valve body102,303and a closure cap215,315for an exemplary valve system in a closed position according to an embodiment of the present invention, showing a pair of closure cap O-rings and a single cap-to-clamp connection.

FIG. 4Cillustrates a detailed, cross-sectional view of a dual-pillar davit system for an exemplary valve system according to an embodiment of the present invention.

Means for Rotating the Closure Cap

In an embodiment, the valve system100,200,300,400further comprises a means for rotating the closure cap215,315,415from an open position to a closed position or, alternatively, from the closed position to the open position.

In an embodiment, the means for rotating the closure cap215,315,415may comprise a gear and rack assembly. In an embodiment, the means for rotating the closure cap may comprise a rack156,356having rack teeth, a gear162,362having an upper end and a lower end and gear teeth on an outer surface, and a gear screw364having an upper end and a lower end, wherein the rack teeth and gear teeth may be adapted to engage each other.

In an embodiment, the rack156,356may be attached to an upper surface of the closure cap215,315,415or cover plate190,390,490adjacent to the valve body102,302opening via a fastener. Fasteners are well known in the art. For example, the rack156,356may be attached to an upper surface of the closure cap215,315,415or cover plate190,390,415adjacent to the valve body102,302opening via a rack screw158,358.

In an embodiment, the gear162,362may be attached to the upper end of the gear screw364via a fastener. Fasteners are well known in the art.

In an embodiment, the gear screw may be disposed through the valve body adjacent to the rack and the valve body opening.

In an embodiment, the closure cap215,315,415may be attached to the lower end of the gear screw364via a fastener. Fasteners are well known in the art.

In an embodiment, the means for rotating the closure cap215,315,415may further comprise a gear bearing372. In an embodiment, the gear bearing372may be disposed between the gear162,362and the upper end of the gear screw364.

In an embodiment, the means for rotating the closure cap215,315,415may further comprise a gear washer370. Washers are well known in the art. For example, the gear washer370may be disposed between the gear bearing372and the valve body102,302.

In an embodiment, the means for rotating the closure cap215,315,415may further comprise a hand wrench adapted to fit the upper end of the gear162,362.

In an embodiment, the means for rotating the closure cap215,315,415may further comprise a gear handle166,266,366having a first end and a second end, wherein the first end may be adapted to fit the upper end of the gear162,362.

In an embodiment, the gear handle166,266,366may be attached to the gear162,362via a fastener. Fasteners are well known in the art. For example, the gear handle166,266,366may be attached to the gear162,362via a gear screw1100,3100.

In an embodiment, the means for rotating the closure cap215,315,415may further comprise a gear washer198,398. Washers are well known in the art. For example, the gear washer198,398may be disposed between the gear screw1100,3100and the gear162,362.

In an embodiment, the means for rotating the closure cap215,315,415may further comprise a stop plate176,376having an inner end and an outer end. In an embodiment, the stop plate176,376may be attached to an upper surface of a cover plate190,390,490or the closure cap215,315adjacent to the rack156,356and the valve body102,302opening via a fastener. Fasteners are well known in the art. For example, the stop plate176,376may be attached to an upper surface of a cover plate190,390,490or the closure cap215,315,415adjacent to the rack156,356and the valve body102,302opening via a stop plate screw178,378.

In an embodiment, the means for rotating the closure cap215,315,415may further comprise a stop plate pin380. Pins are well known in the art. For example, one or more stop plate pins380may be used between the cover plate190,390,490or closure cap215,315,415and the stop plate176,376to prevent the stop plate176,376from rotating about the stop plate screw178,378.

In an embodiment, the means for rotating the closure cap215,315,415may further comprise a lock plate182,382. In an embodiment, the lock plate182,382may be attached to an upper surface of the valve body102,302adjacent to the outer end of the stop plate176,376and the valve body102,302opening via a fastener. Fasteners are well known in the art. For example, the lock plate182,382may be attached to an upper surface of the valve body102,302adjacent to the outer end of the stop plate176,376and the valve body102,302opening via a lock plate screw.

In an embodiment, the means for rotating the closure cap215,315,415may further comprise a lock plate pin (not shown). Pins are well known in the art. For example, one or more lock plate pins (not shown) may be used between the valve body102,302and the lock plate182,382to prevent the lock plate182,382from rotating about the lock plate screw.

Alternatively, the means for rotating the closure cap215,315,415may comprise a horizontal handle attached to the upper surface of the closure cap215,315,415.

Optional Cover Plate or Closure Cap Lock Plate System

In an embodiment, the valve system100,200,300,400may further comprise a lock plate system. In an embodiment, the valve system100,200,300,400may further comprise a bleed fitting112,312and a lock plate1108,3108connected to the cover plate190,390,490or the closure cap215,315via a mechanical connection. Mechanical connections are well known in the art. For example, a chain assembly may be used to connect a lock plate1108,3108and the cover plate190,390,490and/or the lock plate1108,3108and the closure cap215,315,415.

In an embodiment, the bleed fitting112,312may be disposed through a wall of the valve body102,302.

In an embodiment, the valve system100,200,300,400further comprises a dual-pillar davit system as shown inFIGS. 1A-1B, 2-3B and 4C. In an embodiment, the dual-pillar davit system comprises a first pillar126,226,326,426having an upper and a lower end, a second pillar128,328,428having an upper and a lower end, a pivot arm130,230,330,430having a first end and a second end. In an embodiment, the lower end of the first pillar126,226,326,426may be attached to an upper surface of the valve body102,302via a fastener and the lower end of the second pillar128,328,428may be attached to an upper surface of the valve body102,302via a fastener. Fasteners are well known in the art. For example, the lower end of the first pillar126,226,326,426may be attached to an upper surface of the valve body102,302via collar screws144,244,344,444and the lower end of the second pillar128,328,428may be attached to an upper surface of the valve body102,302via collar screws144,244,344,444. Screws and other fasteners are well known in the art.

In an embodiment, the first pillar126,226,326,426may be stationary, and the second pillar128,328,428may be dynamic 1) to align the closure cap215,315,415to the valve body102,302opening, and 2) to control the forces as the closure cap215,315,415may be lifted.

In an embodiment, the first end of the pivot arm130,230,330,430may be rotationally attached to the upper end of the first pillar126,226,326,426and the second end of the pivot arm130,230,330,430may be removably attached to the upper end of the second pillar128,328,428, wherein the pivot arm130,230,330,430straddles the valve body102,302opening.

In an embodiment, the first end of the pivot arm130,230,330,430may be adapted to touch the upper end of the first pillar126,226,326,426. For example, the first end of the pivot arm130,230,330,430may be adapted to touch a pivot collar103,303,403of the first pillar126,226,326,426.

In an embodiment, the first end of the pivot arm130,230,330,430may be rotationally attached to the upper end of the first pillar126,226,326,426via a fastener and a bearing assembly. Fasteners and bearings are well known in the art. For example, the upper end of the first pillar126,226,326,426may be adapted to accept a cap nut174,274,374,474and a pivot arm bearing340. In this example, the collar nut142,242,342,442and the pivot arm bearing340rotationally attaches the first end of the pivot arm130,230,330,430against the upper end and/or pivot collar103,203,303,403of the first pillar126,226,326,426. In an embodiment, the fastener and bearing assembly further comprises a washer338, an upper collar thrust bearing336, and a lower collar thrust bearing336, as shown inFIGS. 3A-3B.

In an embodiment, the second end of the pivot arm130,230,330,430may be adapted to touch the upper end of the second pillar128,328,428. For example, the second end of the pivot arm130,230,330,430may be adapted to touch a pivot collar103,303,303of the second pillar128,328,428.

In an embodiment, the second end of the pivot arm130,230,330,430may be removably attached to the upper end of the second pillar128,328,428via a fastener. Fasteners are well known in the art. For example, the upper end of the second pillar128,328,428may be adapted to accept a collar nut142,342,442. In this example, the collar nut142,342,442removably attaches the second end of the pivot arm130,230,330,430against the upper end and/or the pivot collar103,303,403of the second pillar128,328,428.

In an embodiment, the second end of the pivot arm130,230,330,430may further comprise a pivot arm handle146,346,446for rotating the pivot arm130,230,330,430about the first pillar126,226,326,426. In an embodiment, the pivot arm handle146,346,446may be attached to the second end of the pivot arm130,230,330,430via a fastener. Fasteners are well known in the art. In an embodiment, the pivot arm handle146,346,446may be attached to the second end of the pivot arm130,230,330,430via pivot arm handle screws148,348,448. In an embodiment, the pivot arm handle146,346,446may be used when rotating the pivot arm130,230,330,430away from straddling the valve body opening.

In an embodiment, the dual-pillar davit system further comprises a closure cap215,315,415adapted to seal the valve body102,302opening, a cap stem122,222,322,422having an upper end and a lower end, and a cap handle or hand wheel124,224,324,424.

In an embodiment, the upper end of the cap stem122,222,322,422may be disposed through a central portion of the pivot arm130,230,330,430.

In an embodiment the cap handle or hand wheel124,224,324,424may be attached to the upper end of the cap stem122,222,322,422via a fastener. Fasteners are well known in the art. For example, the cap handle or hand wheel124,224,324,424may be attached to the upper end of the cap stem122,222,322,422via a cap handle or hand wheel screw154,254,354,454. In this example, the cap handle or hand wheel screw154,254,354,454may prevent the cap handle or hand wheel154,254,354,454from rotating on the cap stem122,222,322,422.

In an embodiment, the closure cap215,315,415may be attached to a lower end of the cap stem122,222,322,422via a fastener. Fasteners are well known in the art. For example, the closure cap215,315,415may be attached to a lower end of the cap stem122,222,322,422via screws. Alternatively, the lower end of the cap stem122,222,322,422may screw into the closure cap215,315,415.

Means for Lifting and Lowering a Closure Cap

In an embodiment, the dual-pillar davit system further comprises a means for lifting and lowering the closure cap215,315,415. In an embodiment, the means for lifting and lowering the closure cap may comprise a threaded cap stem122,222,322,422, an upper and a lower pivot arm plate132,232,332,432attached to the pivot arm130,230,330,430, and a cap stem nut250,350,450.

In an embodiment, the upper end of the threaded cap stem122,222,322,422may be disposed through a central portion of the pivot arm130,230,330,430.

In an embodiment, the upper and lower pivot arm plates132,232,332,432may be attached to the pivot arm130,230,330,430via fasteners. Fasteners are well known in the art. For example, the upper pivot arm plate132,232,332,432may be attached to the pivot arm130,230,330,430via screws134,334,434; the lower pivot arm plate132,232,332,432may be attached to the pivot arm via screws134,334,434.

In an embodiment, the means for lifting and lowering a closure cap215,315,415may further comprise a stop block168,268,368,468disposed between the cap handle or hand wheel124,224,324,424and the upper pivot arm plate132,232,332,432.

In an embodiment, the means for lifting and lowering a closure cap215,315,415may further comprise a spring352disposed between the upper pivot arm plate132,232,332,432and the cap stem nut250,350,450. In an embodiment the spring352may be a waveform spring. Springs are well known in the art.

FIG. 4Dillustrates a detailed, cross-sectional view of a cap nut block and waveform spring assembly for an exemplary valve system according to an embodiment of the present invention.

In an embodiment, the means for lifting and lowering a closure cap215,315,415may further comprise a cap plate O-ring386disposed between the pivot arm130,230,330,430and the lower pivot plate132,232,332,432. O-rings are well known in the art.

In an embodiment, the means for lifting and lowering a closure cap may further comprise a cover plate190,290,390,490, an upper cap plate thrust bearing388, a lower, lower pivot arm plate332, and a lower cap stem thrust bearing320.

In an embodiment, the upper cap plate thrust bearing388may be disposed between the cover plate190,290,390,490and the lower, lower pivot arm plate332.

In an embodiment, the lower cap stem thrust bearing320may be disposed between the lower, lower pivot arm plate332and a collar of the cap stem122,222,322,422.

Alternatively, the means for lifting and lowering the closure cap215,315,415may comprise a jack assembly disposed between the pivot arm130,230,330,430and the cap handle or hand wheel124,224,324,424. In an embodiment, the jack assembly comprises a slotted jack stem having an upper end and a lower end, and a jack system adapted to lower or raise the closure cap by engaging a slot in the jack stem122,222,322,422. In an embodiment, the upper end of the jack stem may be attached to the cap handle or hand wheel124,224,324,424via fasteners; the lower end of the jack stem may be attached to the pivot arm130,230,330,430via fasteners. Fasteners are well known in the art.

FIG. 5Aillustrates a photograph of a dual-pillar davit system for an exemplary valve system according to an embodiment of the present invention; andFIG. 5Billustrates a close-up photograph of a gear and rack assembly for the exemplary valve system ofFIG. 5A.

As shown inFIG. 5A, the valve system500comprises a dual-pillar davit system. In an embodiment, the dual-pillar davit system comprises a first pillar526, a second pillar528, and a pivot arm530. In an embodiment, the dual pillar system may further comprise a cap handle or hand wheel524, a pivot arm plate532, and a cap stem522. In an embodiment, the dual-pillar davit system may further comprise a pivot collar503, a collar nut542, a collar screw544, a pivot arm handle546, and a cap nut574.

In an embodiment, the valve system500may further comprise a lock plate system. In an embodiment, the lock plate system comprises a bleed fitting512, a lock plate5108and a chain assembly5110.

As shown inFIGS. 5A-5B, the valve system500comprises a gear and rack assembly. In an embodiment, the gear and rack assembly comprises a rack556, a rack screw558, and a gear562. In an embodiment, the gear and rack assembly may further comprise a gear handle566, a gear washer598and a gear screw5100.

In an embodiment, the gear and rack assembly may further comprise a stop plate576and a stop plate screw578.

Method of Using an Exemplary Valve System

FIG. 6Aillustrates a flow diagram for opening an exemplary valve system according to an embodiment of the present invention; andFIG. 6Billustrates a flow diagram for closing an exemplary valve system according to an embodiment of the present invention. In other words,FIGS. 6A-6Bshow a method of using (i.e., opening and closing) an exemplary valve system according to an embodiment of the present invention, as discussed below.

Opening an Exemplary Valve System

In an embodiment, a method of opening a valve system comprises providing a valve system602, operating a valve to a closed position604, rotating a gear to align a closure cap with a valve body opening606, aligning the closure cap with the valve body opening608, rotating a hand wheel to lift the closure cap through the valve body opening610, lifting the closure cap through the valve body opening612, rotating a pivot arm to access an interior of the valve body614, and accessing the interior of the valve body616, as shown inFIG. 6A.

In an embodiment, a method of opening a valve system comprises operating a valve to a closed position604. Automatic or manual operation of valves from an open position to a closed position or vice versa is well known in the art. In an embodiment, the valve may be closed to prevent flow from, for example, a pipeline. In an embodiment, if the valve is a pigging valve, the valve may be closed to remove a received pig.

In an embodiment, a method of opening a valve system comprises rotating a gear to align a closure cap with a valve body opening606. In an embodiment, the gear362may be rotated counterclockwise to align the closure cap315with the valve body302opening. In an embodiment, the gear362may be rotated counterclockwise until a stop plate376touches a stop plate screw384. In an embodiment, the gear362may be rotated counterclockwise by a gear handle366until the stop plate376touches the stop plate screw384.

In an alternative embodiment, the gear362may be rotated clockwise to align the closure cap315with the valve body302opening.

In an embodiment, a method of opening a valve system comprises rotating a hand wheel to lift the closure cap through the valve opening610. In an embodiment the hand wheel324may be rotated counterclockwise until the closure cap315is lifted up through a valve body302opening.

In an alternative embodiment, the hand wheel324may be rotated clockwise until the closure cap315is lifted through the valve body302opening.

In an embodiment, a method of opening a valve system comprises lifting the closure cap through the valve opening612.

In an embodiment, a method of opening a valve system comprises rotating a pivot arm to access an interior of the valve body614. In an embodiment, the pivot arm330may be rotated clockwise to access an interior of the valve body302. In an embodiment, the pivot arm330may be rotated clockwise by pushing a pivot arm handle346.

In an alternative embodiment, the pivot arm330may be rotated counterclockwise to access the interior of the valve body302.

In an embodiment, a collar nut342may be loosened to free the pivot arm330from the upper end of the second pillar328.

In an embodiment, the method of opening a valve system comprises accessing the interior of the valve body616. In an embodiment, if the valve is a pigging valve, a received pig may be lifted up through the valve body302opening.

Closing an Exemplary Valve System

In an embodiment, a method of closing a valve system comprises, providing a valve system602, rotating a pivot arm to align a closure cap with a valve body opening618, aligning the closure cap with the valve body opening620, rotating a hand wheel to lower the closure cap through the valve body opening622, lowering the closure cap through the valve body opening624, rotating a gear to close the closure cap to the valve body626, closing the closure cap to the valve body628, and automatically actuating or manually operating a valve to an open position to permit flow from the pipeline630, as shown inFIG. 6B.

In an embodiment, a method of closing a valve system comprises rotating a pivot arm to align a closure cap with a valve opening618. In an embodiment, the pivot arm330may be rotated counterclockwise until the pivot arm330touches an upper end of the second pillar328. In an embodiment, the pivot arm330may be rotated counterclockwise by pulling a pivot arm handle346until the pivot arm330touches the upper end of the second pillar328. In an embodiment, the pivot arm330may touch a pivot collar303of a second pillar328.

In an alternative embodiment, the pivot arm330may be rotated clockwise until the pivot arm330touches an upper end of a second pillar328. In an embodiment, the pivot arm330may touch a pivot collar303of a second pillar328.

In an embodiment, a collar nut342may be tightened to secure the pivot arm330to the upper end of the second pillar328.

In an embodiment, a method of closing a valve system comprises rotating a hand wheel to lower a closure cap through a valve body opening622. In an embodiment, the hand wheel324may be rotated clockwise to lower the closure cap315through the valve body302opening. In an embodiment, the hand wheel324may be rotated clockwise until a stop block368touches an upper pivot arm plate332.

In an alternative embodiment, the hand wheel324may be rotated counterclockwise to lower the closure cap315through the valve body302opening.

In an embodiment, a method of closing a valve system comprises rotating a gear to close the closure cap to the valve body626. In an embodiment, the gear362may be rotated clockwise to close the closure cap315to the valve body302. In an embodiment, the gear362may be rotated clockwise until a stop plate376touches a stop screw384. In an embodiment, the gear362may be rotated clockwise by a gear handle366until a stop plate376touches a stop screw384.

In an alternative embodiment, the gear362may be rotated counterclockwise to close the closure cap315to the valve body302.

In an embodiment, a method of closing a valve system comprises operating the valve to an open position630. Automatic or manual operation of valves from an open position to a closed position or vice versa is well known in the art. In an embodiment, the valve may be opened to receive flow from, for example, a pipeline. In an embodiment, if the valve is a pigging valve, the valve may be opened to receive a pig from the pipeline.

In an embodiment, a method of closing a valve system further comprises closing a bleed fitting and an equalizer valve632. In an embodiment, a bleed fitting312and an equalizer valve355may be closed. In an embodiment, a lock plate3108may be inserted into the bleed fitting312, and the equalizer valve355and the bleed fitting312may be closed.

In the foregoing description of certain embodiments, specific terminology has been resorted to for the sake of clarity. However, the disclosure is not intended to be limited to the specific terms so selected, and it is to be understood that each specific term includes other technical equivalents which operate in a similar manner to accomplish a similar technical purpose. Terms (e.g., “outer” and “inner,” “upper” and “lower,” “first” and “second,” “internal” and “external,” “above” and “below” and the like) are used as words of convenience to provide reference points and, as such, are not to be construed as limiting terms.

The embodiments set forth herein are presented to best explain the present invention and its practical application and to thereby enable those skilled in the art to make and utilize the invention. However, those skilled in the art will recognize that the foregoing description has been presented for the purpose of illustration and example only. The description as set forth is not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the invention to the precise form disclosed. Many modifications and variations are possible in light of the above teaching without departing from the spirit and scope of the following claims. For example, the dual-pillar davit system and/or threadless closure cap may be adapted to work with any other type of valve. The invention is specifically intended to be as broad as the claims below and their equivalents.

Also, the various embodiments described above may be implemented in conjunction with other embodiments, e.g., aspects of one embodiment may be combined with aspects of another embodiment to realize yet other embodiments. Further, each independent feature or component of any given assembly may constitute an additional embodiment.

Definitions

As used herein, the terms “a,” “an,” “the,” and “said” mean one or more, unless the context dictates otherwise.

As used herein, the term “about” means the stated value plus or minus a margin of error or plus or minus 10% if no method of measurement is indicated.

As used herein, the term “or” means “and/or” unless explicitly indicated to refer to alternatives only or if the alternatives are mutually exclusive.

As used herein, the terms “containing,” “contains,” and “contain” have the same open-ended meaning as “comprising,” “comprises,” and “comprise,” provided above.

As used herein, the terms “including,” “includes,” and “include” have the same open-ended meaning as “comprising,” “comprises,” and “comprise,” provided above.

As used herein, the phrase “consisting of” is a closed transition term used to transition from a subject recited before the term to one or more material elements recited after the term, where the material element or elements listed after the transition term are the only material elements that make up the subject.

As used herein, the term “simultaneously” means occurring at the same time or about the same time, including concurrently.

Incorporation By Reference. All patents and patent applications, articles, reports, and other documents cited herein are fully incorporated by reference to the extent they are not inconsistent with this invention.