Patent Description:
Flow control devices can be used in a variety of industrial, commercial, and other settings including to regulate flowrate or pressure of a fluid flowing from a fluid source. In some applications, it may be useful to manage the flowrate or pressure or other characteristics of a fluid flowing from the pressure source toward a downstream application or device.

<CIT> relates to valve trim and related methods. An example valve trim includes a cage defining a body having a bore to receive a valve plug. The cage includes a plurality of passageways through a side surface of the body that are radially spaced relative to a longitudinal axis of the bore. A valve seat to receive the cage. The valve seat has a plurality of projections defining a plurality of first openings and a plurality of second openings. Ones of the first openings to align with respective ones of the passageways to provide a first flow characteristic when the cage is positioned in a first orientation relative to the valve seat. Ones of the second openings to align with respective ones of the passageways of the cage to provide a second flow characteristic different than the first flow characteristic when the cage is positioned in a second orientation relative to the valve seat different from the first orientation.

<CIT> relates to a cage assembly for a valve including a hollow first member having a first end for operably connecting to a valve body and an opposed second end for receiving a hollow second member. The assembly includes the second member having a third end for receiving a hollow third member, the second member including first openings formed through a sidewall, and the third member having a fourth end for operably connecting to the valve body. The assembly includes when assembled inside the valve body, the first member, the second member and the third member forming an aligned second opening therethrough, the second opening having a uniform cross section, for slidably receiving a valve closure element for controlling a flow of fluid through the first openings during operation of the valve.

<CIT> relates to a gas pressure regulator comprising a main body having a first, gas inlet pipe and a second, gas outlet pipe, a calibrated gas passage through which the gas flows from the first pipe to the second pipe, a shutter housed at least partially in the main body and a silencing element also housed in the body.

<CIT> relates to a two-piece trim apparatus for use with fluid regulators are described. In one described example, a fluid regulator has a regulator body and a first seat ring to provide a first flow characteristic disposed within the body and defining a fluid orifice. The first seat ring is interchangeable with a second seat ring that is to provide a second flow characteristic different from the first flow characteristic. The fluid regulator also includes a first cage to provide a third fluid characteristic and removably coupled to the first seat ring. The first cage is interchangeable with a second cage that is to provide a fourth fluid flow characteristic different from the third flow characteristic. The first cage can be selectively coupled to the first seat ring or the second seat ring and the first seat ring can be selectively coupled to the first cage or the second cage.

<CIT> relates to circumferentially-sectioned valve cages. An example apparatus comprises a plurality of cage sections collectively configured to be removably coupled together to form a valve cage having a circumference and a plurality of joints. The joints correspond in number to the cage sections and are spaced apart from one another about the circumference. Respective ones of the joints are defined by neighboring ones of the cage sections.

In accordance with a first aspect of the present invention, there is provided an adjustable cage assembly for a flow control device as defined in claim <NUM>. Optional and/or preferable features are defined in the dependent claims.

In accordance with a second aspect of the present invention, there is provided a restriction cage for a flow control device as defined in claim <NUM>. Optional and/or preferable features are defined in the dependent claims.

In accordance with a third aspect of the present invention, there is provided a method of adjusting an effective flow area in a flow control device as defined in claim <NUM>. Optional and/or preferable features are defined in the dependent claims.

The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and form a part of this specification, illustrate examples of the disclosed technology and, together with the description, serve to explain the principles of examples of the disclosed technology:.

The following discussion is presented to enable a person skilled in the art to make and use examples of the disclosed technology. Various modifications to the illustrated examples will be readily apparent to those skilled in the art, and the generic principles herein can be applied to other examples and applications without departing from the disclosed technology. Thus, examples of the disclosed technology are not intended to be limited to examples shown, but are to be accorded the widest scope consistent with the principles and features disclosed herein. The following detailed description is to be read with reference to the figures, in which like elements in different figures have like reference numerals. The figures, which are not necessarily to scale, depict selected examples and are not intended to limit the scope of examples of the disclosed technology. Skilled artisans will recognize the examples provided herein have many useful alternatives and fall within the scope of the claims.

Before any examples of the disclosed technology are explained in detail, it is to be understood that the disclosed technology is not limited in its application to the details of construction and the arrangement of components set forth in the following description or illustrated in the attached drawings, but only by the appended claims.

The disclosed technology is capable of other examples and of being practiced or of being carried out in various ways. Also, it is to be understood that the phraseology and terminology used herein is for the purpose of description and should not be regarded as limiting, the invention being limited only by the appended claims.

As briefly discussed above, flow control devices can be used to decrease flowrate or pressure of a fluid flowing from a fluid source toward a downstream application. Certain systems and vessels require protection to avoid over-pressurization. Flow control devices, such as regulators and relief valves, for example, can be used in such systems to reduce or relieve excess fluid pressure. In general, a flow control device can include an inlet, an outlet, and a flow control assembly. The flow control assembly can include a primary control member, such as a disc or other plug, for example, and a secondary control member to further restrict flow through the flow control device.

In some flow control devices, including regulators, a curtain area can be formed between a valve seat and a primary control member. In general, the curtain area is a flow window created by an open valve at a maximum lift and is a function of an orifice circumference and the travel of the valve. In some cases, a secondary control member can be placed within the curtain area to further restrict flow through the regulator (or other device). The flow restriction provided by the secondary control member can help to reduce the flow through the regulator while avoiding damage to the seat (e.g., when certain secondary control members are installed in a regulator, the flow may not be damagingly directed into the seat at high pressure drops). In some examples, a secondary control member can be configured in particular to provide flow with improved pressure characteristics as part of a noise attenuating cage assembly (e.g., to reduce a decibel level for operation of a valve at otherwise equivalent flow conditions or otherwise improve sonic performance).

Examples of the disclosed technology can provide an adjustable secondary control member that can accommodate any of a range of desired flow restrictions through a flow control device without requiring the replacement of an entire flow control device, which can lead to a substantial increase in cost and system complexity. For example, some configurations of the disclosed technology provide a restriction cage that can be adjusted to change a profile of one or more intermediate openings of the cage, so that a desired flowrate can be provided through the cage via the one or more intermediate openings. In general, in this regard, an adjustable cage assembly according to examples of the disclosed technology can include first and second cage bodies configured to be rotationally fixed to each other at a plurality of alignments to provide a flow opening of variable size for adjustable control of fluid flowrates through the cage assembly, and thereby through a flow control device. The adjustability can provide a relatively high resolution of variable flow rates (e.g., small adjustment intervals) for a flow control device without excessive or invasive modifications to the flow control device.

In some examples, a restriction cage can include substantially identical first and second cage bodies (i.e., cage bodies produced with the same manufacturing processes and equipment based on the same specifications or geometry) that can be assembled together into an adjustable assembly. Each cage body can, for example, include two pairs of legs. When the restriction cage is assembled, one pair of the legs can be disposed at an outer diameter of the cage, and the other pair of legs can be disposed at an inner diameter of the cage. Thus, for example, substantially identical cage bodies can be oriented opposite each other and assembled to form a complete, adjustable assembly.

In some examples, outer-diameter legs or other features on a first cage body can include a locking member, such as a protruding lug or rib, for example, that is configured to interlock with a gap (e.g., recess) on the inner-diameter legs or other features on a second cage body. In some cases, such a gap can be included in a plurality of gaps (e.g., plurality of spaced recesses) corresponding to a plurality of adjustable positions of the adjustable cage. Likewise, in some examples, the outer-diameter legs can include one or more gaps, and the inner diameter legs can include a locking member, such as a protruding lug or rib, for example.

In some examples, an adjustable restriction cage can include rotationally securable first and second cage bodies. In some cases, when a first cage body is rotationally locked relative to a second cage body, the first cage body may still be movable (e.g., slidable) axially relative to the second cage body. In some examples, relative axial movement of the first and second cage bodies may be prevented via a coupling (e.g., mechanical or magnetic) between the first and second cage bodies. For example, the first and second cage bodies may be secured via a roll pin, set screw, retaining clip, etc. In some examples, the first and second cage bodies may be axially secured via tapered lugs or other tapered features so that an interference is formed between the first and second cage bodies when slid into an axial alignment. For example, a lock member may have a tapered end portion that permits one cage body to slide axially in one direction relative to the other cage body into a locking position. Once in the locking position, the one cage body may be prevented from moving in an opposing second direction to axially secure the cage bodies.

Further, in some examples, windows (e.g., openings) of an adjustable restriction cage can be configured to receive panels therein to provide additional flow restriction through the adjustable window cage. For example, a whisper panel (e.g., a mesh panel with an array of orifices) may be inserted into or radially aligned with one or more of the windows of the adjustable window cage to further restrict flow to a desired flow rate.

In some examples, an adjustable cage can be configured as an adjustable cage, including as can provide an adjustable total flow area via adjustable alignment of radial passages through an annular cage assembly. In some cases, an adjustable cage can thus adjustably provide lower operational decibel levels for a given set of flow characteristics, improved pressure behavior and other flow dynamics (e.g., as can help to ensure execution of a full commanded lift of a particular valve element), and accommodation for changing overall levels of process flows over time (e.g., as average or expected downstream demand changes due to site improvements).

Referring now to <FIG>, an example flow control device <NUM> is illustrated. The flow control device <NUM> is configured as a pressure reducing regulator. The flow control device <NUM> includes an inlet <NUM>, an outlet <NUM>, and a control assembly <NUM>. The control assembly <NUM> includes a disk holder assembly <NUM> and a control member <NUM>. In the illustrated example, the control member <NUM> is configured as a secondary control member that surrounds the seat <NUM> of the flow control device <NUM> such that the control member <NUM> is positioned in the flow path between the inlet <NUM> and the outlet <NUM> immediately downstream of the seat <NUM>. In general, the control member <NUM> can be configured as an adjustable restriction cage, according to examples of the disclosed technology. Particular examples of configurations for an adjustable restriction cage will be described below in detail, including with reference to <FIG>. Generally, however, a control member configured as an adjustable restriction cage can be manually adjusted (e.g., prior to installation) to provide a selected profile for one or more restriction openings (e.g., windows through the cage) for flow through the cage, and the flow control device <NUM> at large. In this way, for example, an installer or operator can customize the restriction behavior of the control member to the needs of a particular application.

In some examples, a control member according to the disclosed technology can provide generally improved performance for a flow control device (e.g., a regulator), particularly at low valve lift, as well as increased adaptability. For example, in some conventional designs, a restricted trim plate can be used to reduce flow or increase pressure drop through a flow control device, including as illustrated with the plate <NUM> in <FIG>. Although a restriction orifice 114a of the plate <NUM> can provide for reduced flow and increased pressure drop, fluid dynamics downstream of the orifice 114a can result in an area of reduced pressure upstream of the curtain area <NUM> (e.g., as indicated by relative size of block arrows in <FIG>, representing local pressures). Force imbalances caused by this reduced-pressure area can sometimes result in suboptimal performance of the device <NUM>. However, in some examples, placement of the control member <NUM> as shown (e.g., as an adjustable restriction cage at or downstream of the curtain area <NUM>) can allow the plate <NUM> to be removed before operation or omitted entirely.

While the control member <NUM> in <FIG>, which is configured as an adjustable restriction cage, is installed in the flow control device <NUM> as shown (i.e., configured as a regulator), it should be appreciated that an adjustable restriction cage or other control members according to examples of the disclosed technology can be installed in other flow control devices, including in other regulators and in different types of valves, such as relief valves, for example. For example, as also discussed below, some examples can be configured as adjustable noise reducing cages.

<FIG> illustrates a control member configured as a restriction cage <NUM> according to an example of the disclosed technology. In general, the restriction cage <NUM> may be installed in a variety of flow control devices, including with a similar configuration as the control member <NUM> in the flow control device <NUM>. In particular, the restriction cage <NUM> is configured as an adjustable cage assembly having first and second cage bodies <NUM>. In the illustrated example, the first and second cage bodies <NUM> are substantially identical to each other, as can facilitate simplified manufacturing and easy use. However, other configurations are also possible.

As shown in <FIG>, each of the cage bodies <NUM> includes a circumferential wall <NUM>. Further, as shown, each of the circumferential walls <NUM> includes a plurality of wall segments. In particular, in the illustrated example, the circumferential wall <NUM> includes two pairs of wall segments <NUM>, <NUM>, each circumferentially separated from adjacent wall segments <NUM>, <NUM> by an opening <NUM>. Further, all of the wall segments <NUM>, <NUM> have the same circumferential length and axial height and are regularly spaced around the circumferential wall <NUM>. In other examples, a circumferential wall of a first cage body can include more or fewer, or otherwise different wall segments and corresponding openings, compared to the restriction cage <NUM>.

With reference to <FIG>, one of the cage bodies <NUM> is illustrated in isolation. As briefly described above, the cage body <NUM> includes a first pair of wall segments <NUM> and a second pair of wall segments <NUM>. The wall segments <NUM>, <NUM> are circumferentially spaced about a central axis <NUM> of the cage body <NUM>. In general, the cage body <NUM> is configured as an annular member and includes a continuous annular base <NUM>. Each of the wall segments <NUM>, <NUM> extend axially from the annular base <NUM>. In the illustrated example, the wall segments <NUM>, <NUM> are alternately spaced so that the first pair of wall segments <NUM> are opposite each other and the second pair of wall segments <NUM> are opposite each other. Further, the wall segments <NUM> are generally radially farther from the axis <NUM> than the wall segments <NUM>, as will be further discussed below.

Each of the first wall segments <NUM> includes an interior surface <NUM> and an exterior surface opposite the interior surface <NUM>. The interior surface <NUM> faces toward the central axis <NUM> and the exterior surface faces away from the central axis <NUM>. Further, the interior surface <NUM> includes a first locking feature <NUM>. In the illustrated example, the first locking feature <NUM> is a locking member configured as a rib that extends axially along the first wall segment <NUM>. In other examples, a first locking feature of a cage body can be configured as one or more other protrusions or as one or more recesses that extend fully or partially along a wall segment, or as a differently configured detent configured to engage a corresponding locking feature on another cage body to rotationally secure the two cage bodies.

Each of the second wall segments <NUM> includes an exterior surface <NUM> and an interior surface opposite the exterior surface <NUM>. The interior surface faces toward the central axis <NUM> and the exterior surface <NUM> faces away from the central axis <NUM>. The exterior surface <NUM> includes a second locking feature <NUM>. In the illustrated example, the second locking feature <NUM> includes an array of locking members configured as a plurality of ribs <NUM> and a series of grooves <NUM> that extend axially along the second wall segment <NUM>. In other examples, a second locking feature of a cage can be configured as one or more other protrusions or recesses that extend fully or partially along a wall segment to engage a corresponding locking feature on another cage body to rotationally secure the two cage bodies, or as a differently configured feature configured to engage a corresponding detent (or other first locking feature).

As briefly described above, the cage body <NUM> also includes the openings <NUM> circumferentially spaced about the central axis <NUM> and formed in the circumferential wall <NUM>. In general, each of the openings <NUM> is configured as a cutout in the circumferential wall <NUM> (e.g., a three-sided cutout, as shown), bounded by the first and second pairs of wall segments <NUM>, <NUM> and the annular base <NUM>. In the illustrated example, each opening <NUM> has a substantially similar width (i.e., a circumferential arc length between the wall segments <NUM>, <NUM>). However, in other examples, a cage body may include openings within a circumferential wall having varied widths.

Referring now to <FIG>, the first and second cage bodies <NUM> of the restriction cage <NUM> can be oriented in axially opposite configurations and then rotationally secured relative to one another at a plurality of alignments to provide any selected one of a plurality of profiles for an intermediate opening <NUM>. For example, <FIG> illustrates the restriction cage <NUM> in a fully-open position. In the fully-open position, each opening <NUM> of the cage bodies <NUM> are fully radially aligned (i.e., are positioned for maximum overlap along common radial directions relative to a flow axis) so that neither of the first nor second pairs of wall segments <NUM>, <NUM> overlap with any openings <NUM> of the cage bodies <NUM>. Conversely, with the restriction cage <NUM> in a fully-closed position (not shown), both pairs of wall segments <NUM>, <NUM> can overlap fully with the openings <NUM> to prevent flow through the restriction cage <NUM> via the openings <NUM>. In use with a flow control device, for example, the fully-open position of the restriction cage <NUM> illustrated in <FIG> can correspond to a maximum capacity flowrate allowed through the intermediate openings <NUM> of the restriction cage <NUM>.

In the illustrated example, to reduce the flow rate through the restriction cage <NUM>, one of the cage bodies <NUM> may be rotated relative to the other cage body <NUM>. For example, the top restriction cage <NUM> illustrated in <FIG>can be rotated in the direction indicated by the arrow to decrease the size of the profile at the intermediate opening <NUM>. As shown in <FIG>, the restriction cage <NUM> is in a partially-open position. In use with a flow control device, the partially-open position illustrated in <FIG> can correspond to a reduced capacity flow rate allowed through the restriction cage <NUM> compared to the alignment of the restriction cage in <FIG>.

To further reduce the flow rate through the restriction cage <NUM>, one of the cage bodies <NUM> may be rotated (e.g., the top cage body <NUM> in <FIG> in the direction indicated by the arrow) to further decrease the size of the intermediate opening <NUM>. As shown in <FIG>, the restriction cage <NUM> is in another partially-open position. In some examples, the partially-open position illustrated in <FIG> can correspond to a minimum rated capacity flow rate allowed through the restriction cage. For example, in the alignment of the cage bodies <NUM> illustrated in <FIG>, the first locking feature <NUM> may be engaged with the second locking feature <NUM> at an end groove of the series of grooves <NUM> so that the opening <NUM> formed by a partial alignment of the openings <NUM> of the first and second cage bodies <NUM> forms a smallest and most restrictive flow area through the restriction cage <NUM>.

As generally described above, the intermediate opening <NUM> is thus configured as a variable flow opening that corresponds to an adjustable effective flow area through the restriction cage <NUM>. In particular, for the illustrated example, as the opening <NUM> is increased or decreased, the cross-sectional area of the effective flow area varies linearly. For example, the area of the opening <NUM>, which is formed by varied alignment of the openings <NUM> of the first and second cage bodies <NUM>, is linearly proportional to the relative rotational alignment of the first and second cage bodies <NUM> - at least over a range of possible degrees of rotation (e.g., between a fully-closed and fully-opened configuration). As a result, in use, the incremental adjustability of the opening <NUM> can provide precise, linearly adjustable flow control for a flow control device (e.g., regulator).

In general, the incremental adjustability of the restriction cage <NUM> can provide a high degree of flow control through a flow control device (e.g., a valve). In particular, the restriction cage <NUM> can be used to control flow within a valve based on a variety of external conditions. For example, a housing development (e.g., a neighborhood) may eventually require a relatively high gas flowrate. However, while a valve rated for a high flow rate may ultimately be suitable, in early stages of the development, gas demand may be low. In such instance, a restriction cage, such as the restriction cage <NUM>, may be used to decrease flow openings of the valve so that the flow rate is controlled to an appropriate level for the required gas at an early stage of the development. In particular, a fixed cage can clamp down on the flow openings of the valve so that the valve can travel over more of its stable rage, as opposed to being a small distance (e.g., <NUM> millimeter) away from the seat in an unstable position. Additionally, in use, as demand increases, the restriction cage can be replaced or removed.

The variability of the restriction cage <NUM> can allow for flow rate adjustability based on a fluid flowrate demand or requirement. Additionally, the restriction cage <NUM> can help ensure that the flow control device in which the restriction cage <NUM> is installed is operated over a stable range for the expected fluid flowrate demand. As described above, a fluid flowrate demand can be dictated by the development of a neighborhood, among other factors, such as seasonal changes, for example.

With reference to <FIG>, the first and second cage bodies <NUM> may be rotationally secured to one another when the first locking feature <NUM> is engaged with the second locking feature <NUM>. For example, in the illustrated configuration, the first locking feature <NUM> is secured between two of the plurality of ribs <NUM> in one of the series of grooves <NUM>. As illustrated in <FIG>, and further exemplified in <FIG>, rotating one of the first or second cage bodies <NUM> relative to the other cage body <NUM> can adjust the amount of overlap between their respective first and second circumferential walls <NUM>. In the illustrated example, the number of grooves <NUM> correspond to the number of alignment positions between the first and second cage bodies <NUM>, and therefore, the number of variable effective flow areas via the opening <NUM>.

The use of ribs and grooves for locking features can be particularly beneficial in some cases, including by allowing easy and guided axial movement of cage bodies during assembly while correspondingly providing relatively robust resistance against rotational movement. However, a variety of other locking features can be used in other examples, to provide appropriate anti-rotational (or other) locking engagement.

Further illustrated in <FIG>, when the first and second cage bodies <NUM> are rotationally secured to one another, the interior surfaces <NUM> of the first pair of wall segments <NUM> face and can abut the exterior surfaces <NUM> of the corresponding second pair of wall segments <NUM>. In particular, because the wall segments <NUM> are radially offset from the wall segments <NUM>, the wall segments <NUM>, <NUM> of the first cage body <NUM> can interleave with the wall segments <NUM>, <NUM> of the second cage body <NUM> and the cage bodies <NUM> can be moved axially into engagement with each other. Further, as also accommodated by the radial offset of the wall segments <NUM>, <NUM>, the ribs <NUM> can be lockingly engaged with an appropriate one of the grooves <NUM> as a direct consequence of the axial engagement. Thus, for example, an operator can determine an appropriate rotational alignment, then axially engage the cage bodies <NUM> together to both define and lock a size of the intermediate openings <NUM>.

In some examples, an adjustable cage assembly may be configured as an infinitely adjustable restriction cage. For example, rather than having incremental alignment points between a first cage body and a second cage body (e.g., similar to the cage bodies <NUM>), the cage bodies may be secured to one another at any degree of rotation along a continuous range (e.g., <NUM> degrees or more). In some examples, an infinitely adjustable restriction cage may include a locking mechanism to rotationally secure the first cage body relative to the second cage body. The locking mechanism, for example, can include a retention pin, a locking clip, a spring-biased retainer, or an interference fit, such as a press fit or friction connection, for example. In other examples, the first cage member can be fixed relative to the second cage member via a weld joint, for example, or by engagement with one or more other components within a flow control device.

The above description of the restriction cage <NUM> includes two matching cage bodies <NUM> having generally rectangular openings <NUM> formed in the respective circumferential walls <NUM>. The rectangular openings <NUM> are generally symmetric about a vertical axis that extends parallel to the central axis <NUM>, and therefore, form the rectangular variable opening <NUM>. However, in other examples, an opening in a circumferential wall of a cage body of a restriction cage may include a variety of geometries which can form a corresponding variety of intermediate-opening profiles that form an effective flow area through the restriction cage.

<FIG> illustrate example opening profiles in a cage body that may be incorporated into a restriction cage, such as the restriction cage <NUM>, for example. It will be appreciated that various geometries of opening profiles can be used in combination with the same (e.g., identical to within tolerances inherent to producing cage bodies to the same specifications) or different profiles formed in first and second cage bodies to form variable effective flow areas through the restriction cage. In particular, a restriction cage can include first and second cage bodies each having the same or different opening profiles formed in a corresponding circumferential wall.

<FIG> illustrates a cage body profile <NUM> of an adjustable restriction cage according to one example of the disclosed technology. The cage body profile <NUM> includes an opening <NUM> formed in a circumferential wall <NUM> of a cage body (two shown in <FIG>, as installed, one in dashed lines). In the illustrated example, the opening <NUM> is generally triangular and is symmetric about a vertical axis. <FIG> illustrate varied alignments of the openings <NUM> of first and second cage body profiles <NUM> to form an intermediate opening <NUM>. As with the intermediate opening <NUM>, the intermediate opening <NUM> is thus a variable opening, the overall profile of which can be adjusted based on rotational alignment of first and second cage bodies.

Similarly, <FIG> illustrates a cage body profile <NUM> of an adjustable restriction cage according to another example of the disclosed technology. The cage body profile <NUM> includes an opening <NUM> formed in a circumferential wall <NUM> of a cage body (two shown in <FIG>, as installed, one in dashed lines). In the illustrated example, the opening <NUM> is generally triangular and is not symmetric about a vertical axis. <FIG> illustrate varied alignments of the openings <NUM> of the first and second cage body profiles <NUM> to form an intermediate opening <NUM>. Also like the intermediate opening <NUM>, the intermediate opening <NUM> is thus a variable opening, the overall profile of which can be adjusted based on a rotational alignment of the first and second cage bodies.

Further, <FIG> illustrates a cage body profile <NUM> of an adjustable restriction cage according to another example of the disclosed technology. The cage body profile <NUM> includes an opening <NUM> formed in a circumferential wall <NUM> of a cage body (two shown in <FIG>, as installed, one in dashed lines). In the illustrated example, the opening <NUM> includes a non-polygonal geometry with a curved portion. <FIG> illustrate varied alignments of the openings <NUM> of the first and second cage body profiles <NUM> to form an intermediate opening <NUM>, which can be adjusted based on a rotational alignment of the first and second cage bodies.

Additionally, due to the curved geometry of the openings <NUM>, the cage body profile <NUM> can provide unique and non-linear effective flow areas proportional to the rotational alignment of the first and second cage bodies (e.g., as shown by comparison of <FIG>). In other examples, other profiles (e.g., other curved or polygonal profiles) can be configured to optimize relationships between rotational adjustment and changes in effective flow area for a particular installation.

In some examples, including as presented in the examples of FIGS. <NUM> through 14C, an adjustable cage assembly can be configured as a noise attenuation cage, as can allow operators to adjustably tune acoustic performance (e.g., maximum decibel levels) of a flow control assembly for one or more particular flows (e.g., to reduce noise in a regulator as service flow is increased to meet growing customer demand). Further, in some cases, pressure dynamics associated with acoustic performance can result in suboptimal performance of a flow control device (e.g., inability to fully open a valve for maximum flow). In some examples, adjustably configurable noise attenuating cages (or other similar adjustable cage assemblies) can thus allow operators to optimize overall valve performance as well as (or as an alternative to) optimizing acoustic performance.

Generally, the example assemblies discussed below (and otherwise herein) can be installed in and operated with a variety of flow control devices, including pressure reducing regulator <NUM> of <FIG> or other flow control devices discussed herein or generally known in the art. Further, although the assemblies of FIGS. <NUM> through 14C may be particularly suitable for use as noise attenuating cages to improve acoustic performance, these assemblies can be beneficially employed in a variety of installations and applications including to otherwise beneficially control aspects of flow dynamics near a sealing assembly of a valve or other flow control device. Similarly, the adjustable cages discussed above may in some cases be employed as adjustable noise attenuating cages for acoustic improvement of valve performance.

In some examples, noise attenuating cages can include multiple cage bodies that can be selectively aligned with each other to provide different flow characteristics for flow through the cage (e.g., generally radial flow from or to a sealable seat of a flow control device). For example, in various combinations, one or more cage bodies with first patterns of flow openings can be selectively inserted in various configurations into a cooperative assembly (e.g., an annular cage assembly) with another cage body with a second pattern of flow openings (e.g., a different pattern), or can be selectively rotated to different orientations relative another cage body.

In some examples, an annular cage body can be configured to selectively receive one or more cage body inserts, with the flow characteristics of any particular configuration being determined partly by the particular pattern of flow openings of a particular selected cage body insert, and by the particular alignment of the flow openings of the insert with flow openings of the annular cage body, as determined by the inserted orientation of the insert. For example, for any given insert, different overlaps of patterns of flow openings can be provided by different insert selections, different insertion orientations or locations, or different installed combinations with other inserts (e.g., regarding relative locations on the annular cage body, relative rotational orientations, degrees of symmetry, etc.). Thus, for example, operators can provide different flow configuration for a particular flow control valve, including to adapt to changed downstream demand over time, by selectively installing (e.g., and reinstalling) selected inserts in selected orientations relative to a common base (annular) cage body.

In some examples, similar adjustability for noise attenuating cages can be provided by rotatable annular cage bodies, each of which include respective patterns of flow openings. For example, for radially nested annular cage bodies (i.e., arrangements in which one cage body is nested radially to the inside of another cage body), changes in relative rotational orientation of the cage bodies can provide different alignments between flow openings of one cage body and flow openings of the other cage body. Thus, for example, by relative rotational adjustment of inner and outer annular cage bodies, different total flow areas or different other flow structures (e.g., distribution patterns of flow areas) can be provided for flow through a given noise reducing cage (e.g., generally radial flow to or from a valve seat).

<FIG> is an isometric view of a cage body <NUM> for use with an adjustable cage assembly, according to an example of the disclosed technology. In particular the cage body <NUM> is an integrally formed (e.g., additively manufactured) annular body, with a pattern of flow openings <NUM> extending radially through the cage body <NUM> between a radially interior surface <NUM> and a radially exterior surface <NUM> of the cage body <NUM>. In the illustrated example, the flow openings <NUM> extend in a regular, repeating pattern fully around the circumference of the cage body <NUM> and over substantially all of the axial height of the cage body <NUM>, so as to provide a particular collective flow area for radial flow through the cage body <NUM>. Thus, for example, with the cage body <NUM> installed in a flow control device as generally illustrated in <FIG>, the flow openings <NUM> can define a reduced flow area for process flow through the flow control device, with control characteristics relative to a particular flow (e.g., particular rate, fluid, conditions, etc.) dependent on the size, shape, and overall geometrical arrangement of flow openings <NUM>. (Although generally shown herein with multiple openings, different arrangements of flow openings can in some cases include different arrangements of a single flow opening.

In some examples, as also discussed above, a cage body can be configured to receive and removably retain one or more cage body inserts to further define control characteristics of a collective cage body assembly. In some examples, an annular cage body can be used cooperatively with different selected sets of inserts, with particular inserts arranged in different orientations relative to each other or the cage body that receives the inserts, etc. to provide a variety of customized configurations with corresponding flow control characteristics. For example, a first assembly with a first set of inserts secured to a first annular cage body in a first orientation and order (e.g., along a circumference of the annular body) may provide a different flow control characteristic than a second assembly with a second, different set of inserts secured to the first annular cage body or a third assembly with the first set of inserts secured to the first annular cage body in a second, different orientation or order.

Generally, cage body inserts can include particular patterns of flow openings and a cage body configured to receive the inserts can include particular (e.g., different) patterns of flow openings. Thus, an assembly of a particular insert with a cage body with the insert in a particular orientation relative to the cage body can provide a particular overlap pattern of the flow openings of the insert and the cage body (e.g., a particular overlap of radial flow openings for generally radial flow) that can provide a particular flow area through the assembly and exhibit particular other relevant flow control characteristics (e.g., as defined by a particular geometric distribution of the available (overlapping) flow area).

In some examples, an insert can be secured to a recess of a different cage body, including through sliding or snap-in insertion. For example, as shown in <FIG>, the cage body <NUM> includes an annular arrangement of recesses <NUM>, each of which includes part of the pattern of the flow openings <NUM>. Thus, with no inserts received in the recesses <NUM> (as shown in <FIG>), the cage body <NUM> can provide first flow control characteristics, including as defined by the collective radial flow area of the flow openings <NUM>. In contrast, including as further discussed below, when particular inserts are secured in the recesses <NUM>, a collective flow path (and total flow area) defined by the overlap of insert openings (not shown in <FIG>) with the flow openings <NUM> can provide a variety of other, different flow control characteristics.

In some examples, recesses on a cage body to receive cage body inserts can be arranged on an upstream side of a cage assembly relative to the relevant process flow. For example, the interior arrangement of the recesses <NUM> as shown in <FIG> may correspond to a radially outward flow (e.g., as in flow-up operation for the flow control device <NUM> of <FIG>). With the recesses <NUM> thus on the upstream side of a process flow through a flow control device, the flow pressure of process fluid may tend to further secure installed inserts to the cage body <NUM> rather than urge the inserts away from the cage body <NUM>. In some installations, however, recesses may be included on a downstream side of cage body (e.g., only on a downstream side, or on upstream and downstream sides). (As used in the context of annular cage bodies or other similar assemblies, "upstream" and "downstream" refer to generally radial flow through the cage bodies or assemblies.

As noted above, the uniform array and other aspects of the pattern of flow openings <NUM> are presented as examples only. Correspondingly, although the openings <NUM> are shown as being distributed with spatial uniformity within the recesses <NUM> and along separation sections <NUM> of the interior surface <NUM> between the recesses <NUM>, other examples can exhibit other patterns. For example, some annular cage bodies may include flow openings primarily (e.g., only) within recesses, may include different patterns (e.g., different sizes, spacings, shapes, etc.) of openings within recesses as compared to along separation sections, or may include different patterns of openings within particular recesses or on particular separation sections as compared to other recesses or separation sections.

In different examples, an insert can include a variety of different flow opening patterns, including relative to the size, shape, array pattern, spacing, orientation, cross-sectional flow characteristics of one or more radial flow openings. As illustrated in <FIG>, for example, a first insert <NUM> can include a regular alternating-offset array of uniformly circular flow openings <NUM>, arranged within a flow pattern area <NUM> that is generally rectangular and substantially fills the total available surface of the insert <NUM>. As another example, as shown in <FIG>, a second insert <NUM> can include a regular array of circular flow openings <NUM> with a less concentrated arrangement within a similarly expansive flow pattern area <NUM> and with progressively reduced flow area for individual openings and the pattern area <NUM> as a whole, from a frame of reference moving from top to bottom as shown).

Thus, for example, insertion of the insert <NUM> into a particular one of the recesses <NUM> of the annular cage body <NUM> of <FIG> can provide a first overlapping pattern between the flow openings <NUM> and the flow openings <NUM>, and a corresponding flow control characteristic for the combined assembly. Further, insertion of the insert <NUM> into the particular one of the recesses <NUM> of the cage body <NUM> can provide a second, different overlapping pattern between the flow openings <NUM> and the flow openings <NUM> and a correspondingly different flow control characteristic for the combined assembly. Further, different overlapping patterns and flow control characteristics can also be provided by similarly installing the insert <NUM>, but in a reversed orientation (e.g., with top as shown in <FIG>) nearer to a relevant seat of a flow control device. In other words and more generally, selection of a particular insert and a particular installation configuration (e.g., location and relative orientation) can selectively provide a variety of flow control characteristics, including as can allow for optimization of acoustic characteristics of a particular flow through a particular flow control device.

As generally noted above, a variety of different patterns of flow openings can be provided so that overlapping installations of cage bodies can customizably provide different flow characteristics for a noise attenuating cage. In some examples, differences in patterns of flow openings may include differences in flow pattern areas of a particular cage body (i.e., an envelope area on the cage body within which flow openings are provided). For example, although the flow area <NUM> is generally rectangular, whereas the flow area <NUM> is generally trapezoidal, tapering toward the bottom of the insert <NUM> in the orientation shown. In other examples, similarly shaped and arrayed flow openings as shown on the inserts <NUM>, <NUM> can be included in differently shaped flow pattern areas (e.g., covering more or less of the surface of the relevant insert <NUM>, <NUM>). Similarly, flow pattern areas as shown or in other configurations can be used with a variety of other flow opening arrays.

As a further example, <FIG> illustrates an assembly <NUM> of the annular cage body <NUM> with three inserts <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> received in adjacent recesses <NUM>. As shown, each of the inserts <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> has a different pattern of flow openings. Accordingly, the collective assembly provides different overlap patterns for flow openings at each of the occupied recesses <NUM> and thus provides different respective local radial flow configurations. As shown in <FIG>, the insert <NUM> is a blocking insert without any flow openings, the insert <NUM> is a single-orifice insert with a centered flow opening <NUM> with a large diameter (e.g., is at least half of the axial height of the cage body <NUM>), and the insert <NUM> is a multi-orifice insert with a regular array of flow openings <NUM> that are individually smaller than the flow opening <NUM> (e.g., but collectively larger) and individually larger than the flow openings <NUM>, <NUM> of <FIG> (e.g., but collectively smaller). In other examples, as also generally noted above, a variety of other flow opening configurations are possible. Similarly, different arrangements of inserts can be installed any one or more of the recesses <NUM>, including multiple instances of any of the inserts <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>.

In different examples, as also noted above, inserts can be received and secured using a variety of structures, including for snap-in or slide-in engagements. In some examples, dovetail connections can provide particularly secure and easy to customize assemblies. Thus, in some cases, the recesses <NUM> of the cage body and associated inserts (e.g., the inserts <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>) can include complementary dovetail profiles. For example, as shown in <FIG>, one or more edges (one shown) of one or more of the recesses <NUM> (one shown) can include an undercut formation to provide a dovetail receiving profile <NUM>, and the insert <NUM> can include a complementary dovetail insertion profile <NUM>. Thus, for example, the insert <NUM> can be easily slid axially into and out of engagement with the annular cage body <NUM> (e.g., before installation or after removal, to customize a flow control device) while remaining securely held relative to generally radial forces (e.g., from the dynamic pressure of a process flow).

In some examples, recesses for flow control inserts can include a shelf to support and secure inserts that are selectively installed into the recesses. For example, as shown in <FIG>, the recesses <NUM> of the annular cage body <NUM> can include one or more integrally formed shoulders <NUM> that can receive and secure a received insert (e.g., the insert <NUM>, as shown). In some examples, including as shown, a shelf on a cage body can be included on an end of a cage body that is configured to installed closest to a relevant valve seat (e.g., as shown in <FIG> for the cage body <NUM>).

In some examples, as also generally discussed above, radially nested cage bodies can be rotatable relative to each other (e.g., by actual rotation of one or more of the cage bodies) to provide different overlap patterns for flow openings and, thus, customizable flow control characteristics. For example, <FIG> illustrates another example adjustable cage assembly <NUM>, according to an example of the disclosed technology, which can be adjusted for different flow control characteristics by adjustments to the relative rotational orientation of two annular cage bodies. In particular, the cage assembly <NUM> includes a radially interior (e.g., upstream) annular cage body <NUM> that is concentrically nested within a radially exterior (e.g., downstream) annular cage body <NUM>. Both of the cage bodies include similar patterns of flow openings <NUM>, <NUM> as shown (e.g., with substantially identically sized flow openings in substantially identical arrays), although other configurations are possible, including as discussed above.

With the illustrated arrangement, depending on the relative rotational orientation of the cage bodies <NUM>, <NUM> relative to each other, different alignments of the patterns of the flow openings <NUM>, <NUM> can result in different total flow areas for the assembly <NUM> or other varied flow control characteristics. As one example, as shown in <FIG>, a first configuration with a first rotational orientation may provide complete misalignment of the flow openings <NUM>, <NUM>, so that the assembly <NUM> permits minimal flow for a given pressure drop. With progressive rotation of the cage bodies <NUM>, <NUM>, as shown in <FIG>, increased flow area (and other changes in flow control characteristics) can thus be progressively provided. In some cases, one or more rotational configurations (not shown) can fully align the flow openings <NUM>, <NUM>, so that the assembly <NUM> provides a maximal flow for a given pressure drop.

In some examples, cage bodies can be selectively lockable in different configurations (e.g., different relative orientations) to provide different flow control characteristics. For example, as noted above, snap-in configurations can be used in some configurations. In some examples, a detent arrangement can be provided to selectively secure rotatable cage bodies at any of a plurality of configurations. As shown in <FIG>, for example, a detent arrangement <NUM> can include a protrusion <NUM> on the exterior cage body <NUM> and a series of corresponding (e.g., complementary) recesses <NUM> arranged circumferentially in series along the interior cage body <NUM>. (In other examples, this and other protrusion-recess arrangements can alternatively be structurally reversed with, for example, the protrusion <NUM> on the cage body <NUM> and the recesses <NUM> on the cage body <NUM>. ) Correspondingly, the assembly <NUM> can provide a particular flow control characteristic depending on which of the recesses <NUM> the protrusion <NUM> is received into. For example, a left-most recess <NUM> on the cage body <NUM> (relative to the perspective of <FIG>) may correspond to the opening overlap pattern of <FIG>, the next successive recess <NUM> may correspond to the overlap pattern of <FIG>, the next successive recess <NUM> may correspond to the overlap pattern of <FIG>, and the right-most recess <NUM> may correspond to a fully open (fully aligned) configuration. Although the detent arrangement <NUM> is shown (and described) with the protrusion <NUM> and the recesses <NUM>, other combinations of stop features (e.g., multiple complementary or other protrusions, differently formed recesses, etc.) can be used in other detent features according to generally known mechanical principles.

In some examples, a locking arrangement can be configured so that a particular adjustment of a cage body results in a smaller effective adjustment of an alignment of two flow opening patterns. For example, a locking arrangement can include adjacent locking features that are spaced by somewhat more than a corresponding spacing between flow openings (e.g., being larger than the flow opening spacing by a non-integer multiple greater than <NUM>). Thus, for example, a manual adjustment of the locking arrangement between configurations corresponding to the adjacent locking features can result in a much smaller effective change in alignment of flow openings.

In some cases, such a locking arrangement can be employed with cage bodies that have flow openings with substantially equal spacings between relevant adjacent flow openings. Correspondingly, regular movement of the cage bodies relative to each other can result in regular, but smaller adjustment of flow opening overlap patterns (e.g., from fully misaligned to fully aligned). For example, as shown in <FIG>, a spacing between adjacent pairs of the recesses <NUM> can be approximately <NUM>% greater than a spacing between adjacent sets of the flow openings <NUM>, <NUM> along a circumferential profile of the respective cage body <NUM>, <NUM>. Correspondingly, a relatively large change in the rotational orientation of the cage body <NUM>, <NUM> (e.g., as can be more easily executed manually) can result in a relatively small change in the alignment of the patterns of the flow openings <NUM>, <NUM>.

Although select notable combinations of flow opening patterns are presented in the various figures (as further discussed above and below), other examples can include any variety of combinations of the opening patterns expressly illustrated herein or others. For example, radial flow openings according to one or more of the examples below can be included on one or multiple cooperating cage bodies, in various combinations with one or more of the cage body profiles discussed above: e.g., with one cage body having an array of radial flow openings as discussed below and a complementary cage body having a larger-opening cage body profile as discussed above. Likewise, in some examples, patterns of openings illustrated or described herein for cage assembly inserts can be instead (or additionally) be used on an annular cage body configured to receive an insert or to rotate relative to another annular cage body, and vice versa.

Thus, examples of the disclosed technology can provide a system and method of adjusting an effective flow area in a flow control device and other flow control characteristics. The previous description of the disclosed examples is provided to enable any person skilled in the art to make or use the disclosed technology. Various modifications to these examples will be readily apparent to those skilled in the art, and the generic principles defined herein may be applied to other examples without departing from the scope of the disclosed technology. Thus, the disclosed technology is not intended to be limited to the examples shown herein but is to be accorded the widest scope consistent with the principles and novel features disclosed herein, limited only by the appended claims.

As used herein, unless otherwise limited or defined, "or" indicates a non-exclusive list of components or operations that can be present in any variety of combinations, rather than an exclusive list of components that can be present only as alternatives to each other. For example, a list of "A, B, or C" indicates options of: A; B; C; A and B; A and C; B and C; and A, B, and C. Correspondingly, the term "or" as used herein is intended to indicate exclusive alternatives only when preceded by terms of exclusivity, such as "either," "one of," "only one of," or "exactly one of. " For example, a list of "one of A, B, or C" indicates options of: A, but not B and C; B, but not A and C; and C, but not A and B. A list preceded by "one or more" (and variations thereon, e.g., "at least one of") and including "or" to separate listed elements indicates options of one or more of any or all of the listed elements. For example, the phrases "one or more of A, B, or C" and "at least one of A, B, or C" indicate options of: one or more A; one or more B; one or more C; one or more A and one or more B; one or more B and one or more C; one or more A and one or more C; and one or more of A, one or more of B, and one or more of C. Similarly, a list preceded by "a plurality of" (and variations thereon) and including "or" to separate listed elements indicates options of multiple instances of any or all of the listed elements. For example, the phrases "a plurality of A, B, or C" and "two or more of A, B, or C" indicate options of: A and B; B and C; A and C; and A, B, and C.

Also as used herein, unless otherwise limited or defined, "integral" and derivatives thereof (e.g., "integrally") describe elements that are manufactured as a single piece without fasteners, adhesive, or the like to secure separate components together. For example, an element stamped or cast as a single-piece component from a single piece of sheet metal or a single mold, without rivets, screws, or adhesive to hold separately formed pieces together is an integral (and integrally formed) element. In contrast, an element formed from multiple pieces that are separately formed initially then later connected together, is not an integral (or integrally formed) element.

Unless otherwise specified or limited, the terms "about," "approximately," and "substantially" as used herein with respect to a reference value refer to variations from the reference value of ± <NUM>%, inclusive.

Claim 1:
An adjustable cage assembly (<NUM>) for a flow control device (<NUM>), the adjustable cage assembly (<NUM>) comprising:
a first cage body (<NUM>); and
a second cage body (<NUM>), each of the first and second cage bodies (<NUM>) including:
a first wall segment (<NUM>) having an interior surface (<NUM>) and an exterior surface;
a first locking feature (<NUM>) formed on the interior surface (<NUM>) of the first wall segment (<NUM>);
a second wall (<NUM>) segment having an interior surface and an exterior surface (<NUM>);
a second locking feature (<NUM>) formed on the exterior surface (<NUM>) of the second wall segment (<NUM>);
wherein the first wall segment (<NUM>) and the second wall segment (<NUM>) are spaced in a circumferential direction to form a first opening (<NUM>) therebetween, and
wherein the first locking feature (<NUM>) of the first cage body (<NUM>) is configured to engage the second locking feature (<NUM>) of the second cage body (<NUM>) to rotationally secure the first cage body (<NUM>) relative to the second cage body (<NUM>) at one of a plurality of alignments to at least partially align the first opening (<NUM>) of the first cage body with the first opening (<NUM>) of the second cage body to form a corresponding plurality of opening profiles (<NUM>; <NUM>; <NUM>; <NUM>) for flow across the first and second cage bodies (<NUM>).