Patent ID: 12215729

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The present disclosure can be understood more readily by reference to the following detailed description, examples, drawings, and claims, and their previous and following description. However, before the present devices, systems, and/or methods are disclosed and described, it is to be understood that this disclosure is not limited to the specific devices, systems, and/or methods disclosed unless otherwise specified, as such can, of course, vary. It is also to be understood that the terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular aspects only and is not intended to be limiting.

The following description is provided as an enabling teaching of the present devices, systems, and/or methods in their best, currently known aspect. To this end, those skilled in the relevant art will recognize and appreciate that many changes can be made to the various aspects described herein, while still obtaining the beneficial results of the present disclosure. It will also be apparent that some of the desired benefits of the present disclosure can be obtained by selecting some of the features of the present disclosure without utilizing other features. Accordingly, those who work in the art will recognize that many modifications and adaptations to the present disclosure are possible and can even be desirable in certain circumstances and are a part of the present disclosure. Thus, the following description is provided as illustrative of the principles of the present disclosure and not in limitation thereof.

As used throughout, the singular forms “a,” “an” and “the” include plural referents unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. Thus, for example, reference to a quantity of one of a particular element can comprise two or more such elements unless the context indicates otherwise. In addition, any of the elements described herein can be a first such element, a second such element, and so forth (e.g., a first widget and a second widget, even if only a “widget” is referenced).

Ranges can be expressed herein as from “about” one particular value, and/or to “about” another particular value. When such a range is expressed, another aspect comprises from the one particular value and/or to the other particular value. Similarly, when values are expressed as approximations, by use of the antecedent “about” or “substantially,” it will be understood that the particular value forms another aspect. It will be further understood that the endpoints of each of the ranges are significant both in relation to the other endpoint, and independently of the other endpoint.

For purposes of the current disclosure, a material property or dimension measuring about X or substantially X on a particular measurement scale measures within a range between X plus an industry-standard upper tolerance for the specified measurement and X minus an industry-standard lower tolerance for the specified measurement. Because tolerances can vary between different materials, processes and between different models, the tolerance for a particular measurement of a particular component can fall within a range of tolerances.

As used herein, the terms “optional” or “optionally” mean that the subsequently described event or circumstance may or may not occur, and that the description comprises instances where said event or circumstance occurs and instances where it does not.

The word “or” as used herein means any one member of a particular list and also comprises any combination of members of that list. The phrase “at least one of A and B” as used herein means “only A, only B, or both A and B”; while the phrase “one of A and B” means “A or B.”

To simplify the description of various elements disclosed herein, the conventions of “left,” “right,” “front,” “rear,” “top,” “bottom,” “upper,” “lower,” “inside,” “outside,” “inboard,” “outboard,” “horizontal,” and/or “vertical” may be referenced. Unless stated otherwise, “front” describes that end of the valve nearest to and occupied by a pipe received by the valve; “rear” is that end of the valve that is opposite or distal the front; “left” is that which is to the left of or facing left from a person facing towards the front; and “right” is that which is to the right of or facing right from that same person while facing towards the front. “Horizontal” or “horizontal orientation” describes that which is in a plane extending from left to right and aligned with the horizon. “Vertical” or “vertical orientation” describes that which is in a plane that is angled at 90 degrees to the horizontal.

In one aspect, an operating nut and associated methods, systems, devices, and various apparatuses are disclosed herein. In one aspect, the operating nut can comprise an identification tag or, more specifically, a radio-frequency identification (RFID) tag.

As suggested above, the design of devices such as valves in a fluid distribution system and the harsh conditions in which such devices continuously operate over long periods of time are not conducive to on-site or on-device identification and documentation. Currently available devices often do not have individualized serial numbers. An operating nut for a device that comprises a digital identification tag could facilitate order management, field service and operation, and asset tracking. More specifically, such an operating nut could facilitate initialization, and confirmation, transmission, and/or display of a serial number, a digital certificate of authenticity, and/or other data related to the device. Users of such a system would require little training because the data would be automatically available upon scanning the valve for a chip. The combination of a “smart” operating nut and a “smart” tool, e.g., a wrench for manipulating the operating nut, could also serve as a training tool for new service technicians handling the devices.

FIG.1is a top perspective view of a device100in accordance with one aspect of the current disclosure. The device100can be or can comprise a valve or another device, as disclosed below. The device100can define a first end or top end105and a second end or bottom end106. The device100can comprise an operating nut200, which can be positioned and secured to the device100proximate to the top end105and can define the top end105. In some aspects, including those in which the device100is a gate valve, the device100can comprise a body110, a bonnet130, a stem710(shown inFIG.7), and a valve member120, which can be a gate such as in the gate valve shown. The body110can comprise an interior cavity112which can be substantially continuous through or can extend through the body110from an inlet114at a first end116to an outlet (not shown) at a second end118. The body110can define the interior cavity112and a fluid bore122. The interior cavity112and fluid bore122can allow fluid flow through the body102such that, in operation, fluid flows through the inlet114, through the interior cavity112and fluid bore122, and through the outlet. The body110can comprise a body flange124, to which the bonnet130can be secured.

As shown, the valve member120can be housed within the body110. The stem710can also be housed within the body110or at least partly so, and the stem710can be connected to the valve member120such that movement of the stem710moves the valve member120to permit or restrict fluid flow through the interior cavity112and the fluid bore122defined in the body110. When the valve member120is in an open position, fluid can be allowed to flow through the interior cavity112of the body110. When the valve member120is in a closed position, the valve member120can disrupt or prevent fluid flow through the interior cavity112of the body110. The device100can be any device for metering or regulating the flow of a fluid in a fluid distribution system including, for example and without limitation, a gate valve (as shown), a ball valve, a butterfly valve, a disc valve, a plug valve, or any other desired valve type, including any valve with a rotatable stem, which can be described as a stem valve; various types of hydrants; and any device with an operating nut or a fastener such as the operating nut200for operating the valve member120.

The bonnet130can be mounted on or to the body110. The bonnet130can define a bonnet interior cavity and can comprise a bottom flange134. Each of the bottom flange134and the body flange124can define flange bores. Fasteners139comprising fastener elements such as, for example and without limitation, bolts and nuts, can extend through the flange bores to secure the bonnet130to the body110. The device100can comprise a seal such as, for example and without limitation, an O-ring (not shown) or another type of seals, to seal a connection between the bonnet130and the body110. In some aspects, as shown, the operating nut200can protrude from and define an outermost portion of the device100at the top end105. In some aspects, the operating nut200can extend from and can be directly adjacent to the body110or the bonnet130. In other aspects, another portion of the device such as, for example and without limitation, a stuffing box140of the device100can be positioned between the operating nut200and the body110or the bonnet130. In some aspects, such a portion of the valve (e.g., the stuffing box140) can be secured to a top flange136of the bonnet130with fasteners149. The operating nut can be secured to a remaining portion of the device100with a fastener190, which can be a retaining fastener.

FIG.2is a top perspective view of the operating nut200ofFIG.1, which can comprise an identification tag400. In some aspects, the identification tag400can be positioned elsewhere on the device100such as, for example and without limitation, on the body110, the bonnet130, the stuffing box140, or the fastener190. The identification tag400can be a digital identification tag and, more specifically, a radio-frequency identification (RFID) tag. In some aspects, the identification tag400can utilize NFC (near-field communications) technology. In some aspects, operation of the identification tag400need not require any electrical or other power on the device100. By storing or embedding information digitally on the device, the operating nut200can be a “smart” operating nut and the device100itself can be a “smart” device. By being “smart,” the operating nut200or, more generally, the device100is configured to connect to a network for purposes of sending information to and/or receiving information from the network and/or otherwise interacting with the network. The operating nut200can comprise a body210defining a central bore208, which can define a bore axis or axis211. More generally, the operating nut200can define a nut axis201, which can be aligned with the axis211. Either or both of the axes201,211can be central axes of the components in which they are defined. The operating nut200can define a working end or working portion220and a flange or flange portion230. The working portion220can define a height225, and the body210of the operating nut200can define an overall height205.

The working portion220of the body210can define an outer surface221comprising one or more various surfaces, which can interact with a surface of a mating tool600(shown inFIG.6) such as, for example and without limitation, a wrench. The working portion220can define, for example and without limitation, an end surface222and one or more side surfaces224, each of which can be angled with respect to—or even orthogonal to, or at least substantially orthogonal to—the end surface222. In some aspects, the one or more side surfaces224can define a polygonal shape in a cross-sectional plane orthogonal to the axis211. The polygonal shape can be, for example and without limitation, a hexagon, a pentagon, or a rectangle (e.g., a square, as shown) defining six, five, and four sides, respectively. In some aspects, the one or more side surfaces224can define a non-polygonal shape in a cross-sectional plane orthogonal to the axis211. The non-polygonal shape can define one or more curvilinear sides, which can be continuous. More specifically, tangent lines of adjoining sides of the shape can be collinear.

Surfaces that are otherwise orthogonal to each other or in another relationship with each other might, by some technical definitions, not be orthogonal or the other relationship due to the presence of a draft angle or other slight angle on the part, due to one or both surfaces not being perfectly flat or smooth, or due to other modification(s). When surfaces are described herein as being “substantially” orthogonal or in some other relationship, it is intended and contemplated that such instances be covered by the definition. To the degree that some deviation from the technical definition of such a relationship is so minor as to be hardly perceptible, it is intended and contemplated that such a shape be incorporated into the definition of the shape, with or without use of the conditional term “substantially” as a qualifier.

The flange portion230of the body210can extend outward from the working portion220in a radial direction with respect to the axis211of the operating nut200. The flange portion230can define an outer surface231comprising one or more various surfaces, which can interact with a surface of the tool600and/or a portion of the working portion220. The flange portion230can define, for example and without limitation, a top end or first end surface232and a bottom end or second end surface236(shown inFIG.3), each of which can be angled with respect to—or even orthogonal to, or at least substantially orthogonal to—the one or more side surfaces224of the working portion220. The flange portion230can define one or more side surfaces234, each of which can be angled with respect to—or even orthogonal to, or at least substantially orthogonal to—one or both of the end surface232and the second end surface236. As shown, the flange portion230need not extend outward from the working portion220by the same distance in each direction. In at least one or more directions, the flange portion230need not extend outward from the working portion220at all.

In some aspects, the one or more side surfaces234of the flange portion230can define a polygonal shape in a cross-sectional plane orthogonal to the axis211. The polygonal shape can be, for example and without limitation, a hexagon, a pentagon, or a rectangle (e.g., a square, as shown) defining six, five, and four sides, respectively. In some aspects, the one or more side surfaces224can define a non-polygonal shape in a cross-sectional plane orthogonal to the axis211. The non-polygonal shape can be, for example and without limitation, a circle or an oval, with or without linear or curvilinear truncation, the example of which is shown inFIG.3. The non-polygonal shape can define one or more curvilinear sides, which can be continuous. More specifically, tangent lines of adjoining sides of the shape can be collinear.

The central bore208can extend through one or both of the working portion220and the flange portion230. The central bore208can define a first portion218and a second portion228. The first portion218of the central bore208can extend through the working portion220, and the second portion228of the central bore208can extend through the flange portion230. In some aspects, a third portion238can define an intersection between the first portion218and the second portion228. The third portion238can comprise or define a shoulder surface239. In some aspects, as shown in exemplary aspects inFIG.8, the third portion238and, more specifically, the shoulder surface239can be offset in an axial direction along the axis211with respect to an intersection of the working portion220and the flange portion230. A diameter of the second portion228can be less than a diameter of the first portion218, which can facilitate retention of the operating nut200on or by the device100by the fastener190(shown inFIG.1).

The identification tag400can be secured to the body210. In some aspects, the identification tag400can be secured with an adhesive. In some aspects, the identification tag400can be secured with a friction fit within a portion of the body210. In some aspects, the identification tag400can be received within a cavity or recess280, which can be defined in one or more of the surfaces of the operating nut200. In some aspects, as shown, the cavity280can be defined in the end surface222and, more specifically, in a portion of the working portion220sized and otherwise configured to receive the identification tag400. In some aspects, any one or more cavities280can be defined in the end surface236and, more specifically, in a portion of the flange portion230sized and otherwise configured to receive the identification tag400. The identification tag400can be embedded in any of the aforementioned surfaces and/or cavities such as, for example and without limitation, the cavity280defined in the top end surface222.

The identification tag400can define at least a portion of at least one of the outer surfaces221,231of the operating nut200. More specfiically, the portion of the outer surface of the operating nut defined by the identification tag400can be coincident or coplanar with the end surface222of the working portion220of the body210. In some aspects, the identification tag400need not protrude outwardly past the outer surfaces221,231in which it can be embedded in any direction away from or along one or both of the axes201,211.

FIG.3is a bottom perspective view of the operating nut200ofFIG.1, which is shown with the identification tag400ofFIG.2embedded in the second end surface236of the flange portion230in accordance with another aspect of the current disclosure. The identification tag400can be embedded in any one of the cavities280defined in the second end surface236.

The cavities280can be positioned proximate to a radially outer edge of the body210of the operating nut200. For example and without limitation, in some aspects, a distance between a center of any one of the cavities280and any one of the identification tags400and an edge of the operating nut200can be less than or equal to three diameters of the cavity280or the identification tag400(or three times a width of the cavity280or the identification tag400in a radial direction). In some aspects, a distance between the center of any one of the cavities280and any one of the identification tags400and an edge of the operating nut200can be less than or equal to two diameters of the cavity280or the identification tag400(or two times the width of the cavity280or the identification tag400in a radial direction). In some aspects, a distance between the center of any one of the cavities280and any one of the identification tags400and an edge of the operating nut200can be less than or equal to one diameter of the cavity280or the identification tag400(or the width of the cavity280or the identification tag400in a radial direction).

FIG.4is a top perspective view of the identification tag400ofFIGS.2and3. For example and without limitation, the identification tag400can be the RFID tag product DuraPlug6 available from Info Chip LP. The identification tag400can comprise a body410defining an outer surface411, which can comprise a first end surface412, a second end surface416(shown inFIG.5), and a side surface414. The side surface414can extend between the first end surface412and the second end surface416. In some aspects, as shown, the identification tag400can define a cylindrical shape. In some aspects, the identification tag400can define any other desired shape including that of a polygon. The identification tag400can define an axis401.

The identification tag400can comprise a microchip or integrated circuit for storing and processing radio-frequency or RF signals, an antenna for receiving and transmitting the signals, and a substrate. The data in the identification tag400can be stored in a non-volatile memory. The identification tag400can include either fixed or programmable logic for processing the data. In some aspects, the identification tag400can be passive, in which case the identification tag400can use the radio energy transmitted by an identification tag reader800(shown inFIG.8). In some aspects, the identification tag400can be active, in which case the identification tag400can comprise its own power supply, e.g., an internal or external battery able in some aspects to last several years. As desired, any such power supply, e.g., the battery, can fit inside a cavity or other space positioned behind or proximate to where the identification tag400is positioned on the operating nut200, e.g., the cavity280. The identification tag400can be read-only (e.g., with ROM or read-only memory) or read/write (e.g., EEPROM or electrically erasable programmable read-only memory).

FIG.5is a side elevation view of the identification tag400ofFIGS.2and3. As shown, the identification tag400can define a diameter507, which in the case of a non-cylindrical shape can be a width of the identification tag400. In some aspects, a thickness512of the identification tag400can be constant or at least substantially constant. For example and without limitation, as represented by the InfoChip DuraPlug6 RFID tag product, the diameter507can be 0.236 inches (6 mm) or less, and the thickness can be 0.089 inches (2.25 mm) or less. The body410of the identification tag400can be formed from any desirable material. For example and without limitation, the identification tag400, like the RFID tag from InfoChip, can be formed from a polymer such as, for example and without limitation, polyphthalamide (PPA) or polyether ether ketone (PEEK).

In some aspects, a “read” range of the identification tag400, i.e., a maximum distance from a surface of the identification tag400from which the identification tag400can be activated and content of the identification tag400accessed, can be equal to or less than 0.1 inches. In some aspects, the read range of the identification tag400can be equal to or less than 0.25 inches. In some aspects, the read range of the identification tag400can be equal to or less than 0.5 inches. In some aspects, the read range of the identification tag400can be equal to or less than one inch. In some aspects, the read range of the identification tag400can be equal to or less than 2.5 inches. In some aspects, the read range of the identification tag400can be equal to or less than 5 inches. In some aspects, the read range of the identification tag400can be equal to or less than 10 inches. In some aspects, the read range of the identification tag400can be equal to or less than 12 inches (approximately 0.3 meters). In some aspects, the read range of the identification tag400can be equal to or less than 36 inches (approximately one meter). In some aspects, the read range of the identification tag400can be equal to or less than 52 feet (approximately 16 meters). In some aspects, the read range of the identification tag400can be equal to or less than 325 feet (approximately 100 meters). In some aspects, the read range of the identification tag400can be equal to or less than 1.86 miles (approximately 3,000 meters). In some aspects, the read range of the identification tag400can be more than 10 inches or in a range between any two of the aforementioned read range endpoints. The read range can vary depending on the frequency of the communication with the identification tag400and depending on whether the identification tag400is passive (unpowered) or active (powered).

FIG.6is an exploded top plan view of the device100ofFIG.1shown with the tool600, which can be a wrench such as, for example and without limitation, a torque wrench. The tool600can be mounted to the operating nut200ofFIG.1in accordance with one aspect of the current disclosure. The view is exploded in that, for clarity, the tool600is shown separated from the operating nut200. In some aspects, as shown, an intersection between a longitudinal axis108and a transverse axis109of the device100can define an axis101, which can be a device actuator axis. The tool600can be configured to manipulate (e.g., tighten or loosen by rotation about the axis101) the operating nut200of the device100. More specifically, the tool600can be configured to tighten or loosen the operating nut200about the axis101and can thereby move or adjust a position of the valve member120(shown inFIG.1) between the open position and the closed position. The tool600can comprise a tool end610and a handle end620, which can extend from the tool end610.

The handle end620can comprise a handle625, which can extend radially outward with respect to an actuator axis601of the tool600. The handle625by its radially offset position and ergonomics can be configured to apply torque to a portion of the valve such as the operating nut200. The tool600can further comprise a shaft630, which can extend between the tool end610and the handle end620.

The tool600can comprise a controller (not shown) and a display640for displaying information about the device100through its “reading” of the identification tag400positioned on the device100. The tool600can further comprise networking capabilities, which can permit the tool600to communicate information to and receive information from a server via a network. The display640can display information about the use of the tool600and/or the history of the device100such as, for example and without limitation, one or more of the data described below. The tool600and/or the identification tag400can be incorporated in a system such as, for example and without limitation, that shown in U.S. Patent Publication No. 2019/0072932, published Mar. 7, 2019, which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety.

In some aspects, the tool600can comprise a device that can measure torque and can transmit the torque measurements and/or receive torque limits (minimum and/or maximum) to an electronic device1100(shown inFIG.11). The device for measuring torque can be the aforementioned torque wrench or a digital torque adaptor such as Model 20741A available from Neiko, either of which can comprise the identification tag reader800(shown inFIG.8) and can be network-enabled, e.g., using BLUETOOTH communications technology. In some aspects, for example, a regular ratchet with no ability to measure torque can be coupled with the digital torque adaptor, and the identification tag reader800can be secured to any portion of the tool600(including the ratchet, the digital torque adaptor or the socket) in sufficient proximity to the identification tag400. Such a digital torque adaptor or a full torque wrench can communicate as desired with the identification tag400or the identification tag reader800. In some aspects, the tool600or any portion of the tool such as, for example and without limitation, the torque wrench or torque wrench adaptor can be configured to emit an audible beep when a predetermined torque value is measured.

FIG.7is a first side elevation view of the assembly ofFIG.6comprising the device100and the tool600. In some aspects, as shown, one or more components of the device can be aligned along the axis101of the device100, including when the device100is viewed from the side as shown. In some aspects, one or more components of the device100can be offset horizontally from the axis101of the device100, including when the device100is viewed from the side as shown. As shown, the tool600can be configured to receive at least a portion of the operating nut200(e.g., the working portion220of the body210) within the tool end610, at which time the axes201,211of the operating nut200and the axis601of the tool600can be aligned. In some aspects, as shown, contact between the tool600and the flanged portion230of the operating nut200can control or set an axial position of the tool600with respect to the operating nut200along the axes201,211,601. In some aspects, a socket and a wrench of the tool600can be separate, and the identification tag reader800(shown inFIG.8) can be secured to either structure. In some aspects, an adaptor or kit can be added to the tool600and can incorporate a smart socket such as shown inFIG.8. The smart socket can be received with the socket618(shown inFIG.8) of the tool600.

FIG.8is a sectional detail view of the operating nut200and the tool600ofFIG.6taken along line8-8ofFIG.7. The tool end610of the tool600can define the tool socket618, which can at least in part define the axis601and can further define a first end605and a second end606. The socket618can define a plurality of side surfaces614. The plurality of side surfaces614can define a shape in a cross-sectional plane orthogonal to the axis601matching the shape in a cross-sectional plane orthogonal to the axis211defined by the plurality of side surfaces224of the operating nut200. Accordingly, in some aspects, the one or more side surfaces614can define a polygonal shape in a cross-sectional plane orthogonal to the axis601. The polygonal shape can be, for example and without limitation, a hexagon, a pentagon, or a rectangle (e.g., a square) defining six, five, and four sides, respectively. In some aspects, the one or more side surfaces614can define a non-polygonal shape in a cross-sectional plane orthogonal to the axis601. The non-polygonal shape can define one or more curvilinear sides, which can be continuous. More specifically, tangent lines of adjoining sides of the shape can be collinear. The socket618can define a tool opening with one or more open sides found on tools such as, for example and without limitation, an open wrench.

The tool600can comprise the identification tag reader800, which can be secured to the tool600. More specifically, the identification tag reader800can be permanently secured to the tool600, i.e., it can be configured to not be removed from the tool600except by, in some aspects, a service technician. The identification tag reader800can be secured to one of the tool end610and the handle end620(shown inFIG.6) of the tool600or anywhere in between the tool end610and the handle end620. As shown, the identification tag reader800can be embedded in a cavity680defined in a surface of the tool600such as an end surface612. In some aspects, the identification tag reader800can be an RFID tag reader. The identification tag reader800can be configured to “read” or access the identification tag400.

Including when the operating nut200is received within the tool600, the identification tag reader800can be offset or separated from the identification tag400by a separation distance870. In some aspects, a particular separation distance870can be maintained by a user of the tool600through manual positioning of the tool600with respect to the operating nut200, including positioning of the tool600with respect to the operating nut200along one or more of the axes201,211,601. In some aspects, a user of the tool600can maintain the separation distance870by simply resting a portion of the tool600on the operating nut200. More specifically, in some aspects, a user of the tool600can rest the first end605of the tool600on the first end surface232of the flanged portion230of the operating nut200. In some aspects, a user of the tool600can rest another surface of the tool600such as, for example and without limitation, the end surface612on another portion of the operating nut200such as, for example and without limitation, the first end surface222of the operating nut200.

The fastener190can comprise a head192and a shaft194, which can comprise a threaded portion. The shaft194can secure the fastener190to the device100, and the head192can retain the operating nut200to the fastener190. The head192of the fastener190can be positioned within the central bore208and, more specifically, the first portion218of the operating nut200. More specifically, as shown, the head192of the fastener190can be offset from the end surface222. More specifically, as shown, the head192of the fastener190can be recessed within the central bore208and, more specifically, the first portion218of the operating nut200. For clarity, a gap is shown between the head192of the fastener190and the operating nut200in a direction of one or both of the axes201,211. When the operating nut200is assembled to a remaining portion of the device100, however, no such gap need exist.

In some aspects, the fastener190can be a tamper-proof or security fastener (not shown), which can be accessed or at least manipulated only by a member of the trade responsible for installing and maintaining the device100and not the general public. More specifically, a tamper-proof or security fastener can be any fastener not removable by any of a flat-head screwdriver or equivalent, a Phillips-head screwdriver or equivalent, a standard Allen-head screwdriver or equivalent (e.g., a plain male hex bit without accommodation for a pin), a standard hex-head socket or equivalent (e.g., a plain female hex socket defining a hexagonal shape or otherwise accommodating same, including both 6-point and 12-point hex sockets), a standard TORX screwdriver or equivalent (e.g., a standard TORX bit without accommodation for a pin), and a standard square-drive screwdriver or equivalent (e.g., a standard square-drive male bit). Fasteners that are tamper-resistant include, for example and without limitation, a pin-in-TORX fastener, a pin-in-hex fastener, a pin-in-Philips fastener, a spanner or drilled-spanner fastener, a one-way fastener, a tri-groove fastener, a TRI-WING fastener, a TP3 triangular recessed-drive fastener, and an OPSIT fastener. In some aspects, the fastener190can define special marking to further identify the operating nut200as the originally installed operating nut200. In some aspects, the operating nut200can define or comprise the tamper-proof or security fastener. In some aspects, the operating nut200can be configured to receive the tamper-proof or security fastener.

FIG.9is a bottom perspective view of the tool600, which can be a wrench as shown in accordance with another aspect of the current disclosure. More specifically, the tool600can be a T-handle wrench. The tool600can be configured to manipulate and also “read” the operating nut200(shown inFIG.1). The handle625can comprise a first portion625aand a second portion625b, each of which can extend from a remaining portion of the handle end620of the tool600. Each of the first portion625aand the second portion625bcan extend in a radial direction with respect to the axis601of the tool600, which can facilitate the application of torque to rotate the tool600and thereby open or close the device100by rotating the operating nut200. Each of the first portion625aand the second portion625bcan extend in opposite directions from each other.

In some aspects, as shown, the tool600, which can be a first tool600, can comprise a head910. The head910can be configured to be driven by a separate, second tool600such as the tool600shown inFIG.6and, more specifically, the tool end610thereof. As such, the handle end620and, more specifically, the head910can define at least one of a handle socket and a handle engagement nut, which can be sized and otherwise configured to be received about or within the tool end610of the second tool600. The head910and, more specifically, the one of the handle socket and the handle engagement nut can define the actuator axis601. More specifically, the one of the handle socket and the handle engagement nut of the head910of the tool600can define a plurality of side surfaces defining a polygonal shape in a cross-sectional plane orthogonal to the actuator axis601.

The tool end610can define one or more slots918, which can be mud slots. The slots918can allow solids and/or liquids (e.g., mud) to escape from a cavity defined between the tool end610and the operating nut200during engagement of the tool600with the operating nut200. In some aspects, one or both of the tool end610and the handle end620and, more specifically, the handle625and the handle portions625a,bcan be formed integrally or monolithically (i.e., formed as a singular component that constitutes a single material without joints or seams) with each other and the shaft630. In some aspects, the shaft630can be formed separately but then fastened to each of the tool end610and the handle end620. A fastener (not shown) joining the separate parts of the tool600can be removable such as, for example and without limitation, a bolt; or the fastener can be permanent such as, for example and without limitation, a weldment. A length930of the tool600along an axis631of the shaft630and optionally, as shown, in a direction of the actuator axis601can be as desired and can even be adjustable during use. In some aspects, the length930can measure any length up to 10 feet or more in regular (e.g., one foot) or irregular increments.

The tool600can comprise one or more sensors950. The one or more sensors950can comprise any measuring device such as, for example and without limitation, a torque meter, a position or revolution counter, and a temperature sensor. In some aspects, the one or more sensors950can be positioned on the tool end610and, more specifically, in or adjacent to the tool socket618. In some aspects, the one or more sensors950can be positioned on the shaft630. In some aspects, the one or more sensors950can be positioned at any position on the handle625. In some aspects, the one or more sensors950can be positioned on or adjacent to the tool head910.

FIG.10is a second side elevation view of the device100shown inFIG.6with the tool600in accordance with another aspect of the current disclosure. In some aspects, as shown, a device box1000can extend from the device100and, more specifically, can extend towards the position of the user to facilitate access to the device100. The device box1000, which can be cylindrically shaped or have any other desired shape, can protect components of the device100or provide access to components of the device100in various applications, such as the operating nut200when the device100is underground. The device box1000can be a valve box. The device box1000can define an open bottom, which can be positioned over the underground component of the device100. The top of the device box1000can be at or near ground level. In some aspects, a portion of the device100such as, for example and without limitation, the stuffing box140can interface with the device box1000to keep the device box1000centered above or about the operating nut200and can affix the device box1000to the device100or a portion thereof. The device box1000and, more specifically, an inner surface1002thereof or an inner diameter1007defined thereby can be sized and otherwise configured to receive the tool600and at least a portion of the device100.

FIG.11is a sectional view of the operating nut200ofFIG.1and the tool600ofFIG.10taken along line11-11ofFIG.10. The tool600can be configured as a “smart” tool600, which can be configured to interface with and “read” data embedded in the identification tag400of the device100(shown inFIG.10) and, more specifically, the “smart” operating nut200as shown. When the identification tag reader800is placed in the socket of the tool600, for example, the reader can be in close proximity to the identification tag400in the operating nut200as described previously. The identification tag reader800of the tool600can be configured to send data contained in the identification tag400to the electronic device1100positioned proximate to, touching, or even secured to the tool600. The identification tag reader800can send the data via wires or wirelessly to the electronic device1100.

The electronic device1100, which can be a portable electronic device, can be any device able to receive the data from the identification tag reader800. The electronic device1100can comprise a graphical user interface1110. In some aspects, as shown, the portable electronic device1100can be a smart phone or electronic tablet able to be held in a hand of the user and loaded with appropriate software, or it can be some other connected device (i.e., a device configured to be connected to a network, e.g., the Internet or any electronic device connected thereto). In some aspects, the identification tag reader800can be configured to connect to the electronic device1100or to a second “smart” tool600(such as that shown inFIG.6) engaged with the first tool600by BLUETOOTH (a federal certification mark of Bluetooth SIG, Inc.) technology or any other wireless communications technology.

The electronic device1100can receive data from and control the identification tag reader800. In some aspects, the electronic device1100or a software application or “app” loaded therein can be configured to wirelessly activate the identification tag reader800. The graphical user interface1110of the electronic device1100can display data read from the identification tag400via the identification tag reader800. Data saved on the identification tag400can include, for example and without limitation, a serial number, a digital certificate of authenticity (COA) or security token, or a physical location (e.g., position using GPS) for the device100. In some aspects, other data can be saved to the identification tag400, including data that is generated from the one or more sensors950(shown inFIG.9) incorporated into the tool600. In some aspects, the identification tag400can include operation history or maintenance history for the device100.

The data can be gathered and attached to the identification tag400of the operating nut200. Upon receipt, the data can be passed to an asset and system management software package operating on the Internet. This can create a larger or richer data set, because data including not including the identity of the device100but the also information about operation of the device100such as, for example and without limitation, how many turns the operating nut200has been turned and in what direction, and whether the valve member120(shown inFIG.1) is currently open or closed. For example, the tool600can determine from the data on the identification tag400if the device100, e.g., a valve, is an open right or open left build. Combining this information with a measurement from a torque sensor as part of torque wrench or digital torque adaptor, the system can determine that an operator has fully rotated the device100as much as it can go based on, for example, a torque measurement reaching a maximum limit in either the opening or closing direction. By pairing the measurement data with data in the database about the specifications of the device100, the new position can be confirmed and recorded.

As described above, the tool600can be configured as a “smart” tool able to interface with the “smart” operating nut200. The method of manufacturing the device100can comprise securing the identification tag400to the operating nut200. In some aspects, the method of manufacturing the device100can comprise securing the identification tag400to another portion of the device100. The method can comprise applying a sticker (for example, with an epoxy resin) before painting of the device to cover and protect a surface of the identification tag400against chemicals and/or an environment around the device100. The method can comprise retrofitting a device100that is already in the field with a “smart” operating nut200as disclosed herein.

A method of using the operating nut200(and the tool600) can comprise engaging the tool600with the operating nut200of the device100. In some aspects, engaging the tool600with the operating nut200can comprise engaging the tool600with the operating nut200of one of a hydrant, a gate valve, and a butterfly valve. Again, the operating nut200can comprise the identification tag400, and the tool600can comprise the identification tag reader800. More specifically, as described above, the identification tag400can be a radio-frequency identification (RFID) tag, and the identification tag reader800can be an RFID reader. The method can comprise activating the identification tag400of the operating nut200with the identification tag reader800of the tool600.

The method of using the operating nut200can comprise placing the identification tag reader800within a read range of the identification tag400. The method can comprise identifying the type of device100. The method can comprise identifying a unique identification number or code, e.g., a serial number, for the device100. The method can comprise rotating the tool600to rotate the operating nut200, which can comprise opening or closing the device100and, more specifically, opening or closing the valve member120of thereof. In some aspects, the display640of the tool600can change color (from red to green, for example) or another visual signal (e.g., a light) or an audible signal (e.g., a beep) can notify the user that a predetermined value for a particular measured parameter (e.g., torque measured by a torque sensor) has been reached. The method can comprise accessing the device with the tool600comprising at least the identification tag reader800when the device100is buried below grade. The method can comprise accessing the device with the tool600comprising at least the identification tag reader800when the device100is at the bottom of the device box1000. In some aspects, the device can be positioned 8 to 10 feet down at the bottom of the device box1000or other pit.

The method of using the operating nut200can comprise tracking the device100during its manufacture and/or operation. The method can comprise transmitting data about the device100through the tool600to a remote server. The method can comprise transmitting such data via wires or wirelessly to the electronic device1100, which can be loaded with appropriate software. The method can comprise transmitting such data to asset and system management software located elsewhere on the Internet. The method can comprise displaying data about the device100on the device1100or on the tool600itself. More specifically, the method can comprise communicating such data to a user or operator of the tool600through an interface on the electronic device1100or on the display640of the tool600. Such information can include, for example and without limitation, one or more parameters as mentioned elsewhere. Such one or more parameters can further include the model or size of the device100, the current state of operation of the device100(whether the device100was last left in the open or closed state, for example), when the device100was last actuated, the expected number of turns required to open or close the device100, whether the device100was open right or left, and the torque required to achieve a good seal upon closure of the device100. For example and without limitation, the display can read “8” NGV MJxFL OR, “which can mean that the device100is an 8” Next Generation Gate Valve (thin walled, resilient wedge) with mechanical joint connections on both sides of the device100and a stem/disc nut combination that raises the valve member120when the device100is turned to the right (Open Right).

When measuring torque with the tool600, the method can comprise alerting the user that the appropriate (and predetermined) amount of torque has been reached. More specifically, the method can comprise making an audible beep when such a predetermined torque setting, which can vary by the size of the device100, has been reached. In some aspects, the predetermined torque setting can change automatically based on the particular device100being operated. In some aspects, the method can comprise transmitting to the tool600, e.g., a torque wrench, a final (closing) torque limit via the device1100, The method can comprise geotagging the data, which can include mapping the device100to a particular geolocation or physical location. The method can comprise supplying information to a service log for the device100. The method can comprise the device1100setting the status for a newly installed device100. For example and without limitation, the device1100can be used to start the record of open or closed status of the device1100.

The method of using the operating nut200can comprise maintaining an operational and maintenance history of the device100on a server. The method can comprise accessing and/or transmitting to a support office or support staff manuals for the device such as, for example and without limitation, service guides, parts lists, drawings, and other manuals and information. The method can comprise automatically gathering operational data on multiple devices100, which can even be from multiple customers and over time, through use of the tool600with the operating nut200. Such gathering of data can comprise gathering data on internal manufacturing processes (e.g., manufacturing date, lot numbers of components used to assemble the valve, data recorded from test stands in assembly, and quality test reports), tracking of the devices100during manufacture and/or shipping (e.g., location and quantity of in-process devices100and total shift or daily production), installation of the devices100, operation of the devices100, and field breakdown rates of the devices100. The method of using the operating nut200can comprise not powering the device100or the operating nut200thereof.

The method of using the operating nut200can comprise developing a map that plots the locations of multiple geo-tagged devices100. The method can comprise displaying multiple geo-tagged devices100of a system on a “war room map” and showing various data (e.g., any of the aforementioned data) on each. The method can comprise alerting a service vehicle or service technician that one or more devices100are located nearby the device100that is the subject of a service call and are themselves due for an inspection and/or service.

One or more portions of the device100such as, for example and without limitation, the body110, the valve member120, the bonnet130, and the operating nut200can be constructed from cast iron, ductile iron, or other similar materials. The same one or more portions of the device100can be formed using any one of a number of molding (e.g., casting), subtractive manufacturing (e.g., machining), or additive manufacturing (e.g., three-dimensional printing) methods.

One should note that conditional language, such as, among others, “can,” “could,” “might,” or “may,” unless specifically stated otherwise, or otherwise understood within the context as used, is generally intended to convey that certain aspects include, while other aspects do not include, certain features, elements and/or steps. Thus, such conditional language is not generally intended to imply that features, elements and/or steps are in any way required for one or more particular aspects or that one or more particular aspects necessarily comprise logic for deciding, with or without user input or prompting, whether these features, elements and/or steps are included or are to be performed in any particular aspect.

It should be emphasized that the above-described aspects are merely possible examples of implementations, merely set forth for a clear understanding of the principles of the present disclosure. Any process descriptions or blocks in flow diagrams should be understood as representing modules, segments, or portions of code which comprise one or more executable instructions for implementing specific logical functions or steps in the process, and alternate implementations are included in which functions may not be included or executed at all, may be executed out of order from that shown or discussed, including substantially concurrently or in reverse order, depending on the functionality involved, as would be understood by those reasonably skilled in the art of the present disclosure. Many variations and modifications may be made to the above-described aspect(s) without departing substantially from the spirit and principles of the present disclosure. Further, the scope of the present disclosure is intended to cover any and all combinations and sub-combinations of all elements, features, and aspects discussed above. All such modifications and variations are intended to be included herein within the scope of the present disclosure, and all possible claims to individual aspects or combinations of elements or steps are intended to be supported by the present disclosure.