Description:FIELD OF INVENTION
[0001] The present invention is generally related to a leak-proof valve, and more particularly to a leak-proof valve to prevent gas leakage in gas stoves.
BACKGROUND OF INVENTION
[0002] Valves used in gas stoves and LPG cylinders are critical for ensuring safe and efficient gas flow. However, current valve systems often face challenges such as gas leakage due to misalignment of components, wear and tear of sealing mechanisms, and the inability to react to abnormal gas pressure conditions. These limitations pose safety risks, including potential fire hazards and inefficient gas utilization. Additionally, regular maintenance or professional intervention is often required to address these issues, causing inconvenience and added costs to users.
[0003] For instance, European Patent Application EP2199655B1 by M. Fevzi Citil et al. discloses a leakage control mechanism for LPG cylinders capable of detecting valve and body leakages as low as 0.2 g/h. While this mechanism provides effective leakage detection and allows for automatic inspection on the production line without requiring an operator, it primarily focuses on detecting leaks rather than actively preventing them.
[0004] Therefore, there is a need for a leak-proof valve that not only prevents gas leakage but also adapts to abnormal gas pressure conditions.
[0005] Thus, in view of the above, there is a long-felt need in the industry to address the aforementioned deficiencies and inadequacies.

 
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0006] A leak-proof valve is provided substantially, as shown in and/or described in connection with at least one of the figures.
[0007] An aspect of the present disclosure relates to a leak-proof valve to prevent gas leakage in gas stoves. The leak-proof valve includes a spindle with a set of O-rings positioned in grooves on the spindle. These O-rings form a sealing contact with the spindle under normal conditions and expand under abnormal gas pressure to create a tighter seal with the valve housing, effectively preventing gas leakage. A taper plug is operatively connected to the spindle via a slot and key mechanism, ensuring precise alignment. The leak-proof valve further includes a compression spring that maintains retention force, securing the taper plug in position and minimizing gaps or misalignment. The leak-proof valve provides enhanced safety and reliability by incorporating a reactive sealing mechanism that addresses gas pressure variations, ensuring optimal performance in preventing gas leaks.
[0008] In an aspect, the compression spring is assembled in a compressed state in an OFF position to apply a retention force to ensure the taper plug remains seated within the valve housing.
[0009] In an aspect, the taper plug is configured to fit precisely into the valve housing.
[0010] In an aspect, the O-rings are made of silicon rubber.
[0011] In an aspect, the O-rings are capable of withstanding temperatures between -60°C to 200°C.
[0012] In an aspect, the compression spring is configured to maintain a constant contact between the spindle and the taper plug.
[0013] In an aspect, the slot and key mechanism is configured to ensure a secure connection between the spindle and the taper plug to facilitate a smooth operation of the valve during an ON position and the OFF position.
[0014] Another aspect of the present invention is to provide a method for preventing gas leakage in a valve. The method includes a step of assembling a spindle with an O-ring positioned in a groove on the spindle. The method includes a step of configuring the O-ring to form a sealing contact with the spindle under normal conditions. The method includes a step of expanding the O-ring under abnormal gas pressure to form a tighter seal with a valve housing to prevent gas leakage.
[0015] In an aspect, the expansion of the O-ring under abnormal gas pressure is facilitated by the elasticity of the O-ring which is made of silicon rubber.
[0016] In an aspect, the O-ring is capable of withstanding temperatures between -60°C to 200°C.
[0017] Accordingly, one advantage of the present invention is that it prevents gas leakage and also adapts to abnormal gas pressure conditions. The leak-proof valve incorporates a spindle equipped with O-rings positioned in grooves that form a sealing contact with the spindle. These O-rings expand under abnormal gas pressure, forming a tighter seal with the valve housing, effectively preventing gas leakage. Furthermore, the inclusion of a taper plug connected via a slot and key mechanism ensures precise alignment, while a compression spring applies constant retention force to secure the taper plug, reducing gaps and misalignment. This innovative solution enhances safety, reliability, and ease of use, minimizing the need for frequent maintenance or professional oversight.
[0018] These features and advantages of the present disclosure may be appreciated by reviewing the following description of the present disclosure, along with the accompanying figures wherein reference numerals refer to like parts.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0019] The accompanying drawings illustrate the embodiment of devices, systems, methods, and other aspects of the disclosure. Any person with ordinary skills in the art will appreciate that the illustrated element boundaries (e.g., boxes, groups of boxes, or other shapes) in the figures represent an example of the boundaries. In some examples, one element may be designed as multiple elements, or multiple elements may be designed as one element. In some examples, an element shown as an internal component of one element may be implemented as an external component in another and vice versa. Furthermore, the elements may not be drawn to scale.
[0020] Various embodiments will hereinafter be described in accordance with the appended drawings, which are provided to illustrate, not limit, the scope, wherein similar designations denote similar elements, and in which:
[0021] FIG. 1 illustrates an assembled view of a leak-proof valve for use with a gas stove, in accordance with at least one embodiment.
[0022] FIG. 2 illustrates a perspective view of a slot and key mechanism that connects the taper plug and the spindle, in accordance with at least one embodiment.
[0023] FIG. 3 illustrates a perspective view of the leak-proof valve in an ON position, wherein the springs are inserted on the pin holder, in accordance with at least one embodiment.
[0024] FIG. 4 illustrates a perspective view of the leak-proof valve in a sim position, wherein the springs are inserted on the pin holder, in accordance with at least one embodiment.
[0025] FIG. 5 illustrates a perspective view of the leak-proof valve in an OFF position, wherein the springs are inserted on the pin holder, in accordance with at least one embodiment.
[0026] FIG. 6 illustrates a flow chart of a method for preventing a gas leakage in a valve, in accordance with at least one embodiment.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE EMBODIMENTS HEREIN
[0027] The present disclosure is best understood with reference to the detailed figures and description set forth herein. Various embodiments have been discussed with reference to the figures. However, those skilled in the art will readily appreciate that the detailed descriptions provided herein with respect to the figures are merely for explanatory purposes, as the methods and systems may extend beyond the described embodiments. For instance, the teachings presented and the needs of a particular application may yield multiple alternative and suitable approaches to implement the functionality of any detail described herein. Therefore, any approach may extend beyond certain implementation choices in the following embodiments.
[0028] References to “one embodiment,” “at least one embodiment,” “an embodiment,” “one example,” “an example,” “for example,” and so on indicate that the embodiment(s) or example(s) may include a particular feature, structure, characteristic, property, element, or limitation but that not every embodiment or example necessarily includes that particular feature, structure, characteristic, property, element, or limitation. Further, repeated use of the phrase “in an embodiment” does not necessarily refer to the same embodiment.
[0029] The objective of the present invention is to address the limitations associated with valves to enhance safety and reliability in gas stove applications. The valve includes O-rings positioned in a groove on the spindle, which acts as a primary sealing mechanism to prevent gas leakage. Under normal operating conditions, the O-ring forms a tight seal with the spindle, while under abnormal gas pressure conditions, the O-ring expands to create a more secure seal against the valve housing, effectively arresting gas leakage. Additionally, the valve includes a compression spring that connects the spindle and taper plug through a slot and key mechanism. In the "OFF" position, the spring remains compressed, applying a constant retention force to ensure the taper plug is perfectly seated within the valve housing, minimizing the risk of gaps or misalignment that could lead to leakage.
[0030] The taper plug is precisely designed to fit into the valve housing, leaving no space in the "OFF" position to ensure a secure and reliable primary seal. The inventive design also incorporates a reactive safety feature: in abnormal conditions where gas escapes from the taper plug, the gas pressure causes the O-ring to expand and form a tighter seal with the valve housing, automatically arresting leaks. This innovative configuration not only enhances safety by preventing gas escape during unexpected pressure build-ups but also reduces the need for frequent maintenance, offering a dependable and user-friendly solution for addressing gas leakage concerns in domestic and industrial applications.
[0031] FIG. 1 illustrates an assembled view of a leak-proof valve 100 for use with a gas stove, in accordance with at least one embodiment. The leak-proof valve 100 includes a spindle 102 with a set of O-rings (104a, 104b) positioned in grooves on the spindle 102. These O-rings 104a, and 104b form a sealing contact with the spindle 102 under normal conditions and expand under abnormal gas pressure to create a tighter seal with the valve housing 110, effectively preventing gas leakage. A taper plug 106 is operatively connected to the spindle 102 via a slot and key mechanism 112 to ensure precise alignment. The leak-proof valve 100 further includes a compression spring 108 that maintains retention force, securing the taper plug 106 in position and minimizing gaps or misalignment. The leak-proof valve 100 provides enhanced safety and reliability by incorporating a reactive sealing mechanism that addresses gas pressure variations to ensure optimal performance in preventing gas leaks.
[0032] Thus, the set of O-rings (104a, and 104b) are configured to form the tight sealing contact with the spindle (102), and the O set of O-rings (104a, and 104b) expand to form a tighter seal with the valve housing (102) to prevent a gas leakage from a gas stove under an abnormal gas pressure. In an embodiment, the valve housing (102) is made of brass or similar metal. Further, the gas stove may made of aluminum and may shown as aluminum housing 110 in FIG. 1. In an embodiment, the compression spring 108 is assembled in a compressed state in an OFF position to apply a retention force to ensure the taper plug 106 remains seated within the valve housing 102 to minimize gaps or misalignment to prevent gas leakage. In an embodiment, the taper plug 106 is configured to fit precisely into the valve housing 102 to ensure that no space exists between the taper plug and the housing in the OFF position. In an embodiment, the set of O-rings (104a, and 104b) are made of silicon rubber. In an embodiment, the set of O-rings (104a, and 104b) are capable of withstanding temperatures between -60°C to 200°C to provide compatibility and resistance for LPG applications. In an embodiment, the silicon rubber O-rings (104a, and 104b) are selected for their enhanced resistance to high-pressure gas applications and compatibility with LPG. In an embodiment, the O-rings (104a, and 104b) react to abnormal gas conditions by expanding due to gas pressure and forming an automatic secondary seal against the valve housing to arrest gas leakage. In an embodiment, the compression spring 108 is configured to maintain constant contact between the spindle 102 and the taper plug 106 to ensure proper alignment and sealing in normal operating conditions.
[0033] In implementation, the taper plug is connected to the spindle using a slot and key mechanism, with a compression spring ensuring proper alignment. In the OFF position, the compression spring remains compressed, applying a constant retention force that keeps the taper plug tightly seated in the valve housing, leaving no gaps for gas to escape. The spindle includes a groove where an O-ring is placed, forming a tight seal around it. If gas leaks from the taper plug due to abnormal conditions, it tries to escape through the spindle area. When this happens, the gas pressure causes the O-ring to expand, creating a tighter seal with the valve housing to effectively block the leak. The O-ring is made from silicone rubber, a material highly compatible with gas applications, capable of withstanding temperatures from -60°C to 200°C. This ensures reliable performance under the temperature fluctuations commonly encountered in LPG systems.
[0034] FIG. 2 illustrates a perspective view of a slot and key mechanism 112 that connects the taper plug and the spindle, in accordance with at least one embodiment. FIG. 2 is explained in conjunction with the elements of FIG. 1. In an embodiment, the slot and key mechanism 112 is configured to ensure a secure connection between the spindle 102 and the taper plug 106 to facilitate a smooth operation of the valve during an ON position and the OFF position. In an embodiment, the leak-proof valve 100 or the valve assembly involves manufacturing processes including casting, forging, machining, drilling, lapping, and fettling. Further, the valve assembly does not require any special considerations for integrating the O-rings into the spindle.
[0035] FIG. 3 illustrates a perspective view 300 of the leak-proof valve in an ON position, wherein the springs are inserted on the pin holder, in accordance with at least one embodiment. FIG. 3 is explained in conjunction with the elements of FIGS. 1-2. In the ON position, the valve is open, allowing gas to flow freely from the source through the spindle and taper plug to the connected appliance. The O-ring ensures a secure seal around the spindle to prevent any minor leaks during normal operation.
[0036] FIG. 4 illustrates a perspective view 400 of the leak-proof valve in a sim position, wherein the springs are inserted on the pin holder, in accordance with at least one embodiment. FIG. 4 is explained in conjunction with the elements of FIGS. 1-3. In the sim (Simmer) position, the valve partially opens to regulate the gas flow, providing a controlled and reduced flame output for cooking at low heat. The O-ring continues to maintain its sealing function, ensuring there is no unintended gas leakage even at reduced flow levels.
[0037] FIG. 5 illustrates a perspective view 500 of the leak-proof valve in an OFF position, wherein the springs are inserted on the pin holder, in accordance with at least one embodiment. FIG. 5 is explained in conjunction with the elements of FIGS. 1-4. In the OFF position, the valve is fully closed, and the compression spring ensures the taper plug is tightly seated against the valve housing. This alignment creates a secure primary seal, while the O-ring acts as an additional safeguard by expanding under pressure if needed, to block any potential gas leakage from the spindle area.
[0038] FIG. 6 illustrates a flow chart of a method 600 for preventing a gas leakage in a valve, in accordance with at least one embodiment. FIG. 6 is explained in conjunction with the elements of FIGS. 1-5. Method 600 includes a step 602 of assembling a spindle with an O-ring positioned in a groove on the spindle. Method 600 includes a step 604 of configuring the O-ring to form a sealing contact with the spindle under normal conditions. Method 600 includes step 606 of expanding the O-ring under abnormal gas pressure to form a tighter seal with a valve housing to prevent gas leakage. In an embodiment, the expansion of the O-ring under abnormal gas pressure is facilitated by the elasticity of the O-ring which is made of silicon rubber to ensure a quick and effective response to prevent gas leakage. In an embodiment, the O-ring is capable of withstanding temperatures between -60°C to 200°C. The valve housing is designed with a smooth surface finish to optimize the contact between the O-ring and the housing for enhanced sealing performance under both normal and abnormal conditions.
[0039] In operation, if a gas leak occurs from the front of the taper plug due to abnormal conditions such as pressure build-up or misalignment, the escaping gas attempts to pass through the spindle area of the valve. However, the O-ring, which is strategically placed in a groove on the spindle, acts as a critical sealing mechanism to block this escape route. The O-ring maintains a tight seal with the spindle under normal operating conditions, effectively preventing leakage. If the escaping gas exerts pressure on the O-ring, it reacts dynamically by expanding outward to form an even tighter seal against the valve housing. This ensures that the gas is securely contained within the valve assembly, preventing it from leaking into the external environment. This reactive mechanism not only enhances safety by stopping gas leakage but also provides an additional layer of protection in scenarios where conventional seals may fail.
[0040] It should be apparent to those skilled in the art that many more modifications besides those already described are possible without departing from the inventive concepts herein. The inventive subject matter, therefore, is not to be restricted except in the scope of the appended claims. Moreover, in interpreting both the specification and the claims, all terms should be interpreted in the broadest possible manner consistent with the context. In particular, the terms “comprises” and “comprising” should be interpreted as referring to elements, components, or steps in a non-exclusive manner, indicating that the referenced elements, components, or steps may be present, utilized, or combined with other elements, components, or steps that are not expressly referenced.
[0041] No language in the specification should be construed as indicating any non-claimed element as essential to the practice of the invention.
[0042] It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that various modifications and variations can be made to the present invention without departing from the scope of the invention. There is no intention to limit the invention to the specific form or forms enclosed. On the contrary, the intention is to cover all modifications, alternative constructions, and equivalents falling within the scope of the invention, as defined in the appended claims. Thus, it is intended that the present invention cover the modifications and variations of this invention, provided they are within the scope of the appended claims and their equivalents.
, Claims:I/We claim:

1. A leak-proof valve (100), comprising:
a spindle (102);
a set of O-rings (104a, and 104b) positioned in a groove on the spindle;
a taper plug (106) operatively connected to the spindle (102) via a slot and key mechanism (112); and
a compression spring (108), wherein the set of O-rings (104a, and 104b) are configured to form a sealing contact with the spindle (102), and the O set of O-rings (104a, and 104b) expand to form a tighter seal with a valve housing (102) to prevent a gas leakage from a gas stove under an abnormal gas pressure.

2. The leak-proof valve (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the compression spring (108) is assembled in a compressed state in an OFF position to apply a retention force to ensure the taper plug (106) remains seated within the valve housing (102).

3. The leak-proof valve (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the taper plug (106) is configured to fit precisely into the valve housing (102).

4. The leak-proof valve (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the set of O-rings (104a, and 104b) are made of silicon rubber.

5. The leak-proof valve (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the set of O-rings (104a, and 104b) are capable of withstanding temperatures between -60°C to 200°C.

6. The leak-proof valve (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the compression spring (108) is configured to maintain a constant contact between the spindle (102) and the taper plug (106).

7. The leak-proof valve (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the slot and key mechanism (112) is configured to ensure a secure connection between the spindle (102) and the taper plug (106) to facilitate a smooth operation of the valve during an ON position and the OFF position.
8. A method for preventing a gas leakage in a valve, comprising:
assembling a spindle with an O-ring positioned in a groove on the spindle;
configuring the O-ring to form a sealing contact with the spindle under normal conditions; and
expanding the O-ring under abnormal gas pressure to form a tighter seal with a valve housing to prevent gas leakage.
9. The method as claimed in claim 8, wherein the expansion of the O-ring under abnormal gas pressure is facilitated by elasticity of the O-ring that is made of silicon rubber.

10. The method as claimed in claim 8, wherein the O-ring is capable of withstanding temperatures between -60°C to 200°C.

Dated June 12, 2025