Claims:
1. A pressure-regulating device (102) for use in a pressure vessel (105), the pressure-regulating device (102) comprising:
a lower ratchet drum (106) immovably coupled to a lid (104) of the pressure vessel (105), and comprising a plurality of lower ratchet teeth (118) and a cavity (114) comprising a weight (108) that is adapted to move vertically from the cavity (114) upon release of pressure from the pressure vessel (105);
a follower drum (110) movably positioned over the cavity (114) and comprising at least one upper cam follower (138), at least one lower cam follower (140) that is positioned on a first lower ratchet tooth (124) in the plurality of lower ratchet teeth (118) when the pressure-regulating device (100) is disposed in an initial position, and one or more markings (142) adapted to provide a visual indication of a total count of instances of pressure release from the pressure vessel (105); and
a housing (112) immovably coupled to the lid (104) of the pressure vessel (105) and adapted to at least partially cover the lower ratchet drum (106) and the follower drum (110), the housing (112) further comprising a radial arrangement of a plurality of upper ratchet teeth (152).

2. The pressure-regulating device (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the plurality of lower ratchet teeth (118) are arranged along a second end (120) of the lower ratchet drum (106) such that each successive lower ratchet tooth (122) is positioned at a designated height above a preceding lower ratchet tooth (124).

3. The pressure-regulating device (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the lower ratchet drum (106) is immovably coupled to the lid (104) via a coupling mechanism, the coupling mechanism further comprising one or more of a boss (126), one or more pips (128), a washer (132), a nut (134), one or more spring clips (136), and one or more holes (130) in the lid (104).

4. The pressure-regulating device (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein a shape and size of the cavity (114) depends upon a shape and size of the weight (108).

5. The pressure-regulating device (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the weight (108) and the follower drum (110) are incorporated into a single component that extends into the cavity (114).

6. The pressure-regulating device (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein a number of the one or more markings (142) on the follower drum (110) corresponds to a number of the plurality of lower ratchet teeth (118) in the lower ratchet drum (106), and wherein a designated distance between successive markings in the one or more markings (142) corresponds to a difference in height of successive lower ratchet teeth in the plurality of lower ratchet teeth (118).

7. The pressure-regulating device (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein movement of the weight (108) in a particular direction upon release of pressure from the pressure vessel (105) causes a corresponding movement of the follower drum (110) in the same direction.

8. The pressure-regulating device (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein each of the plurality of upper ratchet teeth (152) comprises a tapered surface (156) and a vertical surface (158) that is positioned off-centric to the upper cam follower (138) when the pressure-regulating device (102) is disposed in the initial position.

9. The pressure-regulating device (100) as claimed in claim 8, wherein the weight (108) and the follower drum (110) are adapted to move in an upwards direction upon release of the pressure from the pressure vessel (105), the upwards movement of the follower drum (110) causing the upper cam follower (138) to impinge and slide across a tapered surface (908) of a particular upper ratchet tooth (906) in the plurality of upper ratchet teeth (152), the sliding motion causing the follower drum (110) to rotate counter-clockwise by a predefined angle until the upper cam follower (138) reaches a vertical surface (1006) of a subsequent upper ratchet tooth (1008) in the plurality of upper ratchet teeth (152), thereby halting further rotation of the follower drum (110).

10. The pressure-regulating device (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the lower cam follower (140) is disposed at an off-centric position relative to the upper cam follower (138).

11. The pressure-regulating device (100) as claimed in claim 10, wherein the weight (108) and the follower drum (110) are adapted to move in a downwards direction post cessation of release of the pressure from the pressure vessel (105), the downwards movement of the follower drum (110) causing the lower cam follower (140) to move downwards into a groove of a successive lower ratchet tooth (122) that is positioned at a designated height above a preceding lower ratchet tooth (124) in the plurality of lower ratchet teeth (118), thereby causing the follower drum (110) to rise by the designated height and render a successive marking in the one or more markings (142) visible above the housing (112), wherein the successive marking provides a visual indication of the total count of instances of pressure release from the pressure vessel (105).

12. The pressure-regulating device (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the follower drum (110) comprises an additional marking (146) on a corresponding top surface (148) that is aligned to an additional marking (150) on a top surface (151) of the housing (112) when the pressure-regulating device (102) is disposed in the initial position.

13. The pressure-regulating device (100) as claimed in claim 12, wherein the follower drum (110) is adapted to be rotated clockwise until the lower cam follower (140) is positioned upon the first lower ratchet tooth (124) in the plurality of lower ratchet teeth (118) and the additional marking (146) on the follower drum (110) is aligned to the additional marking (150) on the housing 112 to reset the total count.

14. The pressure-regulating device (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the pressure vessel (105) comprises at least one of a pressure cooker, a boiler, a pressure tank, and an equipment whose pressure is regulated via intermittent release of pressure from the pressure vessel (105).

15. A pressure vessel (105), comprising:
a pressure-regulating device (102) for use in the pressure vessel (105), the pressure-regulating device (102) further comprising:
a lower ratchet drum (106) immovably coupled to a lid (104) of the pressure vessel (105), and comprising a plurality of lower ratchet teeth (118) and a cavity (114) comprising a weight (108) that is adapted to move vertically from the cavity (114) upon release of pressure from the pressure vessel (105);
a follower drum (110) movably positioned over the cavity (114) and comprising at least one upper cam follower (138), at least one lower cam follower (140) that is positioned on a first lower ratchet tooth (124) in the plurality of lower ratchet teeth (118) when the pressure-regulating device (100) is disposed in an initial position, and one or more markings (142) adapted to provide a visual indication of a total count of instances of pressure release from the pressure vessel (105); and
a housing (112) immovably coupled to the lid (104) of the pressure vessel (105) and adapted to at least partially cover the lower ratchet drum (106) and the follower drum (110), the housing (112) further comprising a radial arrangement of a plurality of upper ratchet teeth (152).
, Description:
TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The present description relates generally to pressure-regulating devices associated with pressure vessels, and specifically to a counting mechanism associated with a pressure-regulating device.

DESCRIPTION OF RELATED ART

[0002] Pressure vessels are containers that are used to hold substances that are processed under pressure. Domestic pressure cookers, for example, are used to cook food by heating desired ingredients in a sealed and airtight chamber with just the right amount of liquid to trap steam to build up the internal pressure, which in turn, raises the boiling point of the liquid. The higher temperature allows for faster cooking and lesser fuel consumption, while retaining the nutritive value of the cooked food. In fact, pressure-cooking is known to incorporate pressurized steam into ingredients like tough vegetables and meat cuts, resulting in tender and flavorful dishes cooked in a fraction of the time it would take to break down the same proteins via oven braising or slow roasting. Consequently, different types of pressure cookers are ubiquitous in domestic households around the world.
[0003] However, prolonged operation of a pressure cooker may lead to over-pressurization, and potentially even an explosion, if trapped steam is not released in a safe and timely manner during the course of cooking. Pressure cookers, therefore, include a pressure regulator attached to an exhaust port formed in a lid portion of the pressure cooker. The pressure regulator discharges steam from the exhaust port when the internal pressure exceeds a predetermined threshold to regulate the pressure within the pressure cooker. The steam discharge produces a whistling sound that is indicative of a progress of the cooking process. Generally, one has to keep an account of the number of whistles generated by the pressure regulator to ensure that the food is neither undercooked nor over-cooked. Keeping track of the whistles, however, is a cumbersome activity that wastes precious time that could be spent in other fruitful activities. Moreover, the activity is particularly troubling for the hearing impaired.
[0004] Therefore, certain solutions have been explored to mitigate the burden of keeping a tab on the number of whistles produced during the cooking process. For example, Indian Patent application no. 2047/CHE/2012 describes a whistle counting device including a proximity sensor that detects a number of times a pressure-regulating whistle is lifted from its default position relative to a lid of the pressure cooker. Another Indian patent 219187 employs a microphone to count the number of whistles produced. Each of these solutions, however, requires powered electronic components that are prone to damage caused by heat or vapors associated with the cooking process.
[0005] Yet another solution uses a slider crank mechanism for counting the number of whistles. As the pressure in the pressure cooker increases, the mechanism converts the displacement of the whistle to rotary motion that turns a mechanical counter. However, the slider and crank mechanism attached to the lid is not only bulky and inconvenient to store, the rotary base position of the whistle provides far lesser stability when compared to a conventional whistle with a stable base.
[0006] Thus, it may be desirable to develop a whistle counting mechanism that does not require any large, complicated, or electronic parts. In particular, it may be useful to develop a whistle counter that is significantly similar to a conventional whistle in size and shape, yet allows easy monitoring of the status of the cooking process by providing a visual indication of the number of generated whistles.

SUMMARY

[0007] It is an objective of the present disclosure to provide a pressure-regulating device for use in a pressure vessel. The pressure-regulating device includes a lower ratchet drum that is immovably coupled to a lid of the pressure vessel and includes a plurality of lower ratchet teeth. The pressure-regulating device also includes a cavity comprising a weight that is adapted to move vertically from the cavity upon release of pressure from the pressure vessel. Additionally, the pressure-regulating device also includes a follower drum movably positioned over the cavity and comprising at least one upper cam follower, at least one lower cam follower, and one or more markings adapted to provide a visual indication of a total count of instances of pressure release from the pressure vessel. The lower cam follower is positioned on a first lower ratchet tooth in the plurality of lower ratchet teeth when the pressure-regulating device is disposed in an initial position. The pressure-regulating device further includes a housing immovably coupled to the lid of the pressure vessel and adapted to at least partially cover the lower ratchet drum and the follower drum. The housing further comprises a radial arrangement of a plurality of upper ratchet teeth.
[0008] According to aspects of the present disclosure, the plurality of lower ratchet teeth are arranged along a second end of the lower ratchet drum such that each successive lower ratchet tooth is positioned at a designated height above a preceding lower ratchet tooth.
[0009] According to certain further aspects, the lower ratchet drum is immovably coupled to the lid via a coupling mechanism, the coupling mechanism further comprising one or more of a boss, one or more pips, a washer, a nut, one or more spring clips, and one or more holes in the lid.
[0010] Another objective of the present disclosure is to provide a pressure-regulating device in which a shape and size of the cavity depends upon a shape and size of the weight.
[0011] According to certain aspects of the present disclosure, the weight and the follower drum are incorporated into a single component that extends into the cavity.
[0012] It is a further objective of the present disclosure to provide a pressure-regulating device in which a number of the one or more markings on the follower drum corresponds to a number of the plurality of lower ratchet teeth in the lower ratchet drum, and wherein a designated distance between successive markings in the one or more markings corresponds to a difference in height of successive lower ratchet teeth in the plurality of lower ratchet teeth.
[0013] It is an objective of the present disclosure to provide a pressure-regulating device in which movement of the weight in a particular direction upon release of pressure from the pressure vessel causes a corresponding movement of the follower drum in the same direction.
[0014] Another objective of the present disclosure is to provide a pressure-regulating device in which each of the plurality of upper ratchet teeth comprises a tapered surface and a vertical surface that is positioned off-centric to the upper cam follower when the pressure-regulating device is disposed in the initial position.
[0015] A further objective of the present disclosure is to provide a pressure-regulating device in which the weight and the follower drum are adapted to move in an upwards direction upon release of the pressure from the pressure vessel. The upwards movement of the follower drum causes the upper cam follower to impinge and slide across a tapered surface of a particular upper ratchet tooth in the plurality of upper ratchet teeth. The sliding motion, in turn, causes the follower drum to rotate counter-clockwise by a predefined angle until the upper cam follower reaches a vertical surface of a subsequent upper ratchet tooth in the plurality of upper ratchet teeth, thereby halting further rotation of the follower drum.
[0016] Yet another objective of the present disclosure is to provide a pressure-regulating device in which the lower cam follower is disposed at an off-centric position relative to the upper cam follower.
[0017] A further objective of the present disclosure is to provide a pressure-regulating device in which weight and the follower drum are adapted to move in a downwards direction post cessation of release of the pressure from the pressure vessel. The downwards movement of the follower drum causes the lower cam follower to move downwards into a groove of a successive lower ratchet tooth that is positioned at a designated height above a preceding lower ratchet tooth in the plurality of lower ratchet teeth. The downwards movement of the lower cam follower into the groove causes the follower drum to rise by the designated height and render a successive marking in the one or more markings visible above the housing. According to aspects of the present disclosure, the successive marking provides a visual indication of the total count of instances of pressure release from the pressure vessel.
[0018] It is an objective of the present disclosure to provide a pressure-regulating device in which follower drum comprises an additional marking on a corresponding top surface that is aligned to an additional marking on a top surface of the housing when the pressure-regulating device is disposed in the initial position.
[0019] It is an additional objective of the present disclosure to provide a pressure-regulating device in which follower drum is adapted to be rotated clockwise until the lower cam follower is positioned upon the first lower ratchet tooth in the plurality of lower ratchet teeth and the additional marking on the follower drum is aligned to the additional marking on the housing to reset the total count.
[0020] It is a further objective of the present disclosure to provide a pressure-regulating device for a pressure vessel, where the pressure vessel comprises at least one of a pressure cooker, a boiler, a pressure tank, and an equipment whose pressure is regulated via intermittent release of pressure from the pressure vessel.
[0021] It is an objective of the present disclosure to provide a pressure vessel including a pressure-regulating device. The pressure-regulating device includes a lower ratchet drum that is immovably coupled to a lid of the pressure vessel and includes a plurality of lower ratchet teeth. The pressure-regulating device also includes a cavity comprising a weight that is adapted to move vertically from the cavity upon release of pressure from the pressure vessel. Additionally, the pressure-regulating device also includes a follower drum movably positioned over the cavity and comprising at least one upper cam follower, at least one lower cam follower, and one or more markings adapted to provide a visual indication of a total count of instances of pressure release from the pressure vessel. The lower cam follower is positioned on a first lower ratchet tooth in the plurality of lower ratchet teeth when the pressure-regulating device is disposed in an initial position. The pressure-regulating device further includes a housing immovably coupled to the lid of the pressure vessel and adapted to at least partially cover the lower ratchet drum and the follower drum. The housing further comprises a radial arrangement of a plurality of upper ratchet teeth.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0022] These and other features, aspects, and advantages of the present systems and methods will become better understood when the following detailed description is read with reference to the accompanying drawings in which like characters represent like parts throughout the drawings, wherein:
[0023] FIG. 1 illustrates an exploded view of a pressure-regulating device that includes a counting mechanism and is adapted to be used with a lid of a pressure vessel, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;
[0024] FIGs. 2-7 illustrate graphical representations depicting exemplary stages of assembly of the components of the pressure-regulating device of FIG. 1, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;
[0025] FIGs. 8-12 illustrate plan and sectional views depicting configuration of various components of the pressure-regulating device of FIG. 1 at various stages following a release of pressure from the pressure vessel, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;
[0026] FIGs. 13-19 illustrate plan and sectional views depicting configuration of various components of the pressure-regulating device of FIG. 1 post consecutive instances of release of pressure from the pressure vessel, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure; and
[0027] FIG. 20 illustrates plan and sectional views depicting configuration of various components of the pressure-regulating device of FIG. 1 post manual resetting, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0028] The following description presents an exemplary pressure-regulating device with an associated counting mechanism for use in a pressure vessel. Particularly, the embodiments presented herein describe a mechanical counting mechanism that provides a visual indication of the number of times pressure is released from the pressure vessel.
[0029] The following description sets forth numerous specific details to provide a thorough understanding of the present device. However, it may be noted that these specific details are only exemplary and are not intended to be limiting. It is to be understood that various omissions or substitutions of equivalents may be made as desired to cover various applications or implementations without departing from the spirit or the scope of the present disclosure. Further, it is to be understood that the phraseology and terminology employed herein are for the purpose of clarity of the description and should not be regarded as limiting.
[0030] Additionally, in the present description, references to “one embodiment” or variations thereof, denote inclusion of a particular feature, structure, or characteristic in at least one embodiment of the present disclosure. However, the appearance of the phrase “in one embodiment” in various places in the specification is not necessarily referring to the same embodiment, nor are separate or alternative embodiments mutually exclusive of other embodiments. Furthermore, it may be noted that the terms “a” and “an” used herein do not denote a limitation of quantity, but rather the presence of at least one of the referenced items for use in an embodiment of the present systems and methods.
[0031] It may be noted that the present counting mechanism may be used with pressure-regulating devices associated with different types of pressure vessels such as boilers, pressure tanks, and other equipment where pressure is regulated via intermittent release of pressure from the pressure vessel. However, for clarity, an embodiment of the present counting mechanism is described in greater detail with reference to a whistle of a domestic pressure cooker, as depicted in FIGs 1-20.
[0032] FIG. 1 illustrates an exploded view 100 of an exemplary pressure-regulating device 102 including a counting mechanism that is adapted to be used with a lid 104 of a pressure vessel (105) such as a domestic pressure cooker. Particularly, the pressure-regulating device 102 includes a lower ratchet drum 106, a weight 108, and a follower drum 110, all disposed within a housing 112.
[0033] In one embodiment, the lower ratchet drum 106 includes a cavity 114 designed to hold the weight 108. The weight 108, in turn, includes a pointed nib 115 that is inserted into the cavity 114 from a first end 116 of the lower ratchet drum 106. The weight 108 simply rests within the cavity 114 and is displaced in a vertical direction within the cavity 114 of the lower ratchet drum 106 upon release of pressure from the pressure cooker (105).
[0034] In certain embodiments, the lower ratchet drum 106 further includes a plurality of lower ratchet teeth 118 proximal a second end 120 of the lower ratchet drum 106 that is proximal to the lid 104. Particularly, the plurality of lower ratchet teeth 118 are arranged along the second end 120 such that a corresponding groove of each successive lower ratchet tooth is positioned at a designated height above a groove of a preceding lower ratchet tooth. For example, in one embodiment, the groove of a second lower ratchet tooth 122 is positioned approximately 2.5 millimeters (mm) above the groove of a first lower ratchet tooth 124. It may further be noted that a number, size, shape, angular orientation, and designated height of each of the lower ratchet teeth 118 of the lower ratchet drum 106 may be selected based upon a number of desired whistle count to be visually indicated to a user.
[0035] Further, according to certain aspects of the present disclosure, the lower ratchet drum 106 is immovably coupled to the lid 104 via a suitable coupling mechanism. In one embodiment, the coupling mechanism includes at least one threaded boss 126 and one or more pips 128 disposed at the second end 120 of the lower ratchet drum 106 that is proximal to the lid 104. The coupling mechanism further includes one or more holes 130 in the lid 104 into which the boss 126 and the pips 128 are inserted during assembly. The boss 126 is locked in a desired position relative to the lid 104 by means of a washer 132 and a nut 134, whereas the pips 128 are held in position relative to their respective holes 130 by means of one or more spring clips 136. In certain embodiments, the pips 128 may simply rest in their respective holes 130 without requiring any spring clips 136, while the boss 126 is secured to the lid 104 by means of the nut 134. A relative shape, size, and position of the holes 130 are selected based on a shape, size, and position of the boss 126 and the pips 128 to allow for a hermetically sealed fit.
[0036] It may be noted that the coupling mechanism including the boss 126, pips 128, holes 130, washer 132, hexagonal nut 134, and spring clips 136 depicted in FIG. 1 is only exemplary. In alternative implementations, other mechanisms capable of hermetically coupling the lower ratchet drum 106 to the lid 104 may be used. For example, in an alternative implementation, O-rings or circlips seated in corresponding grooves in the boss 126 and the pips 128 may be used to couple the lower ratchet drum 106 to the lid 104.
[0037] According to further aspects of the present disclosure, the follower drum 110 is positioned at the first end 116 of the lower ratchet drum 106. Specifically, the follower drum 110 is positioned above the cavity 114 that holds the weight 108 such that an upwards or downwards movement of the weight 108 causes a corresponding upwards or downwards movement of the follower drum 110.
[0038] In one embodiment, the follower drum 110 includes, for example, a cylindrical guide wall 137 that is suspended within the cavity 114 and has an inner diameter that is marginally greater than the outer diameter of the weight 108. The guide wall 137 cylindrically encapsulates the weight 108 to restrict movement of the weight 108 to only vertical up and down motion within the cavity 114. Specifically, the guide wall 137 ensures that post a pressure release, the weight 108 falls back into the cavity 114 such that its nib 115 is aligned to and rests within a hole at the bottom end of the cavity 114 in the lower ratchet drum 106 to provide hermetic sealing.
[0039] Although, FIGs. 1-20 depict the weight 108 and the follower drum 110 as separate components, in certain embodiments, the follower drum 110 and the weight 108 may be combined into a single component. For example, in one embodiment, the follower drum 110 may be made of a suitable material such as a metal to have a designated weight such that the modified follower drum 110 is displaced in a vertical direction within the cavity 114 upon release of pressure from the pressure cooker (105).
[0040] In certain embodiments, the follower drum 110 further includes at least one upper cam follower 138 and at least one lower cam follower 140 that allow for implementation of the counting mechanism. Additionally, the follower drum 110 includes and a plurality of markings 142 for visually indicating a count of whistles generated by the pressure cooker (105). In one embodiment, for example, the markings 142 may include numerals indicated along concentric circles that are positioned at designated distances from each other along a vertical surface 144 of the follower drum 110. In an exemplary implementation, the designated distance may be selected as 2.5 mm based upon the designated height of the lower ratchet teeth 118 in the lower ratchet drum 106.
[0041] In certain embodiments, the follower drum 110 may also include additional markings 146 on a corresponding top surface 148 that is adapted to be aligned to a marking 150 on a top surface 151 of the housing 112 when the pressure-regulating device 102 is disposed in the initial position. Although FIGs 1-20 depict arrow markings on the follower drum 110 and the housing 112, any other visual indication may be used to signify position of the follower drum 110 relative to the housing 112.
[0042] According to certain aspects of the present disclosure, the housing 112 may be made of a suitable material such as plastic or metal that may be selected based on desired weight or other functional considerations associated with the pressure-regulating device 102. In certain embodiments, the housing 112 further includes a radial arrangement of a plurality of upper ratchet teeth 152 provided on an inner surface 154 of the housing 112 to aid in implementing the present counting mechanism. A number, size, shape, and angular orientation of the upper ratchet teeth 152 in the housing 112 are selected based upon the number of whistles to be visually indicated. Specifically, the outer diameter of the lower ratchet drum 106, the outer diameter of follower drum 110, and in turn, the inner diameter of the housing 112 are selected based on the number of whistles that are desired to be visually indicated by the pressure-regulating device 102. The inner diameter of the housing 112 is used to determine the number of upper ratchet teeth 152 that can be accommodated therein. In one embodiment, each of the upper ratchet teeth 152 has a tapered surface 156, and a vertical surface 158 that is positioned off-centric to the upper cam follower 138 when the pressure-regulating device 102 is in an initial position prior to the first instance of pressure release from the pressure vessel 105.
[0043] In one embodiment, the housing 112 includes one or more holes or vents 159 to provide an outlet for the steam or any other matter expelled from the pressure vessel 105 during the pressure release. In certain embodiments, the housing 112 further includes one or more bosses 160 and one or more spring clips 162 for securing the housing 112 to the lid 104 via one or more corresponding holes 164. Although, the embodiment depicted in FIG. 1 depicts spring clips 162, in alternative embodiments, other suitable means of securing the housing 112 to the lid 104 may be used. For example, certain embodiments may employ threaded bosses 160 that may be screwed to the lid 104 using a nut and bolt mechanism. In certain other embodiments, the bosses 160 and the holes 164 may provide a snap fit mechanism to secure the housing 112 to the lid 104, thus assembling the pressure-regulating device 102 having a visually indicated whistle counting mechanism.
[0044] FIGs 2-7 illustrate graphical representations depicting exemplary stages of assembly of the components of the pressure-regulating device 102 of FIG. 1. As depicted in FIG. 2, the boss 126 and the pips 128 disposed at the second end 120 of the lower ratchet drum 106 are inserted into the corresponding holes 130 in the lid 104. Specifically, the boss 126 and the pips 128 are inserted into the holes 130 from an upper side 202 of the lid 104 such that at least a portion of the boss 126 and pips 128 are accessible from a lower side 204 of the lid 104.
[0045] Further, as depicted in FIG. 3, the washer 132 having a suitable shape and size is inserted into the portion of the boss 126 accessible from the lower side 204 of the lid 104. Subsequently, the nut 134 is screwed onto the boss 126 to couple the lower ratchet drum 106 to the lid 104.
[0046] FIG. 4 depicts an exemplary configuration of the pressure-regulating device 102 during the step of inserting the weight 108 into the cavity 114 in the lower ratchet drum 106. As previously noted, the pointed nib 115 of the weight 108 is inserted into the cavity 114 from the first end 116 of the lower ratchet drum 106 such that the weight 108 may be displaced in a vertical direction within the cavity 114 upon release of pressure from the pressure cooker (105).
[0047] Subsequently, as depicted in FIG. 5, the follower drum 110 is also inserted on top of the lower ratchet drum 106 from the first end 116 of the lower ratchet drum 106. In particular, the follower drum 110 is inserted on top of the lower ratchet drum 106 such that the lower cam follower 140 of the follower drum 110 rests upon the first lower ratchet tooth 124 in the plurality of lower ratchet teeth 118 present in the lower ratchet drum 106.
[0048] FIG. 6 depicts an exemplary configuration of the pressure-regulating device 102 when inserting the housing 112 having one or more bosses 160 over the follower drum 110 that is resting on the lower ratchet drum 106 to secure the other components of the pressure-regulating device 102 to the lid 104. In particular, the housing 112 is inserted over the follower drum 110 such that the bosses 160 align with corresponding holes 164 in the lid 104.
[0049] Further, FIG. 7 depicts graphical representations 702 and 704 depicting a step of assembly in which the bosses 160 are coupled to the lower side 204 of the lid 104 by means of one or more corresponding spring clips 162. In order to clamp the bosses 160 to the lid 104, the spring clips 162 are forcefully pressed against the corresponding bosses 160 that may have grooves into which the spring clips 162 may fit to positively lock the housing 112 to the lid 104. The pressing action expands the spring clips 162 to encompass the bosses 160. Subsequently, the force applied to the spring clips 162 may be removed, causing them to revert to a contracted state to clamp the bosses 160 within the spring clips 162, and thereby locking the housing 112 to the lid 104. Although, the embodiment depicted in FIG. 7 includes the spring clips 162, in alternative embodiments, other suitable means of securing the housing 112 to the lid 104 may be used. For example, certain embodiments may employ threaded bosses 160 that may be screwed to the lid 104 using a nut and bolt mechanism. In certain other embodiments, the bosses 160 and the holes 164 may provide a snap fit mechanism to secure the housing 112 to the lid 104, thus assembling the pressure-regulating device 102 having a visually indicated whistle counting mechanism.
[0050] FIGs. 8-12 illustrate the working principle of the visually indicated whistle counting mechanism of the pressure-regulating device 102 of FIG. 1. Particularly, FIGs. 8-12 illustrate plan and sectional views depicting configuration of various components of the pressure-regulating device 102 of FIG. 1 at various positions prior to and post the release of pressure from the pressure cooker (105).
[0051] FIG. 8, for example, depicts a plan view 802 and a sectional view 804 depicting configuration of various components of the pressure-regulating device 102 of FIG. 1 at an initial position prior to release of pressure from the pressure cooker (105). In the initial position, top surfaces 151 and 148 of the housing 112 and the follower drum 110, respectively, may be positioned at substantially the same height and the additional markings 150 and 146 on the housing 112 and the follower drum 110, respectively, may be aligned to each other.
[0052] Further, FIG. 9 illustrates a plan view 902 and a sectional view 904 depicting configuration of various components of the pressure-regulating device 102 following the first whistle, that is, following the first instance of release of pressure from the pressure cooker (105). As is typically known, once the pressure inside the pressure cooker (105) reaches a predesignated threshold value, steam is released. Consequently, the cooker weight 108 nestled within the follower drum 110 is pushed upwards by the internal steam pressure of the pressure cooker (105). Consequently, as shown in FIG. 9, the upper cam follower 138 attached to the follower drum 110 also moves upwards and impinges on a first upper ratchet tooth 906 from the plurality of upper ratchet teeth 152 provided on the inner surface 154 of the housing 112. The first upper ratchet tooth 906, similar to the other upper ratchet teeth 152, has a tapered surface 908 and a vertical surface 910. According to aspects of the present disclosure, the vertical surface 910 of the first ratchet tooth 906 is disposed in an off-centric position relative to the upper cam follower 138.
[0053] Thus, as shown via plan and sectional views 1002 and 1004 of FIG. 10, the upward movement of the follower drum 110 causes the upper cam follower 138 to hit and slide across the tapered surface 908 of the first ratchet tooth 906, thereby causing the follower drum 110 to rotate counter-clockwise by a predefined angle, for example, about 23 degrees. The sliding motion is subsequently impeded by a vertical surface 1006 of a second ratchet tooth 1008, which halts further rotation of the follower drum 110.
[0054] FIG. 11 depicts a plan view 1102 and a sectional view 1104 depicting exemplary configuration of the pressure-regulating device 102 when the pressure inside the pressure cooker (105) is released. Following the release of the pressure from the pressure cooker (105), the upwards force on the follower drum 110 and the weight 108 ceases to exist. As a result, the follower drum 110 with the weight 108 fall down from their positions depicted in FIG. 10.
[0055] FIG. 12 depicts a plan view 1202 and a sectional view 1204 depicting exemplary configuration of the pressure-regulating device 102 once the pressure is released from the pressure cooker (105). According to aspects of the present disclosure, the lower cam follower 140 is disposed at an off-centric position relative to the upper cam follower 138. Accordingly, the downward movement of the follower drum 110 post the release of the pressure causes the lower cam follower 140 to move downwards and into a groove of the second lower ratchet tooth 122 in the plurality of lower ratchet teeth 118 present in the lower ratchet drum 106. As previously noted, in one embodiment, the groove of the second lower ratchet tooth 122 is positioned approximately 2.5 millimeters (mm) above the groove of the first lower ratchet tooth 124. Therefore, movement of the lower cam follower 140 into the groove of the second lower ratchet tooth 122 causes the follower drum 110 to rise approximately 2.5 mm above the top surface of the housing 112. This rise of the follower drum 110 renders the first number in the markings 142 visible over the top surface 151 of the housing 112, thus visually indicating that the pressure cooker (105) has generated the first whistle. The follower drum 110 similarly rises incrementally by 2.5 mm for each subsequent generation of whistle.
[0056] FIGs. 13-19 depict plan and sectional views depicting configuration of various components of the pressure-regulating device 102 of FIG. 1 post generation of second to eighth whistles by the pressure cooker (105). As depicted in FIGs. 13-19, the follower drum 110 rises incrementally for each subsequent generation of the whistle, thereby rendering the subsequent numbers in the markings 142 visible to provide visual indication of the whistle count to a user.
[0057] In the embodiments depicted in FIGs. 1-19, the follower drum 110 includes eight concentric markings 142, thus allowing for visual representation of eight whistles. Other embodiments may allow for visual representation of a greater or lesser number of whistles by modifying one or more of the outer diameter of the lower ratchet drum 106, the outer diameter of follower drum 110, and in turn, the inner diameter of the housing 112 to accommodate a greater or lesser number of lower ratchet teeth 118 and upper ratchet teeth 152. In certain embodiments, a greater or lesser number of whistles may be visually represented by suitably selecting the designated height of the lower ratchet drum 106, the follower drum 110, and/or the housing 112 to vary the designated distance between the lower ratchet teeth 118. Selection of a suitable designated distance, in turn, aids in selecting the number of and the distance between the markings 142 that provide the visual indication of the number of whistles generated by the pressure cooker 105.
[0058] Once the maximum number of whistles has been generated or the cooking process is complete, the user may reset the counting mechanism manually for future use. Specifically, the counting mechanism can be reset by rotating the follower drum 100 clockwise until the lower cam follower 140 rests upon the first lower ratchet tooth 124 and the additional arrow marking 146 on the follower drum 110 is aligned to the corresponding mark 150 on the housing 112, as depicted in FIG. 20.
[0059] Embodiments of the pressure-regulating device 102 including the present whistle counting mechanism do not require any large, complicated, or electronic parts. In particular, the pressure-regulating device 102 is significantly similar to a conventional whistle in size and shape, yet allows for easy monitoring of the status of the cooking process by providing a visual indication of the number of generated whistles. The visual indication helps the user in keeping track of the whistles without having to continually be present in the vicinity of the pressure cooker 105. Moreover, the visual indication provides hearing impaired users with an effective means for tracking progress of the cooking process.
[0060] The figures and the foregoing description give examples of the embodiments of the pressure-regulating device with an associated visually indicated counting mechanism for use in a pressure vessel. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that one or more of the described elements may well be combined into a single functional element. Alternatively, certain elements may be split into multiple functional elements. Additionally, elements from one embodiment may be added to another embodiment.
[0061] Although specific features of various embodiments of the present system and exemplary methods may be shown in and/or described with respect to some drawings and not in others, this is for convenience only. It is to be understood that the described features, structures, and/or characteristics may be combined and/or used interchangeably in any suitable manner in the various embodiments.
[0062] While various embodiments of the present system and method have been illustrated and described, it will be clear that the present system and method is not limited to these embodiments only. Numerous modifications, changes, variations, substitutions, and equivalents will be apparent to those skilled in the art, without departing from the spirit and scope of the present system and method, as described in the claims.