Abstract: A compact and lightweight two-piece valve shell (body and pressure seal bonnet) structure reduces possible leakage paths while also providing a top-side ball/stem installation/removal path (when the bonnet piece is not present) to facilitate initial valve assembly as well as subsequent inspection/removal of the ball/stem and other valve internals for conducting valve maintenance without requiring the valve body to be removed from its process connections and without removing the bracket and actuator. Sealing seats can be adjusted in overall length using fluid, vacuum, threads or cams to ease the assembly of the ball inside the body. The sealing seat adjustment can be completed with the ball inside or outside the body cavity.

Abstract: A parameter visualization method and apparatus are disclosed. In one embodiment, a method includes processing a selection of a parameter based on an action associated with one parameter, algorithmically calculating compatibility of other parameters based on the selection, and simultaneously displaying at least one allowable parameter (e.g., of the other parameters) in a first visual state and displaying at least one excluded parameter (e.g., of the other parameters) in a second visual state. The parameter and the other parameters may be displayed in a graphical representation, and the graphical representation may be refreshed when another selection is processed based on an action (e.g., the action may a movement of a pointing device over the graphical representation of the parameter, a data input into an attribute field and/or a physical selection by the pointing device, etc.). The action may be associated with the at least one allowable parameter.

Abstract: A QCD coupling in which a rotating subsidiary locking means is provided which is both positive in its locking action, locks all of the levers simultaneously, and does not involve any small or readily losable parts, as the subsidiary locking means is itself securely attached to the coupler part of the QCD coupling. As all of the levers are locked simultaneously, the subsidiary locking means cannot be locked unless all of the levers are in the fully “locked” position.