Method and apparatus for monitoring the health of a solenoid valve

Abstract

Methods and devices for monitoring the health of solenoid valves are disclosed. The switch box includes a status manager, a position detector, and a notification generator. The status manager changes the excitation state of the solenoid valve between a first state and a second state in response to a start signal for a solenoid valve test. The position detector determines whether the solenoid valve core has moved at least a position threshold change within a predetermined time period after the change in the excitation state of the solenoid valve based on position data obtained from an integrated position sensor of the solenoid valve at the switch box. The notification generator generates a notification in response to the position detector determining that the core has not moved at least the position threshold change within the predetermined time period. The notification indicates that the solenoid valve has failed the solenoid valve test.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure generally relates to solenoid valves, and more particularly to methods and devices for monitoring the health of solenoid valves. Background Art

[0002] Solenoid valves are typically implemented to control the operation of actuators and / or main valves in a process control environment. In some known implementations, the health and / or functionality of a solenoid valve can be tested and / or evaluated based on signals received from a pressure sensor configured to measure the downstream line pressure associated with the outlet of the solenoid valve. In other known implementations, the health and / or functionality of a solenoid valve can be tested and / or evaluated based on signals received from an integrated position sensor of the solenoid valve configured to measure the position of the solenoid valve core. Summary of the Invention

[0003] Methods and devices for monitoring the health of solenoid valves are disclosed. In some examples, a switch box is disclosed. In some of the disclosed examples, the switch box includes a state manager, a position detector, and a notification generator. In some of the disclosed examples, the state manager is configured to change the excitation state of the solenoid valve between a first state and a second state in response to a start signal for a solenoid valve test. In some of the disclosed examples, the solenoid valve is operatively coupled to the switch box. In some of the disclosed examples, the position detector is configured to determine whether the solenoid valve core has moved at least a position threshold change within a predetermined time period after the excitation state of the solenoid valve changes from the first state to the second state, based on position data obtained from the integrated position sensor of the solenoid valve at the switch box. In some of the disclosed examples, the notification generator is configured to generate a notification in response to the position detector determining that the core has not moved at least the position threshold change within the predetermined time period. In some of the disclosed examples, the notification will indicate that the solenoid valve has failed the solenoid valve test.

[0004] In some examples, a method is disclosed. In some of the disclosed examples, the method includes changing the excitation state of the solenoid valve between a first state and a second state via a switch box in response to a start signal for a solenoid valve test. In some of the disclosed examples, the solenoid valve is operatively coupled to the switch box. In some of the disclosed examples, the method includes: at the switch box, determining whether the solenoid valve core has moved at least a position threshold change within a predetermined time period after the excitation state of the solenoid valve changes from the first state to the second state, based on position data obtained from the integrated position sensor of the solenoid valve. In some of the disclosed examples, the method includes: generating a notification at the switch box in response to determining that the core has not moved at least the position threshold change within the predetermined time period. In some of the disclosed examples, the notification indicates that the solenoid valve has failed the solenoid valve test.

[0005] In some examples, a non - transitory computer - readable storage medium including instructions is disclosed. In some of the disclosed examples, the instructions, when executed, cause one or more processors of a switchbox to change the excitation state of a solenoid valve between a first state and a second state in response to a start signal of a solenoid valve test. In some of the disclosed examples, the solenoid valve is operably coupled to the switchbox. In some of the disclosed examples, the instructions, when executed, cause one or more processors of the switchbox to determine, based on position data obtained from an integrated position sensor of the solenoid valve, whether the solenoid valve core has moved at least a position threshold change within a predetermined time period after the excitation state of the solenoid valve changes from the first state to the second state. In some of the disclosed examples, the instructions, when executed, cause one or more processors of the switchbox to generate a notification in response to determining that the core has not moved at least the position threshold change within the predetermined time period. In some of the disclosed examples, the notification will indicate that the solenoid valve has failed the solenoid valve test. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0006] Figure 1 An example process control environment is illustrated, the example process control environment including an example solenoid valve and an example switchbox configured to monitor the health and / or functionality of the solenoid valve.

[0007] Figure 2 is Figure 1 a cross - sectional view of an example implementation of a solenoid valve.

[0008] Figure 3 is Figure 1 a block diagram of an example switchbox constructed in accordance with the teachings of the present disclosure.

[0009] Figure 4 is an example system configuration diagram for an example switchbox configured to monitor the health and / or functionality of an example solenoid valve.

[0010] Figure 5 is a flowchart representing a first example of machine - readable instructions that may be executed to implement Figure 1 and Figure 3 the example switchbox to monitor Figure 1 and Figure 2 the health and / or functionality of an example solenoid valve.

[0011] Figure 6 is a flowchart representing a second example of machine - readable instructions that may be executed to implement Figure 1 and Figure 3 the example switchbox to monitor Figure 1 and Figure 2 the health and / or functionality of an example solenoid valve.

[0012] Figure 7is a block diagram of an example processor platform that is configured to execute Figure 5 a first example of machine-readable instructions and / or Figure 6 a second example of machine-readable instructions to implement Figure 1 and Figure 3 an example switch box.

[0013] Certain examples are shown in the figures above and are described in detail below. When describing these examples, like reference numerals are used to identify like or similar elements. The figures are not necessarily drawn to scale, and in order to be clear and / or concise, certain features of the figures and certain views may be enlarged or shown schematically.

[0014] When identifying multiple elements or components that can be referred to separately, the descriptors “first,” “second,” “third,” etc. are used herein. Unless otherwise specified or understood based on their context of use, such descriptors are not intended to impart any meaning of precedence or chronological order, but rather are merely labels to refer to multiple elements or components separately to facilitate understanding of the disclosed examples. In some examples, the descriptor “first” may be used to refer to an element in a particular implementation, while a different descriptor such as “second” or “third” may be used in the claims to refer to the same element. In such cases, it should be understood that such descriptors are used only for ease of referring to multiple elements or components. Detailed Description

[0015] Solenoid valves are typically implemented to control the operation of actuators and / or main valves in a process control environment. In some known implementations, the health and / or functionality of a solenoid valve can be tested and / or evaluated based on signals received from a pressure sensor that is configured to measure the downstream line pressure associated with the outlet of the solenoid valve. In some such implementations, a measured downstream line pressure that changes in response to a change in the state of the solenoid valve can indicate that the solenoid valve has correctly changed the pressurized fluid supply to the actuator, while a measured downstream line pressure that does not change in response to a change in the state of the solenoid valve can indicate that the solenoid valve has not correctly changed the pressurized fluid supply to the actuator. A solenoid valve's failure to change the pressurized fluid supply to the actuator in an expected and / or desired manner (e.g., as determined based on the measured downstream line pressure) can indicate that the solenoid valve is unhealthy and / or not operating properly.

[0016] In other known implementations, the health and / or functionality of a solenoid valve can be tested and / or evaluated based on signals received from an integrated position sensor of the solenoid valve, where the integrated position sensor is configured to measure the position of the core of the solenoid valve. In some such implementations, a measured position of the core of the solenoid valve being at or near a setpoint position can indicate that the solenoid valve is closed, while a measured position of the core of the solenoid valve being spaced apart from the setpoint position can indicate that the solenoid valve is off. The inability of the solenoid valve to turn off or on in an expected and / or desired manner (e.g., as determined based on the measured position of the core) can indicate that the solenoid valve is unhealthy and / or not operating properly.

[0017] The above-known methods for testing and / or evaluating the health and / or functionality of a solenoid valve have several drawbacks. For example, known methods that rely solely on pressure sensor data provide only an indirect assessment of the health and / or functionality of the solenoid valve. In this regard, leaks that are not attributable to the solenoid valve itself can cause changes in the downstream pressure detected via the pressure sensor. In such cases, the data obtained from the pressure sensor may erroneously indicate that the solenoid valve is unhealthy and / or not operating properly. As another example, known methods (e.g., both the above-known pressure-based method and the above-known position-based method) are unable to prevent an actuator and / or a main valve operably coupled to the solenoid valve from moving during and / or in response to a test of the solenoid valve. As a result, a test of the solenoid valve may interfere with the normal and / or expected operation of the actuator and / or the main valve once and / or in an undesired manner. In this regard, known methods may result in spurious trips of the actuator and / or the main valve. As another example, known methods test and / or evaluate the health and / or functionality of a solenoid valve based on a single measured parameter (e.g., the measured downstream pipeline pressure or the measured core position), and thus do not provide a comprehensive diagnostic analysis of the health and / or functionality of the solenoid valve.

[0018] Unlike the above-known methods, the example methods and devices disclosed herein test and / or evaluate the health and / or functionality of a solenoid valve in a manner that advantageously prevents an actuator and / or a main valve operably coupled to the solenoid valve from moving during and / or in response to testing of the solenoid valve. As a result, testing and / or evaluation of a solenoid valve in accordance with the example methods and devices disclosed herein does not interfere with the normal and / or expected operation of the actuator and / or the main valve. In some of the disclosed examples, the health and / or functionality of the solenoid valve is tested and / or evaluated based on a plurality of measured parameters associated with the solenoid valve, the plurality of measured parameters including, for example, a measured position of a solenoid valve core, and one or more of the following: a measured voltage supplied to the solenoid valve, a measured current drawn by the solenoid valve, and / or a measured downstream line pressure associated with the solenoid valve. In such a multi-parameter example, testing and / or evaluation of the health and / or functionality of the solenoid valve via the example methods and devices disclosed herein advantageously provides a diagnostic analysis that is relatively more comprehensive than the diagnostic analysis provided by the above-known methods for testing and / or evaluating the health and / or functionality of a solenoid valve.

[0019] Figure 1 An example process control environment 100 is illustrated, the example process control environment 100 including an example solenoid valve 102 and an example switch box 104 configured to monitor the health and / or functionality of the solenoid valve 102. Figure 1 The process control environment 100 also includes an example actuator 106, an example main valve 108, an example control fluid line 110, an example control fluid source 112, an example pressure sensor 114, and an example control system 116. In other examples, the process control environment 100 may include more or fewer components than those shown Figure 1 in. For example, in addition to Figure 1 the solenoid valve 102 shown, the process control environment 100 may also include a second solenoid valve. As another example, the process control environment 100 may omit Figure 1 the pressure sensor 114 shown.

[0020] In Figure 1 the example shown, the solenoid valve 102 is operably coupled to Figure 1 the switch box 104 (e.g., in electrical communication therewith). The solenoid valve 102 is also operably coupled to (e.g., in fluid communication with) Figure 1 the control fluid source 112 and Figure 1The actuator. More specifically, the fluid inlet of the solenoid valve 102 receives pressurized control fluid from the control fluid source 112 via an example upstream section 118 of the control fluid line 110 that extends between the control fluid source 112 and the fluid inlet. The fluid outlet of the solenoid valve 102 discharges and / or conveys the pressurized control fluid to the actuator 106 via an example downstream section 120 of the control fluid line 110 that extends between the fluid outlet and the actuator 106.

[0021] In some examples, the pressurized control fluid supplied via Figure 1 the control fluid source 112 can be pressurized air, and the actuator 106 is configured as a single-acting pneumatic actuator. In other examples, the pressurized control fluid supplied via the control fluid source 112 is pressurized air, and the actuator 106 is configured as a double-acting pneumatic actuator. In other examples, the pressurized control fluid supplied by the control fluid source 112 is pressurized hydraulic fluid, and the actuator 106 is configured as a single-acting or double-acting hydraulic actuator. In some examples, the main valve 108 operatively coupled to the actuator 106 is configured as a rotary valve. In other examples, the main valve 108 can alternatively be configured as a slide rod valve.

[0022] Figure 1 The solenoid valve 102 of Figure 1 can include a core that controls the flow of pressurized control fluid from the fluid inlet of the solenoid valve 102 to the fluid outlet of the solenoid valve. For example, when the core of the solenoid valve 102 is in a first position (e.g., as may occur in response to the electrical coil of the solenoid valve 102 being energized and / or activated), the pressurized control fluid can flow from the fluid inlet of the solenoid valve 102 to the fluid outlet of the solenoid valve 102. Conversely, when the core of the solenoid valve 102 is in a second position (e.g., occurring in response to the electrical coil of the solenoid valve 102 being de-energized and / or deactivated), the pressurized control fluid cannot flow from the fluid inlet of the solenoid valve 102 to the fluid outlet of the solenoid valve 102. The movement of the Figure 1 solenoid valve core is sensed and / or measured via an integrated position sensor of the solenoid valve 102.

[0023] Figure 2 is Figure 1 a cross-sectional view of an example implementation 200 of the solenoid valve 102 of Figure 2 In the example shown, the solenoid valve 102 is a three-way valve having an example fluid inlet 202, a first example fluid outlet 204, and a second example fluid outlet 206. In other examples, the solenoid valve 102 can be of a different type and / or configuration with respect to Figure 2 the example implementation 200. For example, the solenoid valve 102 can alternatively be implemented as a two-way valve having a single fluid inlet and a single fluid outlet.

[0024] In Figure 2In the illustrated example, the fluid inlet 202 is configured to receive pressurized control fluid (e.g., pressurized air, pressurized hydraulic fluid, etc.) from an upstream control fluid line. The first fluid outlet 204 is configured to discharge the pressurized control fluid from the solenoid valve 102 to a first downstream control fluid line. The second fluid outlet 206 is configured to discharge the pressurized control fluid from the solenoid valve 102 to a second downstream control fluid line. In some examples, the first downstream control fluid line may operably couple the first fluid outlet 204 of the solenoid valve 102 to a port of a single-acting actuator, and the second downstream control fluid line may operably couple the second fluid outlet 206 of the solenoid valve 102 to a vent and / or the atmosphere. In other examples, the first downstream control fluid line may operably couple the first fluid outlet 204 of the solenoid valve 102 to a first port of a double-acting actuator, and the second downstream control fluid line may operably couple the second fluid outlet 206 of the solenoid valve 102 to a second port of the double-acting actuator.

[0025] As Figure 2 shown, the solenoid valve 102 further includes an example electric coil 208, an example nut 210, an example core 212, a first example base 214, a second example base 216, an example spring 218, and an example position sensor 220, all of which are integrated within the example body 222 of the solenoid valve 102. The electric coil 208 of the solenoid valve 102 generates a magnetic field in response to power (e.g., voltage and current) supplied and / or delivered to the solenoid valve 102 via the switch box 104. The electric coil 208 generates a magnetic field such that the plugnut 210 of the solenoid valve 102 is magnetized, and the nut 210 is a static (e.g., non-movable) component of the solenoid valve 102. The nut 210 and the core 212 of the solenoid valve 102 are respectively located within an example cavity 224 formed in the body 222 of the solenoid valve 102. The magnetization of the nut 210 causes the core 212 of the solenoid valve 102 (a dynamic (e.g., movable) component of the solenoid valve 102) to move axially within the cavity 224 toward the nut 210. Thus, the core 212 of the solenoid valve 102 is magnetically pulled toward the nut 210 of the solenoid valve 102 in response to the electric coil 208 of the solenoid valve 102 being energized and / or excited.

[0026] When power supply and / or delivery to the solenoid valve 102 via the switch box 104 is stopped, the electric coil 208 of the solenoid valve 102 no longer generates a magnetic field, and the nut 210 is no longer magnetized. The loss of magnetization of the nut 210 causes the core 212 of the solenoid valve 102 to move axially away from the nut 210 within the cavity 224 based on the biasing force generated by the spring 218 of the solenoid valve 102. In response to the electric coil 208 of the solenoid valve 102 being de-energized and / or de-excited, the core 212 of the solenoid valve 102 is biased away from the nut 210 of the solenoid valve 102.

[0027] In Figure 2 the illustrated example, the core 212 of the solenoid valve 102 includes an example head 226 having a first example seal 228 and a second example seal 230. The head 226 and / or more generally the core 212 of the solenoid valve 102 can move axially within the cavity 224 between a first position where the first seal 228 contacts the first base 214 of the solenoid valve 102 and a second position where the second seal 230 contacts the second base 216 of the solenoid valve 102. When the head 226 and / or more generally the core 212 is in the first position (e.g., as may occur in response to the power coil 208 of the solenoid valve 102 being de-energized and / or deactivated), the boost control fluid can flow from the fluid inlet 202 to the first fluid outlet 204, but cannot flow from the fluid inlet 202 to the second fluid outlet 206. When the head 226 and / or more generally the core 212 is in the second position (e.g., as may occur in response to the power coil 208 of the solenoid valve 102 being energized and / or activated), the boost control fluid can flow from the fluid inlet 202 to the second fluid outlet 206, but cannot flow from the fluid inlet 202 to the first fluid outlet 204.

[0028] The core 212 of the solenoid valve 102 also includes an example detection link 232 that extends axially away from the head 226 within the cavity 224, through an example hole 234 formed in the nut 210, and toward Figure 2 the position sensor 220 shown in FIG. 2. The position sensor 220 senses and / or measures the position of the detection link 232 and / or more generally the core 212 within the cavity 224 and / or the body 222 of the solenoid valve 102. In some examples, the position sensor 220 can be implemented via an inductive proximity sensor. In such an example, the position sensor 220 emits an electromagnetic field and monitors the change in the magnetic field caused by the movement of the detection link 232. The position sensor 220 can determine the position of the detection link 232 and / or more generally the core 212 based on the change in the magnetic field measured via the sensing coil of the position sensor 220.

[0029] In other examples, the position sensor 220 can be implemented by sensors of different types and / or configurations relative to the inductive proximity sensor described above. For example, the position sensor can alternatively be implemented as and / or be a potentiometer, a linear variable differential transformer (LVDT), a capacitive proximity sensor, an optical proximity sensor, an infrared proximity sensor, etc. As further described below, the position data sensed and / or measured by the position sensor 220 and / or at the position sensor 220 can be of any quantity, type, form, and / or format and can be transmitted from the position sensor 220 of the solenoid valve 102 to Figure 1 the switchbox 104 for processing and / or storage.

[0030] Return Figure 1 to the example shown, the switchbox 104 is operatively coupled to the solenoid valve 102 (e.g., in electrical communication therewith) as described above and is further operatively coupled to Figure 1 the pressure sensor 114 and the control system 116 of Figure 1 The pressure sensor 114 in Figure 1 senses and / or measures the pressure of the boost control fluid at the downstream section 120 (e.g., flowing through) of the control fluid line 110 of Figure 1 The control system 116 of Figure 1 exchanges signals, commands, and / or instructions with the switchbox 104 to control Figure 1 one or more operations of the switchbox 104 and / or the solenoid valve 102 and / or to facilitate

[0031] Figure 1 The switchbox 104 of Figure 1The health and / or functionality of the solenoid valve 102. In some examples, the monitoring circuit is integrated within, carried by, and / or mounted on the exemplary housing 122 of the switchgear 104. The monitoring circuit of the switchgear 104 includes one or more exemplary processing devices (e.g., (multiple) microprocessors, (multiple) microcontrollers, etc.) that facilitate testing and / or evaluation of the health and / or functionality of the solenoid valve in a comprehensive diagnostic manner. For example, the (multiple) processing devices of the monitoring circuit can be configured to determine whether the position of the core of the solenoid valve 102 (e.g., as sensed and / or measured via the integrated position sensor of the solenoid valve 102) has moved at least a position threshold change, determine whether the voltage supplied to the solenoid valve 102 meets a voltage threshold, determine whether the current drawn by the solenoid valve 102 meets a current threshold, and / or determine whether the downstream pipeline pressure associated with the solenoid valve (e.g., as sensed and / or measured via Figure 1 the pressure sensor 114) meets a pressure threshold.

[0032] In some examples, one or more of the above processing devices determine in conjunction with a solenoid valve test managed by the switchgear 104. In some such examples, the processing devices of the monitoring circuit can further be configured to change the excitation state of the solenoid valve 102 between a first state (e.g., powered on and / or energized state) and a second state (e.g., powered off and / or de-energized state) in conjunction with the solenoid valve test, and terminate and / or abort the solenoid valve test at a predetermined time period and / or duration after initiating the solenoid valve test. The solenoid valve test managed by the switchgear 104 can be initiated in response to a start test signal, command, and / or instruction received at the switchgear 104 from Figure 1 the control system 116 and / or received at the switchgear 104 via the user interface of the switchgear 104.

[0033] In some examples, the processing devices of the monitoring circuit can further be configured to generate a notification that indicates and / or identifies the consequences and / or results of the solenoid valve test (e.g., the solenoid valve 102 passed the solenoid valve test, or the solenoid valve 102 failed the solenoid valve test). In the event that the solenoid valve 102 fails the Figure 1In the case of testing the solenoid valve managed by the switch box 104, the processing device of the monitoring circuit can be further configured to generate one or more notifications, where the one or more notifications indicate and / or identify one or more bases of a fault, such as including that the position of the core of the solenoid valve 102 fails to move at least a position threshold change, the voltage supplied to the solenoid valve 102 fails to meet the voltage threshold, the current drawn by the solenoid valve 102 fails to meet the current threshold, and / or the downstream pipeline pressure associated with the solenoid valve 102 fails to meet the pressure threshold. The above (multiple) notifications can be presented locally at the switch box 104 via the display of the switch box 104, and / or can be transmitted from the switch box 104 to the control system 116 for further processing and / or analysis.

[0034] Figure 3 is constructed in accordance with the teachings of the present disclosure Figure 1 block diagram of an example switch box 104. In Figure 3 the illustrated example, the switch box 104 includes an example position detector 302, an example voltage detector 304, an example current detector 306, an example pressure detector 308, an example status manager 310, an example timer 312, an example notification generator 314, an example user interface 316, an example network interface 318, and an example memory 320. Figure 3 the user interface 316 includes one or more example input devices 322 and one or more example output devices 324. Figure 3 the network interface 318 includes an example transmitter 326 and an example receiver 328. However, Figure 3 other example implementations of the switch box 104 can include less structure or additional structure.

[0035] In Figure 3 the illustrated example, the position detector 302, the voltage detector 304, the current detector 306, the pressure detector 308, the status manager 310, the timer 312, the notification generator 314, the user interface 316 (including the (multiple) input devices 322 and the (multiple) output devices 324), the network interface 318 (including the transmitter 326 and the receiver 328), and / or the memory 320 are operably coupled (e.g., electrically connected) via an example communication bus 330. Figure 3The position detector 302, voltage detector 304, current detector 306, pressure detector 308, state manager 310, timer 312, and / or notification generator 314 of the switch box 104 may be implemented individually and / or collectively by any type(s) and / or any number(s) of semiconductor devices (e.g., (s) of microprocessors, (s) of microcontrollers, etc.). In some examples, the position detector 302, voltage detector 304, current detector 306, pressure detector 308, state manager 310, timer 312, notification generator 314, user interface 316 (including (s) of input devices 322 and (s) of output devices 324), network interface 318 (including transmitter 326 and receiver 328), and / or memory 320 of the switch box 104 are integrated in the housing (e.g., Figure 1 The housing 122 is contained in, carried by and / or mounted on the housing 122.

[0036] Figure 3 The position detector 302 detects Figure 1 and Figure 2 The position of the core 212 of the solenoid valve 102 is determined by measuring the position of the core 212 of the solenoid valve 102 (e.g., sensed and / or measured via an integrated position sensor 220 of the solenoid valve 102) and determining whether the position of the core 212 of the solenoid valve 102 has moved by at least a position threshold change. In some examples, the position threshold change associated with the core 212 of the solenoid valve 102 is stored in Figure 3 320 and can be accessed by the position detector 302. In some examples, based on the switch box 104 via Figure 3 The user interface 316 of the embodiment of the present invention may be used to identify a position threshold change associated with the core 212 of the solenoid valve 102 based on one or more inputs, commands, and / or instructions received by the input device(s) 322 of the user interface 316. Figure 3 The receiver 328 of the network interface 318 may receive one or more signals, commands, and / or instructions to identify a position threshold change associated with the core 212 of the solenoid valve 102 .

[0037] In some examples, as described further below, the position threshold change can correspond to a minimum position change of the core 212 of the solenoid valve 102, and the core 212 of the solenoid valve 102 exceeding the minimum position change is related to the solenoid valve test. In some examples, the position threshold change can correspond to a relatively small but detectable change in the position of the core 212 of the solenoid valve 102. For example, the position threshold change can correspond to ripples and / or fluctuations in the position data sensed and / or measured via the position sensor 220 of the solenoid valve 102. The position data, position threshold change, and / or position data determination sensed, measured, detected, accessed, processed, and / or generated by the position detector 302 and / or at the position detector 302 can be of any quantity, type, form, and / or format, and can be stored in a computer-readable storage medium such as the exemplary memory 320 described below. Figure 3 of the computer-readable storage medium such as the exemplary memory 320 described below.

[0038] Figure 3 The voltage detector 304 senses, measures, and / or detects the voltage delivered from the switch box 104 to the solenoid valve 102 of Figure 1 and Figure 3 and determines whether the detected voltage meets the voltage threshold. In some examples, the voltage threshold associated with the solenoid valve 102 is stored in the memory 320 of Figure 1 and Figure 2 and can be accessed by the voltage detector 304. In some examples, the voltage threshold associated with the solenoid valve 102 is identified based on one or more inputs, commands, and / or instructions received via the (multiple) input devices 322 of the user interface 316 at the switch box 104. In other examples, the voltage threshold associated with the solenoid valve 102 is identified based on one or more signals, commands, and / or instructions received via the receiver 328 of the network interface 318 at the switch box 104. Figure 3 and can be accessed by the voltage detector 304. In some examples, the voltage threshold associated with the solenoid valve 102 is identified based on one or more inputs, commands, and / or instructions received via the (multiple) input devices 322 of the user interface 316 at the switch box 104. In other examples, the voltage threshold associated with the solenoid valve 102 is identified based on one or more signals, commands, and / or instructions received via the receiver 328 of the network interface 318 at the switch box 104. Figure 3 the user interface 316 at the switch box 104. Figure 3 the network interface 318 at the switch box 104.

[0039] In some examples, the voltage threshold can correspond to a maximum voltage that the voltage supplied to the solenoid valve 102 should not exceed. In other examples, the voltage threshold can correspond to a minimum voltage that the voltage supplied to the solenoid valve 102 should not be lower than. In other examples, the voltage threshold can correspond to a voltage range that includes the maximum voltage that the voltage supplied to the solenoid valve 102 should not exceed and the minimum voltage that the voltage supplied to the solenoid valve 102 should not be lower than. The voltage data, voltage threshold, and / or voltage data determination sensed, measured, detected, accessed, processed, and / or generated by the voltage detector 304 and / or at the voltage detector 304 can be of any quantity, type, form, and / or format, and can be stored in a computer-readable storage medium such as the exemplary memory 320 described below. Figure 3 of the computer-readable storage medium such as the exemplary memory 320 described below.

[0040] Figure 3 The current detector 306 can sense, measure, and / or detect the current delivered from Figure 1 and Figure 3 the switch box 104 to Figure 1 and Figure 2 the solenoid valve 102, and determine whether the detected current meets a current threshold. In some examples, the current threshold associated with the solenoid valve 102 is stored in Figure 3 the memory 320, and can be accessed by the current detector 306. In some examples, based on one or more inputs, commands, and / or instructions received via Figure 3 the (multiple) input devices 322 of the user interface 316 at the switch box 104, the current threshold associated with the solenoid valve 102 is identified. In other examples, based on one or more signals, commands, and / or instructions received via Figure 3 the receiver 328 of the network interface 318 at the switch box 104, the current threshold associated with the solenoid valve 102 is identified.

[0041] In some examples, the current threshold can correspond to the maximum current that the current drawn by the solenoid valve 102 should not exceed. In other examples, the current threshold can correspond to the minimum current that the current drawn by the solenoid valve 102 should not be lower than. In other examples, the current threshold can correspond to a current range that includes the maximum current that the current drawn by the solenoid valve 102 should not exceed and the minimum current that the current drawn by the solenoid valve 102 should not be lower than. The current data, current threshold, and / or current data determination sensed, measured, detected, accessed, processed, and / or generated by the current detector 306 and / or at the current detector 306 can be of any quantity, type, form, and / or format, and can be stored in a computer-readable storage medium such as Figure 3 the example memory 320 as described below.

[0042] Figure 3 The pressure detector 308 detects the downstream pipeline pressure associated with Figure 1 and Figure 2 the solenoid valve 102 (e.g., sensed and / or measured via Figure 1 the pressure sensor 114), and determines whether the detected downstream pipeline pressure meets a pressure threshold. In some examples, the pressure threshold associated with the downstream pipeline pressure of the solenoid valve 102 is stored in Figure 3 the memory 320, and can be accessed by the pressure detector 308. In some examples, based on at the switch box 104 via Figure 3One or more inputs, commands, and / or instructions received by the (multiple) input devices 322 of the user interface 316 to identify a pressure threshold associated with the downstream pipeline pressure of the solenoid valve 102. In other examples, based on one or more signals, commands, and / or instructions received by the receiver 328 of the network interface 318 at the switch cabinet 104 to identify a pressure threshold associated with the downstream pipeline pressure of the solenoid valve 102. Figure 3 One or more signals, commands, and / or instructions received by the receiver 328 of the network interface 318 to identify a pressure threshold associated with the downstream pipeline pressure of the solenoid valve 102.

[0043] In some examples, the pressure threshold may correspond to the maximum pressure that the downstream pipeline pressure associated with the solenoid valve 102 should not exceed. In other examples, the pressure threshold may correspond to the minimum pressure that the downstream pipeline pressure associated with the solenoid valve 102 should not be lower than. In other examples, the pressure threshold may correspond to a pressure range that includes the maximum pressure that the downstream pipeline pressure associated with the solenoid valve 102 should not exceed and the minimum pressure that the downstream pipeline pressure associated with the solenoid valve 102 should not be lower than. The pressure data, pressure threshold, and / or pressure data determination sensed, measured, detected, accessed, processed, and / or generated by the pressure detector 308 and / or at the pressure detector 308 can be any quantity, type, form, and / or format, and can be stored in a computer-readable storage medium such as the example memory 320 described below. Figure 3 The example memory 320 of the computer-readable storage medium.

[0044] Figure 3 The state manager 310 controls and / or manages Figure 1 and Figure 2 The excitation state of the solenoid valve 102. For example, the state manager 310 can change the excitation state of the solenoid valve 102 between a first state and a second state. In some examples, the first state is an excitation state in which the switch cabinet 104 is configured to supply power to the solenoid valve 102, and the second state is a de-excitation state in which the switch cabinet 104 is configured not to supply power to the solenoid valve 102. In other examples, the first state is a de-excitation state in which the switch cabinet 104 is configured not to supply power to the solenoid valve 102, while the second state is an excitation state in which the switch cabinet 104 is configured to supply power to the solenoid valve 102. The excitation state data accessed, processed, and / or generated by the state manager 310 and / or at the state manager 310 can be any quantity, type, form, and / or format, and can be stored in a computer-readable storage medium such as the example memory 320 described below. Figure 3 The example memory 320 of the computer-readable storage medium.

[0045] In some examples, the state manager 310 changes the energization state of the solenoid valve 102 between the first state and the second state by signaling, commanding, and / or instructing a switch that is configured to selectively route power from the switch box 104 to the solenoid valve 102 to move to an off position (blocking power flow) or a closed position (allowing power flow). For example, Figure 4 4 is an example system configuration diagram 400 for an example switch box 402 configured to monitor the health and / or function of an example solenoid valve 404. Figure 4 As shown in system configuration diagram 400 , switch box 402 includes an example power input 406 , an example switch 408 , an example power output 410 , and an example monitoring circuit 412 .

[0046] Figure 4 The power input 406 is configured to receive power from a power source (eg, a remotely located power source). Figure 4 The switch 408 is operably positioned at Figure 4 The switch box 402 includes a power input 406 and a power output 410, and is configured to selectively route power received at the power input 406 to the power output 410. In some examples, the monitoring circuit 412 of the switch box 402 can signal, command, and / or instruct the switch 408 to move to a closed position (allowing and / or facilitating power flow from the power input 406 to the power output 410) or an open position (e.g., Figure 4 408 to the power output 410. Figure 4 In some examples, the operation of the switch 408 can be controlled and / or managed by a state manager of the monitoring circuit 412, which can be described herein. Figure 3 The state manager 310 is implemented and / or implemented as Figure 3 state manager 310. Although Figure 4 The switch 408 is illustrated as a mechanical switch, but in other examples, Figure 4 The switch 408 may be implemented as a different type of switch (eg, a solid-state switch, a transistor, etc.) configured to control power flow between the power input 406 and the power output 410 of the switch box 402 .

[0047] return Figure 3 In the illustrated example, the state manager 310 is combined with the state manager 310 configured to test the health and / or function of the solenoid valve 102 and / or more generally manages the solenoid valve test. Figure 1 and Figure 3 The switch box 104 is used to control and / or manageFigure 1 and Figure 2 various changes to the excitation state of the solenoid valve 102. In some examples, the state manager 310 changes the excitation state of the solenoid valve 102 from a first state to a second state in response to the state manager 310 and / or more generally the switch box 104 receiving a test start signal, command, and / or instruction associated with the solenoid valve test. In some examples, the state manager 310 may receive the test start signal, command, and / or instruction based on one or more inputs, commands, and / or instructions received via Figure 3 the (multiple) input devices 322 of the user interface 316 at the switch box 104. In other examples, the state manager 310 may receive the test start signal, command, and / or instruction based on one or more signals, commands, and / or instructions received via Figure 3 the receiver 328 of the network interface 318 at the switch box 104. The solenoid valve test managed by the state manager 310 and / or the switch box 104 can occur at any time (including, for example, before a partial stroke test occurs, during a partial stroke test, etc.).

[0048] The state manager 310 responds to Figure 3 the position detector 302 in combination with the solenoid valve test determining that the core 212 of the solenoid valve 102 has moved at least a position threshold change within a predetermined time period by changing the excitation state of the solenoid valve 102 from the second state back to the first state. To this end, Figure 3 the state manager 310 of Figure 3 also manages and / or controls the start of

[0049] the timer 312 of Figure 1 and Figure 3 the switch box 104. For example, as further described below, the state manager 310 may signal, command, and / or instruct the timer 312 to start and / or begin measuring the predetermined time period and / or duration associated with the solenoid valve test. In some examples, the state manager 310 may signal, command, and / or instruct the timer 312 to start and / or begin measuring the predetermined time period and / or duration in response to the state manager 310 changing the excitation state of the solenoid valve 102 from the first state to the second state (as may occur in conjunction with the state manager 310 managing the solenoid valve test and / or more generally the switch box 104).

[0049] The state manager 310 aborts and / or terminates the solenoid valve test (e.g., by changing the excitation state of the solenoid valve 102 from the second state back to the first state) in response to one or more determinations made by Figure 1 and Figure 3 the timer 312, voltage detector 304, current detector 306, and / or pressure detector 308 of the switch box 104. For example, the state manager 310 may respond to Figure 3 the expiration of the predetermined time period and / or duration of the timer 312 at Figure 3If the position detector 302 fails to determine that the core 212 of the solenoid valve 102 has moved at least the position threshold change, the solenoid valve test is aborted. As another example, the status manager 310 may abort the solenoid valve test in response to Figure 3 the voltage detector 304 determining that the voltage supplied to the solenoid valve 102 fails to meet the voltage threshold. As another example, the status manager 310 may abort the solenoid valve test in response to Figure 3 the current detector 306 determining that the current drawn by the solenoid valve 102 fails to meet the current threshold. As another example, the status manager 310 may abort the solenoid valve test in response to Figure 3 the pressure detector 308 determining that the downstream pipeline pressure associated with the solenoid valve 102 fails to meet the pressure threshold and aborting the solenoid valve test.

[0050] Return Figure 3 in the illustrated example of Figure 3 the timer 312 measures a predetermined period and / or duration. For example, the timer 312 may measure the predetermined period and / or duration by counting up from time zero and / or measuring to a time limit corresponding to the end of the predetermined period and / or duration, or by counting down from such a time limit and / or measuring to time zero. In some examples, the predetermined period and / or duration of the timer 312 is stored in Figure 3 the memory 320 and the timer 312 may access it. In some examples, the predetermined period and / or duration of the timer 312 is identified based on one or more inputs, commands, and / or instructions received at the switch box 104 via Figure 3 the (multiple) input devices 322 of the user interface 316. In other examples, the predetermined period and / or duration of the timer 312 is identified based on one or more signals, commands, and / or instructions received at the switch box 104 via Figure 3 the receiver 328 of the network interface 318.

[0051] In some examples, the timer 312, in response to Figure 3 the status manager 310 changing Figure 1 and Figure 2 the excitation state of the solenoid valve 102 from a first state to a second state (as may occur in conjunction with the switch box 104 managing the solenoid valve test), starts and / or begins measuring the predetermined period and / or duration. In such an example, the predetermined period and / or duration of the timer 312 generally defines the maximum duration of the solenoid valve test managed by the switch box 104. For example, in Figure 3 the position detector 302 determines Figure 1 and Figure 2The core 212 of the solenoid valve 102 has moved at least the position threshold before the predetermined period and / or duration of the timer 312 expires such that Figure 3 The state manager 310 changes the energizing state of the solenoid valve from the second state back to the first state, thereby ending the solenoid valve test.

[0052] In some examples, the predetermined period and / or duration of timer 312 is advantageously configured (e.g., set and / or established) to be set when operatively coupled to Figure 1 and Figure 2 The actuator of the solenoid valve 102 (eg, Figure 1 Actuator 106) and / or main valve (e.g., Figure 1 The main valve 108 of the electromagnetic valve 102 moves in response to the energization state of the electromagnetic valve 102 changing from the first state to the second state before expiring. Figure 1 and Figure 3 The switch box 104 can be tested accordingly without interfering with the normal and / or intended operation of the operably coupled actuator and / or main valve. Figure 1 and Figure 2 The health and / or function of the solenoid valve 102. The time data, predetermined time periods and / or durations and / or time data determinations measured, detected, accessed, processed and / or generated by and / or at the timer 312 may be of any quantity, type, form and / or format and may be stored in a manner such as described below. Figure 3 In the computer readable storage medium of the example memory 320.

[0053] Figure 3 The notification generator 314 generates one or more notifications (e.g., one or more messages and / or alarms) indicating and / or identifying the health, health status, function, and / or functional status of the solenoid valve 102 (determined based on one or more tests of the solenoid valve 102 managed by the switch box 104). The data corresponding to the (multiple) notifications generated by the notification generator 314 can be of any amount, type, form, and / or format, and can be stored in a storage medium such as described below. Figure 3 In the computer readable storage medium of the example memory 320.

[0054] In some examples, the notification generator 314 generates one or more notifications indicating and / or identifying that the solenoid valve 102 is functioning properly and / or that the solenoid valve 102 has passed a solenoid valve test managed by the switch box 104. In some such examples, the notification(s) generated by the notification generator 314 may additionally or alternatively indicate and / or identify that the core 212 of the solenoid valve 102 is functioning properly and / or that the solenoid valve 102 has passed a solenoid valve test managed by the switch box 104. Figure 3 moves by at least a threshold change in position (e.g., as determined by Figure 3determined by the position detector 302, the status manager 310, and the timer 312), the voltage supplied to the solenoid valve 102 meets a voltage threshold (e.g., as determined by Figure 3 the voltage detector 304), the current drawn by the solenoid valve 102 meets a current threshold (e.g., determined by Figure 3 the current detector 306), and / or the downstream pipeline pressure associated with the solenoid valve 102 meets a pressure threshold (e.g., determined by Figure 3 the pressure detector 308).

[0055] In other examples, the notification generator 314 alternatively generates one or more notifications indicating and / or identifying that the solenoid valve 102 is malfunctioning and / or that the solenoid valve 102 has failed a solenoid valve test administered by the switchbox 104. In some such examples, the notification(s) generated by the notification generator 314 additionally or alternatively indicate and / or identify that the core 212 of the solenoid valve 102 has not moved at least a position threshold change before the Figure 3 timer 312 expires (e.g., as determined by Figure 3 the position detector 302, the status manager 310, and the timer 312), the voltage supplied to the solenoid valve 102 does not meet the voltage threshold (e.g., as determined by Figure 3 the voltage detector 304), the current drawn by the solenoid valve 102 does not meet the current threshold (e.g., determined by Figure 3 the current detector 306), and / or the downstream pipeline pressure associated with the solenoid valve 102 does not meet the pressure threshold (e.g., as determined by Figure 3 the pressure detector 308).

[0056] Figure 3 The user interface 316 of Figure 3 facilitates interaction and / or communication between the end user and the switchbox 104. The user interface 316 includes one or more input devices 322 through which a user can input information and / or data to the switchbox 104. For example, the input device(s) 322 may include one or more buttons, switches, knobs, touchscreens, audio sensors, and / or microphones that enable the user to transfer data and / or commands to Figure 3 the position detector 302, the voltage detector 304, the current detector 306, the pressure detector 308, the status manager 310, the timer 312, and / or the memory 320, and / or more generally to the switchbox 104. In some examples, the data and / or commands transferred through the input device(s) 322 of the user interface 316 may indicate and / or identify a position threshold change associated with the Figure 1 core 212 of the solenoid valve 102, a voltage threshold associated with the voltage supplied to Figure 1 the solenoid valve 102, a current threshold associated with the current drawn by Figure 1The current threshold associated with the current drawn by the solenoid valve 102, the pressure threshold associated with the downstream pipeline pressure of the solenoid valve 102, the duration (e.g., time period and / or time limit) associated with the timer 312, and / or an instruction to initiate a solenoid valve test. The data and / or information received via the (one or more) input devices 322 of the user interface 316 can be of any quantity, type, form, and / or format, and can be stored in a computer-readable storage medium such as the example memory 320 as described below. Figure 1 The pressure threshold associated with the downstream pipeline pressure of the solenoid valve 102, and Figure 3 The duration (e.g., time period and / or time limit) associated with the timer 312 and / or an instruction to initiate a solenoid valve test. The data and / or information received via the (one or more) input devices 322 of the user interface 316 can be of any quantity, type, form, and / or format, and can be stored in a computer-readable storage medium such as the example memory 320 as described below. Figure 3 The example memory 320.

[0057] Figure 3 The user interface 316 also includes one or more output devices 324. The user interface 316 presents information and / or data to the user in visual and / or auditory form via the output devices 324. For example, the (one or more) output devices 324 can include light-emitting diodes, touchscreens, and / or liquid crystal displays for presenting visual information, and / or speakers for presenting auditory information. In some examples, the information and / or data presented by the (one or more) output devices 324 of the user interface 316 can indicate and / or identify the content of one or more notifications generated by Figure 3 The notification generator 314. For example, the information and / or data presented by the (one or more) output devices 324 of the user interface 316 can indicate and / or identify Figure 1 That the solenoid valve 102 is operating properly, and / or Figure 1 That the solenoid valve 102 has passed the solenoid valve test managed by the switch box 104. As another example, the information and / or data presented by the (one or more) output devices 324 of the user interface 316 can indicate and / or identify Figure 1 That the solenoid valve 102 is not operating properly, and / or Figure 1 That the solenoid valve 102 has failed the solenoid valve test managed by the switch box 104. The data and / or information presented via the (one or more) output devices 324 of the user interface 316 can be of any quantity, type, form, and / or format, and can be stored in a computer-readable storage medium such as the example memory 320 as described below. Figure 3 The example memory 320.

[0058] Figure 3 The network interface 318 enables and / or facilitates Figure 1 And Figure 3 The switch box 104 to communicate with one or more external devices (e.g., Figure 1One or more network-based communications between the control system 116). In some examples, the network-based communication(s) enabled by the network interface 318 occur(s) via a network facilitated by 4-20 mA wiring and / or by one or more communication protocols including, for example, High-Speed Addressable Remote Transducer (HART), Transmission Control Protocol / Internet Protocol (TCP / IP), Foundation Fieldbus, Profinet, Modbus, and / or Ethernet. As described above, Figure 3 The network interface 318 of includes those further described below Figure 3 The transmitter 326 and the receiver 328.

[0059] Figure 3 The transmitter 326 transmits data and / or one or more signals to one or more external devices (e.g., Figure 1 The control system 116) via a network (e.g., a HART network). In some examples, the data and / or signals transmitted by the transmitter 326 correspond to one or more notifications generated by Figure 3 The notification generator 314. For example, the data and / or signals transmitted by the transmitter 326 of the network interface 318 may indicate and / or identify Figure 1 The solenoid valve 102 is operating properly, and / or Figure 1 The solenoid valve 102 has passed the solenoid valve test administered by the switch box 104. As another example, the data and / or signals transmitted by the transmitter 326 of the network interface 318 may indicate and / or identify Figure 1 The solenoid valve 102 is not operating properly, and / or Figure 1 The solenoid valve 102 has failed the solenoid valve test administered by the switch box 104. The data corresponding to the signal(s) transmitted by the transmitter 326 of the network interface 318 can be of any quantity, type, form, and / or format and can be stored in a computer-readable storage medium such as Figure 3 The example memory 320 as described below.

[0060] Figure 3 The receiver 328 can collect, obtain, and / or receive data and / or one or more signals from one or more external devices (e.g., Figure 1 The control system 116) via a network (e.g., a HART network). In some examples, the data and / or signals collected and / or received by the receiver 328 of the network interface 318 may indicate and / or identify a position threshold change associated with the core 212 of Figure 1 The solenoid valve 102, a voltage threshold associated with the voltage supplied to Figure 1 The solenoid valve 102, a voltage threshold associated with the voltage supplied to Figure 1the current threshold associated with the current drawn by solenoid valve 102, and Figure 1 the pressure threshold associated with the downstream line pressure of solenoid valve 102, and Figure 3 the duration (e.g., time period and / or time limit) associated with timer 312 and / or an instruction to initiate a solenoid valve test. The data carried and / or derived from the (multiple) signals collected and / or received by receiver 328 of network interface 318 can be of any quantity, type, form, and / or format, and can be stored in a computer-readable storage medium such as Figure 3 example memory 320 as described below.

[0061] Figure 3 Example memory 320 can be implemented by any (multiple) type and / or any number of storage devices (e.g., storage drives, flash memory, read-only memory (ROM), random access memory (RAM), cache, and / or any other physical storage medium in which information is stored for any duration (e.g., extended time period, permanent, brief moment, information temporarily buffered, and / or information cached)). The information stored in memory 320 can be stored in any file and / or data structure format, organization scheme, and / or arrangement. Figure 3 Memory 320 can be accessed by Figure 3 position detector 302, voltage detector 304, current detector 306, pressure detector 308, status manager 310, timer 312, notification generator 314, user interface 316 (including (multiple) input devices 322 and / or (multiple) output devices 324), and / or network interface 318 (including transmitter 326 and receiver 328), and / or more generally can be accessed by switch box 104.

[0062] In some examples, memory 320 stores a position threshold change associated with Figure 1 the core 212 of solenoid valve 102. In some examples, memory 320 stores position data associated with Figure 1 the position of the core 212 of solenoid valve 102 (as detected by Figure 3 position detector 302). In some examples, memory 320 stores a voltage threshold associated with the voltage supplied to Figure 1 solenoid valve 102. In some examples, memory 320 stores voltage data associated with the voltage supplied to Figure 1 solenoid valve 102 (as detected by Figure 3 voltage detector 304). In some examples, memory 320 stores a current threshold associated with the current drawn by Figure 1 solenoid valve 102. In some examples, memory 320 stores a current threshold associated with the current drawn by Figure 1the current data associated with the current drawn by the solenoid valve 102 (as detected by Figure 3 the current detector 306). In some examples, the memory 320 stores data associated with Figure 1 a pressure threshold associated with the downstream line pressure of the solenoid valve 102. In some examples, the memory 320 stores data associated with Figure 1 the downstream line pressure of the solenoid valve 102 (as detected by Figure 3 the pressure detector 308).

[0063] In some examples, the memory 320 stores data corresponding to instructions for initiating a solenoid valve test to be managed by the switchbox 104 (which may be received via Figure 3 one or more input devices 322 of the user interface 316 and / or received via Figure 3 the receiver 328 of the network interface 318). In some examples, the memory 320 stores a duration associated with Figure 3 the timer 312 (e.g., a time period and / or a time limit), and / or a duration associated with the solenoid valve test managed by the switchbox 104 (e.g., a time period and / or a time limit). In some examples, the memory 320 stores data corresponding to one or more notifications generated by Figure 3 the notification generator 314 (presented via Figure 3 one or more output devices 324 of the user interface 316 and / or transmitted via Figure 3 the transmitter 326 of the network interface 318).

[0064] Although example ways of implementing the switchbox 104 are illustrated in Figure 1 and Figure 3 , one or more of the elements, processes, and / or devices shown in Figure 1 and Figure 3 may be combined, separated, rearranged, omitted, eliminated, and / or implemented in any other way. Additionally, Figure 1 and Figure 3 the example position detector 302, the example voltage detector 304, the example current detector 306, the example pressure detector 308, the example status manager 310, the example timer 312, the example notification generator 314, the example user interface 316, the example network interface 318, the example memory 320, and / or more generally the example switchbox 104 may be implemented by hardware, software, firmware, and / or any combination of hardware, software, and / or firmware. Thus, for example, Figure 1 and Figure 3Any of the example position detector 302, example voltage detector 304, example current detector 306, example pressure detector 308, example state manager 310, example timer 312, example notification generator 314, example user interface 316, example network interface 318, example memory 320, and / or more generally example switchbox 104 can be implemented by one or more analog or digital circuits, logic circuits, programmable processors, programmable controllers, graphics processing units (GPUs), digital signal processors (DSPs), application specific integrated circuits (ASICs), programmable logic devices (PLDs), and / or field programmable logic devices (FPLDs). When reading any apparatus or system claims of this patent to cover pure software and / or firmware implementations, Figure 3 at least one of the example position detector 302, example voltage detector 304, example current detector 306, example pressure detector 308, example state manager 310, example timer 312, example notification generator 314, example user interface 316, example network interface 318, and / or example memory 320 is hereby expressly defined to include a non-transitory computer-readable storage device or storage disk (e.g., memory, flash drive, hard drive, etc.) (including software and / or firmware). Further, Figure 1 and Figure 3 the example position detector 302, example voltage detector 304, example current detector 306, example pressure detector 308, example state manager 310, example timer 312, example notification generator 314, example user interface 316, example network interface 318, example memory 320, and / or more generally example switchbox 104 can in addition to Figure 1 and Figure 3 those shown in Figure 1 and Figure 3 those shown in) include one or more elements, processes, and / or devices, and / or can include more than one of any or all of the illustrated elements, processes, and devices. As used herein, the phrase "communicate" (including its variants) encompasses direct communication and / or indirect communication via one or more intermediate components, and does not require direct physical (e.g., wired) communication and / or constant communication, but additionally includes selective communication at periodic intervals, scheduled intervals, aperiodic intervals, and / or one-time events.

[0065] represents a flowchart of example hardware logic, machine-readable instructions, hardware-implemented state machines, and / or any combination thereof for implementing Figure 1 and Figure 3 the switchbox 104 in Figure 5 and Figure 6is shown. The machine-readable instructions can be one or more executable programs or one or more portions of an (multiple) executable program that are executed by a computer processor (e.g., the example processor 702 shown in the example processor platform 700 discussed below in connection with Figure 7 . The (multiple) programs can be embodied in software stored on a non-transitory computer-readable storage medium (e.g., a CD-ROM, floppy disk, hard drive, DVD, Blu-ray disk, or memory associated with the processor 702), but the overall (multiple) program and / or portions thereof can alternatively be executed by a device other than the processor 702 and / or embodied in firmware or dedicated hardware. Additionally, although the (multiple) example programs are described with reference to the flowcharts shown in Figure 5 and Figure 6 , many other methods of implementing the example switchbox 104 shown in Figure 1 and Figure 3 can alternatively be used. For example, the order of execution of the blocks can be changed, and / or some of the described blocks can be changed, eliminated, or combined. Additionally or alternatively, any or all of the blocks can be implemented by one or more hardware circuits (e.g., discrete and / or integrated analog and / or digital circuits, FPGAs, ASICs, comparators, operational amplifiers, logic circuits, etc.) that are constructed to perform the corresponding operations without executing software or firmware.

[0066] The machine-readable instructions described herein can be stored in one or more of a compressed format, an encrypted format, a segmented format, a packaged format, etc. The machine-readable instructions described herein can be stored as data that can be used to create, manufacture, and / or generate machine-executable instructions (e.g., a portion of an instruction, code, code representation, etc.). For example, the machine-readable instructions can be segmented and stored on one or more storage devices and / or computing devices (e.g., servers). The machine-readable instructions may need to be installed, modified, adapted, updated, combined, supplemented, configured, decrypted, decompressed, unpacked, distributed, redistributed, etc. in order for them to be directly readable and / or executable by a computing device and / or other machine. For example, the machine-readable instructions can be stored in multiple parts that are individually compressed, encrypted, and stored on separate computing devices, where the parts form an executable instruction set that implements a program as described herein when they are decrypted, decompressed, and combined. In another example, the machine-readable instructions can be stored in a state where they can be read by a computer, but libraries (e.g., dynamic link libraries (DLLs)), software development kits (SDKs), application programming interfaces (APIs), etc. need to be added to execute the instructions on a particular computing device or other device. In another example, the machine-readable instructions may need to be configured (e.g., stored settings, data inputs, recorded network addresses, etc.) before the machine-readable instructions and / or the corresponding program(s) can be executed in whole or in part. Accordingly, the disclosed machine-readable instructions and / or corresponding program(s) are intended to cover such machine-readable instructions and / or program(s), regardless of the particular format or state of the machine-readable instructions and / or program(s) when stored or otherwise at rest or in transit.

[0067] As described above, Figure 5 and Figure 6 The example processes of can be implemented using executable instructions (e.g., computer and / or machine-readable instructions) stored on a non-transitory computer and / or machine-readable medium (e.g., a hard disk drive, flash memory, read-only memory, optical disk, digital versatile disk, cache, random access memory, and / or any other storage device or storage disk where information is stored for any duration (e.g., an extended period of time, permanently, briefly, temporarily buffered, and / or cached)). As used herein, the term "non-transitory computer-readable medium" is expressly defined to include any type of computer-readable storage device and / or storage disk and to exclude propagating signals and to exclude transmission media.

[0068] "Including / comprising" (and all of its forms and tenses) is used herein as an open - ended term. Thus, whenever a claim employs any form of "including" (e.g., comprises, includes, comprising, including, having, etc.) as a preamble or uses it in any kind of claim statement, it should be understood that additional elements, terms, etc. may exist without exceeding the scope of the corresponding claim or statement. As used herein, when the phrase "at least" is used as a transitional term (e.g., in the preamble of a claim), it is open - ended in the same way that the term "including" is open - ended. When used, for example, in the form of A, B, and / or C, the term "and / or" refers to any combination or subset of A, B, C, e.g., (1) only A, (2) only B, (3) only C, (4) A and B, (5) A and C, (6) B and C, and (7) A and B and C. As used herein in the context of describing a structure, component, item, object, and / or thing, the phrase "at least one of A and B" is intended to refer to an implementation that includes any one of the following: (1) at least one A, (2) at least one B, and (3) at least one A and at least one B. Similarly, as used herein in the context of describing a structure, component, item, object, and / or thing, the phrase "at least one of A or B" is intended to refer to an implementation that includes any one of the following: (1) at least one A, (2) at least one B, and (3) at least one A and at least one B. As used herein when describing the execution or performance of a process, instruction, action, activity, and / or step, the phrase "at least one of A and B" is intended to refer to an implementation that includes any one of the following: (1) at least one A, (2) at least one B, and (3) at least one A and at least one B. Similarly, as used herein in the context of describing the execution or performance of a process, instruction, action, activity, and / or step, the phrase "at least one of A or B" is intended to refer to an implementation that includes any one of the following: (1) at least one A, (2) at least one B, and (3) at least one A and at least one B.

[0069] Figure 5 is a flowchart representing a first - example machine - readable instruction 500 that can be executed to Figure 1 and Figure 3 implement an example switchgear 104 of Figure 1 and Figure 2 to monitor the health and / or functionality of an example solenoid valve 102 of Figure 5 An example program 500 of Figure 1 and Figure 3The example program 500 begins when the switch box 104 determines whether to initiate the solenoid valve test (block 502). For example, the switch box 104 may receive (e.g., via Figure 3 one or more inputs, signals, commands, and / or instructions indicating that the solenoid valve test is to be initiated from the (multiple) input devices 322 of the user interface 316, or via Figure 3 the receiver 328 of the network interface 318). If the switch box 104 does not determine at block 502 that the solenoid valve test is to be initiated, the control Figure 5 of the example program 500 remains at block 502. If instead the switch box 104 determines at block 502 that the solenoid valve test is to be initiated, the control Figure 5 of the example program 500 advances to block 504.

[0070] At block 504, Figure 3 the voltage detector 304 determines whether the voltage supplied to the Figure 1 and Figure 2 solenoid valve 102 meets a voltage threshold. For example, the voltage detector 304 may determine that the voltage supplied to the solenoid valve 102 meets a first voltage threshold that requires the voltage to be less than a predetermined maximum voltage. As another example, the voltage detector 304 may determine that the voltage supplied to the solenoid valve 102 meets a second voltage threshold that requires the voltage to be greater than a predetermined minimum voltage. As another example, the voltage detector 304 may determine that the voltage supplied to the solenoid valve 102 meets a third voltage threshold that requires the voltage to be both greater than a predetermined minimum voltage and less than a predetermined maximum voltage. If the voltage detector 304 determines at block 504 that the voltage supplied to the solenoid valve 102 meets the voltage threshold, the control Figure 5 of the example program 500 advances to block 506. If instead the voltage detector 304 determines at block 504 that the voltage supplied to the solenoid valve 102 does not meet the voltage threshold, the control Figure 5 of the example program 500 advances to block 516.

[0071] At block 506, Figure 3 the current detector 306 determines whether the current drawn by the Figure 1 and Figure 2 solenoid valve 102 meets a current threshold. For example, the current detector 306 may determine that the current drawn by the solenoid valve 102 meets a first current threshold that requires the current to be less than a predetermined maximum current. As another example, the current detector 306 may determine that the current drawn by the solenoid valve 102 meets a second current threshold that requires the current to be greater than a predetermined minimum current. As another example, the current detector 306 may determine that the current drawn by the solenoid valve 102 meets a third current threshold that requires the current to be both greater than a predetermined minimum current and less than a predetermined maximum current. If the current detector 306 determines at block 506 that the current drawn by the solenoid valve 102 meets the current threshold, the control Figure 5The example program 500 proceeds to block 508. If, instead, the current detector 306 determines at block 506 that the current drawn by the solenoid valve 102 does not meet the current threshold, the control Figure 5 The example program 500 proceeds to block 516.

[0072] At block 508, Figure 3 the state manager 310 of Figure 1 and Figure 2 de-energizes the solenoid valve 102 of Figure 1 and Figure 3 For example, the state manager 310 can change the state of the solenoid valve 102 from an energized state in which Figure 1 and Figure 3 the switch box 104 of Figure 5 supplies power to the solenoid valve 102 to a de-energized state in which

[0073] At block 510, Figure 3 the state manager 310 of Figure 3 starts the timer 312 of Figure 5 For example, the state manager 310 can signal, command, and / or instruct the timer 312 to start a timing measurement with a predefined time period, duration, and / or limit (e.g., from time zero up to a time limit or from a time limit down to time zero). After block 510, the control

[0074] At block 512, Figure 3 the position detector 302 of Figure 1 and Figure 2 determines whether the core 212 of the solenoid valve 102 has moved at least a position threshold change. In some examples, the position threshold change can correspond to a minimum position change of the core 212 of the solenoid valve 102, and the core 212 of the solenoid valve 102 exceeding the minimum position change is related to passing the solenoid valve test. In some examples, the position threshold change can correspond to a relatively small but detectable position change of the core 212 of the solenoid valve 102. For example, the position threshold change can correspond to ripples and / or undulations in the position data sensed and / or measured via the position sensor 220 of the solenoid valve 102. If Figure 3 the position detector 302 of Figure 5 determines at block 512 that the core 212 of the solenoid valve 102 has not moved at least a position threshold change, the control Figure 3 the example program 500 ofFigure 5 The example program 500 proceeds to block 520.

[0075] At block 514, Figure 3 the state manager 310 of determines Figure 3 whether the timer 312 of has expired. For example, the state manager 310 may determine that a predetermined time period, duration, and / or limit of the timing measurement of the timer 312 started at block 510 has expired and / or elapsed. If the state manager 310 determines at block 514 that the timer 312 has not expired, then control Figure 5 of the example program 500 returns to block 512. If instead the state manager 310 determines at block 514 that the timer 312 has expired, then control Figure 5 of the example program 500 proceeds to block 516.

[0076] At block 516, Figure 3 the state manager 310 of and / or more generally Figure 1 and Figure 3 the switch box 104 of aborts the solenoid valve test. In some examples, Figure 3 the state manager 310 of aborts the solenoid valve test by actuating Figure 1 and Figure 2 the solenoid valve 102 of. For example, the state manager 310 may change the state of the solenoid valve 102 from a de-actuated state (e.g., as initiated at block 508) where the switch box 104 does not supply power to the solenoid valve 102 back to an actuated state where the switch box 104 supplies power to the solenoid valve 102. After block 516, control Figure 5 of the example program 500 proceeds to block 518.

[0077] At block 518, Figure 3 the notification generator 314 of generates an indication that Figure 1 and Figure 2 the solenoid valve 102 of has failed the solenoid valve test. In some examples, the notification generated by the notification generator 314 at block 518 may additionally or alternatively indicate that the solenoid valve 102 is not operating correctly. For example, the notification generated by the notification generator 314 at block 518 may indicate that the voltage supplied to the solenoid valve 102 does not meet a voltage threshold (e.g., as determined by Figure 3 the voltage detector 304 of at block 504), that the current drawn by the solenoid valve 102 does not meet a current threshold (e.g., as determined by [[ID=3 the current detector 306 of at block 506), or that the core 212 of the solenoid valve 102 has not moved at least a position threshold change before ​ the timer 312 of expires (e.g., as determined by ​The position detector 302, the status manager 310, and the timer 312 are determined at block 512 and block 514). In some examples, ​ and ​ switchbox 104 of ​ and ​ presents, via a display (e.g., an LCD screen) of switchbox 104, a notification generated by the notification generator 314 at block 518. In other examples, ​ switchbox 104 of ​ additionally or alternatively transmits the notification generated by the notification generator 314 at block 518 from switchbox 104 to a control system (e.g.,

[0078] At block 520, ​ the status manager 310 of ​ and ​ energizes the solenoid valve 102 of ​ For example, the status manager 310 can change the status of the solenoid valve 102 from a de-energized state (where switchbox 104 does not supply power to the solenoid valve 102), such as initiated at block 508, back to an energized state (where switchbox 104 supplies power to the solenoid valve 102). After block 520, control

[0079] At block 522, ​ the notification generator 314 of ​ and ​ generates a notification indicating that the solenoid valve 102 of ​ has passed the solenoid valve test. In some examples, the notification generated by the notification generator 314 at block 522 can additionally or alternatively indicate that the solenoid valve 102 is operating properly. For example, the notification generated by the notification generator 314 at block 522 can indicate that the voltage supplied to the solenoid valve 102 meets a voltage threshold (e.g., as determined by ​ the voltage detector 304 of ​ at block 504), the current drawn by the solenoid valve 102 meets a current threshold (e.g., as determined by ​ the current detector 306 of ​ and ​The switch box 104 presents the notification generated by the notification generator 314 at block 522 via a display (e.g., an LCD screen) of the switch box 104. In other examples, ​ and ​ the switch box 104 additionally or alternatively transmits the notification generated by the notification generator 314 at block 522 from the switch box 104 to a control system (e.g., ​ the control system 116) operatively coupled to the switch box 104. After block 522, control ​ of the example program 500 advances to block 524.

[0080] At block 524, ​ the status manager 310 and / or more generally ​ and ​ the switch box 104 determines whether to test the ​ and ​ solenoid valve 102 again. In some examples, the status manager 310 and / or the switch box 104 may (e.g., via ​ one or more input devices 322 of the user interface 316, or via ​ the receiver 328 of the network interface 318) receive one or more inputs, signals, commands, and / or instructions indicating that the solenoid valve 102 is to be tested again. In other examples, the status manager 310 and / or the switch box 104 may (e.g., via ​ one or more input devices 322 of the user interface 316, or via ​ the receiver 328 of the network interface 318) receive one or more inputs, signals, commands, and / or instructions indicating that the solenoid valve 102 is not to be tested again. If the status manager 310 and / or the switch box 104 determines at block 524 that the solenoid valve 102 is to be tested again, then control ​ of the example program 500 returns to block 502. If instead the status manager 310 and / or the switch box 104 determines at block 524 that the solenoid valve 102 is not to be tested again, then ​ the example program 500 ends.

[0081] ​ is a flowchart representing a second example of machine-readable instructions 600 that may be executed to implement ​ and ​ the example switch box 104 to monitor ​ and ​ the health and / or functionality of the example solenoid valve 102. ​ The example program 600 ​ and ​The switch box 104 determines whether to start the solenoid valve test (block 602). For example, the switch box 104 may (e.g., via ​ one or more input devices 322 of the user interface 316, or via ​ the receiver 328 of the network interface 318) receive one or more inputs, signals, commands, and / or instructions indicating that the solenoid valve test is to be started. If the switch box 104 does not determine to start the solenoid valve test at block 602, the control ​ of the example program 600 remains at block 602. If, instead, the switch box 104 determines to start the solenoid valve test at block 602, the control ​ of the example program 600 advances to block 604.

[0082] At block 604, ​ the status manager 310 energizes ​ and ​ the solenoid valve 102. For example, the status manager 310 may change the state of the solenoid valve 102 from a de-energized state (where ​ and ​ the switch box 104 does not supply power to the solenoid valve 102) to an energized state (where ​ and ​ the switch box 104 supplies power to the solenoid valve 102). After block 604, the control ​ of the example program 600 advances to block 606.

[0083] At block 606, ​ the status manager 310 starts ​ the timer 312. For example, the status manager 310 may signal, command, and / or instruct the timer 312 to start a timing measurement with a predetermined time period, duration, and / or limit (e.g., from time zero up to a time limit, or from a time limit down to time zero). After block 606, the control ​ of the example program 600 advances to block 608.

[0084] At block 608, ​ the voltage detector 304 determines the voltage supplied to ​ and ​whether the voltage of the solenoid valve 102 meets the voltage threshold. For example, the voltage detector 304 can determine that the voltage supplied to the solenoid valve 102 meets a first voltage threshold that the required voltage is less than a predetermined maximum voltage. As another example, the voltage detector 304 can determine that the voltage supplied to the solenoid valve 102 meets a second voltage threshold that the required voltage is greater than a predetermined minimum voltage. As another example, the voltage detector 304 can determine that the voltage supplied to the solenoid valve 102 meets a third voltage threshold that the required voltage is both greater than a predetermined minimum voltage and less than a predetermined maximum voltage. If the voltage detector 304 determines at block 608 that the voltage supplied to the solenoid valve 102 meets the voltage threshold, then the control ​ of the example program 600 advances to block 610. If, instead, the voltage detector 304 determines at block 608 that the voltage supplied to the solenoid valve 102 does not meet the voltage threshold, then the control ​ of the example program 600 advances to block 616.

[0085] At block 610, ​ the current detector 306 determines whether the current drawn by ​ and ​ the solenoid valve 102 meets the current threshold. For example, the current detector 306 can determine that the current drawn by the solenoid valve 102 meets a first current threshold that the required current is less than a predetermined maximum current. As another example, the current detector 306 can determine that the current drawn by the solenoid valve 102 meets a second current threshold that the required current is greater than a predetermined minimum current. As another example, the current detector 306 can determine that the current drawn by the solenoid valve 102 meets a third current threshold that the required current is both greater than a predetermined minimum current and less than a predetermined maximum current. If the current detector 306 determines at block 610 that the current drawn by the solenoid valve 102 meets the current threshold, then the control ​ of the example program 600 advances to block 612. If, instead, the current detector 306 determines at block 610 that the current drawn by the solenoid valve 102 does not meet the current threshold, then the control ​ of the example program 600 advances to block 616.

[0086] At block 612, ​ the position detector 302 determines ​ and ​whether the core 212 of the solenoid valve 102 has moved by at least a position threshold change. In some examples, the position threshold change may correspond to a minimum position change of the core 212 of the solenoid valve 102, and the core 212 of the solenoid valve 102 exceeding the minimum position change is related to the solenoid valve test. In some examples, the position threshold change may correspond to a relatively small but detectable position change of the core 212 of the solenoid valve 102. For example, the position threshold change may correspond to ripples and / or undulations in the position data sensed and / or measured via the position sensor 220 of the solenoid valve 102. If ​ the position detector 302 determines at block 612 that the core 212 of the solenoid valve 102 has not moved by at least the position threshold change, then control ​ of the example program 600 advances to block 614. If, in contrast ​ the position detector 302 determines at block 612 that the core 212 of the solenoid valve 102 has moved by at least the position threshold change, then control ​ of the example program 600 advances to block 620.

[0087] At block 614, ​ the status manager 310 determines ​ whether the timer 312 has expired. For example, the status manager 310 may determine that a predetermined period, duration, and / or limit of the timing measurement of the timer 312 started at block 606 has expired and / or elapsed. If the status manager 310 determines at block 614 that the timer 312 has not expired, then control ​ of the example program 600 returns to block 612. If, in contrast, the status manager 310 determines at block 614 that the timer 312 has expired, then control ​ of the example program 600 advances to block 616.

[0088] At block 616, ​ the status manager 310 and / or more generally ​ and ​ the switch box 104 aborts the solenoid valve test. In some examples, ​ the status manager 310 aborts the solenoid valve test by ​ and ​ de-energizing the solenoid valve 102. For example, the status manager 310 may change the state of the solenoid valve 102 from an energized state (e.g., as initiated at block 604) (where the switch box 104 supplies power to the solenoid valve 102) back to a de-energized state (where the switch box 104 does not supply power to the solenoid valve 102). After block 616, control ​ of the example program 600 advances to block 618.

[0089] At block 618, ​The notification generator 314 generates an indication ​ and ​ that the solenoid valve 102 of ​ has failed the solenoid valve test. In some examples, the notification generated by the notification generator 314 at block 518 can additionally or alternatively indicate that the solenoid valve 102 is not operating properly. For example, the notification generated by the notification generator 314 at block 618 can indicate that the voltage supplied to the solenoid valve 102 does not meet the voltage threshold (e.g., as determined by ​ the voltage detector 304 of ​ at block 608), the current drawn by the solenoid valve 102 does not meet the current threshold (e.g., as determined by ​ the current detector 306 of ​ at block 610), or the core 212 of the solenoid valve 102 has not moved at least a position threshold change before the expiration of ​ the timer 312 of ​ (e.g., as determined by ​ the position detector 302, the state manager 310, and the timer 312 of ​ at blocks 612 and 614). In some examples, ​ and ​ the switch box 104 of ​ presents the notification generated by the notification generator 314 at block 618 via a display (e.g., an LCD screen) of the switch box 104. In other examples, ​ and ​ the switch box 104 of ​ additionally or alternatively transfers the notification generated by the notification generator 314 at block 618 from the switch box 104 to a control system (e.g., ​ the control system 116 of ​ ) operatively coupled to the switch box 104. After block 618, control ​ of the example program 600 of ​ advances to block 624.

[0090] At block 620, ​ the state manager 310 of ​ actuates ​ and ​ the solenoid valve 102 of ​ . For example, the state manager 310 can change the state of the solenoid valve 102 from an actuated state (e.g., as initiated at block 604) where the switch box 104 supplies power to the solenoid valve 102 back to a de-actuated state where the switch box 104 does not supply power to the solenoid valve 102. After block 620, control ​ of the example program 600 of ​ advances to block 622.

[0091] At block 622, ​ the notification generator 314 of ​ generates an indication ​ and ​Notification of the solenoid valve 102 passing the solenoid valve test. In some examples, the notification generated by the notification generator 314 at block 622 may additionally or alternatively indicate that the solenoid valve 102 is operating properly. For example, the notification generated by the notification generator 314 at block 622 may indicate that the voltage supplied to the solenoid valve 102 meets the voltage threshold (e.g., as determined by ​ the voltage detector 304 at block 608), the current drawn by the solenoid valve 102 meets the current threshold (e.g., as determined by ​ the current detector 306 at block 610), and / or the core 212 of the solenoid valve 102 has moved at least a position threshold change before the expiration of the timer 312 in ​ (e.g., as determined by the position detector 302, the state manager 310, and the timer 312 at blocks 612 and 614). In some examples, ​ the switch box 104 of ​ and ​ presents the notification generated by the notification generator 314 at block 622 via a display (e.g., an LCD screen) of the switch box 104. In other examples, ​ and ​ the switch box 104 of ​ additionally or alternatively transmits the notification generated by the notification generator 314 at block 622 from the switch box 104 to a control system (e.g., ​ the control system 116) operably coupled to the switch box 104. After block 622, the control

[0092] example program 600 advances to block 624. ​ At block 624, ​ the state manager 310 and / or more generally ​ the switch box 104 determines whether to test the solenoid valve 102 of ​ and ​ again. In some examples, the state manager 310 and / or the switch box 104 may (e.g., via ​ the input device(s) 322 of the user interface 316, or via ​ the receiver 328 of the network interface 318) receive one or more inputs, signals, commands, and / or instructions indicating that the solenoid valve 102 is to be tested again. In other examples, the state manager 310 and / or the switch box 104 may (e.g., via ​ the input device(s) 322 of the user interface 316, or via ​The receiver 328 of the network interface 318) receives one or more inputs, signals, commands, and / or instructions indicating that the solenoid valve 102 will no longer be tested. If the status manager 310 and / or the switch box 104 determine at block 624 that the solenoid valve 102 will be tested again, the control ​ The example program 600 returns to block 602. If, instead, the status manager 310 and / or the switch box 104 determine at block 624 that the solenoid valve 102 will no longer be tested, then ​ The example program 600 ends.

[0093] ​ is a block diagram of an example processor platform 700, and the exemplary processor platform 700 is constructed to execute ​ The first example machine-readable instructions 500 of and / or ​ The second example machine-readable instructions 600 of to implement ​ and ​ The example switch box 104 of. The illustrated example processor platform 700 includes a processor 702. The illustrated example processor 702 is hardware. For example, the processor 702 can be implemented by one or more integrated circuits, logic circuits, microprocessors, GPUs, DSPs, microcontrollers, processors, or microcontrollers from any desired family or manufacturer. The hardware processor can be a semiconductor (e.g., silicon-based) device. In this example, the processor 702 implements ​ The example position detector 302, the example voltage detector 304, the example current detector 306, the example pressure detector 308, the example status manager 310, the example timer 312, and the example notification generator 314 of.

[0094] The illustrated example processor 702 includes local memory 704 (e.g., cache). The processor 702 communicates via a bus 706 with ​ and ​ The example solenoid valve 102 of and ​ The example pressure sensor 114 of. The processor 702 also communicates via the bus 706 with a main memory (including volatile memory 708 and non-volatile memory 710). The volatile memory 708 can be implemented by synchronous dynamic random access memory (SDRAM), dynamic random access memory (DRAM), Dynamic random access memory and / or any other type of random access memory device. The non-volatile memory 710 can be implemented by flash memory and / or any other desired type of memory device. Access to the main memory 708, 710 is controlled by a memory controller. In ​ The illustrated example of, the volatile memory 708 and / or the non-volatile memory 710 implement ​Exemplary memory 320.

[0095] The illustrated example of the processor platform 700 also includes user interface circuitry 712. The user interface circuitry 712 can be implemented via any type of interface standard, e.g., an Ethernet interface, a Universal Serial Bus (USB), interface, a Near Field Communication (NFC) interface, and / or a PCI Express interface. In the illustrated example, ​ One or more input devices 322 of are connected to the user interface circuitry 712. The (multiple) input devices 322 allow a user to input data and / or commands into the processor 702. The (multiple) input devices 322 can be implemented, for example, via buttons, switches, knobs, touchscreens, audio sensors, and / or microphones. ​ One or more output devices 324 of are also connected to the illustrated example of the user interface circuitry 712. The (multiple) output devices 324 can be implemented, for example, via light-emitting diodes, touchscreens, and / or liquid crystal displays for presenting visual information, and / or speakers for presenting auditory information. Thus, the illustrated example of the user interface circuitry 712 generally includes a graphics driver card, a graphics driver chip, and / or a graphics driver processor. In the illustrated example, the (multiple) input devices 322, the (multiple) output devices 324, and the user interface circuitry 712 together implement ​ The example user interface 316 of.

[0096] The illustrated example of the processor platform 700 also includes network interface circuitry 714. The network interface circuitry 714 can be implemented via any type of interface standard, e.g., 4 - 20mA wiring and / or one or more communication protocols (including, for example, HART, TCP / IP, Foundation Fieldbus, Profinet, Modbus, and / or Ethernet). The network interface circuitry 714 can include a transmitter, a receiver, and / or a transceiver to facilitate data and / or signal exchange via the network 716 with external machines (e.g., servers, computing devices, etc.). In ​ The illustrated example of, the network interface circuitry 714 includes ​ The example transmitter 326 and the example receiver 328 of, and is configured to exchange data and / or signals via the network 716 with ​ The control system 116 of. As ​ shown, the transmitter 326, the receiver 328, and the network interface circuitry 714 together implement ​ The example network interface 318 of.

[0097] Includes ​ The first example machine-readable instructions 500 of and / or ​The encoded instructions 718 of the second example machine-readable instructions 600 may be stored in the local memory 704, volatile memory 708, non-volatile memory 710, and / or on a removable non-transitory computer-readable storage medium (e.g., a flash drive, CD, or DVD).

[0098] From the foregoing, it will be appreciated that methods and apparatuses for testing and / or evaluating the health and / or functionality of a solenoid valve in a manner that advantageously prevents an actuator and / or a main valve operably coupled to the solenoid valve from moving during and / or in response to a solenoid valve test have been disclosed. As a result, testing and / or evaluating a solenoid valve according to the example methods and apparatuses disclosed herein does not interfere with the normal and / or expected operation of the actuator and / or the main valve. In some of the disclosed examples, the health and / or functionality of the solenoid valve is tested and / or evaluated based on a plurality of measured parameters associated with the solenoid valve, the plurality of measured parameters including, for example, a measured position of the solenoid valve core, and one or more of the following: a measured voltage supplied to the solenoid valve, a measured current drawn by the solenoid valve, and / or a measured downstream pipeline pressure associated with the solenoid valve. In such multi-parameter examples, testing and / or evaluating the health and / or functionality of the solenoid valve via the example methods and apparatuses disclosed herein advantageously provides a relatively more comprehensive diagnostic analysis than the above-known methods for testing and / or evaluating the health and / or functionality of the solenoid valve.

[0099] In some examples, a switch box is disclosed. In some of the disclosed examples, the switch box includes a state manager, a position detector, and a notification generator. In some of the disclosed examples, the state manager is configured to change the excitation state of the solenoid valve between a first state and a second state in response to a start signal of a solenoid valve test. In some of the disclosed examples, the solenoid valve is operably coupled to the switch box. In some of the disclosed examples, the position detector is configured to determine whether the core of the solenoid valve has moved at least a position threshold change within a predetermined time period after the excitation state of the solenoid valve changes from the first state to the second state based on position data obtained from an integrated position sensor of the solenoid valve at the switch box. In some of the disclosed examples, the notification generator is configured to generate a notification in response to the position detector determining that the core has not moved at least the position threshold change within the predetermined time period. In some of the disclosed examples, the notification will indicate that the solenoid valve has failed the solenoid valve test.

[0100] In some of the disclosed examples, the state manager is configured to change the excitation state of the solenoid valve from the second state back to the first state in response to the position detector determining that the core has moved at least the position threshold change within the predetermined time period.

[0101] In some of the disclosed examples, the status manager is configured to initiate a timer of the switch box in response to a change in the energization state of the solenoid valve from a first state to a second state. In some of the disclosed examples, the timer has a duration corresponding to a predetermined time period.

[0102] In some of the disclosed examples, the status manager is configured to change the energization state of the solenoid valve from the second state back to the first state in response to the expiration of the duration of the timer.

[0103] In some of the disclosed examples, the duration of the timer is configured to expire before an actuator operably coupled to the solenoid valve moves in response to a change in the energization state of the solenoid valve from the first state to the second state.

[0104] In some of the disclosed examples, the first state is an energized state in which the switch box is configured to supply power to the solenoid valve, and the second state is a de-energized state in which the switch box is configured not to supply power to the solenoid valve.

[0105] In some of the disclosed examples, the first state is a de-energized state in which the switch box is configured not to supply power to the solenoid valve, and the second state is an energized state in which the switch box is configured to supply power to the solenoid valve.

[0106] In some of the disclosed examples, the notification is a first notification, and the notification generator is further configured to generate a second notification in response to the position detector determining that the core has moved at least a position threshold change within a predetermined time period. In some of the disclosed examples, the second notification indicates that the solenoid valve has passed a solenoid valve test.

[0107] In some of the disclosed examples, the notification is a first notification, and the notification generator is further configured to generate a second notification in response to the voltage detector of the switch box determining that the voltage supplied to the solenoid valve does not meet a voltage threshold. In some of the disclosed examples, the second notification indicates that the solenoid valve has failed a solenoid valve test.

[0108] In some of the disclosed examples, the notification is a first notification, and the notification generator is further configured to generate a second notification in response to the current detector of the switch box determining that the current drawn by the solenoid valve does not meet a current threshold. In some of the disclosed examples, the second notification indicates that the solenoid valve has failed a solenoid valve test.

[0109] In some of the disclosed examples, the switch box further includes a display configured to present the notification at the switch box.

[0110] In some of the disclosed examples, the switch box further includes a transmitter configured to transmit the notification from the switch box to a control system operably coupled to the switch box.

[0111] In some examples, a method is disclosed. In some of the disclosed examples, the method includes changing the excitation state of a solenoid valve between a first state and a second state via a switch box in response to a start signal for a solenoid valve test. In some of the disclosed examples, the solenoid valve is operably coupled to the switch box. In some of the disclosed examples, the method includes: at the switch box, determining, based on position data obtained from an integrated position sensor of the solenoid valve, whether the solenoid valve core has moved at least a position threshold change within a predetermined time period after the excitation state of the solenoid valve changes from the first state to the second state. In some of the disclosed examples, the method includes: in response to determining that the core has not moved at least the position threshold change within the predetermined time period, generating a notification at the switch box. In some of the disclosed examples, the notification indicates that the solenoid valve has failed the solenoid valve test.

[0112] In some of the disclosed examples, the method further includes: in response to determining that the core has moved at least the position threshold change within the predetermined time period, changing the excitation state of the solenoid valve from the second state back to the first state via the switch box.

[0113] In some of the disclosed examples, the method further includes: starting a timer of the switch box in response to the excitation state of the solenoid valve changing from the first state to the second state. In some of the disclosed examples, the timer has a duration corresponding to the predetermined time period.

[0114] In some of the disclosed examples, the method further includes changing the excitation state of the solenoid valve from the second state back to the first state via the switch box in response to the expiration of the duration of the timer.

[0115] In some of the disclosed method examples, the duration of the timer is configured to expire before an actuator operably coupled to the solenoid valve moves in response to the excitation state of the solenoid valve changing from the first state to the second state.

[0116] In some examples, a non - transitory computer - readable storage medium including instructions is disclosed. In some of the disclosed examples, the instructions, when executed, cause one or more processors of the switch box to change the excitation state of the solenoid valve between a first state and a second state in response to a start signal for a solenoid valve test. In some of the disclosed examples, the solenoid valve is operably coupled to the switch box. In some of the disclosed examples, the instructions, when executed, cause one or more processors of the switch box to determine, based on position data obtained from an integrated position sensor of the solenoid valve, whether the solenoid valve core has moved at least a position threshold change within a predetermined time period after the excitation state of the solenoid valve changes from the first state to the second state. In some of the disclosed examples, the instructions, when executed, cause one or more processors of the switch box to generate a notification in response to determining that the core has not moved at least the position threshold change within the predetermined time period. In some of the disclosed examples, the notification will indicate that the solenoid valve has failed the solenoid valve test.

[0117] In some of the disclosed examples, when executed, the instructions further cause one or more processors of the switch box to change the excitation state of the solenoid valve from the second state back to the first state in response to determining that the core has moved at least a position threshold change within a predetermined time period.

[0118] In some of the disclosed examples, when executed, the instructions further cause one or more processors of the switch box to start a timer in response to the excitation state of the solenoid valve changing from the first state to the second state. In some of the disclosed examples, the timer has a duration corresponding to the predetermined time period.

[0119] In some of the disclosed examples, when executed, the instructions further cause one or more processors of the switch box to change the excitation state of the solenoid valve from the second state back to the first state in response to the expiration of the duration of the timer.

[0120] In some of the disclosed examples of the non - transitory computer - readable storage medium, the duration of the timer is configured to expire before an actuator operatively coupled to the solenoid valve moves in response to the excitation state of the solenoid valve changing from the first state to the second state.

[0121] Although certain example methods, devices, and articles have been disclosed herein, the scope of this patent is not limited thereto. Instead, this patent covers all methods, devices, and articles that fall entirely within the scope of the claims of this patent.

Claims

1. A switch box, comprising: A state manager configured to change an excitation state of a solenoid valve between a first state and a second state in response to a start signal of a solenoid valve test, the solenoid valve being operably coupled to the switch box; A position detector configured to determine whether a core of the solenoid valve has moved at least a position threshold change within a predetermined period after the excitation state of the solenoid valve changes from the first state to the second state based on position data obtained from an integrated position sensor of the solenoid valve at the switch box; And A notification generator configured to generate a notification in response to the position detector determining that the core has not moved at least the position threshold change within the predetermined period, the notification indicating that the solenoid valve has failed the solenoid valve test, Wherein the state manager is configured to change the excitation state of the solenoid valve from the second state back to the first state in response to the position detector determining that the core has moved at least the position threshold change within the predetermined period.

2. The switch box according to claim 1, wherein the state manager is configured to start a timer of the switch box in response to the excitation state of the solenoid valve changing from the first state to the second state, the timer having a duration corresponding to the predetermined period.

3. The switch box according to claim 2, wherein the state manager is configured to change the excitation state of the solenoid valve from the second state back to the first state in response to the expiration of the duration of the timer.

4. The switch box according to claim 2, wherein the duration of the timer is configured to expire before an actuator operably coupled to the solenoid valve moves in response to the excitation state of the solenoid valve changing from the first state to the second state.

5. The switch box according to any one of claims 1 to 2, wherein the first state is an excitation state in which the switch box is configured to supply power to the solenoid valve, and the second state is a de-excitation state in which the switch box is configured not to supply power to the solenoid valve.

6. The switch box according to any one of claims 1 to 2, wherein the first state is a de-excitation state in which the switch box is configured not to supply power to the solenoid valve, and the second state is an excitation state in which the switch box is configured to supply power to the solenoid valve.

7. The switch box according to any one of claims 1 to 2, wherein the notification is a first notification, and wherein the notification generator is further configured to generate a second notification in response to the position detector determining that the core has moved at least a position threshold change within the predetermined period, the second notification indicating that the solenoid valve has passed the solenoid valve test.

8. The switch box according to any one of claims 1 to 2, wherein the notification is a first notification, and wherein the notification generator is further configured to generate a second notification in response to the voltage detector of the switch box determining that the voltage supplied to the solenoid valve does not meet a voltage threshold, the second notification indicating that the solenoid valve has failed the solenoid valve test.

9. The switch box according to any one of claims 1 to 2, wherein the notification is a first notification, and wherein the notification generator is further configured to generate a second notification in response to the current detector of the switch box determining that the current drawn by the solenoid valve does not meet a current threshold, the second notification indicating that the solenoid valve has failed the solenoid valve test.

10. The switch box according to any one of claims 1 to 2, further comprising a display configured to present the notification at the switch box.

11. The switch box according to any one of claims 1 to 2, further comprising a transmitter configured to transmit the notification from the switch box to a control system operably coupled to the switch box.

12. A method, comprising: Changing, in response to a start signal of a solenoid valve test, the excitation state of a solenoid valve between a first state and a second state via a switch box, the solenoid valve being operably coupled to the switch box; At the switch box, based on position data obtained from an integrated position sensor of the solenoid valve, determining whether a core of the solenoid valve has moved at least a position threshold change within a predetermined time period after the excitation state of the solenoid valve has changed from the first state to the second state; In response to determining that the core has moved at least the position threshold change within the predetermined time period, changing, via the switch box, the excitation state of the solenoid valve from the second state back to the first state; And At the switch box, generating a notification in response to determining that the core has not moved at least the position threshold change within the predetermined time period, the notification indicating that the solenoid valve has failed the solenoid valve test.

13. The method according to claim 12, further comprising starting a timer of the switch box in response to the excitation state of the solenoid valve changing from the first state to the second state, the timer having a duration corresponding to the predetermined time period.

14. The method according to claim 13, further comprising, in response to expiration of the duration of the timer, changing, via the switch box, the excitation state of the solenoid valve from the second state back to the first state.

15. The method according to claim 13, wherein the duration of the timer is configured to expire before an actuator operably coupled to the solenoid valve moves in response to the excitation state of the solenoid valve changing from the first state to the second state.

16. The method according to any one of claims 12 to 13, wherein the first state is an energized state in which the switch box supplies power to the solenoid valve, and the second state is a de-energized state in which the switch box does not supply power to the solenoid valve.

17. The method according to any one of claims 12 to 13, wherein the first state is a de-energized state in which the switch box does not supply power to the solenoid valve, and the second state is an energized state in which the switch box supplies power to the solenoid valve.

18. The method according to any one of claims 12 to 13, wherein the notification is a first notification, and the method further comprises generating, at the switch box, a second notification in response to determining that the core has moved at least a position threshold change within the predetermined time period, the second notification indicating that the solenoid valve has passed the solenoid valve test.

19. A non-transitory computer-readable storage medium comprising instructions that, when executed, cause one or more processors of a switch box to at least: in response to a start signal of a solenoid valve test, change an energization state of the solenoid valve between a first state and a second state, the solenoid valve being operably coupled to the switch box; based on position data obtained from an integrated position sensor of the solenoid valve, determine whether a core of the solenoid valve has moved at least a position threshold change within a predetermined time period after the energization state of the solenoid valve changes from the first state to the second state; in response to determining that the core has moved at least the position threshold change within the predetermined time period, change the energization state of the solenoid valve from the second state back to the first state; and generate a notification in response to determining that the core has not moved at least the position threshold change within the predetermined time period, the notification indicating that the solenoid valve has failed the solenoid valve test.

20. The non-transitory computer-readable storage medium according to claim 19, wherein the instructions, when executed, cause the one or more processors to start a timer in response to the energization state of the solenoid valve changing from the first state to the second state, the timer having a duration corresponding to the predetermined time period.

21. The non-transitory computer-readable storage medium according to claim 20, wherein the instructions, when executed, cause the one or more processors to change the energization state of the solenoid valve from the second state back to the first state in response to the expiration of the duration of the timer.

22. The non-transitory computer-readable storage medium according to claim 20, wherein the duration of the timer is configured to expire before an actuator operably coupled to the solenoid valve moves in response to the energization state of the solenoid valve changing from the first state to the second state.

Images