Method and apparatus for power selection

Abstract

Methods, devices, systems, and articles for power selection are disclosed, including evaluating a first power source to determine whether the first power source is available; evaluating a second power source to determine whether the second power source is available; selecting one of the first power source and the second power source when it is determined that the one power source is available; providing power to a sensor from the selected power source; and performing a diagnostic task based on input from the sensor.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates primarily to power sources, and more specifically, to power selection methods and apparatus. Background Technology

[0002] Industrial transmitters can measure and / or transmit physical characteristics (position, velocity, flow rate, pressure, temperature, etc.) associated with a device. The device may be a control valve, and the industrial transmitter is implemented on the control valve to measure the position of the valve stem. The measurements and / or diagnostics collected by the industrial transmitter can be sent to the control system for monitoring and controlling the control valve. Summary of the Invention

[0003] An example method for performing a diagnostic task includes: evaluating a first power source to determine if the first power source is available; evaluating a second power source to determine if the second power source is available; selecting the power source when it is determined that one of the first and second power sources is available; supplying power to a sensor from the selected power source; and performing the diagnostic task based on input from the sensor.

[0004] An example device includes a power selection controller for evaluating a first power source to determine if the first power source is available, evaluating a second power source to determine if the second power source is available, selecting the power source when it is determined that one of the first and second power sources is available; a power output for providing power from the selected power source to a sensor; and a diagnostic controller for performing diagnostic tasks based on input from the sensor.

[0005] An example non-transient computer-readable medium containing instructions that, when executed, cause a machine to evaluate a first power source to determine whether the first power source is available; when the first power source is determined to be unavailable, evaluate a second power source to determine whether the second power source is available; when one of the first and second power sources is determined to be available, select that power source; supply power to a sensor from the selected power source; and perform a diagnostic task based on input from the sensor. Attached Figure Description

[0006] Figure 1 An example system is shown, including an example valve, an example limit switch, an example valve controller, and an example diagnostic module that can be constructed according to the teachings of this disclosure.

[0007] Figure 2 Showing the ability to interact with Figure 1 An example of a mechanical limit switch implemented in conjunction with a limit switch.

[0008] Figure 3 It includes example diagnostic controllers. Figure 1 A block diagram of an example diagnostic module.

[0009] Figure 4 yes Figure 3 Here is a block diagram of an example diagnostic controller.

[0010] Figure 5 This is a flowchart representing machine-readable instructions that can be executed to achieve... Figure 1 and / or Figure 3 Example diagnostic modules and Figure 3 and / or Figure 4 An example diagnostic controller is provided to select a power source and perform diagnostic tasks.

[0011] Figure 6 This is a flowchart representing machine-readable instructions that can be executed to achieve... Figure 1 and / or Figure 3 Example diagnostic modules for selecting power sources.

[0012] Figure 7 It is constructed to execute Figure 5 And / or 6 instructions to achieve Figure 1 And / or 3 example diagnostic modules and / or Figure 3 A block diagram of an example processing platform for an example diagnostic controller and / or 4.

[0013] When identifying multiple elements or components that may be mentioned individually, this document uses descriptors such as “first,” “second,” “third,” etc. Unless otherwise stated or understood in the context of their use, such descriptors are not intended to assign any meaning to list priority, physical order or arrangement, or chronological order, but 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 detailed description, while the same element may be referred to in the claims by different descriptors, such as “second” or “third.” In such cases, it should be understood that such descriptors are only used for the convenience of referring to multiple elements or components. Detailed Implementation

[0014] Industrial transmitters (e.g., transmitters) can be implemented on a device to measure one or more physical characteristics associated with the device. These physical characteristics may include position, velocity, pressure, flow rate, temperature, etc. Furthermore, the transmitter can be configured to transmit the measured values ​​to a control system (e.g., a computer, remote user equipment, etc.) coupled to the device. The measured values ​​can be transmitted via analog signals, digital signals, and / or pneumatic signals. The control system can use the measured values ​​to control and / or monitor the device. In some applications, a transmitter (e.g., a position transmitter) can be coupled to a valve (e.g., a control valve) to measure the position of the valve stem. The control system coupled to the valve can determine whether the valve is open, closed, or partially open or partially closed based on the measured position received from the transmitter.

[0015] Valves can be additionally or alternatively coupled to one or more limit switches, typically including mechanical switches. These limit switches can be used to determine the valve's position. In some cases, a first limit switch indicates the valve is closed, while a second limit switch indicates the valve is open. Compared to industrial transmitters, mechanical limit switches generally require less wiring and electrical components, thus reducing installation costs. Typically, mechanical limit switches cannot collect diagnostic information associated with the valve. Such diagnostic information may include the duration required to move the valve from open to closed, the duration required to move the valve from closed to open, the number of times the valve has opened, the number of times the valve has closed, the duration of being in the open position, the duration of being in the closed position, etc.

[0016] The examples disclosed herein can collect diagnostic information associated with valves. This diagnostic information can be used to monitor valve performance and determine whether a valve requires maintenance and / or replacement. In some cases, diagnostic information can be collected for multiple valves, where the performance of each valve can vary. In some cases, some valves may operate more frequently (e.g., open and / or close) compared to others, and therefore may require more frequent and / or earlier maintenance compared to other valves that are operated less frequently. Typically, multiple valves are replaced simultaneously according to a time-based maintenance schedule. Thus, one or more valves may be replaced prematurely (e.g., before significant wear and / or use). Advantageously, the examples disclosed herein allow operators to identify a subset of valves with higher usage and / or wear based on diagnostic information. Therefore, the examples disclosed herein can allow operators to identify and replace only those valves that require maintenance, thereby reducing maintenance costs associated with valve replacement.

[0017] The examples disclosed herein can provide power to the example diagnostic module by selecting among multiple power sources. In the examples disclosed herein, the power source may include at least one of a 4 to 20 mA signal or a limit switch coupled to one or more additional power sources. In the examples disclosed herein, the diagnostic module can selectively switch between power sources based on the availability of the respective power sources. Therefore, the examples disclosed herein can operate without additional power sources and / or external power sources for individually powering the diagnostic module. Advantageously, the ability of the examples disclosed herein to switch among multiple power sources ensures that the diagnostic module can continue to operate in response to the failure and / or unavailability of one or more power sources.

[0018] Figure 1 An example control system 100 is shown, including an example valve 102, an example valve positioner 104 operatively coupled to an example actuator 106 of the valve 102, an example valve controller 108, and an example position transmitter 110. The example position transmitter 110 includes an example sensor (e.g., a Hall effect sensor) 112 operatively coupled to the valve 102, an example transmitter 114, example limit switches 116, 118, and an example diagnostic module 120, all capable of being constructed according to the teachings of this disclosure. The diagnostic module 120 is electrically and / or communicatively coupled to the sensor 112, the transmitter 114, and the limit switches 116, 118. Figure 1 In the example shown, the valve controller 108 includes: an example first power supply 122 configured to send an example continuous signal (e.g., a 4 to 20 mA signal) 124 to the valve positioner 104; and an example second power supply 126 configured to provide power to limit switches 116 and 118 via example power inputs 128A and 128B. Furthermore, the limit switches 116 and 118 are configured to output example discrete signals 130A and 130B to the valve controller 108.

[0019] exist Figure 1In the example shown, valve 102 can be controlled via a continuous signal 124 to switch between an open and closed position. The position of valve 102 is based on the current value of the continuous signal 124 sent by valve controller 108. For example, valve positioner 104 can switch valve 102 to the closed position in response to a 4mA continuous signal 124, and valve positioner 104 can switch valve 102 to the fully open position in response to a 20mA continuous signal 124. In some examples, valve 102 partially opens in response to a continuous signal 124 with a current value ranging from 4mA to 20mA. In some examples, valve positioner 104 converts the current value of continuous signal 124 into air pressure on actuator 106 of valve 102. For example, valve positioner 104 can increase the air pressure on actuator 106 in response to a current value of 20mA to fully open valve 102, and valve positioner 104 can decrease the air pressure on actuator 106 in response to a current value of 4mA to fully close valve 102. In some examples, valve 102 can be implemented on a fluid conduit to control the flow of fluid from a first position to a second position. Example valve 102 can be a ball valve, gate valve, butterfly valve, or any other type of valve.

[0020] Figure 1 The valve controller 108 can control the position of the valve 102. For example, the valve controller 108 can control the current value of a continuous signal 124 sent to the valve positioner 104, wherein the current value corresponds to the desired position of the valve 102. In some examples, the valve controller 108 includes an interface that can be operated by an operator to control the current value of the continuous signal 124 and / or the position of the valve 102. In other examples, the valve controller 108 can be communicatively coupled to a computer system (e.g., a remote desktop) and / or configured via a computer system (e.g., a remote desktop) at a location different from the position of the valve 102 and / or the valve controller 108. In some examples, the valve controller 108 uses a first power supply 122 to drive and / or generate the continuous signal 124. In some examples, the first power supply 122 is a battery (e.g., a 24V battery).

[0021] Position transmitter 110 is operatively coupled to valve 102 to measure the position and / or stroke of valve 102. Specifically, position transmitter 110 implements diagnostic module 120 to collect, store, and / or transmit diagnostic information associated with valve 102. For example, diagnostic module 120 is communicatively coupled to sensor 112, wherein sensor 112 is configured to measure the position and / or velocity associated with valve 102 and / or actuator 106. In some examples, diagnostic module 120 may power sensor 112 via example first wired connection 132 and may receive measurement data from sensor 112 via example second wired connection 134. In such examples, diagnostic module 120 may determine diagnostic information based on the measurement data collected by sensor 112. In some examples, diagnostic information may include at least one of the following: (i) the time required for valve 102 to move from fully open to closed (e.g., open-to-close time), (ii) the time required for valve 102 to move from closed to fully open (e.g., closed-to-open time), (iii) the number of times valve 102 moves from fully open to closed, (iv) the number of times valve 102 moves from closed to fully open, (v) the duration valve 102 is in the fully open position, and (vi) the duration valve 102 is in the closed position. In this example, diagnostic module 120 is communicatively coupled to transmitter 114 to transmit diagnostic information to a computer system via transmitter 114. In some examples, diagnostic module 120 may be communicatively coupled to a display to show diagnostic information to an operator. Furthermore, transmitter 114 provides an example continuous feedback signal 135 as feedback to a first power supply 122 to indicate the position of valve 102 to valve controller 108. In some examples, the current value of the continuous feedback signal 135 corresponds to the position of valve 102 (e.g., between fully open and closed).

[0022] exist Figure 1 In the example shown, limit switches 116 and 118 are operatively coupled to actuator 106 of valve 102. In some examples, limit switches 116 and 118 are configured to indicate whether valve 102 is in an extreme position (e.g., fully open and / or closed) based on the position of actuator 106. Alternatively, first limit switch 116 may be configured to indicate valve 102 is in a first position, and second limit switch 118 may be configured to indicate valve 102 is in a second position, wherein the first and second positions correspond to valve 102 being partially open (e.g., between fully open and closed). For example, limit switches 116 and 118 both include a normally open circuit having a mechanical switch coupled to actuator 106, wherein no current flows through the circuit when the circuit is open. Figure 1In the example shown, the first limit switch 116 is configured to detect whether valve 102 is closed, and the second limit switch 118 is configured to detect whether valve 102 is fully open. Thus, the first limit switch 116 is mechanically coupled to actuator 106, so that in response to valve 102 moving to the closed position, actuator 106 closes the circuit of the first limit switch 116. Similarly, the second limit switch 118 is mechanically coupled to actuator 106, so that in response to valve 102 moving to the fully open position, actuator 106 closes the circuit of the second limit switch 118.

[0023] In response to the closure of the first limit switch 116 and / or the second limit switch 118, current can flow through the first limit switch 116 to conduct a first discrete signal 130A to the valve controller 108 and / or through the second limit switch 118 to conduct a second discrete signal 130B to the valve controller 108. In such an example, the first discrete signal 130A can instruct the valve controller 108 to close the valve 102, and the second discrete signal 130B can instruct the valve controller 108 to fully open the valve 102. Alternatively, in response to the opening of the first limit switch and / or the second limit switch 118, a voltage potential across the second power supply 126 is available. In some examples, the first limit switch 116 and / or the second limit switch 118 can be coupled to one or more voltage sources other than the second power supply 126. In some such examples, the first limit switch 116 may be electrically coupled to and / or receive power from the first voltage source, and the second limit switch 118 may be electrically coupled to and / or receive power from the second voltage source, which is independent of the first voltage source.

[0024] exist Figure 1In the example shown, diagnostic module 120 does not include a power supply. Thus, diagnostic module 120 is configured to scavenge and / or draw power from one or more power sources in the control system 100 based on the availability of each power source. In some examples, example first power source 136 may be provided by continuous signal 124, example second power source 138 may be the output of first limit switch 116, and example third power source 140 may be the output of second limit switch 118. In some examples, additional power sources (e.g., a fourth power source, a fifth power source, etc.) may be used. In some examples, diagnostic module 120 selects an effective power source from first power source 136, second power source 138, and third power source 140 based on a predetermined sequence and / or the availability of each power source. For example, diagnostic module 120 may be configured to draw power from first power source 136 in response to determining that first power source 136 is available. In such examples, in response to determining that first power source 136 is unavailable, diagnostic module 120 may be configured to draw power from second power source 138. In addition, in response to determining that the second power source 138 is unavailable, the diagnostic module 120 can be configured to draw power from the third power source 140.

[0025] In some examples, the first power source 136 (e.g., continuous signal 124) may become unavailable in response to the wired connection between valve controller 108 and diagnostic module 120 becoming disconnected and / or otherwise failing. Additionally or alternatively, the first power source 136 may become unavailable in response to a software fault in valve controller 108 that causes a drop in current to continuous signal 124 (e.g., to 0 mA). In some examples, the second power source 138 is available in response to the first limit switch 116 closing, and unavailable in response to the first limit switch 116 opening. Similarly, in some examples, the third power source 140 is available in response to the second limit switch 118 closing, and unavailable in response to the second limit switch 118 opening. In some examples, the second power source 138 and / or the third power source 140 may become unavailable in response to damage to the second power supply 126 and / or the input / output card of the valve controller 108, resulting in an interruption of power output from the second power supply 126.

[0026] Figure 2 It can be shown that it can be made by Figure 1 Example circuit 200 (e.g., normally open circuit) implemented by example limit switches 116, 118. Figure 2 In the example shown, circuit 200 is described in conjunction with the first limit switch 116. However, circuit 200 can be similarly implemented in conjunction with the second limit switch 118. Figure 2In the example shown, circuit 200 includes circuitry operatively coupled to Figure 1 An example of actuator 106 is mechanical switch 202. In some examples, mechanical switch 202 is normally open when actuator 106 is not engaged and / or in contact with actuator 106. Thus, when mechanical switch 202 is open, current does not flow through circuit 200. As a result, input voltage and / or current are not transmitted to diagnostic module 120 or valve controller 108. Instead, when mechanical switch 202 is open, voltage potential is available across circuit 200.

[0027] In this example, actuator 106 can close mechanical switch 202 to allow current to flow through circuit 200. For example, first limit switch 116 is configured such that when valve 102 is in the closed position, actuator 106 engages mechanical switch 204 to close circuit 200. When circuit 200 is closed, current from the positive terminal of second power supply 126 is transmitted to first limit switch 116 as a first discrete signal 130A, and current from first limit switch 116 is transmitted to ground terminal of second power supply 126 as a second discrete signal 130B. In some examples, the second discrete signal 130B at second power supply 126 can indicate to valve controller 108 that valve 102 is in the closed position. Furthermore, when circuit 200 is closed, diagnostic module 120 can draw power from first limit switch 116 to power one or more operations of diagnostic module 120. For example, some current flowing between the positive terminal and ground terminal of second power supply 126 can flow to diagnostic module 120. In such an example, the current from the first limit switch 116 at the diagnostic module 120 can indicate to the diagnostic module 120 that the valve 102 is in the closed position.

[0028] Figure 3 yes Figure 1 A block diagram of an example diagnostic module 120, configured to collect, store, and transmit data with... Figure 1 Diagnostic information associated with valve 102. Figure 3 In the example shown, the diagnostic module 120 includes one or more example input interfaces 302, example power selection controller 304, example diagnostic controller 306, example sensor controller 308, example communication interface 310, example diagnostic module database 312, and example power output 314.

[0029] exist Figure 3 In the example shown, input interface 302 is configured to receive input from the user (e.g., an operator) of diagnostic module 120 and / or more generally, from... Figure 1The control system 100 receives input. In some examples, the input interface 302 is configured to receive commands from a user via a computer system communicatively coupled to the input interface 302. In such examples, the computer system may be coupled to the input interface 302 via a wireless or wired connection. In some examples, the input interface 302 may be coupled to one or more physical actuators (e.g., knobs, buttons, levers, dials, etc.), which are coupled to the diagnostic module 120. In some such examples, a user can control one or more characteristics associated with the control system 100 in response to the operation of one or more physical actuators.

[0030] exist Figure 3 In the example shown, the power selection controller 304 selects an effective power source to provide power to the diagnostic module 120. For example, the power selection controller 304 selects the first power source 136 (e.g., from a predetermined order and / or based on the availability of each power source) based on a predetermined sequence. Figure 1 The continuous signal 124), the second power source 138 (e.g. from...) Figure 1 The first limit switch 116) and the third power source 140 (e.g. from Figure 1 The power selection controller 304 is configured to select and / or draw power from a first power source 136 in response to determining that the first power source 136 is available. Alternatively, in response to determining that the first power source 136 is unavailable, the power selection controller 304 is configured to select and / or draw power from a second power source 138. Furthermore, in response to determining that the second power source 138 is unavailable, the power selection controller 304 is configured to select and / or draw power from a third power source 140. In some examples, one or more additional power sources are available. In such examples, the power selection controller 304 is configured to select among one or more additional power sources when the first power source 136, the second power source 138, and the third power source 140 are unavailable.

[0031] In some examples, the power selection controller 304 may determine that the first power source 136, the second power source 138, and / or the third power source 140 are available in response to the current from the selected power source meeting a threshold (e.g., a current threshold). For example, the power selection controller 304 measures a first current from the first power source 136, a second current from the second power source 138, and a third current from the third power source 140. In some examples, the power selection controller 304 determines that the first power source 136 is available in response to the first current exceeding a first current threshold. Similarly, the power selection controller 304 determines that the second power source 138 is available in response to the second current exceeding a second current threshold. Furthermore, the power selection controller 304 determines that the third power source 140 is available in response to the third current exceeding a third current threshold. In some examples, the first current threshold, the second current threshold, and the third current threshold may be the same threshold or may be different thresholds. In some examples, the second current threshold and the third current threshold are 1mA. In some such examples, the power selection controller 304 draws less than 1mA of current from the second power source 138 and / or the third power source 140.

[0032] exist Figure 3 In the example shown, the diagnostic controller 306 collects and / or analyzes diagnostic information associated with valve 102. For example, in response to receiving diagnostic information from... Figure 1 Based on the measurement results collected by sensor 112, diagnostic controller 306 determines and / or counts one or more diagnostic parameters associated with the performance of valve 102. Diagnostic parameters may include at least one of the following: the time required to open and / or close valve 102, the number of times valve 102 has been opened and / or closed, or the duration for which valve 102 has been open and / or closed. (The following is in conjunction with...) Figure 4 The calculation of diagnostic parameters by the diagnostic controller 306 is further described.

[0033] exist Figure 3 In the example shown, sensor controller 308 controls Figure 1 Sensor 112. For example, sensor controller 308 is communicatively coupled to sensor 112 to receive one or more signals from sensor 112. In some examples, sensor controller 308 may determine whether valve 102 is open or closed based on one or more signals. In some examples, sensor controller 308 may determine the position and / or velocity associated with valve 102 and / or actuator 106 based on one or more signals. In some examples, sensor controller 308 may send sensor data to diagnostic controller 306 based on one or more signals for processing the sensor data. Furthermore, example sensor controller 308 may be configured to calibrate and / or recalibrate sensor 112 in response to commands from a user input via input interface 302.

[0034] exist Figure 3 In the illustrated example, communication interface 310 is configured to communicate with one or more external computer systems. For example, communication interface 310 may send reports generated by diagnostic controller 306 to one or more external computer systems, wherein the reports include diagnostic information determined by diagnostic controller 306. In some examples, communication interface 310 may send sensor data to one or more external computer systems, wherein the sensor data is raw data (e.g., data not processed by diagnostic controller 306). In some examples, communication interface 310 may be configured to send reports periodically or in response to commands from a user. In such examples, communication interface 310 may be configured to receive instructions and / or commands from a user via wireless signals. In some examples, communication interface 310 may be configured to send and / or receive sensor data and / or diagnostic information via a transmitter (e.g., an RF transmitter). Additionally or alternatively, communication interface 310 may display sensor data and / or diagnostic information to a user via a user interface. In some examples, the transmitter and / or user interface may be powered by a first power source 136, a second power source 138, and / or a third power source 140 selected by the power selection controller 304.

[0035] exist Figure 3 In the example shown, the diagnostic module database 312 stores diagnostic information generated by the diagnostic controller 306. In some examples, the diagnostic module database 312 may store sensor data from the sensor 112 that has not yet been processed by the diagnostic controller 306. Figure 3 The example diagnostic module database 312 is implemented using any memory, storage device, and / or disk for storing data, such as flash memory, magnetic media, optical media, solid-state storage, hard disk, thumb drive, etc. Furthermore, the data stored in the example diagnostic module database 312 can be in any data format, such as binary data, comma-separated data, tag-separated data, Structured Query Language (SQL) structures, etc. Although the example diagnostic module database 312 is shown as a single device in the illustrated example, the example diagnostic module database 312 and / or any other data storage devices described herein can be implemented using any number and / or any (one or more) types of memory.

[0036] exist Figure 3In the example shown, power output 314 provides power to sensor 112. For example, power output 314 directs power to sensor 112 from at least one of a first power source 136, a second power source 138, or a third power source 140, based on a power source selected by power selection controller 304. In some examples, power output 314 may be configured to output power to one or more additional components (e.g., a second sensor) that can be coupled to diagnostic module 120. Additionally or alternatively, sensor 112 may be powered by a separate power source (e.g., a battery) coupled to sensor 112.

[0037] Figure 4 Shown by Figure 1 , Figure 2 and / or Figure 3 The diagnostic module 120 implements this. Figure 3 Example diagnostic controller 306. Example diagnostic controller 306 is configured to be based on... Figure 1 Sensor 112 collects sensor data, and collects and / or analyzes it. Figure 1 Diagnostic information associated with valve 102. Figure 4 In the example shown, the example diagnostic controller 306 includes an example position determiner 402, an example valve speed determiner 404, an example position-time determiner 406, and an example cycle counter 408.

[0038] exist Figure 4 In the example shown, the position determiner 402 is based on data from... Figure 1 The sensor data of sensor 112 is used to determine Figure 1 The position of valve 102 and / or actuator 106. For example, position determiner 402 may determine that valve 102 is open based on a first signal from sensor 112, and position determiner 402 may determine that valve 102 is closed based on a second signal from sensor 112. In some examples, position determiner 402 may determine that valve 102 is in a position between fully open and closed based on one or more third signals from sensor 112. In some examples, position determiner 402 may report the determined position of valve 102 to example valve speed determiner 404, example position time determiner 406, and / or example cycle counter 408. Additionally or alternatively, position determiner 402 may indicate Figure 3 The diagnostic module database 312 stores the determined location and the time when that location was determined. In some examples, sensor 112 includes at least one of a Hall effect sensor and a magnet, or includes a potentiometer for determining the position of valve 102.

[0039] exist Figure 4In the example shown, valve speed determiner 404 is configured to determine the speed of valve 102 and / or actuator 106. For example, valve speed determiner 404 receives from position determiner 402 a determined position of valve 102 and the time corresponding to each determined position. In such examples, based on the determined position and its corresponding time, valve speed determiner 404 determines the speed at which valve 102 moves between an open position and a closed position. Additionally or alternatively, valve speed determiner 404 determines the speed of valve 102 based on speed measurements obtained by sensor 112. In some examples, based on the determined position and its time, valve speed determiner 404 determines the time required for valve 102 to move from a fully open position to a closed position (e.g., open-to-close time). Additionally or alternatively, based on the determined position and its time, valve speed determiner 404 determines the time required for valve 102 to move from a closed position to an open position (e.g., closed-to-open time). In some such examples, valve speed determiner 404 may store the determined time required to open and / or close valve 102 in diagnostic module database 312.

[0040] exist Figure 4 In the example shown, the position-time determiner 406 determines the duration for which valve 102 is in a given position. For example, the position-time determiner 406 receives from the position determiner 402 the determined positions of valve 102 and the time corresponding to each determined position. In such examples, based on the determined positions and their times, the position-time determiner 406 determines the duration for which valve 102 was last in the fully open position, and / or the duration for which valve 102 was last in the closed position. Additionally or alternatively, the position-time determiner 406 determines the total duration for which valve 102 is in the fully open position, and / or the total duration for which valve 102 is in the closed position, based on the determined positions and their times. In some such examples, the position-time determiner 406 may store the durations and / or the total durations in the diagnostic module database 312.

[0041] exist Figure 4 In the example shown, cycle counter 408 determines the number of times valve 102 moves between the fully open and closed positions (e.g., cycle count). In such examples, a cycle refers to the movement of valve 102 from the fully open position to the closed position, or from the closed position to the fully open position. For example, cycle counter 408 receives determined positions of valve 102 and the corresponding time for each determined position from position determiner 402. In such examples, based on the determined positions and their times, cycle counter 408 determines the number of times valve 102 moves from the fully open position to the closed position, and / or the number of times valve 102 moves from the closed position to the fully open position. In some examples, cycle counter 408 may store the determined cycle count in diagnostic module database 312.

[0042] exist Figure 4 In the example shown, the information determined by position determiner 402, valve speed determiner 404, position-time determiner 406, and / or cycle counter 408 corresponds to diagnostic information associated with valve 102. Additionally or alternatively, the diagnostic information may include other measured and / or determined characteristics associated with valve 102. For example, the diagnostic information may include the duration of valve 102 in its current position, the duration of valve 102 in a previous position, the time required to open and / or close valve 102, and / or the ambient temperature near valve 102. In some examples, the diagnostic information may be stored in the diagnostic module database 312 and / or reported to the user via a report generated through communication interface 310.

[0043] In the examples disclosed herein, example diagnostic module 120 and / or example diagnostic controller 306 are implemented using logic circuitry, such as a hardware processor. However, any other type of circuitry, such as one or more analog or digital circuits, logic circuits, programmable processors, application-specific integrated circuits (ASICs), programmable logic devices (PLDs), field-programmable logic devices (FPLDs), digital signal processors (DSPs), graphics processing units (GPUs), etc., may be used additionally or alternatively.

[0044] Although Figure 3 and / or Figure 4 The implementation is shown in the figure. Figure 1 The example method of the diagnostic module 120, but Figure 3 and / or Figure 4 One or more elements, processes, and / or devices shown may be combined, divided, rearranged, omitted, eliminated, and / or implemented in any other way. Furthermore, Figure 1Example input interface 302, example power selection controller 304, example diagnostic controller 306, example sensor controller 308, example communication interface 310, example diagnostic module database 312, example power output 314, example position determiner 402, example valve speed determiner 404, example position time determiner 406, example cycle counter 408, and / or more generally, example diagnostic module 120 can be implemented by hardware, software, firmware, and / or any combination of hardware, software, and / or firmware. Therefore, for example, any one of the following: example input interface 302, example power selection controller 304, example diagnostic controller 306, example sensor controller 308, example communication interface 310, example diagnostic module database 312, example power output 314, example position determiner 402, example valve speed determiner 404, example position time determiner 406, example cycle counter 408, and / or more generally, example diagnostic module 120, 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 device or system claim of this patent that covers pure software and / or firmware implementation, at least one of the following is expressly defined herein as including non-transient computer-readable storage devices or storage disks, such as memory including software and / or firmware, digital versatile discs (DVDs), optical discs (CDs), Blu-ray discs, etc. Additionally, except... Figure 3 and / or Figure 4 In addition to those shown in the text, Figure 1 The example diagnostic module 120 may also include one or more other elements, processes, and / or devices, and / or may include more than one of any or all of the elements, processes, and devices shown. As used herein, the phrase “communication” includes its variations, covering direct communication and / or indirect communication via one or more intermediate components, and does not require direct physical (e.g., wired) communication and / or continuous communication, but additionally includes selective communication at periodic intervals, scheduling intervals, non-periodic intervals, and / or one-off events.

[0045] Figure 5 and / or Figure 6 The diagram shows the representation used for implementation. Figure 1The diagnostic module 120 includes example hardware logic, machine-readable instructions, hardware-implemented state machines, and / or any combination thereof, as shown in the flowchart. Machine-readable instructions can be used by a computer processor and / or processor circuitry (e.g., in conjunction with the following). Figure 7 The processor 712 shown in the example processor platform 700 discussed executes one or more executable programs or one or more portions of executable programs. The program may be contained in software stored on a non-transitory computer-readable storage medium, including media such as CD-ROMs, floppy disks, hard disks, DVDs, Blu-ray discs, or memory associated with the processor 712, but the entire program and / or portions thereof may be executed by a device other than the processor 712 and / or by means of embedded firmware or dedicated hardware. Furthermore, although references... Figure 5 and / or Figure 6 The flowchart shown describes the example program, but many other methods can be used to implement the example diagnostic module 120. For example, the execution order of the boxes can be changed, and / or some of the boxes described can be modified, eliminated, or combined. Additionally or alternatively, any or all boxes 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 (op-amps), logic circuits, etc.) configured to perform the corresponding operations without executing software or firmware. Processor circuitry can be distributed across different network locations and / or local to one or more devices (e.g., multi-core processors in a single machine, multiple processors distributed across a server rack, etc.).

[0046] The machine-readable instructions described herein can be stored in one or more formats, such as compressed formats, encrypted formats, segmented formats, compiled formats, executable formats, and encapsulated formats. As described herein, machine-readable instructions can be stored as data or data structures (e.g., partial instructions, code, code expressions, etc.) that can be used to create, manufacture, and / or generate machine-executable instructions. For example, machine-readable instructions can be segmented and stored on one or more storage devices and / or computing devices (e.g., servers) located at the same or different locations within a network or network set (e.g., in the cloud, at an edge device, etc.). Machine-readable instructions may require one or more of the following operations: installation, modification, adaptation, updating, combination, supplementation, configuration, decryption, decompression, unpacking, distribution, reallocation, compilation, etc., so that they can be directly read, interpreted, and / or executed by computing devices and / or other machines. For example, machine-readable instructions can be stored in multiple parts, which are individually compressed, encrypted, and stored on separate computing devices, wherein, when decrypted, decompressed, and combined, the parts form an executable instruction set that can together form one or more functions such as the program described herein.

[0047] In another example, machine-readable instructions may be stored in a state that can be read by processor circuitry, but require the addition of libraries (e.g., dynamic link libraries (DLLs)), software development kits (SDKs), application programming interfaces (APIs), etc., to execute the instructions on a specific computing device or other device. In yet another example, the machine-readable instructions may need to be configured (e.g., storage settings, data input, recording network addresses, etc.) before they can be executed, wholly or partially. Therefore, machine-readable media as used herein may include machine-readable instructions and / or programs, regardless of their specific format or state when stored or otherwise refurbished or transported.

[0048] The machine-readable instructions described in this article can be expressed in any past, present, or future instruction language, scripting language, programming language, etc. For example, machine-readable instructions can be expressed in any of the following languages: C, C++, Java, C#, Perl, Python, JavaScript, Hypertext Markup Language (HTML), Structured Query Language (SQL), Swift, etc.

[0049] As mentioned above, Figure 5 and / or Figure 6 The example process can be implemented using executable instructions (e.g., computer and / or machine-readable instructions) stored on non-transient computer and / or machine-readable media, such as hard disk drives, flash memory, read-only memory, optical disks, digital multifunction disks, caches, random access memory, and / or any other storage device or disk in which information is stored for any duration (e.g., extended time period, permanent storage, transient storage, temporary buffer, and / or information cache). As used herein, the term non-transient computer-readable media is explicitly defined to include any type of computer-readable storage device and / or disk, excluding propagation signals and transmission media.

[0050] "Including" and "comprising" (and all their forms and tenses) are used herein as open-ended terms. Therefore, whenever a claim uses any form of "include" or "comprise" (e.g., includes, includes, including, comprising, having, etc.) in the preamble or in any type of claim statement, it should be understood that additional elements, terms, etc., may be present without departing from the scope of the corresponding claim or reference. As used herein, when the phrase "at least" is used as a transitional term in the preamble of a claim (e.g.), it ends in the same open-ended manner as the terms "comprising" and "including". The term "and / or" when used in the form of, for example, A, B, and / or C, refers to any combination or subset of A, B, C, such as (1) A alone, (2) B alone, (3) C alone, (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 structures, components, items, objects, and / or things, 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 structures, components, items, objects, and / or things, 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 in the context of describing the performance or execution of processes, instructions, actions, activities, and / or steps, 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 performance or execution of processes, instructions, actions, activities and / or steps, 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.

[0051] As used herein, singular references (e.g., “a,” “an,” “first,” “second,” etc.) do not exclude plurals. As used herein, the term “a” or “an” refers to one or more of that entity. The terms “a” (or “an”), “one or more,” and “at least one” are used interchangeably herein. Furthermore, although listed separately, multiple means, elements, or method actions may be implemented by, for example, a single unit or processor. Moreover, while individual features may be included in different examples or claims, they may be combined, and inclusion in different examples or claims does not imply that the combination of features is impractical and / or disadvantageous.

[0052] Figure 5 This is a flowchart representing machine-readable instruction 500, which can be executed to implement... Figure 1 , Figure 2 and / or Figure 3 Example diagnostic module 120 and Figure 3 and / or Figure 4 Example diagnostic controller 306 is used to select a power source and perform diagnostic tasks. Figure 5 In the middle, the instruction begins at the diagnostic module 120 coupled to Figure 1 The valve 102, the first limit switch 116, the second limit switch 118 and the valve controller 108.

[0053] In box 502, example diagnostic module 120 selects and / or evaluates a power source, as shown below. Figure 6 As described. For example, the example power selection controller 304 selects a power source from a first power source 136, a second power source 138, and a third power source 140, which correspond to a valve controller 108, a first limit switch 116, and a second limit switch 118, respectively.

[0054] In box 504, example diagnostic module 120 retrieves one or more sensor inputs. For example, Figure 3 Example sensor controller 308 from Figure 1 The sensor 112 receives one or more signals. In some examples, the example sensor controller 308 determines sensor data based on one or more signals, wherein the sensor data includes at least one of the position of valve 102 and the time corresponding to the position.

[0055] In box 506, example diagnostic module 120 performs diagnostic tasks, including determining at least one of cycle count, opening and / or closing time, or valve speed. For example, in response to a diagnostic task including determining cycle count, Figure 4Example cycle counter 408 determines the number of times valve 102 has been opened and / or closed based on sensor data from sensor controller 308. In some examples, in response to diagnostic tasks, this includes determining the opening and / or closing times. Figure 4 Example position-time determiner 406 determines the duration for which valve 102 has been in the open and / or closed position. In some examples, in response to diagnostic tasks, this includes determining the valve speed. Figure 4 The example valve speed determiner 404 determines the time required to move valve 102 between the open and closed positions. In other examples, the diagnostic module 120 can determine other diagnostic information.

[0056] In block 508, example diagnostic module 120 outputs the diagnostic information determined at block 506. For example, example communication interface 310 generates a report including the diagnostic information determined at block 506, wherein the diagnostic information includes at least one of cycle counts associated with valve 102, opening and / or closing time measurements, or valve speed. In some such examples, communication interface 310 outputs the diagnostic information to a user via communication coupled to one or more external computer systems of diagnostic module 120.

[0057] In box 510, example diagnostic module 120 determines whether to perform another diagnostic task. For example, in response to diagnostic controller 306 determining that another diagnostic task should be performed (e.g., a "yes" result is returned at box 510), control proceeds to box 512. Alternatively, in response to diagnostic controller 306 determining that another diagnostic task does not need to be performed (e.g., a "no" result is returned at box 510), control returns to box 506.

[0058] In box 512, diagnostic module 120 determines whether monitoring should continue. For example, in response to sensor controller 308 determining that more sensor data should be received from sensor 112 (e.g., a "yes" result is returned at box 512), control returns to box 504. Alternatively, in response to sensor controller 308 determining that no more sensor data should be received from sensor 112 (e.g., a "no" result is returned at box 512), the control flow ends.

[0059] Figure 6 This is a flowchart representing machine-readable instruction 600, which can be executed to implement... Figure 1 , Figure 2 and / or Figure 3 Example diagnostic module 120, for selecting power source, with Figure 5 Related to box 502. Example instruction 600 is included. Figure 3 The example power selection controller 304 in the example is used to select and / or evaluate available power sources from one or more power sources.

[0060] In box 602, diagnostic module 120 determines whether the first power source 136 is available. In some examples, the first power source 136 is Figure 1 Example valve controller 108 and / or example continuous signal 124. For example, in response to determining that valve controller 108 and / or example continuous signal 124 are wired and / or connected to diagnostic module 120 and are available to provide power to diagnostic module 120, power selection controller 304 determines that first power source 136 is available. In some examples, in response to a connection failure and / or disconnection between diagnostic module 120 and valve controller 108, power selection controller 304 determines that first power source 136 is unavailable. For example, in response to power selection controller 304 determining that first power source 136 is available (e.g., a return result of "Yes" at block 602), control proceeds to block 604. Alternatively, in response to power selection controller 304 determining that first power source 136 is unavailable (e.g., a return result of "No" at block 602), control proceeds to block 606.

[0061] In box 604, example diagnostic module 120 selects and uses a first power source 136. For example, power selection controller 304 selects the first power source 136 (e.g., from valve controller 108) to provide power to diagnostic module 120.

[0062] In box 606, diagnostic module 120 determines whether the second power source 138 is available. In some examples, the second power source 138 is... Figure 1 Example: First limit switch 116. For example, in response to determining that the first limit switch 116 is wired and / or connected to diagnostic module 120 and is available to provide power to diagnostic module 120, power selection controller 304 determines that second power source 138 is available. For example, in response to power selection controller 304 determining that second power source 138 is available (e.g., the return result at block 606 is "Yes"), control proceeds to block 608. Alternatively, in response to power selection controller 304 determining that second power source 138 is unavailable (e.g., the return result at block 606 is "No"), control proceeds to block 610.

[0063] In box 608, example diagnostic module 120 selects and uses a second power source 138. For example, power selection controller 304 selects the second power source 138 (e.g., from the first limit switch 116) to provide power to diagnostic module 120.

[0064] In box 610, diagnostic module 120 determines whether the third power source 140 is available. In some examples, the third power source 140 is... Figure 1Example: Second limit switch 118. For example, in response to determining that the second limit switch 118 is wired and / or connected to diagnostic module 120 and is available to provide power to diagnostic module 120, power selection controller 304 determines that third power source 140 is available. For example, in response to power selection controller 304 determining that third power source 140 is available (e.g., the return result at block 610 is "Yes"), control proceeds to block 612. Alternatively, in response to power selection controller 304 determining that third power source 140 is unavailable (e.g., the return result at block 610 is "No"), control proceeds to block 614.

[0065] In box 612, example diagnostic module 120 selects and uses a third power source 140. For example, power selection controller 304 selects the third power source 140 (e.g., from the second limit switch 118) to provide power to diagnostic module 120.

[0066] In box 614, diagnostic module 120 determines whether one or more additional power sources are available. In some examples, the additional power source may include a battery. For example, in response to power selection controller 304 determining that at least one additional power source is available (e.g., a return result of "Yes" at box 614), control proceeds to box 616. Alternatively, in response to power selection controller 304 determining that an additional power source is unavailable (e.g., a return result of "No" at box 614), control returns to box 502.

[0067] In box 616, example diagnostic module 120 selects and uses at least one additional power source. For example, power selection controller 304 selects at least one additional power source (e.g., a battery) to provide power to diagnostic module 120. Control returns to box 502.

[0068] Figure 7 It is constructed to execute Figure 5 And / or 6 instructions to achieve Figure 3 The example diagnostic module 120 is a block diagram of an example processor platform 700. The processor platform 700 can be, for example, a server, a personal computer, a workstation, a self-learning machine (e.g., a neural network), or a mobile device (e.g., a cellular phone, a smartphone, or an iPad). TM (Tablet computer) or any other type of computing device.

[0069] The processor platform 700 shown in the example includes a processor 712. The processor 712 shown in the example is hardware. For example, the processor 712 may be implemented by one or more integrated circuits, logic circuits, microprocessors, GPUs, DSPs, or controllers from any desired family or manufacturer. The hardware processor may be a semiconductor-based (e.g., silicon-based) device. In this example, the processor 712 implements an example input interface 302, an example power selection controller 304, an example diagnostic controller 306, an example sensor controller 308, an example communication interface 310, an example diagnostic module database 312, an example power output 314, an example position determiner 402, an example valve speed determiner 404, an example position-time determiner 406, and an example cycle counter 408.

[0070] The processor 712 in the illustrated example includes local memory 713 (e.g., a cache). The processor 712 in the illustrated example communicates via bus 718 with main memory, which includes volatile memory 714 and non-volatile memory 716. The volatile memory 714 may be synchronous dynamic random access memory (SDRAM), dynamic random access memory (DRAM), etc. Dynamic Random Access Memory And / or any other type of random access memory device. The non-volatile memory 716 can be implemented by flash memory and / or any other desired type of memory device. Access to the main memory 714, 716 is controlled by the memory controller.

[0071] The processor platform 700 shown in the example also includes interface circuitry 720. Interface circuitry 720 can be implemented using any type of interface standard, such as an Ethernet interface, Universal Serial Bus (USB), or Bluetooth. Interfaces, Near Field Communication (NFC) interfaces, and / or PCI Express interfaces.

[0072] In the illustrated example, one or more input devices 722 are connected to interface circuitry 720. Input devices 722 allow a user to input data and / or commands into processor 712. Input devices may be implemented as, for example, audio sensors, microphones, cameras (still or video), keyboards, buttons, mice, touchscreens, trackpads, tracking balls, isopoints, and / or voice recognition systems.

[0073] One or more output devices 724 are also connected to the interface circuitry 720 of the illustrated example. The output devices 724 may be implemented, for example, by a display device (e.g., a light-emitting diode (LED), an organic light-emitting diode (OLED), a liquid crystal display (LCD), a cathode ray tube display (CRT), an in-place switching (IPS) display, a touchscreen, etc.), a haptic output device, a printer, and / or a speaker. Therefore, the interface circuitry 720 of the illustrated example typically includes a graphics driver card, a graphics driver chip, and / or a graphics driver processor.

[0074] The interface circuit 720 of the example shown also includes communication devices, such as a transmitter, receiver, transceiver, modem, residential gateway, wireless access point, and / or network interface, to facilitate the exchange of data with external machines (such as any kind of computing device) via network 726. Communication can be carried out via, for example, Ethernet connections, digital subscriber line (DSL) connections, telephone line connections, coaxial cable systems, satellite systems, fieldline wireless systems, cellular telephone systems, etc.

[0075] The processor platform 700 shown in the example also includes one or more mass storage devices 728 for storing software and / or data. Examples of such mass storage devices 728 include floppy disk drives, hard disk drives, compact disk drives, Blu-ray disc drives, redundant array of independent disks (RAID) systems, and digital multifunction disc (DVD) drives.

[0076] Figure 5 and / or Figure 6 The machine-executable instructions 732 can be stored in a mass storage device 728, a volatile memory 714, a non-volatile memory 716, and / or a removable, non-transient computer-readable storage medium such as a CD or DVD.

[0077] As will be understood from the foregoing, example methods, apparatus, and articles of manufacture have been disclosed for selecting a power source to perform one or more diagnostic tasks. By selecting from one or more existing power sources based on the availability of individual power sources, the disclosed methods, apparatus, and articles of manufacture enable a computing device to continuously (e.g., uninterruptedly) perform valve-related diagnostic tasks, thereby improving the efficiency of the computing device. The disclosed methods, apparatus, and articles of manufacture can be implemented on existing valve control systems to utilize the existing power sources of the valve control system, thus eliminating the need to implement a separate power source to power the diagnostic module. Therefore, the disclosed methods, apparatus, and articles of manufacture target one or more improvements to computer functionality.

[0078] This document discloses example methods, apparatuses, systems, and artifacts for selecting a power source to perform one or more diagnostic tasks. Other examples and combinations thereof include:

[0079] Example 1 includes a method for performing a diagnostic task. The method of Example 1 includes evaluating a first power source to determine if the first power source is available; evaluating a second power source to determine if the second power source is available; selecting a power source when it is determined that one of the first and second power sources is available; supplying power from the selected power source to a sensor; and performing a diagnostic task based on input from the sensor.

[0080] Example 2 includes the method of Example 1, wherein at least one of the first power source and the second power source is a 4 to 20 mA signal for the valve.

[0081] Example 3 includes the method of Example 1, wherein at least one of the first power source and the second power source is the output of a limit switch.

[0082] Example 4 includes the method of Example 1, wherein evaluating the first power source and the second power source includes determining whether the power sources of the first power source and the second power source exceed a current threshold.

[0083] Example 5 includes the method of Example 1, wherein a sensor is used to determine the position of the valve.

[0084] Example 6 includes the method of Example 5, wherein performing a diagnostic task based on input includes determining at least one of the following: (a) the number of valve opening and closing cycles, (b) a first duration for which the valve remains open, (c) a second duration for which the valve remains closed, (d) the valve opening-to-closing time, or (e) the valve closing-to-opening time.

[0085] Example 7 includes the method of Example 1, and also includes providing diagnostics to the operator.

[0086] Example 8 includes a device comprising a power selection controller for evaluating a first power source to determine if the first power source is available, evaluating a second power source to determine if the second power source is available, selecting a power source when it is determined that one of the first and second power sources is available; a power output for providing power from the selected power source to a sensor; and a diagnostic controller for performing diagnostic tasks based on input from the sensor.

[0087] Example 9 includes the device of Example 8, wherein at least one of the first power source and the second power source is a 4 to 20 mA signal for the valve.

[0088] Example 10 includes the device of Example 8, wherein at least one of the first power source and the second power source is the output of a limit switch.

[0089] Example 11 includes the device of Example 10, wherein the output of the limit switch is a discrete signal.

[0090] Example 12 includes the device of Example 8, wherein a sensor is used to determine the position of a valve.

[0091] Example 13 includes the device of Example 12, wherein the diagnostic controller further includes at least one of: (a) a cycle counter for determining the number of valve opening and closing cycles, (b) a position time determiner for determining at least one of a first duration for which the valve remains open and a second duration for which the valve remains closed, or (c) a valve speed determiner for determining at least one of the valve opening-to-closing time or the valve closing-to-opening time.

[0092] Example 14 includes the device of Example 8, and also includes a communication interface for providing diagnostics to the operator.

[0093] Example 15 includes a non-transient computer-readable medium comprising instructions that, when executed, cause a machine to evaluate a first power source to determine whether the first power source is available; when the first power source is determined to be unavailable, evaluate a second power source to determine whether the second power source is available; when one of the first and second power sources is determined to be available, select a power source; supply power to a sensor from the selected power source; and perform a diagnostic task based on input from the sensor.

[0094] Example 16 includes the non-transient computer-readable medium of Example 15, wherein evaluating a first power source to determine whether the first power source is available includes determining whether a first current exceeds a first current threshold, wherein evaluating a second power source to determine whether the second power source is available includes determining whether a second current exceeds a second current threshold, and wherein the machine draws less than 1 mA of current from the selected power source.

[0095] Example 17 includes the non-transient computer-readable medium of Example 15, wherein the sensor is a Hall effect sensor for determining the position of a valve.

[0096] Example 18 includes the non-transient computer-readable medium of Example 15, wherein the first power source of the first power source and the second power source is a first output of a first limit switch for detecting that the valve is in the open position, and the second power source of the first power source and the second power source is a second output of a second limit switch for detecting that the valve is in the closed position.

[0097] Example 19 includes the non-transient computer-readable medium of Example 15, wherein, when executed, the instructions also cause the machine to provide power to at least one of (a) a user interface or (b) a radio frequency transceiver.

[0098] Example 20 includes the non-transient computer-readable medium of Example 15, wherein the first power source and the second power source are the outputs of limit switches for a pneumatic valve.

[0099] While certain exemplary methods, apparatuses, and articles of manufacture have been disclosed herein, the scope of this patent is not limited thereto. Rather, this patent includes all methods, apparatuses, and articles of manufacture that rightfully fall within the scope of the claims of this patent.

[0100] The following claims are hereby incorporated by reference in this detailed description, each claim being an independent embodiment of this disclosure.

Claims

1. A method for performing a diagnostic task, comprising: The first power source is evaluated to determine whether the first power source is available. The first power source corresponds to the first output of the first limit switch, which is used to detect that the valve is in the open position. The second power source is evaluated to determine whether the second power source is available. The second power source corresponds to the second output of the second limit switch, which is used to detect that the valve is in the closed position. When it is determined that one of the first power source and the second power source is available, the power source is selected; Power is supplied to the sensor from the selected power source; as well as The diagnostic task is performed based on input from the sensor.

2. The method of claim 1, wherein evaluating the first power source and the second power source comprises: Determine whether the power sources of the first power source and the second power source exceed the current threshold.

3. The method of claim 1, wherein the sensor is used to determine the position of the valve.

4. The method of claim 3, wherein performing the diagnostic task based on the input comprises determining at least one of the following: (a) the number of opening and closing cycles of the valve, (b) a first duration for which the valve remains open, (c) a second duration for which the valve remains closed, (d) the opening-to-closing time of the valve, or (e) the closing-to-opening time of the valve.

5. The method according to claim 1, further comprising: Provide diagnostics to the operator.

6. An apparatus comprising: Power selection controller, used to: The first power source is evaluated to determine whether the first power source is available. The first power source corresponds to the first output of the first limit switch, which is used to detect that the valve is in the open position. The second power source is evaluated to determine whether the second power source is available. The second power source corresponds to the second output of the second limit switch, which is used to detect that the valve is in the closed position. When it is determined that one of the first power source and the second power source is available, the power source is selected; Power output, used to provide power to the sensor from the selected power source; as well as A diagnostic controller is used to perform diagnostic tasks based on inputs from the sensors.

7. The device according to claim 6, wherein the output of the limit switch is a discrete signal.

8. The device of claim 6, wherein the sensor is used to determine the position of the valve.

9. The device of claim 8, wherein the diagnostic controller further comprises at least one of the following: (a) A cycle counter used to determine the number of times the valve opens and closes. (b) A position-time determiner for determining at least one of a first duration for which the valve remains open and a second duration for which the valve remains closed, or (c) A valve speed determiner for determining at least one of the valve’s open-to-close time or the valve’s close-to-open time.

10. The device of claim 6 further includes a communication interface for providing diagnostics to the operator.

11. A non-transitory computer-readable medium comprising instructions, which, when executed, cause a machine to: The first power source is evaluated to determine whether the first power source is available. The first power source corresponds to the first output of the first limit switch, which is used to detect that the valve is in the open position. When it is determined that the first power source is unavailable, a second power source is evaluated to determine whether the second power source is available. The second power source corresponds to the second output of the second limit switch, which is used to detect that the valve is in the closed position. When it is determined that one of the first power source and the second power source is available, the power source is selected; Power is supplied to the sensor from the selected power source; as well as Diagnostic tasks are performed based on input from the sensors.

12. The non-transient computer-readable medium of claim 11, wherein evaluating the first power source to determine whether the first power source is available comprises: Determining whether a first current exceeds a first current threshold, wherein evaluating the second power source to determine whether the second power source is available includes: determining whether a second current exceeds a second current threshold, and wherein the machine draws less than 1 milliamp of current from the selected power source.

13. The non-transient computer-readable medium of claim 11, wherein the sensor is a Hall effect sensor used to determine the position of the valve.

14. The non-transient computer-readable medium of claim 11, wherein, when executed, the instructions further cause the machine to provide power to at least one of (a) a user interface or (b) a radio frequency transceiver.

15. The non-transient computer-readable medium of claim 11, wherein the valve is a pneumatic valve.

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