Butterfly valve type air door assembly

Abstract

One end of an air door rotating shaft is connected with an air door actuator, the other end of the air door rotating shaft is connected with a torsion sensor, and the torsion sensor is used for converting torque into an electric signal; the programmable logic controller is connected with the torsion sensor through a circuit and is used for receiving an electric signal of the torsion sensor; the butterfly valve type air door is arranged on the air door rotating shaft; the air door actuator is in driving connection with the butterfly valve type air door through the air door rotating shaft; the air door rotating shaft is used for penetrating through the process pipeline in the radial direction of the process pipeline and is rotationally connected with the process pipeline through the butterfly valve type air door rotating shaft bearing so that the butterfly valve type air door can seal or conduct the process pipeline. Therefore, a torsion detection function is provided for the butterfly valve type air door, and the working state of the air door is automatically and dynamically monitored in real time by detecting the torsion required by the action of the air door and cooperating with the programmable logic controller, so that the abnormality can be found in time, the butterfly valve type air door is ensured to work in a good state at any time, and the product quality stability is ensured.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application relates to the tobacco processing field, and in particular to butterfly valve damper assemblies. Background Technology

[0002] Butterfly valve-type dampers play a crucial control role in various pieces of equipment used in the tobacco processing stage. According to adjustment requirements, the damper actuator drives the damper shaft, adjusting the damper's angle from 0° to 90°. As a dehumidification damper, it controls the system's negative pressure to prevent impurities from leaking into the air and to control the moisture content of the tobacco leaves at the outlet during processes such as rehumidification, flavoring, and drying. As a process gas damper, it regulates the flow rate of process gas to control the moisture content of the tobacco leaves. As a linkage damper, it regulates the temperature of process gas to control the moisture content of the tobacco leaves.

[0003] However, since butterfly valve dampers may operate in high-temperature, high-humidity environments with potential steam injection, components such as the damper's shaft and bearings are prone to rust and corrosion. This increases the damper's operating resistance, requiring the damper actuator to output more torque. However, exceeding the damper actuator's rated output torque can lead to anything from delayed operation affecting the system's adjustment timeliness to complete jamming causing system malfunction, severely impacting product quality and significantly shortening the damper actuator's lifespan.

[0004] In addition, traditional pneumatic or electric damper actuators lack output torque detection function and cannot obtain the torque required when the damper moves, i.e., the damper movement resistance. Therefore, they cannot automatically and in real time monitor the working status of the damper, which is not conducive to ensuring the stability of product quality. Utility Model Content

[0005] Therefore, it is necessary to provide a butterfly valve damper assembly.

[0006] One embodiment of this application is a butterfly valve damper assembly, which includes a damper shaft, a butterfly valve damper, a damper actuator, a torque sensor, a programmable logic controller, and a butterfly valve damper shaft bearing.

[0007] One end of the damper shaft is connected to the damper actuator, and the other end is connected to the torque sensor, which is used to convert torque into an electrical signal;

[0008] The programmable logic controller is connected to the torque sensor via a circuit and is used to receive the electrical signal from the torque sensor.

[0009] The butterfly valve is mounted on the damper shaft, and the damper actuator is connected to the butterfly valve via the damper shaft.

[0010] The damper shaft is used to pass through the process pipeline radially and is rotatably connected to the process pipeline through the butterfly valve damper shaft bearing, so that the butterfly valve damper can close or open the process pipeline.

[0011] The aforementioned butterfly valve damper assembly, through the cooperation of the damper shaft, butterfly valve damper, damper actuator, torque sensor, programmable logic controller, and butterfly valve damper shaft bearing, provides torque detection function for the butterfly valve damper. By detecting the torque required when the damper operates, and in conjunction with the programmable logic controller, it realizes automatic and real-time dynamic monitoring of the damper's working status, thereby enabling timely detection of abnormalities and ensuring that the butterfly valve damper always operates in good condition, thus guaranteeing product quality stability.

[0012] In some embodiments, the butterfly valve damper assembly further includes a flange, the torque sensor is disposed on the flange, and the flange is used to fix the process piping.

[0013] In some embodiments, the damper shaft passes through the flange.

[0014] In some embodiments, the butterfly valve damper assembly further includes a control switch connected to the damper actuator, which drives the damper shaft via the damper actuator to rotate the butterfly valve damper from a fully closed state to a fully open state, and then from a fully open state to a fully closed state.

[0015] In some embodiments, the programmable logic controller includes a comparator and a memory, the memory being used to store a threshold signal and the electrical signal, and the comparator being used to compare the threshold signal and the electrical signal.

[0016] In some embodiments, the butterfly valve damper assembly also includes a timer connected to the programmable logic controller.

[0017] In some embodiments, the programmable logic controller is also connected to the damper actuator.

[0018] In some embodiments, the programmable logic controller is connected to the damper actuator and the torque sensor via extension lines, respectively.

[0019] In some embodiments, the butterfly valve assembly further includes an alarm connected to the programmable logic controller.

[0020] In some embodiments, the alarm includes a near-end alarm device and a remote alarm device. Attached Figure Description

[0021] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions in the embodiments of this application or the conventional technology, the drawings used in the description of the embodiments or the conventional technology will be briefly introduced below. Obviously, the drawings described below are only some embodiments of this application. For those skilled in the art, other drawings can be obtained based on these drawings without creative effort.

[0022] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the first embodiment of the butterfly valve damper assembly described in this application applied to a process pipeline.

[0023] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of a second embodiment of the butterfly valve damper assembly described in this application applied to a process pipeline.

[0024] Figure 3 This is a structural schematic diagram of a third embodiment of the butterfly valve damper assembly described in this application applied to a process pipeline.

[0025] Figure 4 This is a structural schematic diagram of the fourth embodiment of the butterfly valve damper assembly described in this application applied to a process pipeline.

[0026] Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram illustrating the application process of the butterfly valve damper assembly described in this application.

[0027] Reference numerals in the attached diagram: 1. Process piping; 2. Torque sensor mounting flange; 3. Butterfly valve damper shaft; 4. Butterfly valve damper; 5. Damper actuator; 6. Torque sensor; 7. Programmable logic controller; 8. Butterfly valve damper shaft bearing; 9. Alarm; 10. Timer; 11. Control switch. Detailed Implementation

[0028] To make the above-mentioned objectives, features, and advantages of this application more apparent and understandable, the specific embodiments of this application are described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Many specific details are set forth in the following description to provide a thorough understanding of this application. However, this application can be implemented in many other ways different from those described herein, and those skilled in the art can make similar modifications without departing from the spirit of this application. Therefore, this application is not limited to the specific embodiments disclosed below.

[0029] It should be noted that when a component is referred to as being "fixed to" or "set on" another component, it can be directly on the other component or there may be an intermediate component. When a component is considered to be "connected to" another component, it can be directly connected to the other component or there may be an intermediate component present. The terms "vertical," "horizontal," "upper," "lower," "left," "right," and similar expressions used in this application's specification are for illustrative purposes only and do not represent the only possible implementation.

[0030] Furthermore, the terms "first" and "second" are used for descriptive purposes only and should not be construed as indicating or implying relative importance or implicitly specifying the number of technical features indicated. Thus, a feature defined as "first" or "second" may explicitly or implicitly include at least one of that feature. In the description of this application, "multiple" means at least two, such as two, three, etc., unless otherwise explicitly specified.

[0031] In this application, unless otherwise expressly specified and limited, "above" or "below" the second feature can mean that the first feature is in direct contact with the second feature, or that the first feature and the second feature are in indirect contact through an intermediate medium. Furthermore, "above," "over," and "on top" the second feature can mean that the first feature is directly above or diagonally above the second feature, or simply indicates that the first feature is at a higher horizontal level than the second feature. "Below," "below," and "under" the second feature can mean that the first feature is directly below or diagonally below the second feature, or simply indicates that the first feature is at a lower horizontal level than the second feature.

[0032] Unless otherwise defined, all technical and scientific terms used in this application have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this application belongs. The terminology used in this application is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to be limiting of the application. The term "and or" as used in this application includes any and all combinations of one or more of the associated listed items.

[0033] This application discloses a butterfly valve damper assembly, which includes some or all of the technical features of the following embodiments; that is, the butterfly valve damper assembly includes some or all of the following structures. In one embodiment of this application, a butterfly valve damper assembly includes a damper shaft, a butterfly valve damper, a damper actuator, a torque sensor, a programmable logic controller, and a butterfly valve damper shaft bearing; one end of the damper shaft is connected to the damper actuator, and the other end is connected to the torque sensor, which is used to convert torque into an electrical signal; the programmable logic controller is connected to the torque sensor via a circuit and is used to receive the electrical signal from the torque sensor; the butterfly valve damper is disposed on the damper shaft, and the damper actuator is driven and connected to the butterfly valve damper through the damper shaft; the damper shaft is used to pass radially through the process pipeline and is rotatably connected to the process pipeline through the butterfly valve damper shaft bearing, so that the butterfly valve damper closes or opens the process pipeline. The aforementioned butterfly valve damper assembly, through the cooperation of the damper shaft, butterfly valve, damper actuator, torque sensor, programmable logic controller (PLC), and butterfly valve shaft bearing, provides torque detection functionality for the butterfly valve damper. By detecting the torque required for damper operation, and in conjunction with the PLC, it achieves automatic and real-time dynamic monitoring of the damper's operating status. This allows for timely detection of abnormalities, ensuring the butterfly valve damper always operates in good condition and guaranteeing product quality stability. The following section will further elaborate on this. Figures 1 to 5 The butterfly valve damper assembly is described in detail below.

[0034] In some embodiments, a butterfly valve-type damper assembly is applied to process piping such as... Figure 1As shown, the butterfly valve damper assembly includes a damper shaft 3, a butterfly valve damper 4, a damper actuator 5, a torque sensor 6, a programmable logic controller 7, and a butterfly valve damper shaft bearing 8. One end of the damper shaft 3 is connected to the damper actuator 5, and the other end is connected to the torque sensor 6. The torque sensor 6 is used to convert torque into an electrical signal. The programmable logic controller 7 is connected to the torque sensor 6 via a circuit and is used to receive the electrical signal from the torque sensor 6. The butterfly valve damper 4 is disposed on the damper shaft 3, and the damper actuator 5 is driven to connect to the butterfly valve damper 4 through the damper shaft 3. The damper shaft 3 is used to pass radially through the process pipeline 1 and is rotatably connected to the process pipeline 1 through the butterfly valve damper shaft bearing 8, so that the butterfly valve damper 4 can close or open the process pipeline 1. This structural design, through the cooperation of the damper shaft 3, butterfly valve damper 4, damper actuator 5, torque sensor 6, programmable logic controller 7, and butterfly valve damper shaft bearing 8, provides torque detection function for butterfly valve damper 4. By detecting the torque required when the damper operates, and in conjunction with programmable logic controller 7, the working status of the damper can be automatically and dynamically monitored in real time, thereby enabling timely detection of abnormalities and ensuring that the butterfly valve damper is always in good working condition, thus guaranteeing product quality stability.

[0035] In each embodiment, the butterfly valve damper assembly is applied to a process pipeline, and therefore can also be referred to as a butterfly valve damper assembly applied to a process pipeline. In each embodiment, one end of the damper shaft 3 is connected to the damper actuator 5, and the other end is connected to the torque sensor 6. The torque sensor 6 is used to convert torque into an electrical signal. As an example, the first end of the damper shaft 3 is tightly connected to the damper actuator 5, and the second end is firmly connected to the torque sensor 6. In this structure, the damper actuator 5 drives the butterfly valve damper 4 to rotate through the damper shaft 3 to open or close the process pipeline 1. When the damper actuator 5 applies torque to drive the damper shaft 3 to rotate, the torque sensor 6 can sense the magnitude of the torque borne by the damper shaft 3 in real time and efficiently convert this mechanical torque signal into an electrical signal. This electrical signal is then transmitted to the programmable logic controller 7 for further signal processing and analysis. This design enables the system to accurately monitor the torque required by the damper during operation, thus providing important data support for the automatic control and status monitoring of the damper. Through precise measurements by torque sensor 6, programmable logic controller 7 can determine whether the damper is operating normally based on the actual torque value. For example, if the torque value increases abnormally, it may indicate that the damper encountered resistance during opening or closing, such as damper blade deformation, obstruction by foreign objects in the pipeline, or damper actuator malfunction. In this case, the system can promptly issue an alarm and take corresponding measures, such as suspending damper operation or activating a backup damper, to ensure the safe operation of the process piping system.

[0036] In various embodiments, the programmable logic controller 7 is connected to the torque sensor 6 via a circuit to receive the electrical signal from the torque sensor 6. After the torque sensor 6 converts the torque change of the damper shaft 3 into an electrical signal, these signals are transmitted to the programmable logic controller 7 via the circuit in the form of precise voltage or current. In some embodiments, the programmable logic controller 7 includes a comparator and a memory. The memory stores a threshold signal and the electrical signal, and the comparator compares the threshold signal and the electrical signal. As an example, the programmable logic controller 7 has an advanced signal processing module that can perform real-time acquisition, amplification, filtering, and digitization of these electrical signals, thereby accurately determining the actual torque value borne by the damper shaft 3 under different operating conditions. The programmable logic controller 7 further compares and analyzes these torque data with a pre-set safety threshold or normal operating range. If the detected torque value exceeds the normal range, the controller can quickly make a judgment. For example, an abnormally high torque value may indicate that the damper encounters resistance during opening or closing, such as damper blade jamming, foreign objects obstructing the pipeline, or other mechanical failures. Conversely, a torque value that is too low may suggest insufficient power output or loose connections in the damper actuator 5. Based on these analysis results, the programmable logic controller 7 can promptly issue corresponding control commands, such as adjusting the output torque of the damper actuator 5, pausing damper operation, activating the backup damper, or triggering the alarm system, to ensure that the entire butterfly valve damper assembly operates safely, stably, and efficiently, thereby guaranteeing the normal operation of the process piping system 1 and improving the reliability of the production process and the stability of product quality.

[0037] In each embodiment, the butterfly valve-type damper 4 is mounted on the damper shaft 3, and the damper actuator 5 is driven and connected to the butterfly valve-type damper 4 through the damper shaft 3. The butterfly valve-type damper 4 and the damper shaft 3 are tightly fitted together by a precise mechanical structure, ensuring that the butterfly valve-type damper 4 can rotate flexibly and stably around the damper shaft 3. The damper actuator 5, through its connection with the damper shaft 3, provides power support for the movement of the butterfly valve-type damper 4. When the damper actuator 5 receives a control signal, it outputs a corresponding driving force, which is transmitted to the butterfly valve-type damper 4 through the damper shaft 3, thereby driving the butterfly valve-type damper 4 to open or close within the process pipeline 1. This structural design, with its connection design between the damper actuator 5 and the damper shaft 3, ensures efficient power transmission. The torque output by the actuator can be smoothly transmitted to the butterfly valve-type damper 4 through the shaft, enabling the butterfly valve-type damper 4 to quickly respond to control signals and achieve precise opening and closing operations. This efficient connection method reduces energy loss and improves the overall system efficiency. Furthermore, through the connection of the damper shaft 3, the damper actuator 5 can precisely control the movement of the butterfly valve damper 4. The actuator can adjust the output torque and speed according to a preset program or real-time monitoring data, thereby achieving precise adjustment of the opening and closing angle of the butterfly valve damper 4. This precise control capability is crucial for the flow control of airflow or fluid within the process pipeline 1, meeting the requirements of different process flows for damper opening and closing accuracy. Moreover, the connection method between the butterfly valve damper 4 and the damper shaft 3 can withstand the mechanical stress generated during the opening and closing of the butterfly valve damper 4, and maintain stable performance during long-term operation. Even in complex process environments and under frequent operating conditions, the butterfly valve damper 4 can always maintain a good fit with the damper shaft 3, avoiding malfunctions such as loosening or detachment. Furthermore, the structural design of the connection makes the maintenance and replacement of the butterfly valve damper 4 and the damper actuator 5 more convenient. If the butterfly valve damper 4 or the damper actuator 5 malfunctions, maintenance personnel can quickly disassemble the relevant components for inspection or replacement without requiring extensive disassembly of the entire system. This design significantly reduces equipment downtime, lowers maintenance costs, and improves equipment availability and reliability. Through this structural design, the butterfly valve damper 4, driven by the damper actuator 5, can flexibly control the opening and closing of process pipeline 1 and regulate flow, providing an efficient, reliable, and easy-to-maintain damper control solution for the entire process system.

[0038] In each embodiment, the damper shaft 3 is used to pass radially through the process pipeline 1 and is rotatably connected to the process pipeline 1 via the butterfly valve damper shaft bearing 8, so that the butterfly valve damper 4 can close or open the process pipeline 1. The installation method of the damper shaft 3 passing through the process pipeline 1 allows the damper shaft 3 to penetrate the wall of the process pipeline 1, thereby providing necessary support and guidance for the installation and movement of the butterfly valve damper 4. To achieve a stable rotatable connection between the damper shaft 3 and the process pipeline 1, the butterfly valve damper shaft bearing 8 is installed at the connection point between the damper shaft 3 and the process pipeline 1. Its main function is to reduce friction between the two while ensuring that the damper shaft 3 can rotate flexibly and smoothly. The use of the butterfly valve damper shaft bearing 8 not only improves the operating efficiency of the system but also extends the service life of the damper shaft 3 and the process pipeline 1. When the damper actuator 5 drives the damper shaft 3 to rotate, the butterfly valve damper 4 will rotate accordingly. The blades of the butterfly valve damper 4 can change their relative position to the process pipeline 1 during rotation, thereby achieving the function of closing or opening the process pipeline 1. Specifically, when the blades of the butterfly valve damper 4 rotate to be perpendicular to the axis of the process pipeline 1, the butterfly valve damper 4 is completely closed, effectively preventing airflow or fluid from passing through the pipeline; while when the blades rotate to be parallel to the axis of the process pipeline 1, the butterfly valve damper 4 is completely open, allowing airflow or fluid to pass through the pipeline smoothly. Moreover, this design allows the butterfly valve damper assembly to precisely control the flow rate in the process pipeline 1, meeting the needs of different process flows for pipeline opening and closing and flow regulation. Through the cooperation of the damper shaft 3 and the butterfly valve damper shaft bearing 8, the butterfly valve damper 4 can achieve efficient and reliable motion control, providing stable and flexible operation performance for the entire process system.

[0039] In some embodiments, the butterfly valve damper assembly further includes a flange 2, on which the torque sensor 6 is disposed, and the flange 2 is used to fix the assembly to the process pipeline 1. In some embodiments, the damper shaft 3 passes through the flange 2. This structural design, on the one hand, provides a stable mounting base for the entire butterfly valve damper assembly through the flange 2, ensuring the assembly is firmly fixed to the process pipeline 1 and preventing loosening or displacement of the assembly due to airflow impact or other external forces within the pipeline, thereby improving the operational stability of the entire system. On the other hand, the flange 2, as a standardized connector, has good versatility and interchangeability. Fixing components such as the torque sensor 6 and the damper shaft 3 to the process pipeline 1 through the flange 2 simplifies the installation process and improves installation efficiency. Simultaneously, when maintenance or component replacement is required, the flange connection facilitates quick disassembly and reinstallation, reducing maintenance costs and downtime. Furthermore, the torque sensor 6, disposed on the flange 2, can more directly and accurately sense the torque changes experienced by the damper shaft 3 during rotation. Because flange 2 is tightly connected to process pipeline 1, this structural layout reduces errors and interference during torque transmission, thereby improving the accuracy and reliability of torque detection and providing more accurate data support for subsequent damper operation status monitoring. Furthermore, the design of damper shaft 3 passing through flange 2 makes the entire component structure more compact, making reasonable use of the limited space around process pipeline 1. This compact layout not only helps reduce the equipment's footprint but also allows for better integration with other process equipment, improving the overall integrity and coordination of the entire process system. For example, the connection between flange 2 and process pipeline 1 can use gaskets or other sealing measures to effectively prevent gas or liquid leakage from the connection. Installing torque sensor 6 and damper shaft 3 through flange 2 further enhances the sealing performance between the component and process pipeline 1, ensuring the safe transmission of the medium inside process pipeline 1, while also avoiding adverse effects of the external environment on the internal components of the component, extending the component's service life.

[0040] In some of these embodiments, such as Figure 2As shown, the butterfly valve damper assembly also includes an alarm 9 connected to the programmable logic controller 7. In some embodiments, the alarm 9 includes both a local alarm device and a remote alarm device. This structural design, on the one hand, allows the system to immediately trigger an alarm when abnormal conditions are detected, such as abnormal damper torque, damper actuator failure, or damper not acting as expected. Through local alarm devices such as buzzers and indicator lights on-site, operators can quickly detect problems and take timely measures to avoid equipment damage or production interruptions due to delayed response. Furthermore, the design of remote alarm devices, such as SMS alarm modules and alarm prompts in remote monitoring systems, further expands the coverage of the alarm function. Even if operators are not on-site, they can receive alarm information promptly via SMS, email, or the remote monitoring system, enabling rapid response and ensuring the safe operation of the system. On the other hand, the combination of local and remote alarm devices provides a dual alarm mechanism for the system. This multi-alarm mechanism greatly improves the reliability and effectiveness of alarms, ensuring that important alarm information is not missed under any circumstances. For example, if the local alarm device malfunctions, the remote alarm device can still function normally, and vice versa. Furthermore, the alarm 9 can not only be used for alarms in abnormal situations, but can also be configured via the programmable logic controller 7 to issue a reminder signal when the equipment has run for a certain period of time or reached a certain level of wear. This preventative maintenance reminder function helps to schedule equipment maintenance in advance, reduce the occurrence of sudden failures, extend the service life of the equipment, and improve the overall reliability of the system. On the other hand, with the remote alarm device, operators do not need to frequently go to the site to check the equipment status, saving time and effort. On-site handling is only required when an alarm message is received, thereby improving operator efficiency and reducing labor costs. Moreover, the alarm 9 can issue different types of alarm signals, such as sound, light, and text message content, depending on the abnormal situation, helping operators quickly locate the nature and location of the problem. For example, different alarm sounds or light colors can distinguish between torque abnormalities and actuator malfunctions, thereby speeding up problem resolution. Furthermore, the connection between the alarm 9 and the programmable logic controller 7 allows the alarm function to be integrated with other system functions such as damper control, torque monitoring, and timing functions. This integrated design not only improves the overall performance of the system but also lays the foundation for implementing more complex automated control strategies such as automatic fault handling and remote diagnostics, thus promoting the intelligent development of the system. Furthermore, the programmable logic controller 7 can record the occurrence time, type, and cause of alarm events and store this data in the system. Analysis of this data allows for understanding the operating status and fault modes of the equipment, providing a basis for further optimizing system design and improving operating procedures.On the other hand, the combination of near-end and remote alarm devices allows butterfly valve damper assemblies to adapt to different application scenarios. In small or local control systems, near-end alarm devices are sufficient; while in large or distributed systems, remote alarm devices are particularly important. This design flexibility enables butterfly valve damper assemblies to be widely used in various industrial environments. Furthermore, through the programmable logic controller 7, operators can personalize the alarm 9 according to actual needs, such as adjusting alarm thresholds, selecting alarm modes, and setting alarm priorities. This flexibility further improves the system's adaptability and practicality, meeting the needs of different users.

[0041] In some of these embodiments, such as Figure 3As shown, the butterfly valve damper assembly also includes a timer 10 connected to the programmable logic controller 7. This structural design, combining the timer 10 and the programmable logic controller 7, provides precise time control for the operation of the butterfly valve damper. Through preset time parameters, the programmable logic controller 7 can precisely control the start and stop times of the damper actuator 5 based on the signal from the timer 10, thereby enabling the damper to open or close within a specific time period. This is particularly important for processes requiring strict time sequences, such as periodic ventilation and staged material conveying, ensuring the accuracy and consistency of the process. For example, the timer 10 can record the time interval between each damper operation, and the programmable logic controller 7 can optimize the damper's operating frequency based on this data. If the damper operation is found to be too frequent or irregular, unnecessary operations can be reduced by adjusting the control strategy, thereby reducing equipment wear and energy consumption, extending the service life of the damper assembly, and improving system operating efficiency. For example, the timer 10 can record the actual operating time of the damper during opening or closing and compare it with a preset standard time. If the actual operating time significantly exceeds the normal range, it may indicate that the damper has encountered resistance or other malfunctions during operation. The programmable logic controller (PLC) 7 can issue an alarm accordingly, reminding operators to promptly inspect and maintain the equipment, thereby preventing production interruptions or equipment damage due to malfunctions. The addition of timer 10 further enhances the automation level of the butterfly valve damper assembly. In conjunction with the PLC 7, the damper assembly can automatically execute operations according to a preset time program without manual intervention. This not only improves the convenience and accuracy of operation but also provides a foundation for implementing more complex automated control strategies, such as integration with production management systems and dynamic adjustment of damper operation based on environmental parameters, thus promoting the intelligent development of damper control systems. As an example, timer 10 can record detailed time data of damper operation, which can be stored and analyzed by the PLC 7. Analysis of historical data reveals key indicators such as damper usage frequency, average operating time, and failure interval, providing strong data support for equipment maintenance planning, performance optimization, and process improvement.

[0042] To facilitate control of the damper actuator 5, in some embodiments, such as Figure 4As shown, the butterfly valve damper assembly also includes a control switch 11, which is connected to the damper actuator 5. The control switch 11 drives the damper shaft 3 via the damper actuator 5 to rotate the butterfly valve damper 4 from a fully closed state to a fully open state, and then from a fully open state to a fully closed state. This structural design provides a direct manual operation method for the butterfly valve damper assembly. Operators can directly control the damper actuator 5 using simple buttons or switches to open and close the damper. This manual operation function is particularly important when the automated control system malfunctions or requires on-site debugging, ensuring that the normal operation of the damper is not affected, thus improving the system's reliability and flexibility. Furthermore, under normal operating conditions, the butterfly valve damper assembly can be automatically controlled by the programmable logic controller 7. The presence of the control switch 11 provides a backup operating method for the system. When the automatic control system is unavailable due to malfunction or maintenance, the operator can switch to manual control mode and directly operate the damper actuator 5 via control switch 11 to ensure uninterrupted control of the process pipeline 1, enhancing system redundancy and fault tolerance. For example, in emergency situations such as abnormal pressure or leakage in the process pipeline 1, it is necessary to quickly close or open the damper to prevent the accident from escalating. The operator can operate control switch 11 to drive the damper actuator 5 to quickly rotate the damper from fully open to fully closed, or from fully closed to fully open, thereby promptly cutting off or restoring airflow or fluid flow in the pipeline, effectively avoiding potential losses due to delayed response from the automatic control system. Furthermore, during the installation, commissioning, or routine maintenance of the butterfly valve damper assembly, control switch 11 can be conveniently used to test the functionality of the damper actuator 5 and the damper shaft 3. Manually operating control switch 11 allows for a direct visual inspection of the damper's opening and closing actions, enabling rapid identification and resolution of potential problems, improving commissioning and maintenance efficiency, and reducing maintenance costs. On the other hand, the control switch 11 is typically designed with clear operating instructions and safety protection measures, such as anti-misoperation buttons and emergency stop switches. This design can effectively prevent abnormal damper operation caused by misoperation, ensuring the safety of operators and equipment. At the same time, when damper operation is required, operators can clearly understand the current status of the damper and the operating intention through the control switch 11, further improving the safety and reliability of the operation.

[0043] In some embodiments, the programmable logic controller 7 is also connected to the damper actuator 5. In some embodiments, the programmable logic controller 7 is connected to both the damper actuator 5 and the torque sensor 6 via extension lines. This structural design, on the one hand, centralizes the control functions of the entire butterfly valve damper assembly into a single intelligent control unit by connecting the programmable logic controller 7 to the damper actuator 5 and the torque sensor 6. The programmable logic controller 7 can simultaneously control the action of the damper actuator 5 according to preset programs and logic, and receive feedback signals from the torque sensor 6 in real time, thereby achieving fully automated control of the damper's opening, closing, and torque monitoring. On the other hand, this centralized control method reduces reliance on manual intervention. Operators can complete all damper operations simply through the interface of the programmable logic controller 7 or remote control commands, greatly improving the convenience and efficiency of operation, especially suitable for complex processes requiring frequent damper operation. Furthermore, the programmable logic controller 7, connected to the torque sensor 6 via extension lines, can receive the torque electrical signals transmitted by the torque sensor 6 in real time. This real-time monitoring function allows the system to understand the torque required for the damper to open or close at any time, promptly detect abnormalities such as excessive or insufficient torque, and take corresponding measures, such as adjusting the output torque of the damper actuator or issuing an alarm. Furthermore, the programmable logic controller 7 can dynamically adjust the output torque of the damper actuator 5 based on the real-time monitored torque data to ensure the damper operates in optimal condition. For example, when an abnormally high torque is detected, the controller can appropriately increase the actuator's output torque to overcome resistance; when the torque is normal, it can reduce the output torque to save energy and reduce equipment wear.

[0044] Furthermore, through real-time monitoring of the damper actuator 5 and torque sensor 6 by the programmable logic controller 7, the system can quickly identify faults or abnormalities. For example, if the damper actuator 5 fails to operate as instructed or the torque sensor 6 emits an abnormal signal, the programmable logic controller 7 can immediately issue an alarm and record fault information, facilitating rapid location and resolution of problems by maintenance personnel, thereby reducing downtime and improving system reliability. Moreover, by extending the wiring to connect the damper actuator 5 and torque sensor 6 separately, the system offers the possibility of redundancy. For example, if the main line fails, the backup line can take over the control function, ensuring normal system operation. This redundancy design further enhances the system's fault tolerance and improves equipment availability. As an example, the programmable logic controller 7 can transmit the status data of the damper actuator 5 and torque sensor 6 to a remote monitoring system via a network interface. Operators can view the damper's operating status, torque data, and historical records in real time via computer, mobile phone, or other terminal devices, enabling remote monitoring and management. Furthermore, by collecting and analyzing the motion data of the damper actuator 5 and the monitoring data of the torque sensor 6, the programmable logic controller 7 can generate detailed operation reports, providing data support for equipment maintenance planning, performance optimization, and process improvement. For example, by analyzing the long-term trend of torque data, equipment wear can be predicted, maintenance can be scheduled in advance, and the service life of the equipment can be extended. Thus, on the one hand, by extending the wiring connecting the damper actuator 5 and the torque sensor 6, the location of the equipment can be flexibly arranged without affecting system functionality. This design allows the butterfly valve damper assembly to better adapt to different process piping layouts and installation spaces, improving the system's versatility and adaptability. On the other hand, in some complex process environments, by rationally designing extended wiring, unnecessary wiring length and complexity can be reduced, thereby lowering system installation and maintenance costs. Simultaneously, the centralized control design reduces the need for multiple independent control units, further optimizing the system's cost-effectiveness.

[0045] In some embodiments, the butterfly valve damper assembly includes a butterfly valve damper 4 and its operating torque detection device. As an example, a damper actuator 5 is installed at one end of the damper shaft 3, and a torque sensor 6 is installed at the other end of the damper shaft 3. As an example, a flange 2 adapted to the torque sensor 6 is fixed on the process pipeline 1, and the torque sensor 6 is mounted on the flange 2. This structural design enables a device capable of real-time detection of the operating torque of the butterfly valve damper 4 and recording the operating torque, achieving dynamic monitoring of the working status of the butterfly valve damper 4. It can promptly detect abnormalities and issue alarms, reminding maintenance personnel to perform inspection and maintenance, ensuring that the butterfly valve damper 4 is always in good working condition, and guaranteeing product quality stability.

[0046] As an example, when the damper actuator 5 drives the butterfly valve damper 4 to move via the damper shaft 3, the torque sensor 6 collects the torque of the butterfly valve damper 4 in real time and converts it into a 4mA to 20mA current signal, which is then sent to the PLC. When the torque of the butterfly valve damper 4 exceeds a preset threshold, an alarm is triggered, such as by sounding an alarm. The status of the butterfly valve damper 4 is checked through the alarm prompt. This design has the advantages of simple structure and ease of implementation, and can detect the torque of the butterfly valve damper 4 in real time and record the torque in conjunction with other devices.

[0047] In some embodiments, the butterfly valve damper assembly has a flange 2 adapted to the torque sensor 6 fixed on the process pipeline 1, and the torque sensor 6 is installed on the flange 2. When the damper actuator 5 drives the damper shaft 3 to rotate the butterfly valve damper 4, the torque sensor 6 installed at the end of the damper shaft 3 detects the torque of the butterfly valve damper 4 in real time and converts it into a 4mA to 20mA current signal, which is input to the programmable logic controller 7. The program restores the current signal to the torque value and compares it with preset conditions. If the alarm range is reached, an alarm is output to remind maintenance personnel to check the status of the butterfly valve damper 4.

[0048] A damper actuator 5 and a torque sensor 6 are respectively installed at both ends of the damper shaft 3. A flange 2 adapted to the torque sensor 6 is fixed on the process pipeline 1, and the torque sensor 6 is installed on the flange 2.

[0049] The following example illustrates the application of the butterfly valve damper assembly. First, the butterfly valve damper assembly is installed on process pipeline 1. After production begins, the operator or control system issues a preheating request. First, the butterfly valve damper 4 performs a self-check. The damper actuator 5 drives the damper shaft 3, causing the butterfly valve damper 4 to rotate from 0° to 90°, i.e., from fully closed to fully open. Then, it rotates from 90° to 0°, i.e., from fully open to fully closed. Simultaneously, the real-time torque value during damper operation is recorded at certain time intervals. If the torque value exceeds a preset threshold and reaches a certain count, an alarm is issued, reminding maintenance personnel to inspect the butterfly valve damper 4. Only after the alarm is reset does the equipment enter the preheating state. After the equipment preheats, it enters the production state. Each time the damper actuator 5 controls the damper to move, the torque sensor 6 collects the real-time torque value, converts it into a 4mA to 20mA current signal, and transmits it to the programmable logic controller 7. The program restores the current signal to a torque value, records the value, and compares it with a preset threshold. If the real-time torque value exceeds the threshold and reaches a certain count, an alarm is issued to remind maintenance personnel to check the butterfly valve damper 4. The rest follow the same principle and will not be elaborated further.

[0050] It should be noted that other embodiments of this application also include implementable butterfly valve damper assemblies formed by combining the technical features of the above embodiments.

[0051] The technical features of the above embodiments can be combined in any way. For the sake of brevity, not all possible combinations of the technical features in the above embodiments are described. However, as long as there is no contradiction in the combination of these technical features, they should be considered to be within the scope of this specification.

[0052] The embodiments described above are merely illustrative of several implementation methods of this application, and while the descriptions are relatively specific and detailed, they should not be construed as limiting the scope of the patent application. It should be noted that those skilled in the art can make various modifications and improvements without departing from the concept of this application, and these all fall within the scope of protection of this application. Therefore, the patent protection scope of this application should be determined by the appended claims.

Claims

1. A butterfly valve type damper assembly, characterized in that, Includes damper shaft (3), butterfly damper (4), damper actuator (5), torque sensor (6), programmable logic controller (7) and butterfly damper shaft bearing (8); One end of the damper shaft (3) is connected to the damper actuator (5), and the other end is connected to the torque sensor (6). The torque sensor (6) is used to convert torque into an electrical signal. The programmable logic controller (7) is connected to the torque sensor (6) via a line and is used to receive the electrical signal from the torque sensor (6); The butterfly valve damper (4) is mounted on the damper shaft (3), and the damper actuator (5) is driven and connected to the butterfly valve damper (4) through the damper shaft (3). The damper shaft (3) is used to pass through the process pipeline (1) radially and is rotatably connected to the process pipeline (1) through the butterfly valve damper shaft bearing (8) so that the butterfly valve damper (4) can close or open the process pipeline (1).

2. The butterfly valve damper assembly according to claim 1, characterized in that, The butterfly valve damper assembly also includes a flange (2), the torque sensor (6) is disposed on the flange (2), and the flange (2) is used to fix the process pipeline (1).

3. The butterfly valve damper assembly according to claim 2, characterized in that, The damper shaft (3) passes through the flange (2).

4. The butterfly valve damper assembly according to claim 1, characterized in that, The butterfly valve damper assembly also includes a control switch (11), which is connected to the damper actuator (5) and is used to drive the damper shaft (3) through the damper actuator (5) to rotate the butterfly valve damper (4) from the fully closed state to the fully open state, and then from the fully open state to the fully closed state.

5. The butterfly valve damper assembly according to claim 1, characterized in that, The programmable logic controller (7) is provided with a comparator and a memory. The memory is used to store the threshold signal and the electrical signal, and the comparator is used to compare the threshold signal and the electrical signal.

6. The butterfly valve damper assembly according to claim 1, characterized in that, The butterfly valve damper assembly also includes a timer (10) connected to the programmable logic controller (7).

7. The butterfly valve damper assembly according to claim 1, characterized in that, The programmable logic controller (7) is also connected to the damper actuator (5).

8. The butterfly valve damper assembly according to claim 7, characterized in that, The programmable logic controller (7) is connected to the damper actuator (5) and the torque sensor (6) respectively via an extension line.

9. The butterfly valve damper assembly according to any one of claims 1 to 8, characterized in that, The butterfly valve damper assembly also includes an alarm (9) connected to the programmable logic controller (7).

10. The butterfly valve damper assembly according to claim 9, characterized in that, The alarm (9) includes a near-end alarm device and a remote alarm device.

Images