Electro-Hydraulic Actuator Logic Circuit for Flexible Mode Switching
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing electro-hydraulic valve actuators require complex wiring configurations and modifications to accommodate different operational modes and configurations, making it difficult for users to change settings without extensive expertise.
Innovation Solution
A universal control circuitry system that includes input channels, user-selectable inputs, motor outputs, valve outputs, and physical logic gates, allowing for configuration changes through simple switch selections and minimizing the need for complex wiring modifications by using a multiplexer to route signals based on mode selector inputs and including adjustable delay paths via resistors and diodes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If complex wiring configurations are used to accommodate different operational modes, then the actuator can support multiple configurations, but the ease of operation deteriorates due to extensive expertise requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The control circuit is designed as a universal circuit that can accommodate multiple actuator configurations (spring-to-open, spring-to-close, double-acting, fail-safe modes) through a single standardized wiring scheme. The circuit uses mode selector switches and logic gates to adapt its behavior based on configuration inputs, eliminating the need for different wiring configurations for different modes.
Solution Approach 2:
The circuit incorporates mode selector switches and user-selectable inputs that allow dynamic reconfiguration of the actuator behavior without physical wiring changes. The logic circuit responds to these inputs by dynamically adjusting its control logic to match the desired operational mode, enabling easy adaptation between different configurations.
2Adaptability or versatility
If complex wiring configurations are used to accommodate different operational modes, then the actuator can support multiple configurations, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
A single standardized control circuit design serves multiple configuration purposes through the use of mode selector switches and programmable logic. The same physical wiring configuration supports spring-to-open, spring-to-close, double-acting, and various fail-safe modes by changing only the switch positions and input signals, not the wiring itself.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses logic gate circuits that replicate control logic patterns across different modes. The same logic structure is reused with different input conditions to achieve different operational behaviors, reducing the need for duplicate wiring configurations for each mode.
3Adaptability or versatility
If field modifications are required to change settings, then the actuator can be adapted to different configurations, but the ease of repair deteriorates due to extensive expertise requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The control circuit allows field service personnel to reconfigure the actuator for different modes by simply changing switch positions and input signal connections, without requiring complex wiring modifications or specialized expertise. The standardized interface and clear mode selection mechanisms make field adaptation straightforward.
Solution Approach 2:
The circuit is designed with self-explanatory mode selector switches and status indicators that enable field personnel to independently configure the actuator for different applications without requiring manufacturer intervention or extensive training. The standardized configuration process allows end-users to perform their own field modifications.
Data Source
AI summary
Universal control circuitry for an electro-hydraulic valve actuator system includes logic gate circuitry to control one or more of a closing solenoid valve, an opening solenoid valve, an emergency shutdown solenoid valve, and a hydraulic fluid pump motor to route hydraulic fluid through a hydraulic circuit to actuate a valve via a hydraulic actuator according to received commands. The universal control circuitry is configured to control operation for multiple different configurations of a hydraulic valve actuator system including double-acting configurations, single-acting spring-to-open configurations, and single-acting spring-to-close configurations, each with or without an emergency shutdown arrangement (which may be configured to trip based on an external shutdown input alone or in combination with a local system power failure), a hydraulic accumulator, and maintained or momentary input commands.