Actuator Leak Tightness Monitoring via Pressure Drop Analysis
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for monitoring the leak tightness of pneumatically or hydraulically actuated actuators in medical treatment machines, such as those used in dialysis, cannot detect leaks during ongoing operation and require machine shutdown for initial tests, making it difficult to identify wear-induced leaks.
Innovation Solution
A method that measures pressure drops across different combinations of actuators during stationary operating phases, calculates leak tightness values by averaging pressure drops and measuring times, and updates these values continuously, allowing for real-time monitoring without interrupting machine operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If initial leak tightness tests are performed at the start of treatment, then leaks can be detected, but the machine must be stopped and leaks during operation cannot be detected
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary leak tightness checks at the start of treatment (initialization phase) before production begins. This preliminary action ensures baseline reliability while allowing continuous operation during the treatment phase, resolving the contradiction between detection capability and operational continuity
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements periodic leak tightness monitoring during the treatment phase by measuring pressure drops at regular intervals (e.g., every 15 minutes) without stopping the machine. This periodic action maintains productivity while continuously monitoring for leaks, solving the contradiction between operational continuity and leak detection
2Ease of operation
If pressure is exerted on actuators to switch valves during operation, then liquid paths are established, but leaks may occur and go undetected
Solution Approach 1:
The system implements feedback monitoring by continuously measuring pressure drops across actuators during valve switching operations. The control unit receives pressure data, compares it against reference values, and can detect leaks that occur during actuator operation, thereby maintaining both operational ease and reliability
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs self-diagnosis by automatically monitoring its own actuator performance during normal operation. The pressure measurement system and control unit work autonomously to detect leaks without external intervention, maintaining reliability while preserving ease of operation
3Reliability
If actuators are monitored continuously during operation, then leaks can be detected in real-time, but additional measurement and control systems are required
Solution Approach 1:
The pressure measurement system serves multiple functions: it monitors leak tightness during initialization, tracks pressure drops during valve switching, and provides continuous leak detection throughout treatment. This multi-functionality achieves continuous monitoring without proportionally increasing system complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The leak detection function is merged with the existing pressure control system. The same pressure sensors and control unit used for valve actuation are also used for leak detection, combining monitoring functions with operational control to minimize additional complexity while achieving continuous reliability monitoring
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Enables continuous, precise detection of leaks in individual actuators, preventing system failures by identifying leaks during operation and allowing for timely maintenance without compromising safety or operation.
Implementation Method 1
a pressure measuring device for the measurement of the pressure applied together to the actuators on which pressure is exerted
Data Source
AI summary
A method is provided of monitoring the leak tightness of a plurality of pneumatically or hydraulically actuated actuators of a machine, in particular a plurality of valve actuators of a medical treatment machine, in which pressure is exerted on the actuators in different combinations during operation of the machine. A common pressure drop occurring during a stationary operating phase at the actuators on which pressure is exerted in the respective combination is measured for a plurality of different combinations of actuators on which pressure is exerted. A respective leak tightness value is determined for individual actuators and/or groups of actuators, with the pressure drop measured for those combinations and in which the respective actuator and/or the respective group of actuators on which pressure is exerted being accounted for in the leak tightness value. A machine, in particular a medical treatment machine, is configured to effect the valve actuator monitoring.