Application-Based Valve Control for Flexible Pneumatic Motion
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing pneumatic systems lack flexibility and closed-loop control options, leading to increased costs and installation complexity due to pre-configured pneumatic movement tasks.
Innovation Solution
An electronic valve controller system that allows for open-loop and closed-loop control of pneumatic valve assemblies through a microprocessor-based system, enabling direct and indirect control of valve assemblies with reduced electrical connections and sensor data transmission, and the use of internal and external sensor signals for real-time control.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If pre-configured valve functions are used, then system simplicity is maintained, but flexibility and adaptability are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The valve controller is designed with a universal architecture that can execute multiple different applications through a single device. The controller reads application data from non-volatile memory and can switch between different pneumatic movement tasks, allowing one valve controller to perform multiple functions that would traditionally require separate pre-configured systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The system transitions from static pre-configured valve functions to dynamic reconfigurable applications. The valve controller can load, execute, and switch between different applications stored in memory, enabling the system to adapt its behavior dynamically based on the loaded application rather than being fixed to a single configuration.
2Ease of manufacture
If traditional control systems are used, then installation is straightforward, but costs and installation outlay increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple functions into a single integrated valve controller: application storage in non-volatile memory, executable code execution, sensor signal processing, and control output generation. This consolidation eliminates the need for separate components for each function, reducing installation complexity and cost while maintaining advanced closed-loop control capabilities.
Solution Approach 2:
The valve controller autonomously executes applications from its internal memory without requiring external control systems. It self-manages reading application data, executing control logic, processing sensor feedback, and generating valve actuation signals, thereby eliminating the need for expensive external controllers and reducing installation outlay.
3Adaptability or versatility
If application-based control is implemented, then system flexibility improves, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses digital copies of control applications stored in non-volatile memory rather than hardwired control logic. The valve controller executes these software-based application copies, which represent pneumatic movement tasks, allowing flexible reconfiguration through software loading rather than physical rewiring or complex electronic reconfiguration.
Data Source
AI summary
An electronic execution unit controls and regulates a pneumatic valve assembly for a pneumatic movement. An application for controlling and regulating a valve assembly is or can be loaded so that it can be carried out on the electronic execution unit to carry out the pneumatic movement on the pneumatic valve assembly. An electronic valve controller for the open-loop control and closed-loop control of a valve assembly has at least one pneumatic valve for a pneumatic movement task.