Reciprocating Compressor Valve Actuation Control
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing reciprocating compressor flow rate regulation methods lead to increased wear, reduced efficiency, and heat generation due to uncontrolled valve operation and limited actuator response times, causing reliability issues and excessive stress on sealing elements.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of electromechanical actuator means with solenoids and position detection systems for precise control of valve opening and closing velocities, minimizing wear and optimizing flow rate regulation by ensuring controlled contact between the pusher and sealing element.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If pneumatic devices are used to actuate pushers for flow rate regulation, then the compressor can operate in idle/load modes, but the frequency of actuation increases causing excessive wear on pneumatic devices and valve components
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces pneumatic actuation systems with an electromagnetic actuator (solenoid) that directly controls the pusher position. This substitution eliminates the need for frequent pneumatic device actuation while maintaining flow rate regulation capability through electronic control of the sealing element position.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses a microprocessor to continuously monitor compressor operation parameters and automatically adjust the actuator position to maintain optimal flow rate. The microprocessor detects piston position and controls the solenoid accordingly, enabling self-regulating operation that reduces wear on mechanical components.
2Productivity
If the sealing element is kept in a predetermined open position during idle operation, then the flow rate is regulated, but heat generated is not dissipated causing increased temperature of sealing elements
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic control of the sealing element position rather than a fixed open/closed state. The microprocessor continuously adjusts the actuator position based on real-time compressor operation, allowing the sealing element to maintain optimal positioning that balances flow rate regulation with heat dissipation, preventing excessive temperature buildup.
3Device complexity
If uncontrolled velocity contacts occur between sealing element and pusher, then valve operation is simple, but reliability decreases due to wear on pusher and breakage of sealing element
Solution Approach 1:
The patent incorporates a microprocessor that detects piston position and continuously monitors compressor operation. This feedback mechanism enables the system to control the velocity of the sealing element and pusher during contact, preventing uncontrolled impacts that cause wear and breakage while maintaining relatively simple valve actuation mechanics.
4Device complexity
If limited response time actuators are used for valve control, then the actuation system is simpler, but flow rate regulation precision is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical actuators with an electromagnetic solenoid actuated by a microprocessor control system. This substitution provides precisely controllable response times and positioning accuracy for the sealing element, enabling precise flow rate regulation without significantly increasing mechanical complexity of the actuation system.
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
This solution reduces wear and heat generation, enhances compressor efficiency, and improves reliability by maintaining controlled valve operation and minimizing impact stress on sealing elements, allowing for continuous and precise regulation of flow rates.
Implementation Method 1
the said operating means make it possible to control the velocity of displacement of the said actuator means in both directions of their movement... The actuator means comprise a rod provided in its central portion with a radially projecting magnetizable portion, the said portion interacting with the said solenoids
Data Source
AI summary
Equipment for continuous regulation of the flow rate of fluid in a reciprocating compressor which has a compression chamber with a piston reciprocally movable therein. The compression chamber has an inlet valve and an outlet valve which delivers fluid to a reservoir. A translation device is movable to open the valve and allow closing of the valve. An actuator engages the translation device and includes a rod. The rod has a magnitizable central element located between solenoids of an electromechanical device. The central element is located in a prefixed position with respect to the solenoids under the resilient loading of a resilient device. Detectors are provided for detecting the position of the piston, the pressure in the reservoir and the position of the actuator.