Control Element Positioning with Independent Power Supplies
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing positioning systems for pneumatically operated final control valves are complex and costly due to the integration of a positioner and a limit signal transmitter with their own power supplies and microcomputers.
Innovation Solution
A simplified positioning system with a control unit and a limit signal transmitter, both electrically powered separately, share a single position sensor, allowing independent operation and ensuring safe positioning without the need for complex configurations, using non-regenerative connections and diodes to prevent power interference between units.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a positioner and limit signal transmitter are provided with separate power supplies and microcomputers to ensure reliable safe functioning, then the reliability of the positioning system is improved, but the device complexity and investment costs increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the positioner and limit signal transmitter into a single integrated device that shares a common power supply and microcomputer. This merging eliminates the need for separate power supplies and microcomputers for each component, thereby reducing device complexity and investment costs while maintaining reliable safe functioning through the integrated architecture
2Measurement precision
If a limit signal transmitter with its own power supply and microcomputer is provided to monitor final positions reliably, then the measurement precision of position monitoring is improved, but the device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a universal positioning device that performs multiple functions: it acts as both a positioner for controlling the control element and a limit signal transmitter for monitoring final positions. The single microcomputer and power supply serve both functions, eliminating the need for separate dedicated components while maintaining accurate position monitoring capabilities
Data Source
AI summary
A system is provided for positioning a control element. The control unit positions the control element. A limit signal transmitter monitors achievement of an expected position of the control element. The control unit and the limit signal transmitter are each electrically powered separately from each other. A sensor for sensing a position of the control element is connected to both the control unit and the limit signal transmitter such that at least one position signal of the sensor is received by the limit signal transmitter and the control unit.