Coolant Valve Actuator PCB Integration for Balanced Position Sensing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing vehicle coolant control valves face limitations in design freedom and sensing configuration, leading to output unbalance and non-uniform sensitivity, which affects control efficiency.
Innovation Solution
The actuator integrates a drive unit, output unit, and sensing unit with a shared printed circuit board, incorporating a position sensor and EMC filter, and includes a balance member to compensate for mass unbalance, ensuring uniform sensitivity and improved EMC properties.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a separate printed circuit board is provided for the inductive sensor to sense and control the control valve operation, then the sensing function is achieved, but design freedom is limited and component layout is constrained
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the inductive sensor and its control circuitry into a single integrated actuator assembly with the motor. The sensor is positioned to directly sense the output shaft rotation, and the control board is integrated within the same housing, eliminating the need for separate external circuit boards and enabling greater design freedom in component layout.
Solution Approach 2:
The actuator assembly is designed as a multi-functional integrated unit that combines motor drive, position sensing, and control functions in one compact structure. This universal design allows the same assembly to perform multiple functions without requiring separate dedicated components for each function.
2Measurement precision
If the inductive sensor is positioned to sense output shaft rotation, then real-time sensing is achieved, but mass unbalance occurs leading to non-uniform sensing sensitivity
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a balance member positioned on the output shaft assembly to counteract the mass unbalance caused by the inductive sensor. The balance member is strategically placed to offset the sensor's mass, restoring rotational balance and ensuring uniform sensing sensitivity throughout the rotation cycle while maintaining real-time sensing capability.
3Area of stationary object
If multiple separate components are used for motor control and sensing, then functional independence is achieved, but space freedom is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a nested arrangement where the inductive sensor is positioned within the motor housing, the control board is integrated within the same assembly, and all components are arranged in a compact nested configuration. This nesting approach maximizes space utilization and frees up external space while maintaining functional independence of each component.
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 configuration simplifies components, enhances design and space freedom, improves control accuracy, and reduces noise interference, resulting in enhanced control performance and uniform sensitivity.
Implementation Method 1
a position sensor to sense a position of the output unit
Implementation Method 2
an electro-magnetic compatibility (EMC) filter to filter EMC
Data Source
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AI summary
An actuator for a vehicle coolant control valve according to the present invention includes: a drive unit (20) to generate driving power; an output unit (30) to drive a control valve, which selectively opens/closes a coolant flow for a vehicle using the driving power provided by the drive unit (20); and a sensing unit (40) to sense an output condition of the output unit (30), wherein the sensing unit (40) is provided with a position sensor to sense a position of the output unit (30) and an electro-magnetic compatibility (EMC) filter to filter EMC. According to the above configuration, a single printed circuit board may have a function of an EMC board and a function of a sensor board, which are advantageous in ensuring space and design freedom to thus contribute to improvement of control quality.