Diaphragm Valve Actuator Switch With Integrated Position Feedback
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Solution Overview
Problem
Diaphragm valves in biotechnology and pharmaceutical industries lack precise control and feedback mechanisms for determining and indicating their open or closed positions, leading to potential operational inefficiencies and calibration challenges.
Innovation Solution
A switch device comprising a microcontroller, position sensor module, and position sensor target, which detects and transmits movement data to control the valve's position, providing visual feedback and easier calibration through a compact design.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If traditional switch devices are used for diaphragm valves, then the valve position control is simple, but the measurement precision and feedback capability are insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the switch device with the actuator into an integrated assembly, merging the position detection functionality with the existing actuator structure. This integration allows precise valve position measurement through the position sensor module while avoiding the complexity of separate external switching mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical switch mechanisms with a position sensor module that uses optical or electromagnetic fields to detect valve position. This substitution eliminates complex mechanical linkages and provides more precise measurement capability.
2Volume of moving object
If compact switch devices are installed within actuators, then the device volume is minimized, but the ease of manufacture and calibration become more difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a self-calibration mechanism where the system automatically determines calibration parameters by detecting the valve's fully open and fully closed positions during operation. This eliminates the need for manual calibration procedures and simplifies the manufacturing process while maintaining the compact integrated design.
3Productivity
If position feedback mechanisms are added to diaphragm valves, then the operational control precision is improved, but the device complexity and manufacturing cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent designs the position sensor module and microcontroller to serve multiple functions: detecting valve position, providing visual feedback through LEDs, enabling self-calibration, and communicating valve status to external systems. This multi-functionality improves operational control precision while minimizing the addition of separate components.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements a feedback mechanism where the position sensor continuously monitors valve position and provides real-time information to the microcontroller, which then provides visual feedback through LEDs and can communicate status externally. This feedback loop enables precise operational control without requiring complex manual intervention systems.
Data Source
AI summary
Technologies are described for devices and methods to determine a position of a valve. The devices may comprise a housing attached to an actuator. The actuator may be in physical communication with the valve. The devices may comprise a microcontroller within the housing. The microcontroller may be in communication with the actuator to control a position of the valve. The devices may comprise a position sensor module in communication with the microcontroller. The devices may comprise a position sensor target attached to at least one part of the actuator that moves. The position sensor module may be configured to detect movement and a position of the position sensor target, generate position data related to the position of the position sensor target, and transmit the position data to the microcontroller. The microcontroller may be configured to determine a position of the valve based on the position data.