Electrodynamic Valve Actuator with Parallel Capacitor Damping
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing valve technologies, such as solenoid and Lorentz valves, generate noise during switching operations, which is problematic in noise-sensitive environments like clinical settings, and can cause pressure surges that disrupt fluid flow in microfluidic systems.
Innovation Solution
A valve device with an electrodynamic actuator featuring a movably mounted coil and immovable magnet arrangement, where a capacitor connected in parallel to the coil provides damping by slowing down the discharge after current termination, reducing noise and pressure surges, and allowing for adjustable switching characteristics through capacitor design.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Speed
If a solenoid valve uses a metal plug limit stop for fast switching, then switching speed is improved, but noise is generated due to impact
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a plastic limit stop as an intermediary component between the metal armature and the original metal limit stop. This plastic intermediary absorbs the impact energy through deformation, preventing the direct metal-to-metal impact that generates noise, while still providing the necessary mechanical constraint for fast switching.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs a return spring that pre-compresses before the armature reaches the limit stop position. This beforehand cushioning stores elastic energy that assists in rapidly returning the armature after switching, maintaining fast switching speed while the controlled release of this energy prevents harsh impacts.
2Object-generated harmful factors
If noise damping is achieved by mounting an elastomer element on the plug or armature, then switching noise is reduced, but stroke and driving force are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent positions the elastomer element as an intermediary between the armature and the limit stop, rather than directly on the armature. This intermediary placement allows the elastomer to absorb impact noise while the armature maintains its full stroke and driving force characteristics, as the elastomer only engages during the final impact phase.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies the elastomer element only at the specific location where impact occurs (at the limit stop interface), rather than modifying the entire armature or plug. This localized application provides noise damping precisely where needed without affecting the overall mechanical performance, stroke length, or driving force of the valve mechanism.
3Speed
If a Lorentz valve uses a mechanically pretensioned control element, then switching speed is improved, but noise is generated when the control element hits the valve seat
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a damping element as an intermediary between the control element and the valve seat. This damping intermediary absorbs the impact energy when the control element reaches the valve seat, preventing the direct impact noise while allowing the control element to maintain its fast switching motion.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs a spring element that is pre-tensioned before the control element reaches the valve seat position. This beforehand cushioning stores elastic energy that assists in the rapid movement of the control element, maintaining fast switching speed while the controlled release of this energy at the end of the stroke prevents harsh impacts and noise.
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
The solution effectively eliminates perceptible noise and pressure surges, enabling quieter operation and improved control of fluid flow, making it suitable for noise-sensitive environments and microfluidic systems.
Implementation Method 1
a capacitor connected in parallel to the coil provides damping by slowing down the discharge after current termination
Implementation Method 2
an electrodynamic actuator is employed. On energization of a coil, a stationary magnet arrangement exerts a Lorentz force on the coil
Data Source
AI summary
A valve device includes a valve having an electrodynamic actuator. The electrodynamic actuator includes a movably mounted control element having a coil and a magnet arrangement immovable relative to the coil. A driving force caused by energization of the coil and transmitted to the control element substantially is linearly dependent on the current intensity. A front-end electronic unit is connected with the coil and includes a capacitor connected in parallel to the coil. A method for controlling a valve as mentioned above provides that, upon actuation of the electrodynamic actuator, during energization of the coil by a voltage source, a capacitor connected in parallel to the coil is charged. After termination of the energization by the voltage source, the coil is energized further by a discharge of the capacitor.