Configurable Failsafe Valve Position Using Electrical Contact State
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing valve designs face challenges in position customization and power consumption constraints during control failures, limiting their effectiveness in regulating fluid and gas flow.
Innovation Solution
A valve system with a motor controller that sets a configurable default position based on the electrical state of a failsafe connector, allowing for efficient power management and reliable operation during control failures by determining the valve's position through an electrical contact's open or closed state.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If the valve uses a traditional failsafe design with fixed default position, then the structure is simple, but the position cannot be customized and power consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The failsafe connector's electrical state dynamically determines the default valve position. The system transitions from a static fixed position to a dynamic configurable position based on the electrical contact state (open/closed), allowing the valve to adapt its default position without changing the physical structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The default valve position is changed by varying the electrical parameter (open/closed state) of the failsafe connector. This parameter change allows the motor controller to select between different default positions (first position when closed, second position when open) without mechanical reconfiguration.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the valve maintains a configurable default position system, then position flexibility is improved, but power consumption during control failure increases
Solution Approach 1:
The failsafe connector automatically determines the default valve position without requiring external power or control signals. The electrical contact state (open or closed) self-determines the position, eliminating the need for powered position maintenance during control failures and minimizing power consumption.
3Measurement precision
If the valve uses electrical contact to determine position, then position determination is precise, but the system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The failsafe connector combines multiple functions into a single component: it serves as both a diagnostic indicator and a position determination mechanism. The electrical contact's open/closed state simultaneously provides fault detection information and default position configuration, eliminating the need for separate position sensing systems.
Data Source
AI summary
A valve including a housing, a motor within the housing, and a pinout configuration with an electrical contact. The electrical contact is configured to receive and transmit signals. The valve also includes a motor controller that receives power at the valve, receives a control message, and characterizes the control message as a first type. In response to characterizing the control message as the first type, the motor controller controls the motor to set the valve to a first position in response to determining that the electrical contact is electrically closed and controls the motor to set the valve to a second position in response to determining that the electrical contact is electrically open.