Fluidic Actuator Position Detection via Flow and Pressure
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing position sensing technologies for fluidic systems, such as hydraulic and pneumatic cylinders, are costly and problematic, especially at high temperatures, and require extensive cabling and precise measurement, which is not always necessary for accurate position detection.
Innovation Solution
A position measuring device that uses volume flow and pressure sensors to indirectly determine the position of actuators in fluidic systems, eliminating the need for position sensors and allowing for a more flexible geometric design with reduced cabling and costs, by integrating these sensors in the feed line or on control valves.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If position sensors or path measuring systems are used to detect actuator position, then measurement accuracy is improved, but device cost and complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces mechanical position sensors with a fluidic measurement system that uses volume flow and pressure sensors to indirectly determine actuator position. The control device calculates position based on the relationship between volume flow, pressure, and actuator displacement, eliminating the need for direct mechanical contact sensors and their associated cabling.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary calculation layer where the control device computes position from fluidic parameters (volume flow and pressure) rather than directly measuring position. This intermediary approach uses the known relationship between fluid flow, pressure, and actuator displacement to derive position information without direct position sensing.
2Measurement precision
If position sensors are installed along the actuator stroke, then position measurement is enabled, but cabling effort and installation complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the position sensing function from the actuator itself and relocates the measurement system to the fluidic supply line. By measuring volume flow and pressure at a remote location in the fluid line, the system eliminates the need for sensors mounted along the actuator stroke and their associated cabling to the control device.
Solution Approach 2:
The fluidic supply line serves multiple functions: it delivers fluid to the actuator and simultaneously acts as the measurement channel for position detection. The volume flow and pressure sensors in the supply line provide both actuation control and position measurement functions, eliminating separate sensing infrastructure.
3Reliability
If expensive position sensors are used, then reliable position data is obtained, but cost increases especially under harsh conditions
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces expensive, fragile position sensors with cheaper volume flow and pressure sensors that are more robust and better suited for harsh environments. These sensors are standard industrial components that can withstand high temperatures and demanding conditions better than specialized position sensors.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent substitutes mechanical position sensors with fluidic-based measurement using volume flow and pressure sensors. This substitution eliminates the need for sensors that must physically withstand harsh conditions at the actuator location, as the fluidic sensors can be positioned in more favorable locations while still providing reliable position data through calculation.
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
Enables cost-effective and accurate position detection of actuators in fluidic systems, reducing susceptibility to faults, commissioning effort, and maintenance, while allowing for a more variable geometric arrangement and simplified cabling.
Implementation Method 1
measuring a volume flow and/or a pressure of a fluid supplied to or removed from the fluid-actuated actuator (10)
Implementation Method 2
measuring a volume flow and/or a pressure of a fluid supplied to or removed from the fluid-actuated actuator (10)
Implementation Method 3
the position or positions can be determined indirectly by detecting flow or volume flow and pressure
Data Source
Figure 1~3
AI summary
The invention relates to a position measuring device for capturing the position of at least one actuator (19) of a fluidic system (10) without a position sensor arrangement, wherein at least one fluidic control valve (12) is provided for controlling the fluidic system (10). A volume flow and pressure sensor device (17) is connected in an infeed line (13) to the fluidic system (10) and directly connected to a controller (18). The controller (18) has means for calculating the position x of the actuator (19) according to the relationship (I).