Gas Supply Tap Position Sensor Using Magnetic Field Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current systems fail to precisely detect the position of the knob and operating stem in gas supply taps, which limits the implementation of advanced functions such as ignition control, flame re-ignition, and visual signaling.
Innovation Solution
A gas supply tap equipped with a diametrically magnetized magnet and a magnetic field sensor that detects both axial and rotational movements of the stem, allowing for precise position assessment of the control knob and stem.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a detecting device is added to detect the position of the control knob and operating stem, then the precision of position detection is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces complex mechanical position detection mechanisms with a magnetic field-based detection system. A magnet is attached to the operating stem, and a magnetic field sensor detects the magnet's position to determine the stem's angular and axial positions. This substitution of mechanical detection with magnetic field detection achieves precise position measurement while reducing mechanical complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The magnetic field sensor serves multiple functions: it detects both angular position and axial position of the operating stem, enables ignition control, supports flame monitoring, and provides data for visual signaling. This multi-functionality consolidates what would otherwise require multiple separate detection systems into a single sensor, reducing overall device complexity while maintaining high measurement precision.
2Adaptability or versatility
If a detecting device is added to detect the position of the control knob and operating stem, then advanced functions such as ignition control and flame re-ignition are enabled, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The magnetic field sensor enables multiple advanced functions including ignition control, flame re-ignition, visual signaling, and position monitoring through a single detection component. The sensor's ability to detect both angular and axial positions provides the data foundation for these diverse functions without requiring separate detection systems for each function.
Solution Approach 2:
The magnet attached to the operating stem acts as an intermediary that translates mechanical stem movements into detectable magnetic field variations. This intermediary enables the magnetic field sensor to indirectly measure stem position, which then triggers various advanced functions through electronic control, bridging the mechanical operation and electronic control systems.
3Measurement precision
If a magnet and magnetic field sensor are used to detect both axial and rotational movements, then the measurement precision is improved, but the manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces complex mechanical measurement mechanisms with a magnetic field-based system. The magnet is simply attached to the operating stem, and the magnetic field sensor detects field variations caused by stem movement. This substitution eliminates the need for complex mechanical encoders or potentiometers, reducing manufacturing complexity while achieving precise measurement of both angular and axial positions.
Solution Approach 2:
The system detects position by monitoring changes in magnetic field parameters (strength and direction) rather than mechanical position parameters. The magnetic field sensor measures variations in magnetic flux as the magnet moves axially and rotationally, translating these field parameter changes into precise position information through electronic processing.
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 precise detection of the knob and stem positions, enabling advanced functions like ignition control, flame re-ignition, and visual signaling, while being simple to manufacture and integrate into existing cooktop systems.
Implementation Method 1
both axial and rotational movements (with respect to the axis of the operating stem) of a diametric magnet causes the magnetic field formed by the latter to vary
Implementation Method 2
This magnet typically has spherical or annular section. The name diametric magnet derives from the fact that, in this case, the diameter of the section separates the two magnetic poles.
Data Source
AI summary
A gas supply tap having a control knob (2) connected to an operating stem adapted to operate a valve or a shutter for opening and closing the tap is disclosed. The gas supply tap includes a detecting device to detect the position of the knob, at least one component of the detecting device being translationally and rotationally integral with the operating stem.