Hydraulic Valve State Detection via Actuator Signal Feedback
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing hydraulic machines and power generating apparatuses lack the ability to specifically determine the operation state of valves, leading to uncertainties in valve functionality and potential operational inefficiencies.
Innovation Solution
A hydraulic machine equipped with a controller that detects signals generated by actuators and determines the operation state of valves by executing control modes based on phase angles and residual energy, allowing for precise identification of valve positions and forces, and adjusting control signals and timing to optimize valve operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a valve is provided in the hydraulic machine to switch communication state, then the hydraulic machine can control fluid flow, but the operation state of the valve cannot be specifically determined
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies feedback by detecting signals generated by the actuator during valve operation and using this information to determine the actual operation state of the valve. The controller receives feedback signals that indicate whether the valve has successfully transitioned between open and closed states, enabling real-time monitoring and verification of valve operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary detection mechanism that mediates between the valve actuator and the control system. This intermediary detector captures signals from the actuator and translates them into meaningful operation state information, bridging the gap between valve action and state verification.
2Reliability
If the valve opening-closing timing is controlled according to working fluid state, then valve opening-closing abnormalities can be suppressed, but the operation state of the valve still cannot be determined when abnormalities occur
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements feedback by continuously monitoring signals from the actuator and comparing actual valve operation against expected operation timing. When the valve fails to operate as expected, the feedback mechanism detects this discrepancy and provides information about the abnormal operation state.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces mechanical state verification with electrical signal detection. Instead of mechanically determining valve position, the system uses electrical signals generated by the actuator to electronically detect and determine the valve operation state, enabling more precise and reliable state identification.
3Measurement precision
If signal detection is performed in the first range including target phase angle, then valve operation can be monitored, but the valve operation state cannot be specifically determined due to residual energy effects
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by executing a specific control mode that controls the movable unit to be in the second position by maintaining the solenoid coil in the not energized state. This preliminary control action creates a known baseline state from which accurate detection can be performed, eliminating the confusion caused by residual energy effects.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses partial action by detecting signals only in specific phase angle ranges (first range and second range) rather than continuously monitoring all phases. This selective detection approach focuses measurement resources on the critical phases where valve state determination is most important, while avoiding periods where residual energy creates detection ambiguity.
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 specific determination of valve operation states, improving the operational efficiency and stability of hydraulic machines and power generating apparatuses by addressing uncertainties in valve functionality.
Implementation Method 1
a signal detector for detecting a signal which the actuator generates when the movable unit moves from the first position to a second position in a state where operation of the actuator is stopped
Data Source
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AI summary
A hydraulic machine is provided with: a valve configured to switch a state of communication between a hydraulic chamber formed by a cylinder and a piston and an outside of the hydraulic chamber by moving the movable unit; anda controller for controlling an open/close operation of the valve; and a signal detector for detecting a signal which the solenoid coil generates when the movable unit moves from a first position to a second position. The controller is configured to, in a case where the signal is not detected when a phase angle indicating a position of the piston in a first range including a target phase angle for moving the movable unit to the second position: execute a control mode for controlling an actuator to a non-driving state; and determine an operation state of the valve based on whether or not the signal is detected when the control mode is executed and the phase angle of the piston is in a second range which is at least in part a range excluding the first range.