Intermediate Sensor Mounting Device for Fluid Valve Actuators
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing fluid systems face complexity in post-installation mounting of sensors, requiring new and expensive actuators with integrated sensors, which is economically and practically challenging.
Innovation Solution
A device with detachable attachment portions for easy mounting and dismantling of sensors to existing valve units and actuators, allowing for post-installation sensor application without replacing the actuator, utilizing sensors like position sensors, temperature sensors, and velocity sensors, and employing various attachment methods such as threads, friction, and snap-on attachments.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a sensor is mounted to an already installed fluid system, then the system can be upgraded with sensing capabilities, but the mounting process becomes complex and difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The device is divided into separate functional components: a mounting portion that attaches to the actuator and a sensor portion that detects fluid flow parameters. This segmentation allows the sensor to be mounted independently on existing actuators without replacing the entire actuator assembly, simplifying post-installation upgrades.
Solution Approach 2:
The mounting portion acts as an intermediary component between the actuator and the sensor. It provides a standardized interface that connects to the actuator's output shaft or mounting surface, enabling easy attachment of various sensor types without modifying the original actuator design.
2Adaptability or versatility
If new sophisticated actuators with integrated sensors are acquired, then sensing functionality is built-in, but the cost increases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The mounting portion is designed with universal compatibility to attach to various actuator types through standardized interfaces. This allows a single sensor device to work with multiple actuator models, eliminating the need to purchase expensive proprietary actuators with integrated sensors for each specific application.
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of investing in expensive actuators with integrated sensors, the solution uses a separate, more economical sensor assembly that can be attached to existing actuators. This approach allows for cost-effective upgrading of fluid control systems without replacing the entire actuator assembly.
3Measurement precision
If sensors are permanently integrated into actuators, then measurement precision is improved, but the ability to mount and dismantle sensors is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The connection between the mounting portion and the actuator is designed to be dynamic rather than permanent. The mounting portion can be easily attached and detached from the actuator while maintaining precise alignment and measurement accuracy during operation, enabling both precise measurement and flexible installation/removal.
Solution Approach 2:
The mounting portion is pre-configured with alignment features and connection mechanisms that ensure precise sensor positioning before attachment. This preliminary configuration guarantees measurement precision is maintained while allowing the sensor to be mounted or dismantled as needed without compromising accuracy.
Data Source
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AI summary
A device (102; 202; 302; 402) for detecting or measuring a variable quantity associated with a fluid flow, the device (102; 202; 302; 402) comprising a first attachment portion (104) configured for engagement with and attachment to an attachment portion (106) of a valve unit (108) included in a fluid system (110), the valve unit (108) being configured to control the fluid flow, the device (102; 202; 302; 402) comprising a second attachment portion (112) configured for engagement with and attachment to an attachment portion (114) of an actuator (116), the device (102; 202; 302; 402) comprising at least one sensor (118a, 118b, 450, 452) for detecting or measuring the variable quantity.