Latching Valve Position Detection via Coil Inductance
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing valve assembly systems require additional components and complex mechanical connections to detect the position of a valve, which increases cost and complexity, and are ineffective in applications with bleed flows.
Innovation Solution
A latching valve assembly that uses changes in electrical properties, such as coil inductance or current measurements, to determine the open or closed position of the valve without the need for physical switches or mechanical connections, utilizing a solenoid with a latching mechanism and a separate coil to enhance signal-to-noise ratio.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If mechanical sensing systems (reed switch, MR position sensor, mechanical switch) are used to detect valve position, then position detection is achieved, but device complexity and cost increase due to additional components
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces mechanical sensing systems (reed switches, MR position sensors, mechanical switches) with an electrical property-based detection method. The solenoid coil's electrical properties (inductance, resistance, current) are measured to determine valve position, eliminating the need for separate mechanical position sensors and reducing device complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The solenoid coil serves dual functions: it actuates the valve by generating magnetic force when energized, and simultaneously serves as the sensing element for position detection by measuring its electrical properties. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate actuation and sensing components.
2Measurement precision
If pressure sensor in fuel tank is used to determine valve position, then position detection is achieved, but the approach is ineffective in applications with bleed flows
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces pressure-based detection with electrical property-based detection. By measuring the solenoid coil's inductance, resistance, or current, the system can determine valve position without relying on pressure changes, making it effective for both sealed and bleed flow applications.
3Measurement precision
If physical switches or mechanical connections are used for position detection, then position detection is achieved, but valve hardware complexity and mechanical connection requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent eliminates physical switches and mechanical connections for position detection by using electrical measurements of the solenoid coil. This reduces mechanical complexity, eliminates wear-prone moving contacts, and simplifies manufacturing requirements.
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
This solution simplifies valve hardware, reduces component count, and effectively detects valve positions with minimal additional electrical components and software, eliminating the need for complex mechanical connections and physical switches.
Implementation Method 1
a solenoid portion having a magnet path... A voltage pulse is emitted to the solenoid portion
Implementation Method 2
This results in a change in coil inductance that is electronically measured in one of the portions of the coil to identify the position of the valve portion
Data Source
AI summary
A latching valve assembly which controls the flow of air and purge vapor between a fuel module and a carbon canister, where a change in an electrical property of the latching valve assembly is used to detect whether the latching valve is in the open position or the closed position. The latching valve assembly of the present invention eliminates the need for a physical switch solution, mechanical or non contact solutions, eliminates complexity of valve hardware requirements, and only adds minor electric components and software to identify the latch position. This system eliminates valve complexity and mechanical connections required for electrical conductivity.