Bi-Directional Magnet Valve Actuation for Higher Torque Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current systems for controlling mechanical valves require either multiple solenoids or large torque electric motors, which are expensive and inefficient, limiting their functionality and cost-effectiveness.
Innovation Solution
The use of a pair of bi-directional magnet actuators, each capable of applying both pushing and pulling forces, coupled with a controller that concurrently actuates both to move the valve in both directions, reducing the need for large motors and increasing efficiency.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If a single solenoid actuator is used to rotate mechanical valves, then the system complexity is reduced, but the torque capability and functional versatility are significantly limited
Solution Approach 1:
The valve actuation system is segmented into two independent magnet actuators instead of using a single actuator. Each magnet actuator can independently generate force in both directions, allowing them to work concurrently to produce additive torque on the valve, thereby resolving the contradiction between simplified design and sufficient torque capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The forces from two magnet actuators are merged to act on the same valve simultaneously. By coordinating the actuators to push or pull in the same rotational direction, their forces combine additively to generate high torque output, overcoming the limitation of single-actuator systems while maintaining relatively simple device architecture.
2Force
If multiple solenoids are used to control valve movement in opposite directions, then the torque capability is improved, but the system complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
Each magnet actuator is designed with multi-functionality, capable of generating force in both directions (pushing and pulling) rather than being unidirectional like traditional solenoids. This universal capability allows two actuators to work together in the same direction for high torque, or in opposite directions for precise positioning, reducing the need for separate actuators for each direction and simplifying the overall system.
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically coordinates the two magnet actuators based on the required valve position and torque demand. The controller can adjust the force contribution of each actuator in real-time, allowing flexible operation modes such as both actuators pushing, both pulling, or one pushing while the other resists, thereby achieving high torque capability with adaptive control rather than fixed mechanical configurations.
3Force
If a large torque electric motor is used to rotate mechanical valves, then the torque capability is sufficient, but the power consumption and system size increase
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of using a continuously running motor to maintain torque, the system employs magnet actuators that apply force only when needed to move or hold the valve in a specific position. The actuators can be activated partially (for positioning) or excessively (for overcoming high friction or load), providing torque capability on-demand rather than continuously, thereby reducing overall power consumption while maintaining sufficient torque when required.
Solution Approach 2:
The system replaces a traditional electric motor with magnet actuators that use electromagnetic fields to generate force directly without mechanical rotation. This substitution eliminates the need for motors, gearboxes, and other mechanical transmission components, reducing power consumption, system size, and complexity while maintaining the ability to generate high torque through coordinated actuator operation.
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 enables efficient and cost-effective actuation of valves by providing additive motive forces, reducing the size and power consumption of the system while improving response time and torque capabilities.
Implementation Method 1
a first magnet actuator coupled to the valve, a second magnet actuator coupled to the valve, and a controller connected to the first magnet actuator and the second magnet actuator, the controller configured to concurrently actuate the first magnet actuator to urge the valve in one of the first direction and the second direction
Data Source
AI summary
An apparatus for selectively actuating a valve moveable in a first direction and a second direction relative to a valve body, the apparatus including a first magnet actuator coupled to the valve, a second magnet actuator coupled to the valve, and a controller connected to the first magnet actuator and the second magnet actuator, the controller configured to concurrently actuate the first magnet actuator to urge the valve in one of the first direction and the second direction, and the second magnet actuator to urge the valve in the one of the first direction and the second direction.