Magnetostrictive Sensor for Food Process Valve Position
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing process valve actuation devices in foodstuffs technology face imprecision in valve position measurement due to the use of expensive and space-consuming magnetoresistive linear sensors, and indirect indication methods, which can lead to false information and operational failures, especially in double-seat valves requiring separate monitoring of multiple valve stems.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of magnetostrictive sensors, which provide precise, contactless position measurement of actuating elements through the measurement of structure-borne sound waves, allowing for digital signal processing and integration in a space-saving manner, along with a translucent or transparent hood for direct visualization of the actuating element, enabling accurate monitoring of both valve stems in double-seat valves.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If magnetoresistive linear sensors are used to determine valve position, then measurement precision is improved, but device cost and structural space requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces magnetoresistive linear sensors with a mechanical scale and optical reader system. A scale with markings is attached to the valve rod, and an optical reader detects the position by reading the scale markings optically, eliminating the need for expensive magnetoresistive sensors while maintaining measurement capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a visual copy of the valve position through the scale markings that can be read optically. The scale provides a physical representation of position that can be detected by the optical reader, replacing the direct magnetic field detection with an optical reading system.
2Device complexity
If indirect indication methods with light-emitting diodes are used to show valve position, then device complexity is reduced, but measurement precision and reliability deteriorate due to switching hysteresis
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the indirect LED indication system with a direct optical reading system. The optical reader directly reads the scale markings on the valve rod to determine position, eliminating the switching hysteresis errors inherent in proximity switch-based LED indication systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a scale as an intermediary element between the valve rod and the optical reader. The scale provides a continuous visual reference that the optical reader can interpret precisely, replacing the discrete switching signals of the LED indication system with continuous positional information.
3Measurement precision
If electric power supply connection is required for sensor operation, then measurement precision is maintained, but operational reliability deteriorates due to false information from power failures
Solution Approach 1:
The patent makes the position indication system self-service by using a passive optical scale that requires no power supply. The scale markings are permanently attached to the valve rod and can be read by the optical reader without requiring electrical power, allowing the system to determine valve position even during power failures.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the electrically-powered sensor system with a passive mechanical-optical system. The scale provides permanent, power-independent positional information that can be read at any time, eliminating the reliability issues associated with power supply dependency.
4Device complexity
If a single sensor is used for valve position detection, then device complexity is reduced, but measurement precision deteriorates due to inability to monitor multiple valve stems separately
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the monitoring system into separate optical readers for each valve stem. Each optical reader independently reads the scale on its associated valve rod, allowing precise individual monitoring of multiple valve stems without requiring a complex single sensor system.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a universal monitoring solution where the same optical reader and scale design can be applied to each valve stem independently. This modular approach allows precise monitoring of multiple stems using identical, simple components rather than requiring a complex multi-functional sensor.
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 offers precise, cost-effective, and accurate valve position monitoring, reducing the risk of operational failures by providing direct and precise measurement of valve positions, enhancing process safety and efficiency in foodstuffs technology.
Implementation Method 1
The position of an actuating element (for example, of a magnet) is determined over the time between the emission of a pulse supplied to the sensor and the detection of a structure-borne sound wave produced at the location at which the magnetic field produced by supplied electrical pulses coincides with the field of the magnet
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to a device for actuating a process valve for use in foodstuffs technology, that has a valve member, an actuating element being moved upon the shifting of the valve, in such a way that the position of the actuating element is a measure of the position of the valve member, the device for actuating a process valve having a sensor that is arranged and/or realized in such a way that its output signal is a measure of the position of the actuating element, wherein the sensor is a magnetostrictive sensor (151).