Pneumatic Valve Testing for Opening Point and Stiction Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Manual inspection of pneumatic valves in aircraft is time-consuming, error-prone, and costly due to the need for human operators to visually monitor valve operation and sensor data, making it difficult to accurately determine opening points, closing points, and stiction levels.
Innovation Solution
A pressure controller system that automatically detects valve opening and closing points and stiction levels by receiving flow and pressure change data, providing this information through a display, and using graphical plots to identify potential failure conditions, reducing the need for manual testing equipment and personnel.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If manual inspection of pneumatic valves is performed by human operators visually monitoring valve operation and sensor data, then the inspection can be conducted with simple equipment, but the process becomes time-consuming, error-prone, and costly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual visual inspection with an automated electronic system that uses sensors to detect valve operation parameters and a processor to analyze the data. This substitution of mechanical/manual inspection with an electronic automated system resolves the contradiction by simultaneously improving inspection speed and detection accuracy through objective, rapid data processing without human error.
Solution Approach 2:
The system enables self-testing of valve operation by automatically collecting sensor data, processing it through algorithms, and generating test results without requiring continuous human intervention. This self-service capability improves productivity while maintaining high reliability through consistent, repeatable measurement protocols.
2Reliability
If automated detection systems are implemented to improve inspection speed and accuracy, then productivity and reliability improve, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a multi-functional integrated system where a single controller performs multiple functions: data acquisition from sensors, signal processing, valve operation analysis, and result generation. This universal approach improves detection accuracy while minimizing device complexity by consolidating functions into one coordinated system rather than requiring separate specialized components for each function.
3Measurement precision
If detailed monitoring of valve operation parameters is performed to accurately determine opening points, closing points, and stiction levels, then measurement precision improves, but the complexity of detecting and measuring increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system continuously monitors valve operation parameters and provides real-time feedback through processed data and test results. This feedback mechanism enables precise determination of valve opening points, closing points, and stiction levels by comparing actual measurements against expected operational characteristics, thereby improving measurement precision while managing analysis difficulty through systematic data evaluation.
Data Source
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AI summary
A method is provided. The method can be used to perform valve testing for pneumatic valves. The method includes receiving, by a pressure controller including a data processor, data characterizing an air flow through a valve coupled to the pressure controller. The method also includes determining, by the data processor, valve operation data associated with the valve. The method further includes providing, by the data processor, the valve operation data in a display coupled to the pressure controller. The valve operation data can include an opening point of the valve, a closing point of the valve, or an indication of stiction of the valve. The valve operation data can also be determined based on a rate of pressure change through the valve. Related systems and computer readable mediums performing the method are also provided.