Reverse Osmosis Solenoid Valve Functional Testing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional reverse osmosis systems for medical applications cannot be comprehensively functionally tested due to the lack of signal feedback function in electrically activated fluid control components like solenoid valves, leading to inefficiencies in identifying defects and potential system downtime.
Innovation Solution
A functional testing device that acquires and evaluates sensor data from pressure and volume flow sensors to determine the functionality of solenoid valves and other components, using time-dependent data changes as an acceptance criterion, enabling comprehensive testing and predictive maintenance.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If electrically activated fluid control components without signal feedback function are used, then device complexity is reduced, but functionality cannot be tested using conventional system tests
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a feedback mechanism by using sensors to detect changes in fluid flow or pressure that occur when solenoid valves activate. This indirect feedback allows the system to verify the functionality of components without requiring direct signal feedback from the components themselves, thus resolving the contradiction between simplified device complexity and maintained testing capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs an intermediary approach by using measurable physical parameters (fluid flow, pressure) as mediators to indirectly assess the functionality of solenoid valves. Instead of directly testing the valve's electrical signals, the system measures the intermediate effect of valve activation on fluid dynamics, enabling functionality verification without complex direct testing mechanisms.
2Reliability
If comprehensive functional testing is implemented, then reliability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies universality by designing a testing system that uses existing sensors (pressure sensors, flow sensors) already present in the reverse osmosis system for their primary monitoring functions. These same sensors are repurposed to perform functional testing of solenoid valves, eliminating the need for separate dedicated testing components and thus avoiding increased device complexity while achieving comprehensive reliability verification.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs self-testing by automatically activating solenoid valves and measuring the resulting changes in fluid flow or pressure through existing sensors. This self-service capability allows the system to verify its own functionality without requiring external testing equipment or complex additional infrastructure, thereby maintaining simplicity while improving reliability.
3Object-affected harmful factors
If solenoid valves are regularly activated for functional testing, then mechanical jamming and germ formation are prevented, but component wear increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements periodic action by scheduling regular functional testing of solenoid valves at predetermined intervals rather than continuously or excessively frequently. This periodic activation maintains the valves' mechanical freedom and prevents germ formation through regular motion, while controlling the frequency to minimize cumulative wear and extend component lifespan.
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
Enables reliable functional testing of solenoid valves and other components, reduces downtime, prevents mechanical jamming and germ formation, and facilitates remote diagnostics for timely repairs and maintenance.
Implementation Method 1
reverse osmosis system for medical applications with at least one fluid line and with a liquid tank and with at least one filter membrane
Implementation Method 2
at least one pressure sensor
Implementation Method 3
at least one volume flow sensor
Implementation Method 4
at least one electromagnetic switching valve, hereinafter referred to as a solenoid valve
Data Source
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AI summary
2.1 Such a reverse osmosis system with at least one fluid line, a liquid tank, and at least one filter membrane integrated into the at least one fluid line, and with the following functional components associated with the at least one fluid line, is known: - at least one pressure sensor, - at least one volume flow sensor, - at least one pump, - at least one electrically activated fluid control component without a signal feedback function. 2.2 According to the invention, a function testing device is provided for the at least one electrically activated fluid control component, which, upon activation of the fluid control component, acquires sensor data from a pressure or volume flow sensor adjacent to the fluid line and evaluates it over time. 2.3 Use for medical applications