Single Controller Multi-Valve Threshold Actuation
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Fluid handling systems with multiple valves require extensive and costly driver circuitry for each valve, increasing complexity and unreliability, and pose challenges during system retrofits due to the need for separate control signals and driver components.
Innovation Solution
A fluid control system utilizing a single controller to direct a single electronic control signal to multiple valve mechanisms, initiating actuation based on threshold values, thereby reducing the need for extensive driver circuitry and simplifying the system.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If multiple separate driver circuits are used to control each valve, then each valve can be controlled independently, but the system complexity and cost increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple driver circuits into a single integrated driver that can control multiple valves. The driver receives a single control signal and internally distributes appropriate signals to each valve mechanism, reducing the overall number of driver circuits while maintaining independent valve control capability
Solution Approach 2:
The single driver circuit is designed with multi-functional capability to control different valve mechanisms. It can selectively activate different valves based on the control signal parameters, making one driver perform the function of multiple dedicated drivers, thereby reducing system complexity
2Ease of operation
If multiple driver circuits are implemented, then comprehensive valve control is achieved, but system reliability decreases due to increased failure points
Solution Approach 1:
By merging multiple driver circuits into one integrated unit, the patent reduces the total number of electronic components that could potentially fail. The unified driver architecture eliminates interconnection points between separate drivers, reducing failure points while maintaining comprehensive valve control
3Measurement precision
If separate driver circuitry is provided for each valve, then precise individual control is possible, but the cost of the system increases
Solution Approach 1:
The single driver circuit is designed to provide precise control signals to multiple valves through its multi-functional capabilities. It can generate different signal levels and patterns for different valves, achieving individual control precision without requiring separate dedicated driver circuits for each valve
4Adaptability or versatility
If existing systems are retrofitted with additional valves, then system functionality is enhanced, but the existing driver circuitry may not support the additional components
Solution Approach 1:
The single multi-functional driver is designed to accommodate additional valve mechanisms during system retrofits. Its universal control capability allows it to manage both existing and newly added valves without requiring separate driver circuits, facilitating easier system expansion and retrofitting
Data Source
AI summary
A control system for a power system is disclosed. The control system has a first valve mechanism, a second valve mechanism, and a controller in communication with the first and second valve mechanisms. The controller is configured to direct a single electronic control signal to the first and second valve mechanisms. Actuation of the first valve mechanism is initiated in response to the value of the single electronic control signal exceeding a first threshold value, and actuation of the second valve mechanism is initiated in response to the value of the single electronic control signal exceeding a second threshold value.