Solenoid Position Estimation via Inductance Phase Shift
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Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional solenoid systems require a separate sensor to determine solenoid position, which can be cumbersome and inefficient.
Innovation Solution
A system that includes an inductance module configured to input an AC excitation signal to the solenoid, determine the current-voltage (CV) phase shift, and output a signal indicative of solenoid inductance, which is correlated to solenoid position.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a separate sensor is used to determine solenoid position, then position measurement accuracy is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The solenoid coil serves dual purposes: actuating the solenoid and sensing its position through inductance measurement. The same coil that generates the magnetic field for actuation also provides the inductive signature that reveals position information, eliminating the need for separate sensing components.
Solution Approach 2:
The solenoid coil is made multi-functional by using it both for actuation and for position sensing. The system extracts position information from the coil's inductance characteristics, allowing one component to perform multiple functions and thereby reducing overall system complexity.
2Loss of information
If a separate sensor is used to determine solenoid position, then position information is obtained, but quantity of components increases
Solution Approach 1:
The solenoid coil serves dual purposes: actuating the solenoid and sensing its position through inductance measurement. The same coil that generates the magnetic field for actuation also provides the inductive signature that reveals position information, eliminating the need for separate sensing components.
Solution Approach 2:
The actuation and sensing functions are merged into a single component - the solenoid coil. By measuring the coil's inductance, the system simultaneously monitors both the actuation status and position, reducing the total number of components required.
3Device complexity
If inductance measurement is used to determine solenoid position, then device complexity is reduced, but measurement precision may be affected
Solution Approach 1:
The system replaces mechanical position sensing (such as potentiometers or encoders) with an electrical inductance measurement approach. By measuring the coil's inductance, which varies with plunger position, the system achieves position detection without mechanical sensors, reducing complexity while maintaining precision.
Solution Approach 2:
The system monitors changes in the electrical parameter (inductance) of the solenoid coil as the plunger moves. By tracking inductance variations caused by changes in magnetic circuit geometry, the system converts mechanical position information into an electrical measurement signal.
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 accurate determination of solenoid position without the need for a separate sensor, improving efficiency and reducing complexity in solenoid systems.
Implementation Method 1
The inductance module can be configured to input an AC excitation signal to the solenoid, determine and/or compare a current-voltage (CV) phase shift between a solenoid current and solenoid voltage
Data Source
AI summary
A system can include an inductance module configured to operatively connect to a solenoid. The inductance module can be configured to input an AC excitation signal to the solenoid, determine and/or compare a current-voltage (CV) phase shift between a solenoid current and solenoid voltage, and output an output signal indicative of solenoid inductance based on the CV phase shift.