Supervised Solenoid Valve Assembly for Installation Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
The improper installation of solenoid valves in fire suppression systems often goes undetected, leading to potential failures during fires, as the magnetic coils are not consistently reinstalled correctly after testing, and existing solutions do not adequately address the need for durable, low-maintenance, and cost-effective supervision mechanisms.
Innovation Solution
A solenoid valve design incorporating a detection device, such as a limit switch, light sensor, or RFID sensor, that interacts with a rotatable detection plate to ensure proper installation, featuring a locking nut for secure attachment and 360° rotation for easy conduit alignment, providing audible and visual indications of system integrity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a detection device is added to the solenoid valve to detect proper installation, then system reliability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The detection plate is nested within the solenoid valve assembly, specifically positioned to rotate with the solenoid portion. The limit switch is integrated into the valve body structure. This nesting approach allows the detection functionality to be incorporated without adding external components, thereby improving reliability while minimizing increases in device complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The solenoid valve assembly performs its own installation verification through the detection plate and limit switch mechanism. When the solenoid portion is properly installed, the detection plate automatically rotates into the correct position and triggers the limit switch, providing self-verification without requiring external supervision equipment.
2Difficulty of detecting and measuring
If a limit switch and detection plate mechanism is implemented, then installation detection capability is improved, but manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The detection functionality is extracted as a separate, simple mechanical mechanism (detection plate rotating independently within the solenoid portion) rather than being integrated into the main valve body casting. This allows the detection components to be manufactured separately using simple processes and then assembled, reducing overall manufacturing complexity and cost while still providing reliable detection capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The detection plate is designed as a simple, inexpensive component that can be easily replaced if needed. The use of basic materials and simple geometry for the detection plate minimizes manufacturing cost while maintaining adequate functional life for the application.
3Ease of operation
If the detection plate is made rotatable 360 degrees, then ease of conduit alignment is improved, but structural complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The detection plate is segmented from the main valve body, allowing it to rotate independently on the armature assembly. This segmentation enables the detection plate to be freely rotated during installation for conduit alignment, while the rest of the valve body remains stationary and structurally simple.
Solution Approach 2:
The detection plate transitions from a static component to a dynamic, rotatable component during installation. This dynamic capability allows installers to rotate the detection plate (and attached conduit) to any orientation for proper alignment, after which the solenoid portion is tightened to lock the detection plate in its final position.
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
Ensures reliable operation of fire suppression systems by detecting and signaling proper solenoid valve installation, enhancing safety and reducing maintenance costs while maintaining a broad market appeal through durable and inexpensive construction.
Implementation Method 1
The detection device and the detection plate interact using a proximity sensor on one of the detection device and the detection plate that senses the proximity of the other of the detection device and detection plate
Implementation Method 2
A solenoid coil is wound about the armature assembly within the solenoid portion
Data Source
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AI summary
Embodiments of a solenoid valve are provided. The solenoid valve includes a solenoid portion with a detection device, a valve body, an armature assembly, and a detection plate. The armature assembly has a first end extending through the solenoid portion and a second end extending into the valve body. The detection plate is configured to interact with the detection device to produce a signal indicating whether the solenoid portion is installed on the valve body.