Solenoid Interlock for Booster Actuator Activation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing fire suppression systems with solenoids aligned coaxially with booster actuators are unreliable due to loss of electrical power and accidental disengagement, leading to inappropriate activation of the valve, and often require costly and complex magnetized components for operation.
Innovation Solution
A solenoid interlock system with a housing defining central and orthogonal orifices, where a solenoid pin is removably secured and engaged with an interlock notch, allowing selective disengagement to release mechanically stored energy, using a ratio of springs (1:25:5) for efficient operation, and including a manual override mechanism for safe activation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a solenoid is aligned axially with the booster actuator, then the actuator can be activated with electrical energy, but loss of electrical power may activate the actuator at inappropriate times
Solution Approach 1:
The system pre-loads mechanical energy into the booster actuator through compression springs during normal operation. When activation is needed, the solenoid simply needs to release the latch rather than provide full activation energy. This preliminary energy storage ensures that activation can only occur when the latch is intentionally released, preventing accidental activation during power loss.
Solution Approach 2:
A latch mechanism serves as an intermediary between the solenoid and the booster actuator. The latch holds the pre-loaded energy in check and only allows release when the solenoid actively disengages it. This intermediary component decouples the electrical control signal from the high-energy release, ensuring that power loss cannot cause unintended activation.
2Stability of the object's composition
If magnetized components are used to hold the actuator in the set position, then the actuator can maintain its position, but the input force required is proportional to the desired output force which adds cost and complexity
Solution Approach 1:
The system separates the energy storage function (compression springs) from the position holding function (latch mechanism). The springs store the high energy needed for actuator activation, while the simple latch only needs to prevent accidental release. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized independently, reducing overall system complexity and cost compared to magnetized systems where a single component must handle both functions.
Solution Approach 2:
The latch mechanism is designed as a simple, inexpensive mechanical component that can be easily replaced if needed, rather than using expensive magnetized components. The compression springs are also relatively simple mechanical elements compared to magnetic systems. This approach prioritizes cost-effective, maintainable components over complex magnetic assemblies.
3Use of energy by moving object
If the solenoid is aligned axially with the booster actuator, then the system can operate with electrical energy, but accidental contact with the solenoid or vibration can disengage the solenoid causing inappropriate activation
Solution Approach 1:
The solenoid is repositioned from an axial alignment to an orthogonal (side-mounted) position relative to the booster actuator. This dimensional change in mounting orientation protects the solenoid from accidental contact and vibration that could cause unintended disengagement, while still allowing it to function as the control element for the latch mechanism.
4Use of energy by stationary object
If a conventional low power electrical system is used with axial solenoid alignment, then the system can operate with low power, but the construction becomes less durable and requires more maintenance
Solution Approach 1:
The compression springs continuously store mechanical energy and are always ready to activate the actuator, requiring no external power source for energy storage. The solenoid only needs to provide a small electrical impulse to release the latch, after which the pre-stored mechanical energy completes the activation. This self-service energy storage system eliminates the need for complex power management and improves reliability compared to systems that rely entirely on continuous electrical power.
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
The system provides durable, low-maintenance, and cost-effective operation of fire suppression systems by ensuring reliable activation only when needed, avoiding accidental releases and reducing complexity and cost.
Implementation Method 1
A solenoid, including a solenoid pin, is removably secured to the housing and aligned with the orthogonal orifice. With the solenoid pin engaged with the interlock notch, the solenoid is configured to selectively disengage the solenoid pin from the interlock notch when energized
Implementation Method 2
The actuator includes an actuator piston and a plunge piston coupled to the actuator piston. The interlock includes a housing defining a central orifice having a first end and a second end. The housing further defines an orthogonal orifice in communication with the central orifice. The actuator is coupled to the housing and with the actuator piston and plunge piston disposed in and in communication with the first end of the central orifice with each piston biased by a spring.
Implementation Method 3
The mechanically stored energy in the three springs relative to each have a ratio of 1:25:5. When the solenoid pin disengages from the interlock notch the stored energy in the actuating spring pushes the spring guide against the plunge piston which compresses the detent spring allowing the main spring energy to be released to push the actuator piston out of the booster actuator.
Data Source
AI summary
An apparatus and method provides a solenoid interlock coupled to a booster actuator. The booster actuator and solenoid interlock operate with a low energy input and a high energy output using mechanically stored energy.