Solenoid Transient Variable Resistance Feedback for Position Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing systems for detecting the position of a switching device actuated by a solenoid are cumbersome, increasing weight, complexity, and cost due to the use of external sensing devices for monitoring and feedback.
Innovation Solution
A system and method that utilize a solenoid driver to supply energizing current to a solenoid, which actuates a switching device, and includes a measuring element to generate a measuring current detectable by the solenoid driver, allowing for position detection without external sensing devices.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If external sensing devices are used to detect the position of the switching device, then the position detection accuracy is improved, but the system weight, complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the position detection function into the solenoid driver circuit by utilizing the existing current path. The measuring element is integrated into the driver circuitry, allowing the same circuit that drives the solenoid to also detect the switching device position through current measurements, thereby eliminating external sensing devices and reducing system complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The solenoid driver circuit performs self-diagnosis by monitoring its own current consumption. When the switching device changes position, it alters the current path, which the driver detects through its existing current sensing capability. This self-service approach eliminates the need for separate detection systems
2Measurement precision
If external sensing devices are used to detect the position of the switching device, then the position detection accuracy is improved, but the system weight increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the position detection function from external sensing devices and relocates it into the solenoid driver circuitry. By taking out the detection function and integrating it into the existing driver, the system eliminates separate sensing components, thereby reducing overall system weight while maintaining detection capability
Solution Approach 2:
The solenoid driver is designed to perform multiple functions: it both drives the solenoid actuator and detects the switching device position. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate dedicated sensing components, reducing system weight by removing redundant parts
3Measurement precision
If external sensing devices are used to detect the position of the switching device, then the position detection accuracy is improved, but the system cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the position detection function with the solenoid driver circuit, eliminating the need for separate external sensing devices. By merging these functions into a single integrated circuit, the system reduces component count, assembly requirements, and overall system cost while maintaining detection accuracy
Solution Approach 2:
The solenoid driver circuit provides self-diagnosis capability by monitoring its own current consumption patterns. This self-service approach eliminates the need for external sensing devices, reducing system cost by removing additional components and simplifying the overall system architecture
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 efficient detection of the switching device's position with reduced system weight, complexity, and cost by using internal circuitry to monitor the current feedback and adjust solenoid operation, thereby improving fault detection and operational control.
Implementation Method 1
a solenoid adapted to generate mechanical energy from an energizing current supplied thereto
Implementation Method 2
at least one measuring element coupled to the switching device, the at least one measuring element adapted to be engaged by the switching device and to have a measuring current flowing therethrough
Data Source
AI summary
Feedback from a solenoid is achieved by adding at least one variable resistance in parallel with the solenoid current feedback circuit for position detection. The resistance has current flowing therethrough when a switching device actuated by the solenoid is in one position or transitions from one position to at least one other position. A feedback current may be measured in the current feedback circuit and the position of the switching device in response to actuation thereof by the solenoid may be determined from the measured feedback current.