Solenoid State Detection via Current Analysis
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing aircraft braking systems face challenges in determining the state of solenoids without adding additional hardware, which can increase weight and impede performance.
Innovation Solution
A method and system that measure and analyze the current flowing through a solenoid to determine its state by identifying characteristics such as local extrema, rate of change, and discrete values, allowing the control unit to monitor and control the solenoid's state without additional detection hardware.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If additional hardware is added to monitor solenoid state, then measurement precision is improved, but weight increases
Solution Approach 1:
The solenoid uses its own current characteristics to determine its state. The control unit monitors current flowing through the solenoid and detects characteristics such as local extrema, rate of change, and discrete values to determine whether the solenoid is moving or stationary, eliminating the need for separate detection hardware.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces physical detection hardware with an electrical measurement system. Instead of using mechanical sensors or additional electrical components to detect solenoid state, the system uses electrical current characteristics already present in the solenoid circuit to infer the solenoid's mechanical state.
2Reliability
If additional hardware is added to monitor solenoid state, then reliability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The solenoid system monitors itself by analyzing its own current characteristics. The control unit uses the current flowing through the solenoid to determine the solenoid's state, eliminating the need for separate monitoring hardware and reducing overall system complexity while maintaining reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The control unit performs multiple functions: it controls the solenoid by applying electrical signals and simultaneously monitors the solenoid's state by analyzing the same current. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate monitoring hardware, reducing device complexity while maintaining reliable state detection.
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 the determination of solenoid state without adding weight to the aircraft, enhancing system safety by confirming successful engagement or disengagement of the parking brake and reducing the need for additional hardware.
Implementation Method 1
A solenoid may change state in response to electrical energy applied to the device
Implementation Method 2
measuring a current flowing through a solenoid, and detecting characteristics of the current flowing through the solenoid
Data Source
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AI summary
Systems and methods for controlling a solenoid (204, 308) may include measuring a current flowing through a solenoid (204, 308), and detecting characteristics of the current flowing through the solenoid (204, 308). The characteristics may be used to determine a state of the solenoid (204, 308). Characteristics of the current comprise may include local extrema of the current, rate of change of the current, and/or discrete values of the current. The solenoid (204, 308) may comprise a bistable device.