Solenoid Valve Closed-Loop Current Control for Precise Armature Positioning
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing solenoid valve systems face challenges in reducing power consumption while maintaining precise control over the armature movement and valve positioning.
Innovation Solution
Implementing a closed-loop current control system for the solenoid coil, where the controller adjusts the coil current to maintain a predetermined value, accounting for all factors affecting the current, ensuring precise armature positioning and valve operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If voltage regulation is used for the solenoid coil, then the control system is simple, but the coil current cannot be maintained at a precise predetermined value due to induction effects and armature movement
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a closed-loop current control system where a sensor detects the actual coil current and feeds it back to the controller. The controller compares the detected current with the desired current value and adjusts the power supply accordingly to maintain precise current control despite induction effects and armature movement. This feedback mechanism resolves the contradiction by achieving high measurement precision through active compensation rather than passive regulation.
2Measurement precision
If high coil current is provided to ensure precise armature positioning, then positioning precision is improved, but power consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs dynamic current control where the coil current is adjusted in real-time based on the armature's position and movement state. During the pick-up phase, high current is provided to overcome static friction and initiate movement. Once the armature is in motion and positioned, the current is reduced to a holding level. This dynamic adjustment maintains positioning precision while significantly reducing average power consumption compared to continuous high current operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The control system operates in distinct periodic phases: a pick-up phase with high current to initiate armature movement, followed by a holding phase with reduced current to maintain position. This periodic action pattern allows the system to achieve precise positioning when needed while minimizing energy consumption during the majority of the operational cycle when high current is not required.
3Use of energy by moving object
If reduced holding current is used after pick-up phase, then power consumption is reduced, but control precision may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The closed-loop control system continuously monitors the armature position and coil current even during the holding phase with reduced current. The feedback mechanism ensures that the reduced current is precisely adjusted to maintain the armature in the desired position, preventing drift or unintended movement. This feedback control maintains reliability and control precision despite the reduced current level, resolving the contradiction between energy savings and control accuracy.
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
This approach reduces power consumption by optimizing the coil current, enhancing precision in armature positioning, and minimizing wear and noise, while maintaining effective control over the solenoid valve.
Implementation Method 1
a solenoid drive which comprises a magnetic circuit with a solenoid coil and an armature which is linearly movable between a first functional position and a second functional position
Implementation Method 2
the controller is connected to a sensor, which sensor provides a sensor signal which is dependent on a movement of the armature
Data Source
AI summary
Solenoid valve system having a solenoid valve and further having a controller, wherein the solenoid valve includes a valve housing through which a fluid channel passes, in which fluid channel a valve member for temporarily sealing a valve seat formed in the fluid channel is movably accommodated, and including a solenoid drive which has a magnetic circuit with a solenoid coil and a linear-movable armature which is coupled to the valve member, the controller provides a coil current to the solenoid coil and is connected to a sensor which provides a sensor signal which is dependent on a movement of the armature, the controller analyzes the sensor signal to determine a movement of the armature, wherein the controller provides a closed loop control for the coil current in the presence of the armature movement.