Solenoid Valve Testing via Short Voltage Pulse Current Analysis
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for testing solenoid valves are time-consuming and require pressurizing the system, making it inconvenient to perform self-tests without the risk of not being able to depressurize if a fault is detected.
Innovation Solution
A method and device that apply a short voltage pulse to the solenoid valve's windings to measure current, analyzing the waveform to detect defects without opening the valve, thus avoiding system pressurization and allowing for fast testing.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the solenoid valve is opened to test functionality using pressure sensors and temperature probes, then the valve opening functionality can be verified, but the system must be pressurized which consumes time and carries the risk of not being able to depressurize if a fault is detected
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the essential testing function from the complete valve opening sequence by measuring current characteristics during a short voltage pulse application. This allows detecting solenoid defects without executing the full valve opening process, thereby eliminating the time-consuming pressurization and depressurization steps while maintaining the ability to verify solenoid functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent performs preliminary testing by applying a short voltage pulse and measuring current characteristics before any pressurization occurs. This preliminary current measurement reveals solenoid defects (short circuits, open circuits, stuck pins) in advance, preventing the need to pressurize the system and subsequently depressurize it if faults are detected.
2Reliability
If the solenoid valve is opened to test functionality, then the correct valve opening can be confirmed, but the system pressurization is required which creates safety risks and operational complexity
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical pressurization system with an electrical measurement system. Instead of physically opening the valve and using pressure sensors, the invention uses electrical current measurements during a short voltage pulse to infer valve functionality. This substitution eliminates the need for complex pressurization equipment and safety procedures while maintaining reliable defect detection.
3Object-affected harmful factors
If a short voltage pulse is applied to the windings for less than 50 ms, then the valve remains closed avoiding pressurization, but the current measurement must be sufficiently accurate to detect defects
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the measurement parameter from pressure (which would require system pressurization) to electrical current (which can be measured during a short voltage pulse). By monitoring current characteristics such as amplitude, rise time, and waveform shape during the brief pulse application, the system achieves sufficient measurement precision to detect solenoid defects without the harmful effect of system pressurization.
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 rapid and reliable detection of defects such as short circuits, disconnections, and stuck mechanical pins without pressurizing the system, reducing testing time and eliminating the need for depressurization.
Implementation Method 1
a voltage generator (8), which is electrically connected to the winding (6) and configured to apply a short pulse of voltage, which is not long enough to open the solenoid valve (2), to the winding (6)
Implementation Method 2
The solenoid valve (2) comprises a solenoid drive (4) having at least one winding (6). The solenoid drive (4) is configured to open the solenoid valve (2) when an electric current flows through said winding (6).
Data Source
AI summary
A device for testing a solenoid valve includes: a voltage generator for applying a short pulse of voltage, which is not long enough to open the solenoid valve, to the windings of the solenoid valve; a current meter configured for measuring the current flowing through the windings of the solenoid valve; and an analysis device which is configured for analysing the current measured by the current meter for detecting a potential fault of the solenoid valve.