Solenoid Valve Actuation Using Two-Stage Current Profile
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing solenoid valve actuation systems in motor vehicles, such as ABS, TCS, and ESP systems, face challenges in minimizing noise and vibration when switching different types of solenoid valves, as current solutions require tailored current profiles for each type, leading to inconsistent and often loud switching noises.
Innovation Solution
A method involving the detection of a valve actuation signal, followed by energization with a specific constant control current for a predetermined actuation time, and then increasing to a full actuation current with a refresh pulse, ensuring all solenoid valves can be opened quietly and reliably, using a single current step for a unified actuation time.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If different current profiles are designed for each solenoid valve type, then each valve can be opened reliably, but the system complexity increases and noise suppression becomes inconsistent
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies a single universal current profile that works for all solenoid valve types in the valve arrangement. Instead of designing separate current profiles for each valve type (first, second, third types), the invention uses one unified current profile with a first current level and second current level that can reliably open all valve types, thereby reducing system complexity while maintaining reliability
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the current profile parameters by using a two-level current structure (first current level during actuation time, second current level during full actuation time) instead of multiple type-specific profiles. The current levels are dimensioned to accommodate the full range of valve types, with the first current level being sufficient to open all valves and the second level providing reinforcement if needed
2Device complexity
If a single current profile is used for all solenoid valve types, then system complexity is reduced, but some valves may not open reliably
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a dynamic two-stage current profile where the current level changes over time. The first current level is applied during an actuation time period, and if the valve is not fully opened, a second higher current level is applied during a full actuation time period. This dynamic adjustment ensures all valve types open reliably while using a single universal profile
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies a preliminary current (first current level) during an actuation time period before applying the full actuation current (second current level). This preliminary action allows valves to begin opening in the pressureless state quietly, and if additional force is needed, the second current level provides the necessary reinforcement to ensure reliable opening
3Object-affected harmful factors
If actuation time is extended to open all valve types quietly, then noise is reduced, but the response time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses a periodic two-stage actuation approach where the first current level is applied for a first actuation time period, and the second current level is applied for a second full actuation time period. This periodic structure allows the valve to open quietly during the first phase and ensures complete opening during the second phase, balancing noise reduction with response time
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 significantly reduces noise and vibration by ensuring all solenoid valves are opened quietly and efficiently, utilizing a consistent control current for a longer actuation time, thereby minimizing impact noises and enhancing overall switching quietness.
Implementation Method 1
a solenoid valve serves as technical component for controlling the inlet or outlet of gases or liquids
Data Source
AI summary
A method for actuating at least one solenoid valve includes detecting a valve actuation signal, energizing the at least one solenoid valve with a specific constant control current for a specific actuation time which follows the detection of the valve actuation signal, and increasing the control current to a full actuation current for a full actuation time which follows the actuation time. The specific constant control current and the actuation time are dimensioned in such a way that at least two different types of solenoid valves can be at least partially opened by the control current during the actuation time.