Detecting Suction Valve Improper Opening via Torque Peaks

Resolve Bottlenecks,
Find Innovative Solutions
Generate Solutions

Solution Overview

Problem

Existing methods for detecting improper opening of suction valves in double suction reciprocating compressors require additional sensors and components, increasing production costs and potentially affecting compressor efficiency.

Innovation Solution

The method utilizes electrical engine torque parameters monitored by a sensor to detect improper openings of suction valves through peaks in electrical current during energization of the electromagnetic field generator element, eliminating the need for additional components.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If additional sensors and inductive components are used to detect valve opening status, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity and manufacturing cost increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvevalve opening detection accuracyVSAvoidnumber of sensors and components
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The system uses the electrical engine's own current measurements to detect valve opening status, eliminating the need for external sensors. The electrical engine serves itself by providing both the actuation power and the diagnostic data through its existing current sensor,实现自我监测功能

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The existing current sensor serves dual purposes: controlling the electromagnetic field generator element and detecting valve opening status. This multi-functional use of the sensor eliminates the need for separate detection components, reducing system complexity while maintaining detection accuracy

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Reliability

If additional sensors and inductive components are added to the compressor, then reliability of valve monitoring is improved, but ease of manufacture deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvevalve monitoring reliabilityVSAvoidproduction cost and assembly simplicity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The electrical engine provides self-diagnostic capability through its existing current sensor, eliminating the need for separate monitoring components. This self-service approach ensures reliable valve monitoring while maintaining ease of manufacture by using already-present system components

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The valve detection function is merged with the existing electrical engine control system. The current sensor that already exists for electromagnetic field control is also used for valve status detection, combining multiple functions into a single integrated system that is both reliable and easy to manufacture

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

3Device complexity

If the electrical engine current is monitored to detect valve openings, then device complexity is reduced, but measurement precision may deteriorate

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvenumber of additional componentsVSAvoidvalve opening detection accuracy
Core Design Contradiction:
Device complexityVSMeasurement precision

Solution Approach 1:

The system continuously monitors electrical engine current and uses feedback from current variations to detect valve opening events. The controller analyzes real-time current feedback during electromagnetic field energization to determine valve status, achieving accurate detection without additional hardware

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

Solution Approach 2:

The system detects valve opening by monitoring changes in electrical current parameters during electromagnetic field energization. The current magnitude and its variations serve as indicators of valve opening status, transforming electrical parameter changes into diagnostic information about mechanical valve state

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

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 allows for real-time detection of improper valve openings without additional sensors, enhancing compressor efficiency and reducing production costs by leveraging existing engine current measurements.

Implementation Method 1

an electromagnetic field generator element capable of selectively interact with the suction valve

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElectromagnetic field generation: Electromagnetic Induction

Implementation Method 2

electronic central of processing monitor at least one variable proportional to torque of said electrical engine by means of sensor capable of measure at least one variable proportional to torque of said electrical engine

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElectrical current measurement: Ohm's Law

Data Source

PatentEP3198142B1Improper opening detection method of multiple suction reciprocating compressor suction valve
Publication Date: 2018.09.19 WHIRPOOL SA
  • EP3198142B1 patent drawingFigure 1A~1B
  • EP3198142B1 patent drawingFigure 2

AI summary

The present invention relates to the compressors technological field used preferentially in cooling systems. Problem to be solved: Difficulty in detecting improper opening of the high pressure suction valve in multiple suction reciprocating compressor and, in more severe cases, interrupts operation of low pressure line(s). Problem resolution: Implementation of method which monitors at least one variable proportional to electrical engine torque, and based on detection of at least on positive peak of said variable proportional to torque of said electrical engine, identify and/or detects – in real time – improper opening of the valve.