UV Flame Sensor Dynamic Excitation Voltage Duty Cycle
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Solution Overview
Problem
Ultraviolet (UV) sensors used in combustion appliances degrade quickly due to the high excitation voltage required for activation, reducing their lifespan and accuracy in monitoring flames, as they need to be constantly active to detect UV radiation effectively.
Innovation Solution
The excitation voltage applied to UV sensors is dynamically adjusted based on the intensity of incoming UV radiation, using a duty cycle that reduces activation time when radiation is high and increases it when radiation is low, allowing for accurate flame detection while extending the sensor's lifespan.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If the excitation voltage is applied continuously to the UV sensor to maintain accurate flame detection, then the measurement precision is improved, but the duration of the sensor's operation deteriorates due to degradation from continuous high voltage exposure
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies periodic action by implementing a duty cycle that alternates between applying and not applying the excitation voltage to the UV sensor. The controller periodically activates the excitation voltage for a specified duration within each cycle, then deactivates it for the remainder of the cycle. This periodic application of voltage allows the sensor to perform accurate flame detection during active periods while reducing cumulative stress and extending operational lifespan through inactive periods.
2Measurement precision
If the excitation voltage is applied for longer periods to obtain sufficiently accurate readings of the flame, then the measurement precision is improved, but the duration of the sensor's operation deteriorates due to increased wear from prolonged voltage application
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamics by making the excitation voltage application duration variable rather than fixed. The controller dynamically adjusts the duty cycle parameters based on operational conditions, flame detection requirements, and sensor health status. This dynamic adjustment allows the system to optimize the balance between obtaining accurate flame readings and preserving sensor life, adapting the voltage application timing to current operational needs rather than using a static, one-size-fits-all approach.
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 extends the operational life of UV sensors by reducing unnecessary activation periods, maintaining accurate flame monitoring while minimizing wear and tear, thus ensuring safer and more reliable operation of combustion appliances.
Implementation Method 1
Ultraviolet (UV) sensors are designed to detect the presence of UV radiation
Data Source
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AI summary
A controller unit for controlling an ultraviolet (UV) sensor may be excited by an excitation voltage that enables the UV sensor to detect incoming UV light. The UV sensor may provide UV detection events that may be related to the intensity of the incoming UV light. The control unit may include an excitation voltage generator, an event detector, and a controller configured to cause the excitation voltage generator to produce an excitation voltage for a cumulative excitation time that is less than 50% of the time, which may significantly increase the operational lifetime and/or reliability of a UV sensor.