Valve Actuator Feedback Control for Constant Flow Under Pressure Changes
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing two-way valve systems for fluid flow control in heating systems are complex and expensive due to the need for separate sections to maintain pressure difference and control flow rate, requiring intricate adjustments by the actuator.
Innovation Solution
A valve actuator with a drive, force sensor, and stroke sensor that adjusts the position of the valve element based on sensed forces and displacements, using a look-up table or calculation means to maintain a constant flow rate by compensating for pressure differences between the inlet and outlet.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a valve with two sections is used to maintain pressure difference and control flow rate, then flow rate control accuracy is improved, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines pressure difference compensation and flow rate control into a single integrated valve structure. The actuator simultaneously performs both functions by adjusting the valve element position based on feedback from force sensors (detecting pressure difference) and position sensors (detecting opening degree), eliminating the need for separate valve sections.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements a feedback control system where force sensors detect the pressure difference acting on the valve element and position sensors detect the valve opening degree. The control unit processes these signals and adjusts the actuator position accordingly to maintain accurate flow rate control despite pressure variations.
2Measurement precision
If a valve with two sections is used to maintain pressure difference and control flow rate, then flow rate control accuracy is improved, but manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines pressure difference compensation and flow rate control into a single integrated valve structure. The actuator simultaneously performs both functions by adjusting the valve element position based on feedback from force sensors (detecting pressure difference) and position sensors (detecting opening degree), eliminating the need for separate valve sections.
Solution Approach 2:
The actuator is designed as a multi-functional device that simultaneously performs pressure difference compensation and flow rate control. By integrating multiple functions into a single component, the patent reduces the number of parts needed and simplifies manufacturing.
3Stability of the object's composition
If pressure difference compensation is implemented to maintain constant flow rate, then flow rate stability is improved, but control system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a feedback control system where force sensors detect the pressure difference acting on the valve element and position sensors detect the valve opening degree. The control unit processes these signals and adjusts the actuator position accordingly to maintain accurate flow rate control despite pressure variations.
Solution Approach 2:
The control system automatically adjusts the valve position based on real-time feedback from sensors without requiring external intervention. The actuator self-regulates the flow rate by detecting pressure differences and opening degree, maintaining stability autonomously.
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 solution simplifies the control of flow rates through the valve by using a force sensor and stroke sensor to adjust the actuation element's position, ensuring consistent flow rates despite changes in pressure differences, thereby reducing complexity and cost.
Implementation Method 1
a force sensor sensing a force acting on the actuation element
Implementation Method 2
a stroke sensor sensing a displacement of the actuation element from said first position
Data Source
Figure 1a~1c
Figure 2~3
Figure 4~5
AI summary
A valve actuator (1) is described comprising a drive (10) acting on an actuation element (9), a force sensor sensing a force (14) acting on the actuation element (9), and a stroke sensor (13) sensing a displacement of the actuation element (9).