Valve Actuator Lever Detection for Precise End Position Switching
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing automatic valve actuators face challenges in precision and cost-effectiveness due to the complexity and reliability issues of detection mechanisms, such as microswitches, which require precise adjustment and are prone to reliability and durability problems.
Innovation Solution
The automatic valve actuator incorporates a detection system that utilizes a lever to amplify the axial movement of a second part of the valve actuating assembly, allowing for precise detection of the end position of the valve element without direct contact, thus enhancing precision and reducing costs.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If microswitches or sensors are used to detect the end position of the valve actuating assembly, then the motor can be stopped when the fully opened position is reached, but time-consuming and complicated preparatory measures are required to adjust the switch and valve actuating assembly for precise triggering
Solution Approach 1:
A lever is introduced as an intermediary mechanical element between the valve actuating assembly and the detection system. The lever amplifies the axial movement of the valve actuating assembly into a larger movement at its activation area, enabling precise end position detection without requiring complex adjustment of the detection system itself. This mediator transforms the small, hard-to-detect movement into a larger, easier-to-detect movement.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces complex electronic sensors or microswitches with a simpler mechanical lever-based detection system. The lever mechanically amplifies the movement signal, eliminating the need for complex electronic adjustment and calibration while achieving the same end position detection function with greater reliability and less complexity.
2Reliability
If microswitches are used for detection, then end position can be detected, but reliability and durability of microswitches in such applications is questionable
Solution Approach 1:
The lever serves as a reliable mechanical intermediary that translates the axial movement of the valve actuating assembly into a detectable motion at the activation area. This mechanical mediation provides reliable and durable end position detection without the reliability issues associated with microswitches, while keeping the overall system simple.
3Measurement precision
If precise adjustment of switch and valve actuating assembly is performed to enable exact valve actuation, then measurement precision is improved, but cost increases and performance is regularly lacking
Solution Approach 1:
The lever acts as a mechanical amplifier that eliminates the need for precise adjustment during manufacturing. By mechanically amplifying the movement at the activation area, the system achieves high detection precision without requiring costly and time-consuming adjustment procedures, making manufacturing easier and more cost-effective.
Solution Approach 2:
The lever-based detection system is self-adjusting in the sense that it automatically provides the necessary amplification and precision without requiring external adjustment mechanisms. The mechanical design inherently provides the precision needed, eliminating the need for additional adjustment steps that increase cost and reduce ease of manufacture.
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
The detection mechanism provides improved precision and cost-effectiveness by amplifying the axial movement of the valve actuating assembly, minimizing the difference between the real unloaded position and the detected position, and allowing for the use of simpler detection systems.
Implementation Method 1
The lever comprises an activation area whose axial movement is to be detected by the detection system. The lever is pivoted based on an axial movement of a second part of the valve actuating assembly.
Data Source
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AI summary
The present invention relates to an automatic valve actuator (1) for a valve element. The automatic valve actuator comprises a housing (5), a motor (7), a valve actuating assembly (2, 3) arranged inside said housing (5) and driven by said motor (7), wherein at least a first part (2) of said valve actuating assembly (2, 3) is axially moveable relative to said housing (5) along a longitudinal axis (xL) between a first position, in which the valve element is in an open position, and a second position, in which the valve element is in a closed position, and a detection system (23) configured to switch said motor (7) between an on-state, in which said motor (7) drives said valve actuating assembly (2, 3), and an off-state, in which said motor (7) is stopped. In order to provide a detection mechanism for the valve actuator which is improved in terms of costs and precision, the automatic valve actuator (1) further comprises a lever (16) pivotably arranged inside said housing (5), wherein said lever (16) comprises an activation area (22) arranged offset to said axis (xL), wherein said lever (16) is pivoted based on an axial movement of a second part (3) of said valve actuating assembly (2, 3), and wherein said detection system (23) is configured to switch said motor (7) depending on a movement of said activation area (22) of said lever (16).