Valve Actuator Delay Circuit for Energy-Autarkic Switch-Off

The patent replaces the pneumatic timer with an electronic delay circuit that uses electrical components (capacitor, resistor, comparator) to generate the delay period. This substitution eliminates dependence on pneumatic supply pressure and ambient temperature conditions, as electronic circuits are not affected by these environmental factors. The delay is generated purely through electrical time constants determined by component values.

The patent changes the physical state from pneumatic (gas pressure-based timing) to electrical (voltage and current-based timing). By using a capacitor charging/discharging circuit with a comparator, the timing parameter is controlled by electrical parameters (capacitance value, resistance value) rather than pneumatic parameters (supply pressure), achieving independence from environmental conditions while maintaining the delay function.

The patent implements preliminary energy storage by charging a capacitor during the normal operating phase when external power is available. This stored electrical energy is then used to power the delay circuit and activate the electro-mechanical actuating means during the switch-off phase when external power is removed. The capacitor acts as an energy reservoir that bridges the transition from powered to unpowered operation.

The system uses its own operational energy to prepare for shutdown by charging the capacitor during normal operation. This self-charging mechanism allows the valve to autonomously execute its switch-off sequence using internally stored energy without requiring external power during the actual switch-off process, achieving energy self-sufficiency.