Modular Valve Control Head for Compact Multi-Position Sensing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing valve control systems require significant installation space due to the need for lateral initiators connected via cables to monitor valve positions, especially in process valves with multiple closure parts, making them inefficient in terms of space and cost.
Innovation Solution
A modular valve control head with integrated control electronics, position sensors, and a fastening device that allows for easy attachment and electrical connection of additional position sensors, enabling reliable position monitoring of multiple valve closure parts without external initiators, using a housing, fluid connections, and spindles with measuring objects and sensors.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If initiators are attached laterally to the process valve and connected via cables, then valve position can be monitored, but installation space requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent integrates the position sensors directly into the control head housing, merging the monitoring function with the existing control structure. This eliminates the need for separate lateral initiators and cable connections, thereby reducing installation space while maintaining reliable valve position monitoring
Solution Approach 2:
The control head housing is designed with a universal fastening device that can accommodate both single and dual position sensors. This multi-functional design allows the same housing structure to support different monitoring configurations without requiring additional external components, reducing overall installation space
2Adaptability or versatility
If a second position sensor is added for two valve closure parts, then position monitoring capability improves, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The fastening device incorporates a latch mechanism that allows the second position sensor to be dynamically attached or detached based on the specific application requirements. This dynamic design enables the system to adapt between single-sensor and dual-sensor configurations without permanent structural modifications, maintaining simplicity while improving versatility
Solution Approach 2:
The control head is designed with modular segmentation, where the second position sensor and its fastening device constitute a separate, independently attachable module. This segmentation allows the base control head to remain simple while enabling enhanced monitoring capability when needed, without increasing the complexity of the core structure
3Measurement precision
If external initiators are used for position detection, then measurement can be achieved, but manufacturing cost and installation complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The position sensors are integrated directly into the control head housing, merging the detection function with the existing control structure. This eliminates the need for separate external initiators, reducing the number of components that need to be manufactured and assembled, thereby lowering manufacturing costs while maintaining measurement precision
Solution Approach 2:
The control head housing serves multiple functions: it houses the control electronics, provides structural support, and integrates the position sensors through the fastening device. This multi-functional design reduces the need for separate external initiators, simplifying manufacturing and reducing overall system cost while maintaining accurate position detection
Data Source
AI summary
A valve control head is provided, comprising a housing, control electronics, at least one control valve, fluid connections, electrical connections, a first measuring object, rigidly coupled to a first valve closure part, and a position measuring system, comprising measuring electronics and a first position sensor, wherein the first position sensor can detect a position of the first measuring object, and wherein the valve control head comprises a fastening device formed to couple a second position sensor.