Valve Position Detection Using Magnetic Sensors
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing valve position detection systems for pressurized fluid tanks are complex, costly, prone to measurement inaccuracies, and have excessive energy consumption and short reaction times.
Innovation Solution
A valve with a single mobile discrete magnetic element and two sensors, where the first sensor measures the magnetic field to determine the control member's position and the second sensor acts as a switch to control the power supply, optimizing detection precision and reducing energy consumption.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If multiple fixed discrete sensors and moving discrete elements are used for position detection, then detection coverage is improved, but device complexity and manufacturing cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces mechanical discrete sensors with a magnetic detection system. A single mobile magnetic element integral with the control member interacts with magnetic sensors, substituting complex mechanical sensing arrangements with a simpler magnetic field-based detection mechanism that maintains high measurement precision while reducing structural complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The mobile magnetic element serves multiple functions: it acts as both the moving discrete element for position indication and the magnetic source for sensor detection. This multi-functional element eliminates the need for separate mechanical indicators and magnetic sources, thereby simplifying the overall device structure
2Reliability
If continuous power supply to the detection device is provided, then detection reliability is improved, but energy consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements periodic power supply to the first magnetic sensor based on the position of the control member. The detection device receives electrical power only during specific operational phases when the control member is in certain positions, rather than continuous operation. This periodic activation maintains reliable detection when needed while significantly reducing overall energy consumption
Solution Approach 2:
The detection device automatically regulates its own power consumption by using the control member's position to trigger power supply cycles. The system self-manages its energy requirements without external intervention, activating sensors only when the control member indicates a need for detection, thereby balancing reliability with energy efficiency
3Device complexity
If discrete position detection points are used, then device simplicity is improved, but measurement accuracy between reference positions deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces discrete mechanical position detection with continuous magnetic field sensing. The mobile magnetic element creates a continuous magnetic field that can be measured at any position, allowing the magnetic sensors to detect position continuously rather than at discrete mechanical reference points, thereby improving measurement accuracy while keeping the device structure simple
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes the detection parameter from discrete mechanical positions to continuous magnetic field strength variations. By measuring changes in magnetic field parameters (strength, orientation) as the control member moves, the system achieves high measurement precision across the entire range of motion rather than only at predetermined discrete points
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 solution provides low electrical consumption, rapid reaction times, and high detection precision, while also allowing for adaptive measurement frequencies based on fluid pressure and usage scenarios.
Implementation Method 1
the first sensor being a magnetic sensor electrically powered by the power source
Implementation Method 2
the second sensor being configured to form with the control member a switch interrupting the power supply to the first sensor
Data Source
Figure 1~3
Figure 4~8
Figure 6~7
AI summary
Valve comprising a withdrawing circuit (3) comprising an upstream first end (13) and a downstream second end (23), the withdrawing circuit (3) comprising a member (4) for regulating the flow rate and/or pressure of the fluid withdrawn, the valve (1) comprising a mobile member (5) for manually controlling the regulating member (4), the valve (1) comprising a device (9) for detecting the position of the control member (5) which is electrically powered by an electrical power supply (7), the detection device (9) comprising a single discrete magnetic element (12) that is mobile and secured to the control member (5), as well as a first sensor (15) and a second sensor (16) which sensors are fixedly mounted on the valve body, the first sensor (15) being a magnetic sensor electrically powered by the power supply (7), the second sensor (16) being configured to form, with the control member (5), a switch that interrupts the supply of electrical power from the electrical power supply (7) to the first sensor (15) when the control member (5) is in at least a first determined position and that allows the electrical power supply (7) to electrically power the first sensor (15) when the control member (12) is in at least a second determined position.