Wireless Actuator Position Sensor Assembly Retrofit
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing actuator position sensors require direct observation to determine the operational state, which is inconvenient when no one is present to observe them, and existing solutions do not offer a straightforward, user-friendly method for retrofitting wireless position sensing capabilities to rotating actuators.
Innovation Solution
A wireless actuator position sensor assembly that includes a rotatable assembly and a stationary component, featuring a sensor trigger, electronic circuitry, and an adaptive sleeve, allowing for remote indication of the rotational position of an actuator stem, enabling easy retrofitting and remote monitoring of actuator positions using RF transmission.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of information
If a wired position sensor is installed on the actuator, then the operational state can be indicated, but the system requires direct observation and complex wiring installation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces wired mechanical connection with wireless RF communication. The sensor assembly transmits actuator position data wirelessly to a remote device, eliminating the need for physical wiring while maintaining position monitoring capability. This resolves the contradiction by providing remote monitoring (improving ease of operation) while preserving complete position information transmission (preventing loss of information).
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a wireless communication intermediary (RF transmitter and receiver) between the actuator sensor and the monitoring system. This intermediary enables remote position information transmission without direct physical connection, allowing users to monitor actuator state from a distance while maintaining accurate position data transmission.
2Ease of operation
If a wireless position sensor is retrofitted to an existing actuator, then remote monitoring is enabled, but the installation process may become complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the wireless position sensor system into separate modular components: a sensor assembly that attaches to the actuator, an adaptive sleeve that interfaces with the actuator stem, and a wireless transmitter unit. This segmentation allows each component to be independently manufactured and simplified the retrofitting process, as components can be installed separately without requiring complete system redesign.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent designs the sensor assembly with universal adaptability through the adaptive sleeve mechanism, which can accommodate different actuator stem sizes and configurations. This universality enables the same wireless sensor assembly to be retrofitted to various actuator types without requiring custom-designed components for each actuator model, significantly reducing retrofitting complexity.
3Adaptability or versatility
If an adaptive sleeve mechanism is used, then the sensor can accommodate different actuator configurations, but the device structure becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a dynamic adaptive sleeve mechanism that can adjust its configuration to match different actuator stem dimensions. The sleeve incorporates movable or adjustable elements that allow it to adapt to various stem sizes and shapes, providing compatibility across different actuator types while maintaining a relatively simple overall structure through standardized base components.
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
Enables remote monitoring of actuator positions, allowing users to determine the operational state of actuators from a distance, facilitating easy installation and operation without specialized knowledge or tools, and can be applied to various devices such as stoves, valves, and washing machines.
Implementation Method 1
a sensor configured for generating a signal based on a rotational position of the actuator stem
Implementation Method 2
electronic circuitry configured for transmitting information about the rotational position of the actuator stem wirelessly
Data Source
AI summary
A device for wirelessly transmitting a rotation position of an actuator. The device comprises first and second housings. The housing configured for securing to a body of the actuator. An adaptive sleeve may be used for coupling the second housing to a stem of the actuator. The device includes a sensor and a sensor trigger that are mounted in different ones of the first and second housings. The sensor generates a sensor output signal based on a proximity of the sensor to the sensor trigger. The sensor and sensor trigger are mounted such that relative motion between the first and second housings produces a change in the sensor output signal. A radio transmitter transmits the rotational position of the actuator stem based on the sensor output signal.