Valve System Force Sensing via Wireless LDC Position Tracking
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional valve actuators face challenges in accurately monitoring and controlling torque, particularly in high-speed applications, where mechanical sensors struggle to effectively measure torque on spinning components, leading to difficulties in predictive maintenance and torque management.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of inductance-to-digital converter (LDC) sensors, which utilize conductive materials and wireless sensing to determine force and torque in valve systems by measuring the position of conductive components, allowing for contactless and magnet-free monitoring of torque and displacement.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If mechanical torque sensors are used on spinning components, then torque measurement capability is provided, but the complexity of the system increases and retrieval of torque information becomes difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces mechanical torque sensors with a magnetic field-based sensing system. A magnet is attached to the rotating component, and a stationary magnetic sensor detects changes in the magnetic field as the magnet rotates. This substitution eliminates the need for mechanical sensors on spinning components, reducing system complexity while maintaining torque measurement capability through wireless or contactless measurement of rotational position and derived torque calculations.
2Loss of information
If mechanical torque sensors are placed on spinning components, then torque data can be obtained, but reliable and easy retrieval of torque information is compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses a stationary magnetic sensor to detect the position of a magnet attached to the rotating component. As the component rotates, the magnetic sensor continuously detects changes in the magnetic field, providing uninterrupted torque information without requiring physical contact or complex wiring to spinning parts. This enables reliable retrieval of torque data while simplifying the overall system architecture.
3Reliability
If conventional mechanical systems are used for torque monitoring, then torque control is achieved, but the system complexity and mechanical interference increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces complex mechanical torque monitoring systems with a magnetic field-based detection system. A magnet mounted on the rotating component interacts with a stationary magnetic sensor, eliminating the need for mechanical linkages, gears, or contact-based sensors. This substitution maintains reliable torque control through accurate position detection while significantly reducing mechanical complexity and potential points of failure.
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 precise and reliable torque measurement and control, enhancing predictive maintenance and reducing the complexity of mechanical systems, while being resilient to environmental interferences.
Implementation Method 1
The inductance-to-digital converter (LDC) sensor comprises an inductor and is configured to wirelessly sense a position of at least a portion of the conductive material
Data Source
AI summary
Methods of determining a force associated with a valve system include wirelessly sensing a position of at least a portion of the conductive material with the at least one inductance-to-digital converter (LDC) sensor and determining a force applied to a portion of the valve system based at least partially on the position of the at least a portion of the conductive material. Valve systems include at least one component comprising a conductive material and at least one inductance-to-digital converter (LDC) configured to wirelessly sense a position of at least a portion of the conductive material. The valve system is configured to determine at least one force applied to a portion of the valve system based at least partially on the position of the at least a portion of the conductive material.