Intrinsically safe circuit for driving a solenoid valve at low power
US8059382B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventor
Key dates
| Filing date | Apr 14, 2009 |
| Grant date | Nov 15, 2011 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Jan 16, 2030 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC F)Mechanical Engineering; Lighting; Heating
- CPC primaryF16K31/0675
- WIPO fieldElectrical machinery, apparatus, energy
- WIPO sectorElectrical engineering
Abstract
A system and method for providing an intrinsically safe (IS) circuit for driving a solenoid valve at a low power is disclosed. A voltage source generates a first voltage and is connected to a first side of the solenoid valve. A voltage inverter is connected to the voltage source and generates a second voltage from the first voltage. The second voltage is of opposite magnitude to the first voltage. A controller selectively controls the first voltage and the second voltage to be applied to the solenoid valve. In order to actuate the solenoid valve, the first voltage is applied to the first side of the solenoid valve and the second voltage is applied to the second side of the solenoid valve. In order to hold the solenoid valve in an on position, the first voltage is maintained and the second voltage is no longer applied to the second side of the solenoid valve. This circuit utilizes a reduced voltage, which allows the use of capacitance high enough to effectively drive a solenoid valve while still being compliant with IS standards due to a common, lower voltage magnitude. Also, this circuit allows for higher power solenoids to comply with IS standards. Further, this circuit is certifi…
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.