Method for determining the instant when the movable element of a solenoid valve reaches its end position following energization of the solenoid, by means of an analysis of the switching frequence of the solenoid driving current
US8166932B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Nov 18, 2008 |
| Grant date | May 1, 2012 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Dec 6, 2029 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC F)Mechanical Engineering; Lighting; Heating
- CPC primaryF02D2041/2058
- WIPO fieldEngines, pumps, turbines
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
The movable element of a solenoid valve is displaced by means of application to the solenoid of alternating phases at constant voltage and at zero voltage, so as to give rise to an alternation of phases of charging and discharging of the solenoid (switching), corresponding to increases and decreases of current around a substantially constant current value. The alternating phases at constant voltage and at zero voltage are controlled so that the phase at constant voltage is maintained for a pre-set time and the phase at zero voltage is terminated when the decreasing current reaches a pre-set value. Alternatively, it is possible to envisage that the phase at constant voltage will be terminated when the increasing current reaches a pre-set value and the phase at zero voltage is maintained for a pre-set time, or else again that both the phase at constant voltage and the phase at zero voltage will be terminated when the increasing current or decreasing current reaches a pre-set value. In any case, the duration of each cycle of charging and discharging of the solenoid is constantly monitored. It is thus possible to identify the instant at which the movable element of the solenoid valve r…
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.