초록 ▼

According to principles of the present invention, a sensor beam provides a linear or non-linear continuous signal to a computer that translates the signal into a valve position reading. In an illustrative embodiment of the invention, a sensor beam incorporating piezo-resistive components forming a W

According to principles of the present invention, a sensor beam provides a linear or non-linear continuous signal to a computer that translates the signal into a valve position reading. In an illustrative embodiment of the invention, a sensor beam incorporating piezo-resistive components forming a Wheatstone bridge abuts a cam mounted on a butterfly valve spindle. Valve movement causes rotation of the cam that, in turn, imparts a bending moment to the sensor beam. This bending moment strains the piezo-resistive components, thereby altering the resistance of the Wheatstone bridge. The computer measures the resistance change using an output signal transmitted by the sensor beam and calculates valve position based thereon.

대표청구항 ▼

[ What is claimed is:] [9.]9. A method of determining the position of a movable valve member operably coupled with an actuating surface, the method comprising the steps of:operably disposing a sensor having a first portion with the actuating surface, whereby movement of the actuating surface displac

[ What is claimed is:] [9.]9. A method of determining the position of a movable valve member operably coupled with an actuating surface, the method comprising the steps of:operably disposing a sensor having a first portion with the actuating surface, whereby movement of the actuating surface displaces said first portion;providing a predetermined input voltage to said sensor; andmeasuring an output voltage from said sensor, said output voltage being proportional to the amount said first portion is displaced by the actuating surface.