CN103777651A

CN103777651A - Apparatus, methods and articles of manufacture to calibrate valve-mounted instruments

Info

Publication number: CN103777651A
Application number: CN201310680273.0A
Authority: CN
Inventors: P·K·卡特; S·G·西伯杰
Original assignee: Fisher Controls International LLC
Current assignee: Fisher Controls International LLC
Priority date: 2012-10-22
Filing date: 2013-10-17
Publication date: 2014-05-07
Also published as: EP2909516A1; CA2888337A1; CN203979570U; CA2888337C; RU2015118771A; WO2014066209A1; JP2015535061A

Abstract

Example methods, apparatus and articles of manufacture to calibrate valve-mounted instruments, such as a position controllers and/or a position transmitter, are described. An example method disclosed herein includes securing a position of a flow control member of a control valve assembly to prevent movement of the flow control member and installing a controller to the control valve assembly. The method includes activating a user interface of the controller after the controller is coupled to the control valve assembly, entering a position sensor sensitivity value and a single-point position value, the single-point position value being representative of the secured position of the flow control member, applying a single-point calibration value, placing the controller in a control mode, and releasing the position of the flow control member, the controller to self-calibrate during operation of the control valve assembly based on the position sensor sensitivity value and the single-point position value while the control valve assembly is in operation.

Description

Be used for equipment, method and the goods that calibrating valve installs instruments

Technical field

The present invention relates generally to a kind of valve, more specifically, relates to method, equipment and goods that a kind of calibrating valve installs instruments.

Background technology

Processing factory's element, for example valve, has relevant installing instruments conventionally, and for example control element and/or transmission realize one or more valve positioner and/or position transmitter that require flow process and/or operation in processing factory about the information of element.Example valve assembly comprises diaphragm type or piston-type pneumatic actuator, and it is by the control of electropneumatic valve positioner.Exemplary electropneumatic valve positioner receives one or more control signals (such as 4-20 milliampere (mA) control signal, 0-10 volt direct current (VDC) control signal, digital controlled signal etc.), and control signal is converted to and is one or morely supplied to pneumatic actuator and opens, close or keep the air pressure of respective valves position.For example, if that process control block (PCB) is determined is that air pressure drives, normally closed stroke valve will allow the process fluid by larger volume and/or flow velocity, the control signal of supposing to use current type, the amplitude that is supplied to the control signal of the electropneumatic valve positioner being connected with valve can be increased to 8mA from 4mA.

In certain embodiments, electropneumatic valve positioner uses via feedback-induced system or element, for example position transducer, the feedback signal of generation.This feedback signal represents the position of pneumatic actuator and respective valves.This valve positioner comparison feedback signal and representative require set point or require the control signal of valve position (for example 35% opening), and determine whether to adjust the one or more air pressure that are supplied to actuator.Work as processing factory's inside expectation for valve positioner, actuator and valve combination, this valve positioner need to be calibrated according to feedback-induced element.

Summary of the invention

Disclose and be used for calibrating valve and install instruments, illustrative methods, equipment and the goods of for example positioner and/or position transmitter.Illustrative methods disclosed herein comprises that the position of the flow control element of fixing operation valve assembly is to prevent the movement of flow control element, and controller is installed to operation valve assembly.The method comprises, after being connected to operation valve assembly, controller starts the user interface of controller, input position transducer sensitivity value and single-point positional value, this single-point positional value represents the fixed position of flow control element, use single-point calibration value, controller is placed in to control model, and unclamps the position of flow control element, in the time that operation valve assembly is worked, this controller carries out self-calibrating according to position transducer Sensitirity va1ue and single-point positional value during operation valve assembly operation.

Illustrative methods disclosed herein comprises, in the time that operation valve assembly is using or be online with process control system, controller is connected to operation valve assembly, provide position transducer Sensitirity va1ue to controller, the single-point positional value of the current location of the flow control element that represents operation valve assembly is provided, position-based transducer sensitivity value and single-point positional value, input represents the estimation up stroke ultimate value of the first stroke span limit of flow control element and the estimation down stroke ultimate value of the second stroke span limit of expression flow control element, and start controller to allow operation control valve assembly to carry out the fluid flow of control procedure control system, this controller is calibrated according to position transducer Sensitirity va1ue and single-point positional value during operation valve assembly operation.

Illustrative methods disclosed herein comprises, in the time that valve Control Component is in fluid system, the position of the flow control element of locking operation valve assembly, the calibration of the controller of start-up operation operation valve assembly, by user interface, preposition transducer sensitivity value is input to controller, input represents that the latched position of flow control element is with respect to the single-point positional value of the stroke span of flow control element, position-based transducer sensitivity value and single-point positional value obtain the calibration value up and down of estimation from controller, input the calibration value up and down of estimation by user interface, start controller, and unclamp flow control element so that operation valve assembly control fluid system, this controller is according to single-point positional value, the calibration value up and down of position transducer Sensitirity va1ue and estimation is calibrated.

Accompanying drawing explanation

Fig. 1 illustrates the example valve equipment with valve positioner, and this controller can use illustrative methods described here and equipment to calibrate.

Fig. 2 A-2C has described the example states of example valve assembly in Fig. 1.

Fig. 3,4 and 5 illustrates the example calibration operation that can realize by the example valve level controller in Fig. 1.

Fig. 6 illustrates the exemplary approach of the example valve level controller of realizing in Fig. 1.

Fig. 7 illustrates example process, can carry out this process and carry out the example valve level controller in installation diagram 1 and Fig. 6.

Fig. 8-11 illustrate example process, can carry out this process and calibrate and/or realize the example valve level controller in Fig. 1 and Fig. 6.

Figure 12 illustrates the example valve equipment with position transmitter, and this position transmitter can be used illustrative methods described here and equipment to calibrate.

Figure 13 illustrates the exemplary approach of the exemplary position forwarder of realizing in Figure 12.

Figure 14 illustrates example process, can carry out this process the exemplary position forwarder in Figure 12 and Figure 13 is installed.

Figure 15 illustrates example process, can carry out this process and calibrate and/or realize the exemplary position forwarder in Figure 12 and Figure 13.

Figure 16 is the schematic diagram of exemplary process applicator platform, can programme to realize Fig. 7-11 with this platform and/or to this platform, example process in Figure 14 and Figure 15, and/or, say more at large, realize the exemplary position forwarder in example valve level controller and/or Figure 12 and the Figure 13 in Fig. 1 and Fig. 6.

Embodiment

In order to calibrate some valve, must make valve for example, for example, drive (stroke) valve between an end end point of travel or position (fully open position) and another end end point of travel or position (complete off-position).But this method is disadvantageous because this requirement quits work valve or off line to drive valve completely.But in some cases, procedures system can not interrupt or close so that valve positioner and/or position transmitter calibration.Even in the time that procedures system can interrupt, this interruption can bring undesirable money and/or effectiveness affects.Although can carry out separation valve door and keep-process system is online with bypass line, bypass line is always desirable, not effective or feasible yet.

Additionally or selectively, some valve positioner and/or position transmitter can be used experiment table (bench), test or calibration valve, actuator and position transducer to calibrate, described valve, actuator and position transducer have and the valve that valve positioner and/or position transmitter will be installed, actuator and position transducer similar or identical feature (for example, length of stroke, end point of travel etc.) substantially.For instance, testing valve, actuator and position transducer are arranged in the maintenance shop or the laboratory that arrange away from actual processing factory.In laboratory or workshop, testing valve, actuator and position transducer can drive completely or thoroughly, to calibrate new and/or replacing valve level controller and/or position transmitter.After calibration, the valve positioner of calibration and/or position transmitter are removed and are operably connected or are installed to the target valve actuator in processing factory from rig for testing.Although effectively, this calibration steps is time-consuming and requires have suitable testing equipment to use.

At least in order to overcome these defects, example valve level controller described here and position transmitter can be used the positional value of single outer setting to carry out self-calibrating, this positional value represents the estimation of the current location (for example 70% closing) of the valve member that valve positioner is mounted, installed and/or will install (, valve, actuator and position transducer are combined consideration).In embodiment described here, before the valve positioner in processing factory or position transmitter work, not needing provides other positional value to valve positioner or position transmitter.Single positional value can easily and/or easily be determined and/or estimation by setter, for example, by visually check and/or measure the current location of valve member between valve positioner installation period.For example user's interface of setter current location value that measure or estimation is provided and/or provide to valve positioner or position transmitter.According to the current location value of the measurement providing or estimation, study during the subsequent operation of example valve level controller described here and the position transmitter valve member in operation processing factory, adaptation and/or self-calibrating.Therefore, the method and apparatus that is used for calibrating valve level controller and position transmitter described here can use and needn't make the relative section off line of processing factory or out of service, not demand motive, adjust or reorientate valve, do not need bypass line, and do not need experiment table, test or calibrating valve door assembly.

Fig. 1 illustrates example valve door equipment 100, comprises valve member 102 and the valve positioner 104 according to the instruction structure of present disclosure.Although described with reference to the example valve door assembly 102 in figure 1 illustrative methods and the equipment of calibrating valve level controller of being used for, should be understood that, illustrative methods described here and equipment can be used to the valve positioner of calibration for other or available valve member of any quantity and/or type.For example, although the valve 106 of describing in Fig. 1 is slip rod-type operation valves, but being used for the illustrative methods of calibrating valve level controller can use with equipment together with the valve of any other types, valve includes but not limited to rotary control valve, quarter-turn operation valve etc.Additionally or selectively, although the example actuator 108 in Fig. 1 is depicted as double-acting piston actuator, but the actuator of any other types, can use such as rotational actuator, single-acting spring return barrier film or piston actuator.It should be further understood that, single positional value calibration steps described here can use with equipment together with other controllable devices of any quantity and/or type, and controllable device for example includes but not limited to impact damper, lifter, lifting means, day equality.Therefore, the embodiment of Fig. 1 is only that the scope that this patent is contained is not limited to this for the illustrative embodiment that discusses object.

Example valve door assembly 102 in Fig. 1 comprises valve 106, pneumatic actuator 108 and position transducer 110.The exemplary valve 106 of Fig. 1 has the valve seat 112 being arranged in wherein, and it limits the hole 114 that the fluid flowing passage that is positioned at valve 106 is provided between opening 116 and 118.Example actuator 108 in Fig. 1 can be operably connected to flow control element 120 by valve rod 122, its in a first direction (for example, away from valve seat 112) mobile flow control element 120 to allow the larger fluid flow between opening 116 and 118, and in second direction (for example, towards valve seat 112) mobile flow control element 120 further to limit or to stop the fluid flow between opening 116 and 118.

Exemplary pneumatic actuator 108 in Fig. 1 comprises piston 130, and it is located in shell 132 to limit the first chamber 136 and the second chamber 137.Actuator take-off lever 138 is connected to piston 130 and is operably connected to valve rod 122 by the connector 139 with relevant travel indicator 140.Flow velocity through valve 106 is controlled with respect to the position of shell 132 by adjusting piston 130, to adjust flow control element 120 with respect to the position of valve seat 112 and the position of valve 106.

In order to control the position of example piston 130, in Fig. 1, exemplary electropneumatic valve positioner 104 will be controlled fluid (for example pressurized air, hydraulic fluid etc.) and be supplied to the first chamber 136 from fluid supply source 150 by first passage 152, and be supplied to the second chamber 137 by second channel 154.The pressure reduction existing in example piston 130, if had, has determined that piston 130 is static or mobile.For example, for example, for (downward direction in Fig. 1) mobile piston 130 in a first direction, valve positioner 104 will be controlled fluid to be greater than the pressure feed that is supplied to the second chamber 137 to the first chamber 136, applies thus clean downward power on piston 130.The motion of piston 130 in the first downward direction makes actuator take-off lever 138, valve rod 122 and flow control element 120 shift to valve seat 112, therefore the fluid flow in further prevention or restricted passage hole 114.On the contrary, for in second direction (for example, upward direction in Fig. 1) mobile piston 130, valve positioner 104 will be controlled fluid to be less than the pressure feed that is supplied to the second chamber 137 to the first chamber 136, applies thus clean power upwards on piston 130.The motion of piston 130 in the second upward direction makes actuator take-off lever 138, valve rod 122 and flow control element 120 move away from valve seat 112, therefore allows larger fluid flow by hole 114.

In the illustrated embodiment of Fig. 1, actuator 108 comprises stroke limit part 160 and 162.Exemplary stroke limit part 160 is opened or 100% stroke span position (seeing Fig. 2 A) completely corresponding to actuator 108, i.e. maximum or highest line journey end points.Exemplary stroke limit part 162 is closed or 0% travel position (seeing Fig. 2 C) completely corresponding to actuator 108, i.e. minimum or minimum end point of travel.Fig. 2 B has described piston 130 and has been positioned in the middle of locating

part

160 and 162, thereby corresponding to 50% travel position.In certain embodiments, stroke limit part 160 and/or 162 is adjustable.

Turn to Fig. 1, in order to measure the position of actuator 108, in Fig. 1, example valve door assembly 102 comprises example position sensor 110.Example position sensor 110 in Fig. 1 is measured and/or is responded to travel indicator 140 with respect to the position of static position transducer 110 and output and/or signal 170 is provided, the position of the current location of this signal indication travel indicator 140 and valve 106 aperture or the span of number percent form (for example as).Example position sensor 110 is linearly aligned hall effect sensors, and its output has the simulating signal 170 of the different numerical value (for example voltage or electric current) of the diverse location of correspondence course indicator 140.In Fig. 1, exemplary analog signals 170 represents absolute stroke or the position of travel indicator 140.For instance, suppose that actuator 108 has the length of stroke of 100 millimeters (mm), and position signalling 170 converts between 0 to 40 millivolt (mV), in the time that valve rod 122 moves 10%, simulating signal 170 changes 4mV, and 10% of 40mV.Simulating signal 170 has the first stroke value and/or voltage (PTV) at travel indicator 140 (Fig. 2 C) in the time contacting the corresponding primary importance of locating part 162 with piston 130, there is the 2nd PTV at travel indicator 140 (Fig. 2 A) in the time contacting the corresponding second place of locating part 160 with piston 130, and in the time that travel indicator 140 is between the first and second positions, there is the possible PTV scope between a PTV and the 2nd PTV.For instance, if the mid point (Fig. 2 B) of piston 130 between locating

part

160 and 162, simulating signal 170 has the PTV of the mid point between the first and second PTV.In certain embodiments, position transducer 110 can be measured the larger scope of activities of scope of activities than actuator 108 physical support, that is to say, the length of position transducer 110 is greater than the total stroke length of actuator 108.Although example position sensor 110 outputting analog signals 170 in Fig. 1, additionally or selectively, position transducer can be exported the digital signal of the count value with the relative position that represents travel indicator 140.Further, the simulating signal 170 of exporting by position transducer 110 can be converted to digital signal by valve positioner 104 before processing.

The positional value PPP that example valve level controller 104 in Fig. 1 can for example, provide according to the single outside of the current location (, 70% opening) of expression actuator 108 or its estimated value and/or approximate value are carried out self-calibrating.As said, before the valve positioner 104 in processing factory brings into operation, the positional value that valve positioner 104 does not need the outside adding to provide.Further, before example valve door equipment 100 work in processing factory in Fig. 1, the position of actuator 108 does not need to adjust, changes or drives.For instance, single positional value PPP can for example, easily and/or easily be determined and/or estimation by setter by for example current location of visually check between valve positioner 104 installation periods (, estimation) and/or measuring position indicator 140.Setter for example the input equipment 640 (Fig. 6) by valve positioner 104 by positional value PPP estimation or that measure provide to and/or transfer valve level controller 104.Although example valve level controller 104 carries out self-calibrating take single estimated position value can be effective at additional positional value time as basis, or that provide take setter and/or by driving valve 106 definite estimation or measured value to carry out self-calibrating as basis, this added value for example can be used to improve calibration accuracy.

The sensitivity number SENSITIVITY of variation and the whole stroke distances value of valve of PTV170 on each stroke unit of based single estimated position value PPP and expression position indicator 140, the example valve level controller 104 in Fig. 1 estimates expection and/or the expectation PTV170 corresponding with the end point of travel of valve actuator 108.Selectively, numerical value SENSITIVITY represents to show the count value of valve 106 whole strokes.Further, numerical value SENSITIVITY represents the variation of PTV170 on the whole stroke of valve 106.With reference to figure 3, at time point T1, example valve door assembly 102 in Fig. 1 is 75% open and have a PTV170 corresponding with current 75% position,, there is the PTV170 of HI_ACT when at actuator 108 in opening completely the 100% position, and there is the PTV170 of LO_ACT at actuator 108 when 0% position in closing completely.At time point T2, valve positioner 104 calculates the first numerical value HI_CAL corresponding to the estimation of actuator 108 or expection fully open position, and calculates corresponding to the estimation of actuator 108 or expect the second value LO_CAL of complete off-position.If the value of PPP and SENSITIVITY is substantially accurate, the value that the value of HI_CAL equals HI_ACT and LO_CAL substantially equals LO_ACT substantially.For example, but in fact, the value of PPP is the location estimate (, with the measured value of error) of actuator 108, and/or due to manufacturing tolerance and/or the variation of installation location, SENSITIVITY value is inaccurate.Therefore, in certain embodiments, example valve level controller 104 in Fig. 1 consciously regulates estimation endpoint value, makes the estimation being represented by HI_ACT and LO_ACT and/or estimates that travel range comprises the larger travel range of actuator 108, as shown in time point T3.

The value of HI_ACT and LO_ACT can be used following mathematic(al) representation to calculate, and supposes that feedback signal 170 increases in the time that valve 104 is opened:

HI_CAL=PTV+ (100-PPP) * (1+RAF) * SENSITIVITY, equation (1), and

LO_CAL=PTV-PPP* (1+RAF) * SENSITIVITY, equation (2)

Wherein, RAF is that scope is adjusted coefficient, for example 0.1, and it causes the value of HI_CAL to increase by 10% and the value of LO_CAL reduces 10%, and PPP value representation is the number percent of the travel range of actuator 108.If conversely, feedback signal 170 reduces in the time that valve 104 is opened, and uses so following mathematic(al) representation to calculate the value of HI_ACT and LO_ACT:

HI_CAL=PTV+PPP* (1+RAF) * SENSITIVITY, equation (3), and

LO_CAL=PTV-(100-PPP) * (1+RAF) * SENSITIVITY, equation (4)

Use a large amount of and/or various types of methods, algorithm and/or logic, the PTV170 that example valve level controller in Fig. 1 104 is relatively generated by position transducer 110 and derive from the control signal 180 that requires position and/or setting value (SP) (for example 40% opening) programming controller 185, that represent valve 106, should be how regulates and/or keeps the pressure of the control fluid that is supplied to

chamber

136 and 137 according to the endpoint value HI_CAL of estimation and LO_CAL to determine.For instance, according to HI_CAL and LO_CAL, example valve level controller 104 calculates the value TARGET that requires the corresponding position signalling in position 170 with valve 106.Then this valve positioner 104 regulates the pressure in

chamber

136 and 137 until actual PTV170 meets substantially or the value of equaling TARGET.Value TARGET can use following mathematic(al) representation to calculate:

TARGET=LO_CAL+SP* (HI_CAL-LO_CAL)/100, equation (5)

In the time that the example valve door equipment 100 in Fig. 1 moves in processing factory, example valve level controller 104 uses a large amount of and/or various types of algorithms, logic, standard and/or method to adapt to, regulate and/or revise endpoint value HI_CAL and the LO_CAL of estimation.When piston 130 is in the time that processing factory's run duration arrives any one physics stroke limit part 160,162, example valve level controller 104 regulates corresponding calibration terminal point value HI_CAL, LO_CAL.Even piston 130 when arrive locating part 160,162 detection can by detect the pressure being applied on piston 130 should cause piston 130 move PTV170 also no longer change carry out.For instance, the time point T4 in Fig. 3, arrives 100% locating part of opening completely 160, and valve positioner 104 is revised HI_CAL value to meet the value of current PTV170, and this value equals HI_ACT.Equally, in the time of time point T5, arrive 0% locating part of closing completely 162, valve positioner 104 is revised LO_CAL value to meet the value of current PTV170, and this value equals LO_ACT.

In some cases, use illustrated example calibration method in Fig. 3, may occur disadvantageous valve locating effect.In the illustrated embodiment of Fig. 3, calibration value HI_CAL and LO_CAL can fully regulate, as long as piston 130 arrives corresponding stroke limit part 160,162, cause potentially valve 106 to move away from corresponding end points 160,162.For instance, if piston 130 arrives and closes locating part 162 completely at the 5% position SP180 opening, and the value of LO_CAL regulates as described above immediately completely, and valve positioner 104 will respond by valve 106 is opened to 5% immediately, cause the transition of process fluid flow.This variation of valve position can interrupt ongoing work and/or bring other negative results.

Turn to Fig. 1, in order to reduce the possibility of this effect, another kind of exemplary automatic calibrating method only moves to SP180 while exceeding certain value at programming controller 104, and at this moment valve 106 arrives an one extreme limit of travel, adjusting calibration value HI_CAL and LO_CAL.In this case, suitable HI_CAL or LO_CAL value can be conditioned and not cause the change in location of valve 106.In the time that SP signal 180 reality arrive 0% and 100%, the calibration of corresponding end points HI_CAL, LO_CAL just completes.Not so, the calibration of end points HI_CAL, LO_CAL does not still partly complete.

The initial value of supposing LO_CAL and HI_CAL is calculated as the travel range that represents expansion, described in upper combination Fig. 3, in the time that valve positioner 104 detects that valve 106 has arrived 0%, for example by detecting actuator pressure, piston 130 is loaded on to locating part 162, the value of LO_CAL can be used following mathematic(al) representation to revise:

LO_CAL=HI_CAL-(HI_CAL-PTV) * 100/ (100-SP), equation (6)

If being less than the value of 0%, SP180, the value of SP180 should in equation (6)-(9), be made as 0%.In order to reduce because the inaccurate signal existing in position feed back signal 170 is for example offset the reasonable departure causing, revise the value of LO_CAL with following mathematic(al) representation to comprise 1% safety coefficient:

LO_CAL=HI_CAL-(HI_CAL-PTV) * 101/ (100-SP), equation (7)

When valve positioner 104 detect valve 106 arrived its 100% open physics locating part time, for example piston 130 is loaded on to locating part 160 by detecting actuator pressure, the value of HI_CAL can be used in following mathematic(al) representation to revise equally.

HI_CAL=LO_CAL+ (PTV-LO_CAL) * 100/SP, equation (8)

HI_CAL=LO_CAL+ (PTV-LO_CAL) * 101/SP, equation (9)

As equation (7), equation (9) comprises 1% safety coefficient.

Fig. 4 illustrates the exemplary correction of the LO_CAL of the exemplary expression formula that uses equation (6) or equation (7).In the embodiment of Fig. 4, actuator pressure 405 reduces in course of normal operation.In certain time 410, SP180 drops to the value that arrives 0% position of closing completely lower than actuator 108.But due to inaccurate calibration, SP180 is still higher than 0%.Due to controller gain, actuator pressure 405 reduces rapidly in the time that SP180 continues to reduce.Example valve level controller 104 in Fig. 1 identifies actuator 108 by low actuator pressure 405 and closes completely, and use a mathematic(al) representation in equation (6) or equation (7) that LO_CAL is adapted to new minimum value, therefore in the embodiment of Fig. 4, make the accuracy improvements 5% of LO_CAL value.If SP180 whole process is urged to 0% position, the calibration of LO_CAL is substantially desirable.In certain embodiments, in the time that actuator 108 remains on 0% position cut out completely and SP180 and changes, equation (6) or equation (7) are reused.In addition or selectively, use equation (6) or equation (7) for the minimum value of the SP180 occurring when 0% position in closing completely at actuator 108.

Turn to Fig. 1, in certain embodiments, each and/or during in corresponding stroke limit part 160,162 place, all can use any one shown in equation (6)-(9) suitably to revise at piston 130.

In yet another embodiment, in the time that SP180 arrival valve 106 arrives the value of an one extreme limit of travel, the example valve level controller 104 in Fig. 1 records PTV170.Thereafter, as long as SP180 has changed the amount of impact (activation) that abate the noise, example valve level controller 104 just will be revised on a small quantity and be applied to corresponding calibration value LO_CAL, HI_CAL, and this is by the difference reducing between PTV170 and corresponding calibration value LO_CAL, the HI_CAL recording.By slowly changing calibration value LO_CAL and HI_CAL in a period of time changing at SP180, can reduce, reduce and/or eliminate the interruption of any one ongoing process.In certain embodiments, the utilization rate of calibration correction is restricted to trip count of 0.1% or per minute of per minute total kilometres span.For example, according to the kinematic behavior of SP180 (, SP180 changes how many and/or with what speed changes), the speed of calibration correction need to reduce and/or increase.

Although embodiment as above is calibration value HI_CAL and the LO_CAL based on primitively, on purpose expanding, alternatively, valve positioner 104 can be underestimated the travel range of actuator 108 at first, as shown in Figure 5.For instance, can use the calibration value HI_CAL and the LO_CAL that calculate compression with equation (1)-(4) of-0.1 RAF.In the time being positioned at time point T4, actuator 108 is because the pressure reduction of chamber 136,137 still moves, but the value of PTV170 has exceeded current HI_CAL value, regulates the value of HI_CAL to reflect current PTV value.The extreme limit of travel LO_CAL underestimating regulates too, as shown in time point T5.Do not exceed the value corresponding with 0% to 100% valve position at SP180, valve 106 may not arrive its end point of travel, and therefore the calibration of HI_CAL and LO_CAL value is impossible as shown in Figure 5.

Suppose that SP180 exceedes the value corresponding with 0% to 100% valve position, in addition or selectively, when HI_CAL and LO_CAL calibration value can exceed 0 to 100% scope and regulates by detecting SP180.In certain embodiments, valve positioner 104 is implemented to cut off, and this is to arrive corresponding each predetermined value (for example 5% or 95%) time at SP180 deliberately actuator 108 to be loaded into completely in this group mechanical position limitation part 160,162.In such an embodiment, maybe advantageously in the time using the calibration value HI_CAL of initial compression and LO_CAL, cancel cut-out.When SP180 exceeds this scope and moved the amount of the impact that abates the noise, and actuator pressure is not loaded into piston 130 corresponding locating part 160,162 o'clock, a small amount of corresponding calibration value HI_CAL, the LO_CAL of regulating of example valve level controller 104, makes actuator 108 shift to and/or be loaded on locating part 160,162.Through after a while, one or more in above-mentioned condition will be no longer satisfied, and calibration will complete substantially.In certain embodiments, when piston 130 is not loaded and SP180 changes and while being positioned at outside 0 to 100% scope, repeatedly regulate calibration value HI_CAL, LO_CAL.Additionally or selectively, the value range of SP180 to greatest extent occurring while not being loaded with piston 130 regulates calibration value HI_CAL, LO_CAL.

In yet another embodiment, in the time that SP180 arrival valve 106 arrives the value of an one extreme limit of travel, the example valve level controller 104 in Fig. 1 records PTV170.Thereafter, as long as SP180 has changed the amount of impact (activation) that abate the noise, example valve level controller 104 just will be revised on a small quantity and be applied to corresponding calibration value LO_CAL, HI_CAL, and this is by the difference reducing between PTV170 and corresponding calibration value LO_CAL, the HI_CAL recording.By slowly changing calibration value LO_CAL, HI_CAL in a period of time changing at SP180, can reduce, reduce and/or eliminate the interruption of any one ongoing process.In certain embodiments, the utilization rate of calibration correction is restricted to trip count of 0.1% or per minute of per minute total kilometres span.For example, according to the kinematic behavior of SP180 (, SP180 changes how many and/or with what speed changes), the speed of calibration correction need to reduce and/or increase.

Although new LO_CAL and HI_CAL value can automatically be applied and/or start to any exemplary valve calibration steps as above in the time calculating, in addition or selectively, new LO_CAL and/or HI_CAL value are stored and only in the time that valve positioner 104 is subject to clear and definite instruction and/or guides, start and/or use.For instance, valve positioner 104 can, at the upper show tags of display 645 (Fig. 6), indicate that one or more new calibration value LO_CAL, HI_CAL can be activated.For example, in the time that user represents that by exemplary input equipment 640 calibration value LO_CAL, HI_CAL new and/or that revise will be used, valve positioner 104 starts to use in follow-up valve control operation process the calibration value LO_CAL, the HI_CAL that start.

In yet another embodiment, the combination of calibration steps as above is to realize.For instance, in the time detecting that piston 130 is loaded on locating part 160,162 by being positioned at the SP180 of 0 to 100% scope, can use a calibration steps for initial spreading range as above.But, in the time detecting that SP180 is not in 0 to 100% scope, can use a calibration steps for initial compression scope as above.In other more embodiment, utilize a suitable calibration steps that depends on that testing conditions uses as above estimate as far as possible exactly and/or calculate calibration value HI_CAL and LO_CAL, rather than on purpose expand or compress initial calibration value HI_CAL and LO_CAL.

Turn to Fig. 1, the position of fixed valve assembly 102 while estimating endpoint value HI_CAL and LO_CAL at first in order to install, configure, to start and/or calculate at valve positioner 104, in Fig. 1, exemplary apparatus 100 comprises the fixator that is used for fixing, keeps and/or maintain valve member current location of any quantity and/or type, and one of them indicates with reference number 190.Exemplary fixator 190 includes but not limited to clip, block and/or fluid trap (fluid trap).

Fig. 6 illustrates the exemplary approach that uses example valve level controller 104 in Fig. 1.In order to receive feedback position signal 170, the example valve level controller 104 in Fig. 6 comprises position sensor interface 605.Use circuit, parts and/or the device of any quantity and/or type, in Fig. 6, example position sensor interface 605 is adjusted feedback signal 170 and/or be converted to and is suitable for the form that valve positioner 610 and/or calibrating device 615 are processed.For instance, position sensor interface 605 can be converted to analog feedback signal 605 count value 607 of the current location PTV that represents travel indicator 140.In addition or selectively, if because travel indicator 140 is positioned at center line top or the below of position transducer 110, make feedback signal 170 there is opposed polarity, position sensor interface 605 can make up feedback signal 170 in case for example before being converted to count value 607, only have on the occasion of.

For reception control signal 180, the example valve level controller 104 in Fig. 6 comprises control signal interface 620.Use circuit, parts and/or the device of any quantity and/or type, the exemplary control signal interface 620 in Fig. 6 is adjusted control signal 180 and/or be converted to and is suitable for the form that example valve door controller 610 is processed.For instance, control signal interface 620 can be converted to control signal 180 digital control value 622 that requires setting value and/or position SP that represents actuator 108.

In order to control the air pressure that is supplied to

chamber

136 and 137, in Fig. 6, example valve level controller 104 comprises pressure controller 625.Use circuit, parts and/or the device of any quantity and/or type, and the pressure controlling value 627 providing according to example valve door controller 610, exemplary pressure controller 625 determines it is to increase or reduce the air pressure of supplying with by

pipeline

152 and 154.

Use method, algorithm and/or the logic of any quantity and/or type, setting value and/or the positional value 622 of example valve door controller 610 comparative figures positional values 607 and requirement in Fig. 6, to determine pressure controlling value 627, that is to say, how the control hydrodynamic pressure that is supplied to

chamber

136 and 137 should regulate.As above, in conjunction with described in Fig. 1 and equation (5), valve positioner 610 is determined pressure controlling value 627 according to endpoint value HI_CAL and the LO_CAL of estimation.

In order to determine estimated value HI_CAL and the LO_CAL of the count value 607 corresponding with the intended travel end points of actuator 108 with correction, the example valve level controller 104 in Fig. 6 comprises example calibration device 615.For the positional value PPP providing according to single outside calculates initial a pair of estimated value HI_CAL and LO_CAL, example calibration device 615 comprises end points estimation device 617.For instance, use the mathematic(al) representation of equation (1)-(4), exemplary end points estimation device 617 calculates initial value HI_CAL and LO_CAL.

Example valve door equipment 100 duration of work in processing factory in Fig. 1, in order to revise the value HI_CAL corresponding with the intended travel end points of actuator 108 and LO_CAL, example calibration device 615 comprises end points regulator 619.For instance, use as above in conjunction with the exemplary mathematic(al) representation of any one illustrative methods described in Fig. 1 and 3-5 and/or equation (6)-(9), exemplary end points regulator 619 is revised the value of HI_CAL and LO_CAL during the on-line working of valve positioner 104.Should be appreciated that additionally or optionally, exemplary end points regulator 619 can be used for calculating and/or revising HI_CAL and LO_CAL, and valve 106 is on purpose to drive for alignment purpose.

In order to store control variable, in Fig. 6, example valve level controller 104 comprises storer 630.Control variable is used the data structure storage of any quantity and/or type in storer 630, and storer 630 can use volatile and/or permanent memory, memory device and/or the memory device such as hard disk drive of any quantity and/or type to realize.The exemplary control variable being stored in example memory 630 includes but not limited to, positional value PPP, the Sensitirity va1ue SENSITIVITY that outside provides and end point of travel value HI_CAL and the LO_CAL of estimation.

In order to allow user-provided location value PPP and/or Sensitirity va1ue SENSITIVITY, the example valve level controller 104 in Fig. 6 comprises the input equipment 640 of the user interface 635 of any type, any quantity and/or type and the display 645 of any type.In certain embodiments, user interface 635 provides prompting via display 645, and this display indication and/or prompting user provide and/or input value PPP and/or SENSITIVITY.Exemplary input equipment 640 includes but not limited to digital communication interface and/or button.In certain embodiments, touch screen can be used to as display 645 and input equipment 640.

Be illustrated in Fig. 6 although realize the exemplary approach of example valve level controller 104 in Fig. 1, illustrated one or more interfaces in Fig. 6, data structure, element, program and/or device can any mode in conjunction with, cut apart, rearrange, omit, remove and/or implement.Further, example position sensor interface 605, example calibration device 615, exemplary end points estimation device 617, exemplary end points regulator 619, exemplary control signal interface 620, exemplary pressure controller 625, example memory 630, exemplary user interfaces 635, exemplary input equipment 640, exemplary display 645 and/or, more broadly, valve positioner 104 in Fig. 6, they can pass through hardware, and arbitrary combination of software, firmware and/or hardware, software and/or firmware realizes.Therefore, for instance, example position sensor interface 605, example calibration device 615, exemplary end points estimation device 617, exemplary end points regulator 619, exemplary control signal interface 620, exemplary pressure controller 625, example memory 630, exemplary user interfaces 635, exemplary input equipment 640, exemplary display 645 and/or, more broadly, valve positioner 104, any one in them can be passed through one or more circuit, programmable processor, special IC (ASIC), programmable logic device (PLD), field programmable logical device (FPLD), and/or field programmable gate array (FPGA) etc. realizes.In the time comprising that any one claim of the one or more this patent in these elements is understood to include simple software and/or firmware instrument, example position sensor interface 605, example calibration device 615, exemplary end points estimation device 617, exemplary end points regulator 619, exemplary control signal interface 620, exemplary pressure controller 625, example memory 630, exemplary user interfaces 635, exemplary input equipment 640, exemplary display 645 and/or, more broadly, at least one in valve positioner 104 is clearly defined as and comprised tangible computer-readable medium at this.Exemplary tangible computer-readable medium includes but not limited to, flash memory, CD (CD), DVD, floppy disk, ROM (read-only memory) (ROM), random access memory (RAM), programmable read only memory (PROM), electrically programmable read only memory (EPROM) and/or Electrically Erasable Read Only Memory (EEPROM), optical memory disc, optical memory devices, disk, magnetic store and/or any following tangible medium, it can be used to the instruction of program code stored and/or machine readable instructions or data structure form and can pass through processor, computing machine and/or there are other device accesses of processor, the exemplary process applicator platform P100 for example next discussing in conjunction with Figure 16.The combination of said elements is also included within the scope of tangible computer-readable medium.Further, example valve level controller 104 comprises and replaces interface, data structure, element, program and/or equipment shown in Fig. 6 or except those shown in Fig. 6, and/or comprises more than one any amount in diagram interface, data structure, element, program and/or equipment or whole.

Fig. 7 illustrates exemplary process, and it can be used to the example valve level controller 104 in installation diagram 1 and 6.Fig. 8-11 illustrate for realize example calibration device 615 in Fig. 6 and/or, more broadly, the exemplary process of the valve positioner 104 in Fig. 1 and 6.Processor, controller and/or any other suitable treatment facilities can be used to and/or the exemplary process of the execution graph 7-11 that programmes.For instance, program in Fig. 7-11 can be embodied in code on any goods that are stored in for example tangible computer-readable medium and/or the instruction of machine-accessible, tangible computer-readable medium is for example flash memory, CD, DVD, floppy disk, ROM, RAM, PROM, EPROM and/or EEPROM, optical memory disc, optical memory devices, disk, magnetic store and/or any other tangible medium, it can be used to the instruction of program code stored and/or machine readable instructions or data structure form and can pass through processor, computing machine and/or there are other device accesses of processor, the exemplary process applicator platform P100 for example next discussing in conjunction with Figure 16.The combination of said products is also included within the category of tangible computer-readable medium.Machine readable instructions comprises, for example, the equipment that makes processor, computing machine and/or have a processor is carried out the instruction and data of one or more specific programs.Selectively, the some or all of exemplary operations in Fig. 7-11 all can be realized by the combination in any of ASIC, PLD, FPLD, FPGA, discrete logic components, hardware, firmware etc.Meanwhile, the one or more exemplary operations in Fig. 7-11 can manually be realized or realize for example combination in any of firmware, software, discrete logic components and/or hardware with the combination in any of any above-mentioned technology.Further, can adopt many additive methods to realize the exemplary operation in Fig. 7-11.For instance, the execution sequence of module can change, and/or one or more module can change, cancels, segments or combine.In addition, any one in Fig. 7-11 or all exemplary process can sequentially be carried out and/or for example carry out by independent processing threads, processor, equipment, discrete logic components, circuit etc. are in parallel.

The exemplary process of Fig. 7 determine with exemplary fixator 190 from operator and/or setter or the position of fixing (for example manually fixing) valve member 102 (module 705).For instance, operator can use clip and/or the manual fixed valve 106 of block, or is controlled the motion (for example, trap) of fluid in actuator 108 and fixed the position of actuator 108 by prevention.

Remove valve positioner to be replaced (module 710), refill-unit and/or new valve positioner 104 (module 715) are installed.Setter starting valve level controller 104 (power is for example provided) and access user interface 635 (module 720).For instance, setter is inputted the structured data (module 725) of the Sensitirity va1ue SENSITIVITY (for example being obtained by the nameplate on position transducer 110 or label) of for example position transducer 110.Then the single-point position PPP (module 730) of setter input position indicator 140.In certain embodiments, input position PPP for example, as the stroke span number percent (50% opening) of actuator 108.

According to the information of input, valve positioner 104 calculates calibration value LO_CAL and HI_CAL, and setter uses these values (module 740).

Setter makes valve positioner 104 in running order (module 745) and unclamps or the position (module 750) of relief valve assembly 102.

Whenever the position that valve positioner 104 is received instruction and change via control signal 180 valve member 102, and the exemplary process of valve positioner 104 execution graph 8-11 while changing the position of valve member 102 according to this instruction.Exemplary process in Fig. 8 is corresponding to the illustrated embodiment of Fig. 3 and 5.Exemplary process in Fig. 9 is corresponding to being basic calibration value correction take exemplary equation (6)-(9).Exemplary process in Figure 10 when arriving stroke limit part take the PTV170 of storage as basic calibration value correction.Exemplary process in Figure 11 is corresponding to the extraneous calibration value correction of SP180.Before the exemplary process of execution graph 8-11 for the first time (for example, in the time that valve positioner 104 startups enter automatic control mode), exemplary end points estimation device 617 in Fig. 6 calculates HI_CAL and the LO_CAL of initial estimation, as above in conjunction with described in Fig. 1 and 6.

In the exemplary process of Fig. 8, discuss a pair of 0% and 100% correction mode bit and single-point calibration mode bit.In the time that single-point calibration completes, remove 0% and 100% correction mode bit and single-point calibration mode bit is set.Because carried out single-point calibration, 0% and 100% correction mode bit shows whether valve 106 and actuator 108 have arrived respectively 0% and 100% stroke limit part.Single-point calibration mode bit has shown to carry out single-point calibration (may be inaccurate) (for example module piece 740 in Fig. 7) but has not also corrected.In the embodiment of Fig. 8, NEW_LO_CAL and NEW_HI_CAL value are that but process is calculated and/or set until the front untapped new calibration value of user's choice for use.Exemplary process in Fig. 8 is from whether the definite actuator 108 of example valve door controller 610 has reached 0% position of closing completely (module 805).For example, if arrived 0% position (having arrived 0% stroke limit part 162) (module 805) of closing completely, end points regulator 619 determines whether set (for example 0% revising mode bit) (module 810) with the mode bit of cutting out completely or 0% position is corresponding.If set 0% mode bit (module 810) of closing completely, control and turn back to module 805 and check and whether reach 0% stroke limit part.

For example, if also do not set buttoned-up status position (also not setting NEW_LO_CAL value) (module 810), end points regulator 619 is NEW_LO_CAL (module 815) by the current LO_ACT value record of feedback signal 170 and sets buttoned-up status position (module 820).Calibrating device 615 notify user's (for example, via exemplary display 645) new and/or correct calibration data can use at any time (module 835).If user does not use new value (module 840), user will be informed that available rectification data and control turn back to module 805 and checks and whether arrive 0% stroke limit part repeatedly.

If user only uses a new value (module 845), user will be informed that available rectification data and control turn back to module 805 and checks and whether arrive 0% stroke limit part repeatedly.If use NEW_LO_CAL and NEW_HI_CAL (module 845), the endpoint value LO_CAL, the HI_CAL that revise are stored in example memory 630, and remove single-point calibration mode bit, indicate that all possible errors are corrected (module 845).Example calibration device 615 out of service (module 850), then controls from the exemplary process of Fig. 8 and exits.

Return to module 805, if also do not arrive the 0% stroke limit part (module 810) of closing completely, valve positioner 610 determines whether to arrive the 100% stroke limit part (module 860) of opening completely.

If arrived the 100% stroke limit part (module 860) of opening completely, end points regulator 619 determines whether to set 100% mode bit (module 865) of opening completely.If set 100% mode bit (module 865) of opening completely, control and turn back to module 805 and check and whether reach 0% stroke limit part.

For example, if also do not set 100% mode bit (also not setting NEW_HI_CAL value) (module 865) of opening completely, end points regulator 619 is NEW_HI_CAL (module 870) by the current HI_ACT value record of feedback signal 170 and sets 100% mode bit (module 875) of opening completely.Then control and be forwarded to module 835, notify user new calibration data.

The exemplary process of Fig. 9 waits for that from exemplary end points regulator 619 piston 130 is loaded into (module 905) any one locating part 160,162.In the time that piston 130 loads (module 905), end points regulator 619 determines whether SP180 changes (module 910) towards locating part 160,162.If SP180 changes (module 910) towards the locating part 160,162 loading, end points regulator 619 uses corresponding correction corresponding calibration value HI_CAL, a LO_CAL (module 915) in equation (6)-(9).

When SP180 is no longer in the time that the locating part 160,162 loading changes (module 910), control and return to module 905 and determine whether that piston 130 is loaded on mechanical position limitation part 160,162.In the embodiment of Fig. 9, the calibration value HI_CAL of correction and LO_CAL are application automatically.In addition or selectively, if the calibration value HI_CAL, the LO_CAL that revise can not apply automatically, carry out and basic similarly notice and new calibration data application program described in the module 835,840,845,850 and 855 of being as above combined in Fig. 8.

The exemplary process of Figure 10 is from whether the definite piston 130 of exemplary end points regulator 619 is loaded into any one locating part 160,162 (module 1005).If piston 130 loads (module 1005), current PTV170 (module 1010) preserved by end points regulator 619 and whether definite SP180 changes (module 1015) towards locating part 160,162.If SP180 changes (module 1015) towards the locating part 160,162 loading, end points regulator 619 makes corresponding calibration value HI_CAL, LO_CAL be modified to approaching but need not be equal to the PTV170 (module 1020) preserving separately.For instance, revise calibration value HI_CAL, LO_CAL is as between calibration value HI_CAL, the difference number percent between LO_CAL and the PTV170 that preserves separately.In the time that the calibration value HI_CAL revising and LO_CAL equal its preservation PTV value separately (module 1025), control and exit the exemplary process of Figure 10, because there is no the possible of further calibration value adjustment and/or needed.If any one that revise in calibration value HI_CAL and LO_CAL is all not equal to its preservation PTV (module 1025) separately, controls and get back to module 1015.

Get back to module 1005, if piston 130 does not load (module 1005), control and proceed to module 1015 to determine whether SP180 changes.

In the embodiment of Figure 10, the calibration value HI_CAL of correction and LO_CAL are application automatically.In addition or selectively, if the calibration value of revising can not be applied automatically, carry out and basic similarly notice and new calibration data application program described in the module 835,840,845,850 and 855 of being as above combined in Fig. 8.

The exemplary process of Figure 11 from exemplary end points regulator 619 wait for SP180 fall outside 0-100% scope (module 1105).Outside SP180 is positioned at 0-100% scope time (module 1105), end point analysis instrument 619 determines whether piston 130 is loaded on any one (module 1110) in locating part 160,162.If piston 130 loads (module 1110), control and return to module 1105.

If piston 130 does not load (module 1110), end points regulator 619 regulates corresponding calibration value HI_CAL, LO_CAL, and therefore piston 130 is towards corresponding locating part 160,162 motions (module 1120).

In the time that SP180 does not change (module 1115), piston 130 is loaded on mechanical position limitation part 160,162 (module 1110), or when SP180 turns back to (module 1105) within the scope of 0-100%, control and return to module 1105 to wait for that SP180 moves to outside 0-100% scope again.

In the embodiment of Figure 11, the calibration value of correction is application automatically.In addition or selectively, if the calibration value of revising can not be applied automatically, carry out and basic similarly notice and new calibration data application program described in the module 835,840,845,850 and 855 of being as above combined in Fig. 8.

Figure 12 illustrates example valve door equipment 1200, and it comprises example valve door assembly 1202 and the position transmitter 1205 according to the instruction structure of present disclosure.Because in Figure 12 the element of exemplary apparatus 1200 with as above discuss in conjunction with the exemplary apparatus 100 in Fig. 1 those are consistent, the description of similar elements has not just repeated at this.Alternatively, similar elements Fig. 1 with 12 in by identical reference numerals, and for the complete description of identical number elements, interesting reader can refer back to the description as above providing in conjunction with Fig. 1.

For the position signalling (POS_SIG) 1210 that represents valve member 102 positions is provided to for example exemplary process controller 185 and/or supervisory system, supervising device, automatic shutdown system and/or programed interlocking device 1215, the example valve door equipment 1200 of Figure 12 comprises exemplary position forwarder 1205.The exemplary position forwarder 1205 of Figure 12 is calculated and/or is determined the value of POS_SIG1200 by PTV170.For instance, position transmitter 1205 can be used following mathematic(al) representation to calculate POS_SIG1200:

POS_SIG = \frac{PTV - LO_CAL}{HI_CAL - LO_CAL} (MAX - MIN) + MIN

Equation (10)

Wherein, MAX is the value of the POS_SIG1210 corresponding with opening valve completely, and MIN is the value of the POS_SIG1200 corresponding with complete valve-off.In certain embodiments, MIN is 4mA and MAX is 20mA.The value of LO_CAL and HI_CAL is calculated, selects and/or revised by position transmitter 1205 as described below.

Exemplary position forwarder 1205 in Figure 12 can for example, provide positional value PPP or its estimated value and/or approximate value to carry out self-calibrating according to the single outside of the current location (70% opening) that represents actuator 108.As said, before the valve arrangement 1200 in processing factory brings into operation, the positional value that position transmitter 1205 does not need the outside adding to provide.Further, the position of actuator 108 does not need to adjust, changes or drives before example valve door equipment 1200 work in Figure 12 in processing factory.For instance, single positional value PPP can easily and/or easily be determined and/or estimation by setter, for example, for example, by the current location of visually check between position transmitter 1205 installation periods (estimation) and/or measuring position indicator 140.For example, the input equipment 640 of setter by position transmitter 1205 by positional value PPP estimation or that measure provide to and/or input position forwarder 1205 (Figure 13).Although provide and/or by driving definite estimated value or the measured value of valve 106 to carry out self-calibrating as basis, this added value for example can be used to improve calibration accuracy take single estimated position value PPP, setter when exemplary position forwarder 1205 can be effective at additional positional value.

The sensitivity number SENSITIVITY of the variation of PTV170 on each stroke unit of based single estimated position value PPP and expression position indicator 140, and the total kilometres distance of valve and actuator, the exemplary position forwarder 1205 in Figure 12 estimates expection and/or the expectation PTV170 corresponding with the end point of travel of valve actuator 108.Selectively, numerical value SENSITIVITY represents to show the count value of valve 106 whole strokes.Further, numerical value SENSITIVITY represents the variation of PTV170 on the whole stroke of valve 106.With reference to figure 5, at time point T1, example valve door assembly 102 in Figure 12 is 75% open and have a PTV170 corresponding with current 75% position,, there is the PTV170 of HI_ACT when at actuator 108 in opening completely the 100% position, and there is the PTV value 170 of LO_ACT at actuator 108 when 0% position in closing completely.At time point T2, position transmitter 1205 is calculated the first numerical value HI_CAL corresponding to the estimation of actuator 108 or expection fully open position, and calculates corresponding to the estimation of actuator 108 or expect the second value LO_CAL of complete off-position.If the value of PPP and SENSITIVITY is substantially accurate, the value that the value of HI_CAL equals HI_ACT and LO_CAI substantially equals LO_ACT substantially.But in fact, PPP value is the location estimate measured value of error (for example with) of actuator 108 and/or due to manufacturing tolerance and/or location is installed to change SENSITIVITY value be inaccurate.Therefore, in certain embodiments, exemplary position forwarder 1205 in Figure 12 on purpose regulates estimation endpoint value, thereby the estimation being represented by HI_ACT and LO_ACT and/or estimate that travel range comprises the less travel range of actuator 108, as shown in time point T3 in Fig. 5.

HI_CAL=PTV+ (100-OFF-PPP) * SENSITIVITY*TRAVEL* (100-GAIN), equation (11), and

LO_CAL=PTV-(PPP-OFF) * SENSITIVITY*TRAVEL* (100-GAIN), equation (12)

Wherein, OFF is the tolerance (for the number percent of stroke span) in PPP estimation, TRAVEL is traveled distance length or the rotational angle in the valve 106 of engineering unit, and GAIN is that sensor 140 is calibrated, tolerance (for the number percent of stroke span) in sensor 140 disturbances, the amplification of sensor output 170 and/or the analog-digital conversion of filtration and/or sensor output 170.

Use the exemplary mathematic(al) representation in equation (10)-(12), exemplary position forwarder 1205 is attempted the value of the POS_SIGN1210 corresponding with 0% and 100% valve position of output in the follow-up work process of example valve door equipment 1200 in processing factory.In the illustrated embodiment of Figure 12, exemplary position forwarder 1205 transmits MAX and represents that 100% opens the output 1210 of valve before as actual 100% position of opening completely that arrives of valve 106, and represents that 0% opens the output 1210 of valve before transmitting MIN 0% position that actual arrival is closed completely as valve 106.

In the time that the exemplary position forwarder 1205 of Figure 12 moves in processing factory, exemplary position forwarder 1205 adapts to, adjusts and/or revise endpoint value HI_CAL and the LO_CAL of estimation.At processing factory's run duration, the software in position transmitter 1205 calculates the value that is positioned at the POS_SIG1210 outside scope [MIN, MAX], and exemplary position forwarder 1205 regulates corresponding calibration terminal point value HI_CAL, LO_CAL.For instance, in the time calculating POS_SIG1200 and be greater than MAX, position transmitter 1205 is revised HI_CAL value to meet the value of current PTV170.Equally, in the time calculating POS_SIG1210 and be less than MIN, position transmitter 1205 is revised LO_CAL value to meet current PTV170.By each correction HI_CAL and LO_CAL value, calculate POS_SIG1210 and be positioned at outside scope [MIN, MAX], being aligned in a period of time of exemplary position forwarder 1205 corrected.When valve 106 is actual arrive open completely 100% or close completely 0% position time, corresponding HI_CAL or LO_CAL calibration value are substantially perfect.Preferably, strain position feedback 170 is to reduce noise effect, and calibration error can not introduced and/or be caused by noise like this.

New LO_CAL and HI_CAL value can automatically be applied and/or enable to the exemplary position forwarder 1205 of Figure 12 in the time calculating, described in last paragraph, and/or new LO_CAL and/or HI_CAL value can be stored and only position transmitter 1205 be subject to clear and definite instruction and/or guide time enable and/or use.For instance, position transmitter 1205 can be on display 645 show tags (Figure 13), indicate that one or more new calibration value LO_CAL, HI_CAL can be used.For example, in the time that user represents that by exemplary input equipment 640 (Figure 13) calibration value LO_CAL, HI_CAL new and/or that revise will be used, position transmitter 1205 is brought into use the calibration value LO_CAL, the HI_CAL calculated for subsequent value POS_SIG 1210 that enable.

Figure 13 illustrates the exemplary approach that realizes exemplary position forwarder 1205 in Figure 12.Because in Figure 13 the element of exemplary position forwarder 1205 with as above discuss in conjunction with the example valve level controller 104 in Fig. 6 those are consistent, the description of similar elements has not just repeated at this.Alternatively, similar elements Fig. 6 with 13 in by identical reference numerals, and for the complete description of identical number elements, interesting reader can refer back to the description as above providing in conjunction with Fig. 6.

In order to determine, to calculate and revising estimated value HI_CAL and LO_CAL, the exemplary position forwarder 1205 of Figure 13 comprises calibrating device 1305.For the positional value PPP providing according to single outside calculates initial a pair of estimated value HI_CAL and LO_CAL, the example calibration device 1305 of Figure 13 comprises end points estimation device 1310.For instance, use the mathematic(al) representation of equation (11)-(12), the exemplary end points estimation device 1310 of Figure 13 calculates initial value HI_CAL and LO_CAL.

For example valve door equipment 1200 duration of work modified value HI_CAL and the LO_CAL in Figure 12 in processing factory, the example calibration device 1305 of Figure 13 comprises end points regulator 1315.Exemplary end points regulator 1315 modified value HI_CAL and the LO_CAL during the on line operation of position transmitter 1205 of Figure 13.During operation, calculate POS_SIG1210 and be positioned at outside scope [MIN, MAX], exemplary end points regulator 1315 is adjusted into corresponding calibration terminal point value HI_CAL, LO_CAL the currency of count value 607.Should be appreciated that exemplary end points regulator 1315 can be used for calculating and/or correction HI_CAL and LO_CAL in addition or optionally, valve 106 is on purpose to drive for alignment purpose.

In order to calculate the numeral 1320 of POS_SIG1210, the exemplary position forwarder 1205 of Figure 13 comprises positional value determiner 1325.The exemplary position value determiner 1325 of Figure 13 is for example by adopting the exemplary mathematic(al) representation of equation (10) to calculate the value of digital signal 1320 according to calibration value HI_CAL and LO_CAL.

For POS_SIG1210 is sent and/or provided to programming controller 185 and/or programed interlocking device 1215, the exemplary position forwarder 1205 of Figure 13 comprises any forwarder or transceiver 1330.The exemplary transmitter 1330 of Figure 13 is used any quantity and/or type circuit, equipment and/or method that count value 1320 is converted to simulating signal, for example 4-20mA signal.In addition or selectively, transceiver 1330 can numeral and/or wireless transmission count value 1320 as signal 1210.

Be illustrated in Figure 13 although realize the exemplary approach of exemplary position forwarder 1205 in Figure 12, illustrated one or more interfaces in Figure 13, data structure, element, program and/or device can any mode in conjunction with, cut apart, reset, omit, remove and/or implement.Further, example position sensor interface 605, example calibration device 1305, exemplary end points estimation device 1310, exemplary end points regulator 1315, example memory 630, exemplary user interfaces 635, exemplary input equipment 640, exemplary display 645, exemplary position value determiner 1325, exemplary transmitter/transceiver 1330 and/or, more broadly, position transmitter 1205 in Figure 13, the combination in any that can pass through hardware, software, firmware and/or hardware, software and/or firmware realizes.Therefore, for instance, example position sensor interface 605, example calibration device 1305, exemplary end points estimation device 1310, exemplary end points regulator 1315, example memory 630, exemplary user interfaces 635, exemplary input equipment 640, exemplary display 645, exemplary position value determiner 1325, exemplary transmitter/transceiver 1330 and/or, more broadly, position transmitter 1205, any one in them can be passed through one or more circuit, programmable processor, special IC (ASIC), programmable logic device (PLD), field programmable logic device (FPLD), and/or field programmable gate array (FPGA) etc. is realized.In the time comprising that any one claim of the one or more this patent in these elements is understood to include simple software and/or firmware instrument, example position sensor interface 605, example calibration device 1305, exemplary end points estimation device 1310, exemplary end points regulator 1315, example memory 630, exemplary user interfaces 635, exemplary input equipment 640, exemplary display 645, exemplary position value determiner 1325, exemplary transmitter/transceiver 1330 and/or, more broadly, at least one in position transmitter 1205 is clearly defined as and comprised tangible computer-readable medium at this.Exemplary tangible computer-readable medium includes but not limited to, flash memory, CD (CD), DVD, floppy disk, ROM (read-only memory) (ROM), random access memory (RAM), programmable read only memory (PROM), electrically programmable read only memory (EPROM) and/or Electrically Erasable Read Only Memory (EEPROM), optical memory disc, optical memory devices, disk, magnetic store and/or any following tangible medium, it can be used to the instruction of program code stored and/or machine readable instructions or data structure form and can pass through processor, computing machine and/or there are other device accesses of processor, the exemplary process applicator platform P100 for example next discussing in conjunction with Figure 16.The combination of said elements is also included within the category of tangible computer-readable medium.Further, exemplary position forwarder 1205 comprise replace shown in Figure 12 or except interface, data structure, element, program and/or the equipment those shown in Figure 12, and/or comprise in diagram interface, data structure, element, program and/or equipment arbitrarily or in whole more than one.

Figure 14 illustrates exemplary process, can carry out this program the exemplary position forwarder 1205 in Figure 12 and 13 is installed.Figure 15 illustrates exemplary process, can carry out this program realize example calibration device 1305 in Figure 13 and/or, more broadly, Figure 12 and 13 exemplary position forwarder 1205.Processor, controller and/or any other suitable treatment facility all can be used and/or the exemplary process of Figure 14 and 15 is carried out in programming.For instance, Figure 14 and 15 program are embodied in code on any goods that are stored in for example tangible computer-readable medium and/or the instruction of machine-accessible, this medium can by processor, computing machine and/or have other device accesses of processor, the exemplary process applicator platform P100 for example next discussing in conjunction with Figure 16.Selectively, the some or all of exemplary operations in Figure 14 and 15 all can be realized with arbitrary combination of ASIC, PLD, FPLD, FPGA, discrete logic components, hardware, firmware etc.Meanwhile, the one or more exemplary operations in Figure 14 and 15 can manually be realized or realize for example combination in any of firmware, software, discrete logic components and/or hardware with the combination in any of any above-mentioned technology.Further, can adopt many additive methods to realize the exemplary operation in Figure 14 and 15.For instance, the execution sequence of module can change, and/or described one or more modules can change, cancel, segment or combine.In addition, any one in Figure 14 and 15 or all exemplary process can sequentially be carried out and/or for example carry out by independent processing threads, processor, equipment, discrete logic components, circuit etc. are in parallel.

The exemplary process of Figure 14 determine with exemplary fixator 190 from operator and/or setter or the position of fixing (for example manually fixing) valve member 102 (module 1405).For instance, operator can use clip and/or the manual fixed valve 106 of block, or is controlled the motion (for example, trap) of fluid in actuator 108 and fixed the position of actuator 108 by prevention.

Remove position transmitter to be replaced (module 1410), refill-unit and/or new position transmitter 1205 (module 1415) are installed.Setter enable position forwarder 1205 (power is for example provided) and access user interface 635 (module 1420).For instance, setter is inputted the structured data (module 1425) of the Sensitirity va1ue SENSITIVITY (for example, by obtaining on the nameplate on position transducer 110 or label) of for example position transducer 110.Then the single-point position PPP (module 1430) of setter input position indicator 140.In certain embodiments, input position PPP for example, as the stroke span number percent (50% opening) of actuator 108.

According to the information of input, position transmitter 1205 is calculated calibration value LO_CAL and HI_CAL, and setter uses these values (module 1440).

Setter makes position transmitter 1205 in running order (module 1445) and unclamps or the position (module 1450) of relief valve assembly 102.

The exemplary process of Figure 15 waits for that from exemplary end points regulator 1315 calculated value of POS_SIG1210 drops down onto beginning (module 1505) outside scope [MIN, MAX].When the calculated value of POS_SIG1210 drops down onto scope [MIN, MAX] outside (module 1505) and calibration correct (module 1510) will automatically apply time, end points regulator 1315 is modified to corresponding calibration value HI_CAL, LO_CAL the value (module 1515) of current PTV170.

If correcting, calibration is not automatically applied (module 1510), end points regulator 1315 notify user's (for example, via exemplary display 645) new and/or the calibration data corrected can use at any time (module 1520), and whether definite PTV170 is positioned at outside above-mentioned NEW_CAL value scope (module 1525).If PTV170 is positioned at (module 1525) outside above-mentioned scope, end points regulator 1315 is stored the calibration value NWE_HI_CAL, the NEW_LO_CAL that revise for follow-up recovery and/or is enabled (module 1530).Then control and return to module 1505, wait for that POS_SIG 1210 drops down onto outside scope [MIN, MAX].

Figure 16 is the schematic diagram of exemplary process applicator platform P100, this platform can by with and/or programming realize any exemplary apparatus and/or method to calibrate valve positioner disclosed herein.For instance, one or more general processors, processor cores, microcontroller etc. can be realized processor platform P100.

Processor platform P100 in the embodiment of Figure 16 comprises at least one programmable processor P105.Coded order P110 and/or P112 that processor P 105 is for example carried out, in the primary memory (RAM P115 and/or ROM P120) that is present in processor P 105.Processor P 105 can be any processing element, for example processor cores, processor and/or microcontroller.In addition to other aspects, processor P 105 can execution graph 7-11,14 exemplary process and/or, more broadly, realize the example valve level controller 104 of Fig. 1 and 6 and/or the exemplary position forwarder 1205 of Figure 12 and 13.

Processor P 105 is connected with the tangible computer-readable recording medium (comprising ROM P120 and/or RAM P115) of any quantity and/or type via bus P125.RAMP115 can realize by the RAM equipment of dynamic RAM (DRAM), Synchronous Dynamic Random Access Memory (SDRAM) and/or any other types, and ROM can require the memory device of type to realize by flash memory and/or any other.Can be controlled by memory controller (not shown) the access of storer P115 and storer P120.Example memory P115 and P120 for example can be used to realize the example memory 630 of Fig. 6 and 13.

Processor platform P100 also comprises interface circuit P130.Any interface standard, for example external memory interface, serial port, universal input/output etc., can realize interface circuit P130.One or more input equipment P135 and one or more output device P140 are connected to interface circuit P130.Input equipment P135 can be used to realization example input equipment 640, and output device P140 can be used to realize the exemplary display 645 of Fig. 6 and 13.

Although some illustrative methods, equipment and system are described at this, the coverage of this patent is not limited to this.On the contrary, this patent is contained all methods, equipment, system and the goods in the clear scope that falls into claims on word or under doctrine of equivalents.

Claims

1. a method, comprising:

The position of the flow control element of fixing operation valve assembly is to stop the movement of described flow control element;

Controller is installed on described operation valve assembly;

After being couple to described operation valve assembly, enables by described controller the user interface of described controller;

Input position transducer sensitivity value and single-point positional value, described single-point positional value represents the fixed position of described flow control element;

Use single-point calibration value;

Described controller is placed in to control model; And

Unclamp the position of described flow control element, in the time of described operation valve assembly work, described controller carries out self-calibrating according to described position transducer Sensitirity va1ue and described single-point positional value at described operation valve assembly duration of work.

2. the method for claim 1, is characterized in that, is further included in and installs before described controller, when described operation valve assembly installation in position and while moving together with Process Control System, removes another controller from described operation valve assembly.

3. the method for claim 1, is characterized in that, inputs described single-point positional value and comprises the fixed position of visually estimating described flow control element.

4. method as claimed in claim 3, is characterized in that, inputs described single-point positional value and comprises the stroke span number percent of the described single-point positional value of input as described flow control element.

5. the method for claim 1, it is characterized in that, use described single-point calibration to comprise input the first estimation calibration value and the second estimation calibration value, described the first estimation calibration value and described the second estimation calibration value represent respectively up stroke span limit and the down stroke span limit of flow control element.

6. method as claimed in claim 5, it is characterized in that, further comprise from described controller and obtain the first estimation calibration value and the second estimation calibration value, described controller is determined described the first estimation calibration value and described the second estimation calibration value according to single-point calibration position and position transducer Sensitirity va1ue.

7. the method for claim 1, is characterized in that, described controller is placed in to control model and comprises that to make described controller in running order, so that the fluid flow of described operation valve assembly control procedure system.

8. the method for claim 1, it is characterized in that, described controller is placed in to control model and comprises and enable controller, and before described controller is placed in to control model, between an end point of travel of described flow control element and another end point of travel of described flow control element, do not drive described operation valve assembly.

9. the method for claim 1, is characterized in that, further comprises the calibration procedure of selecting described controller via described user interface.

10. a method, comprising:

In the time that operation valve assembly moves or be online together with Process Control System, couple controller to operation valve assembly;

Position transducer Sensitirity va1ue is provided to described controller;

The single-point positional value of the current location of the flow control element that represents described operation valve assembly is provided;

Based on described position transducer Sensitirity va1ue and described single-point positional value, input represents the estimation up stroke ultimate value of the first stroke span limit of described flow control element and the estimation down stroke ultimate value of the second stroke span limit of the described flow control element of expression; And

Enable described controller to allow the operation of described operation valve assembly to control the fluid flow of described Process Control System, described controller is calibrated at described operation valve assembly duration of work according to described position transducer Sensitirity va1ue and described single-point positional value.

11. methods as claimed in claim 10, is characterized in that, further comprise that the current location of fixing described flow control element is to stop described flow control element to move.

12. methods as claimed in claim 11, is characterized in that, provide single-point positional value comprise when the described flow control element of estimation is fixing described in flow control element with respect to the current location of the whole stroke span of described flow control element.

13. methods as claimed in claim 12, is characterized in that, further comprise and unclamp described flow control element and enable described controller.

14. methods as claimed in claim 10, is characterized in that, provide position transducer Sensitirity va1ue and single-point positional value to comprise via input interface and will be worth the described controller of input.

15. methods as claimed in claim 10, it is characterized in that, definite estimation up stroke ultimate value and estimation down stroke ultimate value comprise makes described controller according to the position transducer Sensitirity va1ue providing and single-point positional value calculating estimation up stroke ultimate value and estimation down stroke ultimate value.

16. 1 kinds of methods, comprising:

In the time that operation valve assembly is arranged in fluid system, lock the position of the flow control element of described operation valve assembly;

Start the calibration of the controller that operates described operation valve assembly;

Via user interface, preposition transducer sensitivity value is input to described controller;

Input single-point positional value, described single-point positional value represents the latched position of described flow control element with respect to the stroke span of described flow control element;

Based on described position transducer Sensitirity va1ue and described single-point positional value, from described controller obtain estimation calibration value and lower calibration value;

Via upper calibration value and the lower calibration value of described user interface input estimation;

Enable described controller; And

Unclamp described flow control element so that fluid system described in the control of described operation valve assembly, described controller is calibrated according to the upper calibration value of described single-point positional value, described position transducer Sensitirity va1ue and estimation and lower calibration value.

17. methods as claimed in claim 16, is characterized in that, input single-point positional value is included in the position of visually estimating described flow control element after described operation valve is fixed.

18. methods as claimed in claim 17, is characterized in that, input single-point positional value comprises the value of input as the stroke span number percent of described flow control element.

19. methods as claimed in claim 16, is characterized in that, input single-point positional value comprises the position of measuring described flow control element by means of the position transducer of described operation valve assembly.

20. methods as claimed in claim 16, it is characterized in that, further comprise, in the time that described operation valve assembly is online or move together with fluid system, calibrate described controller by enabling described controller, and do not need to drive operation valve assembly described in described flow control element or bypass.