Understanding US Patent 7970040B1: A Detailed Analysis

Introduction

US Patent 7970040B1, titled “Method and Apparatus for Controlling a Plant Using Feedback Signals,” is a significant patent in the field of control systems and automation. It describes a method for regulating industrial processes, machinery, or other plants (systems) using feedback mechanisms to optimize performance. This patent is particularly relevant in industries such as manufacturing, robotics, and process control, where precise adjustments are necessary to maintain efficiency and stability.

In this article, we will explore the key aspects of US7970040B1, including its background, technical details, claims, and potential applications.

Background of the Patent

Control systems are essential in modern engineering, ensuring that machines and processes operate within desired parameters. Feedback control, where a system’s output is continuously monitored and adjusted, is a fundamental concept in automation.

US7970040B1 builds on classical control theory but introduces improvements in how feedback signals are processed and utilized. The patent aims to enhance system responsiveness, reduce instability, and improve overall efficiency in automated control applications.

Technical Overview of US7970040B1

1. Key Components and Methodology

The patent describes a control system that includes:

• A Plant (System to be Controlled): This could be a mechanical system, an industrial process, or any dynamic system requiring regulation.

• Feedback Sensors: Devices that measure output variables (e.g., temperature, pressure, speed) and send signals back to the controller.

• Controller Unit: Processes feedback signals and computes necessary adjustments to maintain desired performance.

• Actuators: Execute control actions based on the controller’s commands.

The innovation lies in how the controller processes feedback signals to minimize errors and adapt to changing conditions.

2. Key Innovations

The patent introduces several novel aspects:

• Adaptive Feedback Processing: The system dynamically adjusts its response based on real-time feedback, improving accuracy.

• Error Minimization Techniques: Advanced algorithms reduce discrepancies between desired and actual outputs.

• Stability Enhancements: The method prevents oscillations and instability common in traditional feedback systems.

Detailed Analysis of Patent Claims

The patent contains multiple claims, with the independent claims outlining the core invention. Below is a breakdown of the most significant claims:

Claim 1: Core Control Method

This claim describes the fundamental process of:

1. Receiving a feedback signal from the plant.

2. Comparing it with a reference (desired) signal.

3. Generating a control signal to adjust the plant’s operation.

4. Continuously refining the control action based on new feedback.

Claim 2: Adaptive Adjustment

This claim extends the method by incorporating adaptive techniques, where the controller modifies its parameters in real time to optimize performance.

Dependent Claims: Additional Features

Subsequent claims introduce refinements, such as:

• Noise filtering to improve signal accuracy.

• Predictive adjustments to anticipate system behavior.

• Multi-variable control for complex systems.

Potential Applications

The technology described in US7970040B1 has broad industrial applications, including:

1. Industrial Automation

• Manufacturing Lines: Ensuring precise control of robotic arms, conveyor speeds, and assembly processes.

• Chemical Processing: Regulating temperature, pressure, and flow rates in reactors.

2. Robotics

• Autonomous Robots: Enhancing movement precision and obstacle avoidance.

• Medical Robotics: Improving surgical robot accuracy.

3. Energy Systems

• Smart Grids: Stabilizing power distribution networks.

• Renewable Energy: Optimizing wind turbine pitch control and solar tracking.

4. Automotive Systems

• Engine Control Units (ECUs): Fine-tuning fuel injection and emissions.

• Autonomous Vehicles: Enhancing adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping.

Advantages Over Existing Systems

Compared to traditional PID (Proportional-Integral-Derivative) controllers, the patented method offers:

• Better Adaptability: Adjusts to system changes without manual recalibration.

• Improved Stability: Reduces overshooting and oscillations.

• Higher Precision: Minimizes errors in dynamic environments.

Conclusion

US Patent 7970040B1 represents an important advancement in feedback control systems, offering enhanced precision, adaptability, and stability. Its applications span multiple industries, from manufacturing to autonomous systems, making it a valuable innovation in automation technology.

As industries continue to embrace smart manufacturing and IoT-based control, the principles outlined in this patent will likely influence future developments in automated control systems.