Multi-Position Pneumatic Actuator With Adaptive Relay Control System

The article discusses the design and operating principle of a multi-position pneumatic actuator with three-stage control, which ensures high speed, positioning accuracy, and the ability to quickly reconfigure positioning points. The relevance of the topic is driven by the need to improve the efficiency and flexibility of pneumatic systems in automated production environments. The proposed actuator design allows for a reduction in equipment dimensions, simplification of maintenance, and improved positioning accuracy. Compared to traditional electrohydraulic and electropneumatic follow-up actuators, the proposed solution is less complex and more cost-effective. The study provides a detailed analysis of the operational processes within the multi-position pneumatic actuator, including compressed air supply stages, the sequence of actuator position switching, piston and valve movement dynamics. Particular attention is given to the actuator control scheme, which includes the layout and functions of distributors, pneumatic logic elements, as well as a developed algorithm of operation depending on the specified operating modes. This algorithm ensures the stability of the transient process and, consequently, the stable and uninterrupted operation of the system based on standard pneumatic equipment. The presented mathematical modeling confirms the efficiency and reliability of the proposed solution.