Hydraulic system, manifold and volumetric compensator

Abstract

A hydraulic system manifold having a body, a counterbalancer in the body and a flow controller in the body is disclosed. The body has first and second pump ports, first and second cylinder ports, first and second compensator ports and first and second supply conduits in communication with the first and second pump ports, the counterbalancer and the flow controller. The counterbalancer is in communication with the first and second supply conduits and the cylinder ports, to communicate hydraulic fluid between the first and second supply conduits and the first and second cylinder ports while counterbalancing hydraulic fluid pressure in the first and second supply conduits. The flow controller is in communication with the first and second supply conduits and the compensator ports, to control the flow of hydraulic fluid between the compensator ports and the first and second supply conduits to supply and store hydraulic fluid in a volumetric compensator in communication with the compensator ports.

Description

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION[0001]1. Field of Invention[0002]This invention relates to hydraulic systems and more particularly to a hydraulic system manifold and a volumetric compensator.[0003]2. Description of Related Art[0004]Hydraulic linear actuators are well known and widely used in industry. In contrast to electromechanical actuators, they are more practical and reliable in applications requiring a large, controllable force. A double-acting hydraulic linear actuator applies such force both in extension and in retraction.[0005]Conventionally, a hydraulic linear actuator is connected to a remote supply of pressurized hydraulic fluid through a closed network of pipes and control valves. However, those are applications where it is desirable for a hydraulic linear actuator to be freestanding and mobile, having a prime mover, a pump, and a closed hydraulic fluid control system all integrated with and located proximate to the linear actuator. Such freestanding actuators are particular...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

"The present invention provides a hydraulic system manifold that includes a body, a counterbalancer, and a flow controller. The body has various pump ports, cylinder ports, and compensator ports. The counterbalancer is in communication with the supply conduits and the cylinder ports to balance hydraulic fluid pressure. The flow controller is in communication with the supply conduits and the compensator ports to control the flow of hydraulic fluid. The counterbalancer may include cross-piloted counterbalance valves and cross-piloted check valves. The system manifold also includes a volumetric compensator that has a flexible diaphragm member and a counterforce provider to adjust the expandable volume. The invention provides a hydraulic system that can efficiently control the flow of hydraulic fluid and compensate for pressure fluctuations."

Problems solved by technology

If a reservoir-type actuator is improperly oriented, the pump may not be properly supplied with fluid and cavitation may result.

Conventional freestanding hydraulic linear actuators do not provide for load locking, except through operation of the prime mover.

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