Inlet frame and valve device

Abstract

The import housing (100) is provided with: a merging control valve (21) that merges or cuts off working fluid ejected from a first pump (111) and working fluid ejected from a second pump (114); a first unloading valve (31) connected to a first fluid pressure passage; a second unloading valve (32) connected to a second fluid pressure passage; a valve main body (151) formed with the first fluid pressure passage and the second fluid pressure passage, and provided with the merging control valve (21), the first unloading valve (31), and the second unloading valve (32), the merging control valve (21) being arranged so as to be separated from the first unloading valve (31) and the second unloading valve (32) in a perpendicular direction perpendicular to an arrangement direction in which the first unloading valve (31) and the second unloading valve (32) are arranged and an axial direction of both, and so as to be arranged between the first unloading valve (31) and the second unloading valve (32) in the arrangement direction.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to an inlet block and a valve device. Background Technology

[0002] Japanese Patent Application Publication No. JP2019-56436A discloses a hydraulic system comprising a first fluid pressure circuit for controlling multiple actuators, a second fluid pressure circuit for controlling multiple actuators, and a system for merging or disconnecting working fluid supplied to the first and second fluid pressure circuits. The hydraulic system includes a pump, a valve unit for controlling each actuator, and a fluid tank. The valve unit includes an inlet frame for pressure fluid intake, an unloading frame, a valve frame for controlling each actuator, and an outlet frame for oil discharge. The inlet frame has a merging control valve for merging and disconnecting the first and second fluid pressure circuits, and the unloading frame has a first unloading valve for unloading working fluid from the first fluid pressure circuit and a second unloading valve for unloading working fluid from the second fluid pressure circuit. Summary of the Invention

[0003] In the hydraulic system described in Japanese Patent Application Publication JP2019-56436A, the confluence control valve is located in the inlet frame, and the first unloading valve and the second unloading valve are located in the unloading frame arranged with the inlet frame. Therefore, the valve unit is relatively long in one direction (specifically, the direction in which the inlet frame and the unloading frame are arranged), resulting in a space-consuming problem.

[0004] The purpose of this invention is to reduce the dimension of the valve frame in one direction.

[0005] According to one aspect of the present invention, the inlet frame comprises: a confluence control valve that allows or cuts off working fluid ejected from a first pump via a first fluid pressure passage and working fluid ejected from a second pump via a second fluid pressure passage; a first unloading valve connected to the first fluid pressure passage and unloading the working fluid ejected from the first pump; a second unloading valve connected to the second fluid pressure passage and unloading the working fluid ejected from the second pump; and a valve body having the first fluid pressure passage and the second fluid pressure passage, and provided with the confluence control valve, the first unloading valve, and the second unloading valve, wherein the first unloading valve and the second unloading valve are arranged in a manner parallel to each other on their axes, and the confluence control valve is configured to be separated from the first unloading valve and the second unloading valve in a vertical direction perpendicular to the arrangement direction of the first unloading valve and the second unloading valve and the axial direction of the two valves, and is disposed between the first unloading valve and the second unloading valve in the arrangement direction. Attached Figure Description

[0006] Figure 1 This is a fluid pressure circuit diagram of the hydraulic system, including the imported frame involved in this embodiment.

[0007] Figure 2 This is a top view of the imported frame.

[0008] Figure 3 This is the front view of the imported frame.

[0009] Figure 4 For along Figure 2 A cross-sectional view along line IV-IV.

[0010] Figure 5 For along Figure 3 The cross-sectional view along the VV line shows the state of the slide valve in the connected position (Y).

[0011] Figure 6 For along Figure 2 The cross-sectional view along line VI-VI shows the state of the slide valve in the connected position (Y).

[0012] Figure 7 For along Figure 3 A sectional view of line VII-VII in the diagram.

[0013] Figure 8 For along Figure 3 A cross-sectional view of line VIII-VIII in the diagram.

[0014] Figure 9 For along Figure 3 A cross-sectional view of the IX-IX line.

[0015] Figure 10 From Figure 3 The arrow X in the image shows a side view of the inlet frame. Detailed Implementation

[0016] Referring to the accompanying drawings, a hydraulic system 1 incorporating the inlet frame 100 according to an embodiment of the present invention will be described. The hydraulic system 1 is mounted on construction machinery, agricultural machinery, industrial machinery, etc. Hereinafter, an example of a hydraulic system 1 mounted on a hydraulic excavator and used to operate various actuators of the hydraulic excavator will be described. Although the following embodiment describes an example using a working fluid, other fluids such as working water may also be used as the working fluid.

[0017] like Figure 1As shown, the hydraulic circuit of hydraulic system 1 includes: a first hydraulic circuit HC1, which receives working fluid from a first pump 111 and controls multiple actuators MR and AS; and a second hydraulic circuit HC2, which receives working fluid from a second pump 114 and controls multiple actuators ML and BS. The working fluid supplied to the first hydraulic circuit HC1 and the working fluid supplied to the second hydraulic circuit HC2 are combined or cut off using a merging control valve 21 described later. First, the first hydraulic circuit HC1 and the second hydraulic circuit HC2 will be explained.

[0018] The first hydraulic circuit HC1 is a circuit that controls the drive of actuators such as the right travel motor MR and the boom cylinder AS. The second hydraulic circuit HC2 is a circuit that controls the drive of actuators such as the left travel motor ML and the boom cylinder BS.

[0019] The first hydraulic circuit HC1 includes: a first pump 111 as a hydraulic supply source, a first main supply passage 121a as a first fluid pressure passage, a fluid tank passage 122a, a control valve 110a, a control valve 110b, and a first unloading valve 31.

[0020] The first pump 111 is a piston valve, and the ejection capacity is varied by changing the slope of the ramp 113a using the regulator 113. The highest ejection pressure of the higher of the ejection pressures of the first pump 111 and the second pump 114, and the highest load pressures of each actuator MR, AS, ML, BS are directed to the regulator 113. The ejection capacity of the first pump 111 is controlled by so-called load sensing control in such a way that the pressure difference between the highest ejection pressure and the highest load pressure becomes a predetermined value. Furthermore, in Figure 1 The diagram of the circuit that directs the maximum ejection pressure to the regulator 113 is omitted.

[0021] The first main supply passage 121a is connected to the first nozzle 111a of the first pump 111, and the working fluid ejected from the first nozzle 111a is supplied to each actuator MR, AS. The fluid tank passage 122a is connected to the fluid tank 112 and guides the working fluid discharged from each actuator MR, AS to the fluid tank 112. Control valve 110a controls the flow of working fluid supplied from the first main supply passage 121a to the right travel motor MR, and control valve 110b controls the flow of working fluid supplied from the first main supply passage 121a to the boom cylinder AS. Each control valve 110a, 110b is switched, for example, by a pilot pressure output according to the operation of an operating lever (not shown).

[0022] The first unloading valve 31 unloads the working fluid sprayed from the first pump 111. The maximum load pressure of the first hydraulic circuit HC1 is input to the first unloading valve 31. When the pressure of the first main supply passage 121a is greater than the maximum load pressure of the first hydraulic circuit HC1 by a predetermined value, the first unloading valve 31 opens, unloading the working fluid sprayed from the first pump 111.

[0023] The second hydraulic circuit HC2 includes: a second pump 114 as a hydraulic supply source, a second main supply passage 121b as a second fluid pressure passage, a fluid tank passage 122b, a control valve 120a, a control valve 120b, and a second unloading valve 32.

[0024] The second pump 114 has the same structure as the first pump 111. The highest ejection pressure of the higher of the ejection pressures of the first pump 111 and the second pump 114, and the highest load pressures of each actuator MR, AS, ML, BS, are directed to the regulator. The ejection capacity of the second pump 114 is controlled by so-called load-sensing control in such a way that the pressure difference between the highest ejection pressure and the highest load pressure becomes a predetermined value. Furthermore, in Figure 1 The diagram of the regulator and the circuit that directs the maximum ejection pressure to the regulator is omitted.

[0025] The second main supply passage 121b is connected to the second nozzle 114a of the second pump 114, and the working fluid sprayed from the second nozzle 114a is supplied to each actuator ML and BS. The fluid tank passage 122b is connected to the fluid tank passage 122a and the fluid tank 112, and guides the working fluid discharged from each actuator ML and BS to the fluid tank 112. Control valve 120a controls the flow of working fluid supplied from the second main supply passage 121b to the left travel motor ML, and control valve 120b controls the flow of working fluid supplied from the second main supply passage 121b to the boom cylinder BS. Each control valve 120a, 120b is switched, for example, by a pilot pressure output according to the operation of an operating lever (not shown).

[0026] The second unloading valve 32 unloads the working fluid sprayed from the second pump 114. The maximum load pressure of the second hydraulic circuit HC2 is input to the second unloading valve 32. When the pressure of the second main supply passage 121b is greater than the maximum load pressure of the second hydraulic circuit HC2 by a predetermined value, the second unloading valve 32 opens, unloading the working fluid sprayed from the second pump 114.

[0027] A first auxiliary supply passage 161a, supplied with working fluid ejected from the first pump 111, is connected to a first main supply passage 121a. A second auxiliary supply passage 161b, supplied with working fluid ejected from the second pump 114, is connected to a second main supply passage 121b. A merging control valve 21 is provided between the first auxiliary supply passage 161a and the second auxiliary supply passage 161b to switch the merging and disconnection of the two passages.

[0028] The confluence control valve 21 is a slide valve 153 (see reference). Figure 5 , Figure 6 A pilot-operated directional switching valve that is switched between a connected position (Y) and a disconnected position (X), wherein the slide valve 153 is received in a main receiving hole 152 formed in the valve body 151 in a free-sliding manner, as described later (see reference). Figure 5 , Figure 6 When the merging control valve 21 is in the connected position (Y), the first auxiliary supply passage 161a and the second auxiliary supply passage 161b are connected, thereby connecting the first hydraulic circuit HC1 and the second hydraulic circuit HC2. That is, the merging control valve 21 connects the first hydraulic circuit HC1 and the second hydraulic circuit HC2, thereby enabling the working fluid sprayed from the first pump 111 and the working fluid sprayed from the second pump 114 to merge. When the merging control valve 21 is in the cut-off position (X), the connection between the first auxiliary supply passage 161a and the second auxiliary supply passage 161b is cut off, thereby cutting off the connection between the first hydraulic circuit HC1 and the second hydraulic circuit HC2.

[0029] A check passage 55 is connected between the upstream side of the first main supply passage 121a (compared to the first unloading valve 31) and the upstream side of the second main supply passage 121b (compared to the second unloading valve 32), for the first check valve 51 and the second check valve 52. Furthermore, an overflow passage 62 for the overflow valve 60 is connected between the first check valve 51 and the second check valve 52 in the check passage 55 and between the fluid tank passage 163. The first check valve 51 only allows the flow of working fluid from the first main supply passage 121a to the overflow passage 62, and the second check valve 52 only allows the flow of working fluid from the second main supply passage 121b to the overflow passage 62. Thus, the working fluid with the higher pressure in the first main supply passage 121a and the second main supply passage 121b is guided to the overflow passage 62, and the guided working fluid is overflowed by the overflow valve 60. That is, the relief valve 60 overflows the higher pressure of the first main supply passage 121a and the second main supply passage 121b. In other words, the relief valve 60 specifies the maximum pressure of the first hydraulic circuit HC1 and the second hydraulic circuit HC2.

[0030] Additionally, the hydraulic circuit of hydraulic system 1 includes: a first load pressure passage 162a, which is guided by the highest load pressure among the multiple actuators MR and AS controlled by the first hydraulic circuit HC1; a second load pressure passage 162b, which is guided by the highest load pressure among the multiple actuators ML and BS controlled by the second hydraulic circuit HC2; and a load pressure selection valve 35. Furthermore, in Figure 1 The diagram of the loop that guides the load pressure to the first load pressure path 162a and the second load pressure path 162b is omitted.

[0031] The first load pressure passage 162a and the second load pressure passage 162b are connected to the load pressure selection valve 35. The load pressure selection valve 35 is a high-pressure selection valve that selects the higher of the highest load pressure of the first hydraulic circuit HC1 and the highest load pressure of the second hydraulic circuit HC2. The highest load pressure selected in the load pressure selection valve 35 is guided to the regulator 113 of the first pump 111 and the regulator of the second pump 114 via the highest load pressure passage 35a, and is used to control the tilt angle of the ramp 113a of the first pump 111 and the ramp (not shown) of the second pump 114.

[0032] To prevent overpressure, the first load pressure passage 162a is connected to the first pressure relief passage 164a. Similarly, to prevent overpressure, the second load pressure passage 162b is connected to the second pressure relief passage 164b. The first pressure relief passage 164a and the second pressure relief passage 164b are respectively connected to the fluid tank 112 via the fluid tank passage 122a. A first throttling section 131 for maintaining the pressure of the first load pressure passage 162a is provided on the first pressure relief passage 164a, and a second throttling section 132 for maintaining the pressure of the second load pressure passage 162b is provided on the second pressure relief passage 164b.

[0033] Next, the valve device 10 constituting the hydraulic system 1 will be described.

[0034] like Figure 1 As shown, the valve assembly 10 includes an inlet frame 100 for pressure fluid intake and actuator frames B11, B12, B21, and B22 corresponding to each actuator MR, AS, ML, and BS. Figure 1In the diagram, the boundaries of the inlet frame 100 and each actuator frame B11, B12, B21, and B22 are indicated by double-dotted lines. The inlet frame 100 is the frame from which the working fluid initially supplied from the first pump 111 and the second pump 114 is supplied, and the working fluid is supplied from the inlet frame 100 to each actuator frame B11, B12, B21, and B22. Actuator frames B11 and B12 are arranged on one side of the inlet frame 100, and actuator frames B21 and B22 are arranged on the other side of the inlet frame 100. The inlet frame 100 and each actuator frame B11, B12, B21, and B22 are connected by screws or the like, thereby forming the valve device 10.

[0035] The inlet frame 100 includes the aforementioned confluence control valve 21, first unloading valve 31 and second unloading valve 32, first check valve 51 and second check valve 52, relief valve 60, and load pressure selection valve 35. Additionally, the inlet frame 100 includes the aforementioned first main supply passage 121a, first secondary supply passage 161a, check passage 55, relief passage 62, first load pressure passage 162a, second load pressure passage 162b, first pressure release passage 164a, second pressure release passage 164b, first throttling section 131, second throttling section 132, and fluid tank passage 122a. Detailed information regarding the structure of the valve body 151 will be provided later.

[0036] Actuator housing B11 includes the aforementioned control valve 110a, first main supply passage 121a, first load pressure passage 162a, and fluid tank passage 122a. Actuator housing B12 includes the aforementioned control valve 110b, first main supply passage 121a, first load pressure passage 162a, and fluid tank passage 122a. Actuator housing B21 includes the aforementioned control valve 120a, second main supply passage 121b, second load pressure passage 162b, and fluid tank passage 122b. Actuator housing B22 includes the aforementioned control valve 120b, second main supply passage 121b, second load pressure passage 162b, and fluid tank passage 122b.

[0037] Furthermore, although the valve device 10 also includes a valve frame (not shown) that controls the actuators (not shown) that drive the rotary motor, bucket, bulldozer, etc., which rotate the hydraulic excavator, however, in Figure 1 Its illustration is omitted.

[0038] Next, refer to Figures 2 to 10 The specific structure of the imported frame 100 is explained.

[0039] Figure 2 This is a top view of the imported frame 100. Figure 3 This is the front view of the imported frame 100. Figure 4 For along Figure 2A cross-sectional view of line IV-IV in the middle. Figure 5 For along Figure 3 A cross-sectional view of the VV line in the middle. Figure 6 For along Figure 2 The sectional view of line VI-VI in the middle, Figure 7 For along Figure 3 A sectional view of line VII-VII in the diagram. Figure 8 For along Figure 3 A cross-sectional view of line VIII-VIII in the middle. Figure 9 For along Figure 3 A cross-sectional view of the IX-IX line. Figure 10 From Figure 3 The arrow X in the image shows a side view of the inlet frame 100. Figure 5 , Figures 7-9 by and Figure 2 The same orientation indicates, Figure 4 , Figure 6 by and Figure 3 The same orientation is indicated. Furthermore, for ease of explanation thereafter, it will also be... Figure 2 The vertical direction in the middle is called the D1 direction. Figure 2 The left and right directions in the middle are called the D2 direction, and the left and right directions are called the D2 direction. Figure 2 The direction perpendicular to the paper surface is called the D3 direction.

[0040] like Figure 2 As shown, an opening is formed on the upper surface 151a of the valve body 151 of the inlet frame 100, forming a first pump port 260a communicating with the first pump 111 and a second pump port 260b communicating with the second pump 114. Piping is connected to the first pump port 260a and the second pump port 260b respectively, communicating with the first pump 111 and the second pump 114. Furthermore, an opening is formed on the upper surface 151a of the valve body 151, forming a first load pressure port 234a communicating with the first load pressure passage 162a and a second load pressure port 234b communicating with the second load pressure passage 162b.

[0041] like Figure 4 As shown, the valve body 151 has a first supply passage 261a formed in communication with a first pump port 260a, and a second supply passage 262a formed in communication with a second pump port 260b (see reference). Figure 5 The first supply path 261a corresponds to, for example, Figure 1 , Figure 2 The hydraulic circuit shown has a first main supply passage 121a and a first auxiliary supply passage 161a, and a second supply passage 262a corresponding to, as shown in the figure. Figure 1 , Figure 2The hydraulic circuit shown includes a second main supply passage 121b and a second auxiliary supply passage 161b. The first supply passage 261a and the second supply passage 262a are symmetrical in shape with respect to the main receiving hole 152.

[0042] The first supply passage 261a is branched. Specifically, the first supply passage 261a has: a main passage 261b, which is formed to extend in a generally straight line from the first pump port 260a in the D3 direction to the first unloading valve 31; a first secondary passage 261c, which is formed to extend from the main passage 261b in the D2 direction to the first check valve 51; and a second secondary passage 261d (see reference). Figure 5 It is formed to extend from the main passage 261b in the D1 direction to the main receiving hole 152, which accommodates the slide valve 153 in a freely sliding manner, and to the back surface 151c of the valve body 151. Figure 5 As shown, a first supply port 221a communicating with the second auxiliary passage 261d is formed on the back side 151c of the valve body 151 in an open manner. The working fluid supplied from the first pump port 260a is guided through the first supply passage 261a to the first unloading valve 31, the main receiving hole 152, the first supply port 221a, and the first check valve 51.

[0043] The second supply path 262a has the same characteristics as the first supply path 261a: main path 262b (refer to...) Figure 7 The first auxiliary passage (not shown) extends in a generally straight line from the second pump port 260b in the D3 direction to the second unloading valve 32; the second auxiliary passage 262d (refer to...) extends from the main passage 262b in the D2 direction to the second check valve 52; the second auxiliary passage 262d (refer to...) Figure 5 It is formed to extend in the D1 direction from the main passage 262b to the main receiving hole 152 and the front surface 151b of the valve body 151. The main passage 262b and the first secondary passage 262c correspond to Figure 1 The hydraulic circuit shown has a second main supply passage 121b and a second auxiliary passage 262b corresponding to the second auxiliary supply passage 161b. For example... Figure 5 As shown, a second supply port 221b communicating with the second secondary passage 262d is formed on the front 151b of the valve body 151 in an open manner. The working fluid supplied from the second pump port 260b is guided through the second supply passage 262a to the second unloading valve 32, the main receiving hole 152, the second supply port 221b, and the second check valve 52.

[0044] like Figure 6 , Figure 7 ,as well as Figure 9As shown, the valve body 151 has a first load pressure passage 162a and a second load pressure passage 162b. The working fluid passes through load pressure ports 166a and 166b formed on the outer surface of the valve body 151 (see reference). Figure 9 The load pressure is guided to the first load pressure passage 162a and the second load pressure passage 162b, respectively. The first load pressure passage 162a and the second load pressure passage 162b are formed in a manner that extends in the D2 direction and the D1 direction, respectively. Figure 9 On the cross section shown, and formed to extend in the D3 direction from that cross section (see reference). Figure 4 The first load pressure passage 162a). The first load pressure passage 162a and the first unloading valve 31 (see reference). Figure 4 , Figure 8 ), Main receiving port 152 (refer to) Figure 5 , Figure 6 ), load pressure selection valve 35 (refer to) Figure 7 ), and the first throttling section 131 (see reference) Figure 9 The second load pressure passage 162b is similarly connected to the second unloading valve 32 (see reference). Figure 8 ), Main receiving port 152 (refer to) Figure 5 , Figure 6 ), load pressure selection valve 35 (refer to) Figure 7 ), and the second throttling section 132 (see reference) Figure 9 Connect.

[0045] like Figure 7 As shown, a load pressure port 165 is provided on the valve body 151 to guide the highest load pressure selected in the load pressure selection valve 35 to the outside. The load pressure port 165 communicates with the load pressure selection valve 35 and is located on one side 151d of the valve body 151. The load pressure port 165 guides the highest load pressure to the regulator 113 of the first pump 111 and the regulator of the second pump 114, respectively.

[0046] like Figure 6 As shown, the valve body 151 has a fluid tank passage 122a communicating with the fluid tank 112. The fluid tank passage 122a... Figure 6 The cross-section shown communicates with the main receiving hole 152 and is formed in a Y-shape. Additionally, as... Figure 8As shown, the fluid tank passage 122a is formed to extend in the D1 direction, spanning between the first unloading valve 31 and the second unloading valve 32. When the first unloading valve 31 and the second unloading valve 32 are opened, the working fluid of the first supply passage 261a and the second supply passage 262a are respectively guided to the fluid tank 112. In other words, the fluid tank passage 122a is formed to span between the first receiving hole 231 and the second receiving hole 232, which are respectively received by the first unloading valve 31 and the second unloading valve 32. Furthermore, as... Figure 9 As shown, the fluid tank passage 122a is formed to extend in the D1 direction, spanning between the first throttling section 131 and the second throttling section 132, guiding the working fluid of the first load pressure passage 162a and the second load pressure passage 162b to the fluid tank 112 via the first throttling section 131 and the second throttling section 132. Fluid tank ports 223a and 223b communicating with the fluid tank passage 122a are formed on the upper surface 151a of the valve body 151 (see reference). Figure 2 , Figure 6 A fluid tank port 223c communicating with the fluid tank passage 122a is formed on the front side 151b of the valve body 151 (see reference). Figure 3 ).

[0047] like Figure 5 as well as Figure 6 As shown, the main receiving port 152 is connected to the first supply passage 261a, the second supply passage 262a, the first load pressure passage 162a, the second load pressure passage 162b, and the fluid tank passage 122a, and this connection is cut off by the first shoulder 171, the second shoulder 172, and the third shoulder 173 provided on the slide valve 153. One side of the main receiving port 152 ( Figure 5 , Figure 6 The opening on the right side (of the fluid tank 112) is closed by a first pilot cover 170a provided for the drain chamber 21a connected to the fluid tank 112. The other side ( Figure 5 , Figure 6 The opening on the left side of the pilot chamber 21b is closed by a second pilot cover 170b, through which a pilot pressure for switching the slide valve 153 to the cut-off position (X) is input to the pilot chamber 21b. A spring 154 is provided on the first pilot cover 170a to apply force to the slide valve 153 in the direction of switching from the cut-off position (X) to the connected position (Y). The slide valve 153 moves axially according to the pilot pressure input to the pilot chamber 21b.

[0048] The first shoulder section 171 connects or disconnects the adjacent first supply passage 261a and second supply passage 262a. When the pilot pressure is not guided to the pilot chamber 21b, the slide valve 153 is in position. Figure 5 , Figure 6In the connected position (Y), the first supply passage 261a and the second supply passage 262a are connected via an annular groove between the first shoulder 171 and the second shoulder 172. When pilot pressure is directed to the pilot chamber 21b, the slide valve 153 moves from the connected position (Y) to... Figure 5 , Figure 6 When the right side of the middle becomes the cut-off position (X), the connection between the first supply passage 261a and the second supply passage 262a is cut off by the second shoulder 172.

[0049] Additionally, the first shoulder 171 connects or disconnects the adjacent first load pressure passage 162a and second load pressure passage 162b. When the slide valve 153 is in the connected position (Y), as... Figure 5 , Figure 6 As shown, the first load pressure passage 162a and the second load pressure passage 162b are connected via an annular groove between the first shoulder 171 and the third shoulder 173. Furthermore, when the slide valve 153 is in the cut-off position (X), the first shoulder 171 cuts off the connection between the first load pressure passage 162a and the second load pressure passage 162b.

[0050] like Figure 7 As shown, the valve body 151 has a first check valve 51, a second check valve 52, and a check passage 55. The first check valve 51 and the second check valve 52 are disposed on the other side 151e of the valve body 151 and are arranged in a parallel manner on the same plane. Figure 7 (As shown in the cross section). An overflow port 167 is formed in an opening on the other side 151e of the valve body 151, connecting the check passage 55 and the overflow passage 62.

[0051] like Figure 8 As shown, the valve body 151 has a first receiving hole 231 and a second receiving hole 232 for receiving the first unloading valve 31 and the second unloading valve 32, respectively. The first receiving hole 231 and the second receiving hole 232 open on one side 151d of the valve body 151 and are formed on the same plane in a parallel manner to each other. Figure 8(As shown in the cross-section). In other words, the first unloading valve 31 and the second unloading valve 32 are respectively housed in the first receiving hole 231 and the second receiving hole 232 in a manner parallel to each other on their axes (specifically, the slide valves 31a and 32a described later), and are arranged to extend in the D2 direction in a manner that is aligned with each other in the D1 direction. The D1 direction is the arrangement direction in which the first unloading valve 31 and the second unloading valve 32 are arranged. Here, "parallel" includes not only a completely parallel state, but also a state that is not strictly parallel and is slightly tilted due to manufacturing errors, etc. The first load pressure passage 162a, the main passage 261b of the first supply passage 261a, and the fluid tank passage 122a open at the first receiving hole 231, and the second load pressure passage 162b, the main passage 262b of the second supply passage 262a, and the fluid tank passage 122a open at the second receiving hole 232.

[0052] A slide valve passage 31b, communicating with a first load pressure passage 162a, is formed on the slide valve 31a of the first unloading valve 31. Working fluid from the first load pressure passage 162a is guided through the slide valve passage 31b to close the slide valve 31a together with the spring 31d, thus applying pressure. Additionally, a slide valve passage 31c, communicating with a main passage 261b of the first supply passage 261a, is formed on the slide valve 31a. Working fluid from the main passage 261b is guided through the slide valve passage 31c to open the slide valve 31a, thus applying pressure. When the load generated by the pressure in the slide valve passage 31c exceeds the combined load of the load generated by the pressure in the slide valve passage 31b and the force of the spring 31d, the first unloading valve 31 opens. Working fluid is then guided from the main passage 261b through a notch (not shown) formed on the outer peripheral surface of the slide valve 31a to the fluid tank passage 122a, and the working fluid is unloaded.

[0053] On the slide valve 32a of the second unloading valve 32, a slide valve passage 32b communicating with the second load pressure passage 162b and a slide valve passage 32c communicating with the main passage 262b of the second supply passage 262a are formed, similar to those of the slide valve 31a. Pressure is applied by the working fluid being guided into the second load pressure passage 162b via the slide valve passage 32b and closing the slide valve 32a together with the spring 32d. Pressure is applied by the working fluid being guided into the main passage 262b via the slide valve passage 32c and opening the slide valve 32a. When the load generated by the pressure in the slide valve passage 32c is higher than the combined load generated by the pressure in the slide valve passage 32b and the force of the spring 32d, the second unloading valve 32 opens, and the working fluid is guided from the main passage 262b through a notch (not shown) formed on the outer peripheral surface of the slide valve 32a to the fluid tank passage 122a, and the working fluid is unloaded.

[0054] In this embodiment, as described above, the merging control valve 21, the first unloading valve 31, and the second unloading valve 32 are all disposed on the valve body 151 of the inlet frame 100. Therefore, compared to a structure where the merging control valve 21, the first unloading valve 31, and the second unloading valve 32 are disposed on another valve frame and arranged in an orderly manner, the overall size of the inlet frame 100 in one direction (the arrangement direction D1 in which the first unloading valve 31 and the second unloading valve 32 are arranged) can be reduced.

[0055] Furthermore, in this embodiment, such as Figure 10 As shown, the merging control valve 21 (specifically, the slide valve 153) is configured to be separated from the first unloading valve 31 and the second unloading valve 32 in a vertical direction (D3 direction) perpendicular to the arrangement direction (D1 direction) and the axial direction (D2 direction) of both. In other words, the slide valve 153 is configured such that the first unloading valve 31 and the second unloading valve 32 do not overlap in the D3 direction, and are spaced apart by a predetermined distance. This allows the first unloading valve 31 and the second unloading valve 32 to be arranged close to each other in the D1 direction, thus further reducing the size of the inlet frame 100 in the D1 direction. Furthermore, the merging control valve 21 (specifically, the slide valve 153) is positioned between the first unloading valve 31 and the second unloading valve 32 in the D1 direction. In other words, the slide valve 153 is not located on the outside of the valve body 151 compared to the first unloading valve 31, nor on the outside of the valve body 151 compared to the second unloading valve 32, in the D1 direction. This allows for a further reduction in the dimension of the inlet frame 100 in the D1 direction.

[0056] In addition, in this embodiment, the fluid tank passage 122a is shared by the first unloading valve 31 and the second unloading valve 32, thus simplifying the flow path structure of the inlet frame 100.

[0057] Furthermore, in this embodiment, such as Figure 2 , Figure 4 ,as well as Figure 8 As shown, the first pump port 260a is formed such that a portion of the first unloading valve 31 overlaps its extension in the vertical direction (D3 direction), and the second pump port 260b is formed such that a portion of the second unloading valve 32 overlaps its extension in the vertical direction. Therefore, as described above, the flow path from the first pump port 260a to the first unloading valve 31 and the flow path from the second pump port 260b to the second unloading valve 32 can be made substantially straight, thus simplifying the flow path structure of the inlet frame 100. Alternatively, the first pump port 260a and the second pump port 260b can also be formed such that the entire first unloading valve 31 and the second unloading valve 32 overlap their extensions in the D3 direction.

[0058] Furthermore, in this embodiment, such as Figure 8 As shown, the first unloading valve 31 and the second unloading valve 32 are disposed on one side 151d of the valve body 151. Therefore, there is a dead space in the valve body 151 between the first unloading valve 31 and the second unloading valve 32 in the lateral direction (specifically, between the other side 151e in the D2 direction and the first unloading valve 31 and the second unloading valve 32). In the dead space, the pilot passage 270 of the valve device 10 is formed. The pilot passage 270 leads to the control valve 110a (see reference), which is a control valve for controlling the operation of the actuator MR by supplying working fluid from the first supply passage 261a (first hydraulic circuit HC1). Figure 1 (This guides the pilot fluid.) Additionally, in Figure 1 The pilot passage 270 is omitted from the diagram. The pilot passage 270 is, for example, a passage that guides primary pressure to a pressure-reducing valve (not shown) that generates pilot pressure. A portion of the pilot passage 270 is formed in the area between the side 151e opposite to one side 151d of the valve body 151 and the first unloading valve 31 and the second unloading valve 32. In other words, a portion of the pilot passage 270 is formed in the D2 direction between the other side 151e and the first unloading valve 31 and the second unloading valve 32. This allows for efficient and flexible utilization of the unused space in the valve body 151. Furthermore, the entire pilot passage 270 can be formed in the aforementioned unused space, and other passages such as a drain passage for a pressure-reducing valve can also be formed in this unused space. Additionally, a pilot passage 270 can be formed in the aforementioned unused space to guide pilot fluid to control valves 110b, 120a, and 120b, which are different from control valve 110a.

[0059] According to the above implementation method, the following effects were achieved.

[0060] In the inlet frame 100, the merging control valve 21, the first unloading valve 31, and the second unloading valve 32 are all disposed on the valve body 151. Therefore, compared to a structure where the merging control valve 21, the first unloading valve 31, and the second unloading valve 32 are each disposed on another valve body 151 and arranged in an orderly fashion, the overall dimension of the valve body 151 in the D1 direction can be reduced. Furthermore, the slide valve 153 is configured to be separate from the first unloading valve 31 and the second unloading valve 32 in the D3 direction, and is disposed between the first unloading valve 31 and the second unloading valve 32 in the D1 direction; thus, the dimension of the valve body 151 in the D1 direction can be further reduced.

[0061] The following variations are also within the scope of the present invention, and it is possible to combine the structures shown in the variations with the structures described in the above embodiments, or to combine the structures described in the following different variations with each other.

[0062] <Variation Example 1>

[0063] Although the configuration of the first throttling section 131, the second throttling section 132, the first check valve 51, and the second check valve 52 within the valve body 151 of the inlet frame 100 has been described in the above embodiment, the present invention is not limited thereto. The aforementioned structures may also be provided outside the valve body 151. Additionally, the overflow valve 60 may be provided within the valve body 151.

[0064] <Variation Example 2>

[0065] In the above embodiment, the configuration in which working fluid is supplied from the first pump 111 and the second pump 114 to the first hydraulic circuit HC1 and the second hydraulic circuit HC2 respectively has been described. However, the present invention can also be configured to supply working fluid from a single pump to both the first hydraulic circuit HC1 and the second hydraulic circuit HC2 in a split-flow manner. In this configuration, the first pump 111 and the second pump 114 are provided within a single pump, and the pump has two nozzles.

[0066] <Variation Example 3>

[0067] Although the above embodiments have described an example of applying the present invention to the hydraulic system 1 of a hydraulic excavator, the present invention is not limited thereto. The present invention can be applied to the hydraulic systems of various operating equipment such as crawler cranes, wheel loaders, and forklifts.

[0068] The structure, function, and effects of the embodiments of the present invention are summarized and explained below.

[0069] The inlet frame 100 includes: a confluence control valve 21, which merges or cuts off the working fluid ejected from the first pump 111 via a first fluid pressure passage (first main supply passage 121a) and the working fluid ejected from the second pump 114 via a second fluid pressure passage (second main supply passage 121b); a first unloading valve 31, which is connected to the first fluid pressure passage and unloads the working fluid ejected from the first pump 111; a second unloading valve 32, which is connected to the second fluid pressure passage and unloads the working fluid ejected from the second pump 114; and a valve body 151, which has the first fluid... The system includes a pressure passage and a second fluid pressure passage, and is equipped with a merging control valve 21, a first unloading valve 31, and a second unloading valve 32. The first unloading valve 31 and the second unloading valve 32 are arranged in a manner parallel to each other on their axes. The merging control valve 21 is configured to be separated from the first unloading valve 31 and the second unloading valve 32 in a vertical direction (D3 direction) that is perpendicular to the arrangement direction (D1 direction) and the axial direction (D2 direction) of the two valves, and is positioned between the first unloading valve 31 and the second unloading valve 32 in the arrangement direction.

[0070] In this structure, the merging control valve 21, the first unloading valve 31, and the second unloading valve 32 are all disposed on the valve body 151. Therefore, compared to a structure where the merging control valve 21, the first unloading valve 31, and the second unloading valve 32 are respectively disposed on another valve frame 151 and arranged in an orderly manner, the overall size of the valve body 151 in one direction (the arrangement direction of the first unloading valve 31 and the second unloading valve 32) can be reduced. Furthermore, since the merging control valve 21 is configured to be separate from the first unloading valve 31 and the second unloading valve 32 in the vertical direction, and is disposed between the first unloading valve 31 and the second unloading valve 32 in the arrangement direction, the size of the inlet frame 100 in one direction (the arrangement direction) can be further reduced.

[0071] Additionally, the inlet frame 100 has two receiving holes 231 and 232, which are respectively for receiving the first unloading valve 31 and the second unloading valve 32; and a fluid tank passage 122a, which is formed across the two receiving holes 231 and 232 and communicates with the fluid tank 112, through which the working fluid unloaded by the first unloading valve 31 and the second unloading valve 32 is guided to the fluid tank passage 122a.

[0072] In this structure, the first unloading valve 31 and the second unloading valve 32 share a fluid tank passage 122a, thus simplifying the flow path structure of the inlet frame 100.

[0073] Furthermore, in the inlet frame 100, a first pump port 260a and a second pump port 260b are formed in an open manner on the outer surface of the valve body 151. The first pump port 260a is connected to the first pump 111 and guides working fluid into the first fluid pressure passage. The second pump port 260b is connected to the second pump 114 and guides working fluid into the second fluid pressure passage. The first pump port 260a is formed such that at least a portion of the first unloading valve 31 overlaps in the vertical direction and on its extension line. The second pump port 260b is formed such that at least a portion of the second unloading valve 32 overlaps in the vertical direction and on its extension line.

[0074] In this structure, the flow path from the port of the first pump 111 to the first unloading valve 31 and the flow path from the port of the second pump 114 to the second unloading valve 32 can be set to be approximately straight, thus simplifying the flow path structure of the inlet frame 100.

[0075] Additionally, in the valve device 10 comprising an inlet frame 100, an actuator frame, and a pilot passage 270, the actuator frame is connected to the inlet frame 100 and is provided with actuator control valves (control valves 110a, 110b, 120a, 120b). The actuator control valves receive working fluid from a first fluid pressure passage (first main supply passage 121a) or a second fluid pressure passage (second main supply passage 121b) and control the operation of the actuators (MR, AS, ML, BS). The pilot passage 270 guides pilot fluid to the actuator control valves. The first unloading valve 31 and the second unloading valve 32 are respectively housed in two receiving holes 231 and 232 formed by opening one end face of the valve body 151. At least a portion of the pilot passage 270 is formed in the region between the other end face of the valve body 151 opposite to one end face and the first unloading valve 31 and the second unloading valve 32.

[0076] In this structure, there is lateral unused space in the valve body 151 between the first unloading valve 31 and the second unloading valve 32. Since a pilot passage 270 is formed in this unused space, the unused space of the inlet frame 100 can be effectively and flexibly utilized.

[0077] The embodiments of the present invention have been described above. However, the above embodiments are merely some examples of the application of the present invention and are not intended to limit the technical scope of the present invention to the specific structures of the above embodiments.

[0078] This application claims priority based on Japanese Patent Application 2024-36057 filed with the Japan Patent Office on March 8, 2024, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference.

Claims

1. An imported frame, comprising: A confluence control valve that allows or cuts off the working fluid ejected from a first pump via a first fluid pressure passage and the working fluid ejected from a second pump via a second fluid pressure passage; A first unloading valve is connected to the first fluid pressure passage and unloads the working fluid ejected from the first pump. A second unloading valve is connected to the second fluid pressure passage and unloads the working fluid ejected from the second pump. The valve body has a first fluid pressure passage and a second fluid pressure passage, and is equipped with the confluence control valve, the first unloading valve, and the second unloading valve. The first unloading valve and the second unloading valve are arranged such that their axes are parallel to each other. The confluence control valve is configured to be separated from the first unloading valve and the second unloading valve in a vertical direction that is perpendicular to the arrangement direction of the first unloading valve and the second unloading valve and the axis of both, and is disposed between the first unloading valve and the second unloading valve in the arrangement direction.

2. The import frame as described in claim 1, wherein, The valve body has: Two receiving holes are provided for the first unloading valve and the second unloading valve, respectively. A fluid tank passage, which is formed across the space between the two receiving holes and communicates with the fluid tank, is provided. The working fluid unloaded by the first unloading valve and the second unloading valve is guided to the fluid tank passage.

3. The import frame as described in claim 1, wherein, A first pump port and a second pump port are formed in an opening manner on the outer surface of the valve body. The first pump port communicates with the first pump and guides working fluid into the first fluid pressure passage. The second pump port communicates with the second pump and guides working fluid into the second fluid pressure passage. The first pump port is formed such that at least a portion of the first unloading valve overlaps in the vertical direction and along its extension. The second pump port is formed such that at least a portion of the second unloading valve overlaps in the vertical direction and on its extension.

4. A valve device comprising: The import frame as described in claim 1; An actuator housing is connected to the inlet housing and is provided with an actuator control valve. The actuator control valve receives working fluid from the first fluid pressure passage or the second fluid pressure passage and controls the action of the actuator. A pilot passage that directs pilot fluid to the actuator control valve. in, The first unloading valve and the second unloading valve are respectively housed in two receiving holes formed by openings on one end face of the valve body. At least a portion of the pilot passage is formed in the region between the valve body and the first unloading valve and the second unloading valve on the opposite end face of the valve body and the first unloading valve.

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