Hydraulic Accumulator Charge Time for Flow Rate Estimation

The patent introduces a hydraulic accumulator as an intermediary component between the hydraulic element and the measurement system. By measuring the charge time of the accumulator (how long it takes to reach upper threshold pressure), the system indirectly determines flow rate without requiring direct flow measurement sensors. This mediator approach eliminates sensor drift issues while providing reliable flow rate information for health assessment

The patent replaces the conventional sensor-based measurement system with a pressure-based timing system. Instead of using flow meters or sensors to directly measure flow rate, the system uses a pressure sensor to monitor the time required to charge the hydraulic accumulator to a threshold pressure. This mechanical/timing-based approach substitutes for the electronic sensor system, providing more reliable measurements over time

The patent extracts the flow rate measurement function from the hydraulic system itself and transfers it to the hydraulic accumulator. By using the accumulator's charge time as the measurement basis, the system removes the need for expensive flow meters and sensors in the hydraulic circuit. The measurement function is taken out and performed by the accumulator's pressure response characteristics

The patent replaces expensive, maintenance-intensive sensors and flow meters with a simple pressure sensor and timing mechanism. The pressure sensor is more robust and less prone to drift, and the timing-based measurement approach eliminates the need for frequent calibration and replacement, effectively using a more durable, lower-maintenance solution