Double-Acting Actuator Valve Control for Single-Stroke Reversal
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing fluid-operated control devices for double-acting actuators cannot perform a complete single cycle of strokes for extraction and retraction with a single delivery of working fluid, while also controlling load and limiting pressure to prevent mechanical damage.
Innovation Solution
A fluid-operated control device with integrated overcenter valves, a distribution device, an overpressure valve, and a unidirectional choke valve, which allows for a single cycle of opposite strokes with smooth direction switching and load control, preventing pressure peaks and mechanical damage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If conventional control devices are used, then the actuator can perform strokes, but it cannot complete a full cycle of opposite strokes with a single delivery of working fluid
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple control functions (overcenter valve, distribution device, overpressure valve, unidirectional choke valve) into a single integrated control device that can automatically complete a full cycle of opposite strokes with one working fluid delivery, eliminating the need for separate control mechanisms for each stroke phase
Solution Approach 2:
The control device utilizes the actuator's own overpressure during stroke reversal to automatically trigger the switching mechanism, eliminating the need for external control signals or additional actuators to initiate the cycle transition
2Productivity
If pressure is increased to ensure complete stroke cycle, then cycle completion is achieved, but pressure peaks cause mechanical damage
Solution Approach 1:
The overpressure valve is pre-configured with a set pressure threshold that activates before dangerous pressure peaks can occur, releasing excess pressure in advance to protect the mechanical components from damage while ensuring complete stroke cycle completion
Solution Approach 2:
The unidirectional choke valve acts as an intermediary flow restriction that controls the rate of fluid discharge during stroke reversal, preventing sudden pressure drops and smooth transitions that avoid mechanical shock and damage
3Extent of automation
If switching occurs at intermediate reversal point, then automatic cycle operation is achieved, but smooth direction switching is difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The distribution device is designed to pre-position the fluid flow paths before the actuator reaches the reversal point, ensuring that the switching valve is already prepared to redirect flow smoothly when the overpressure trigger occurs, eliminating abrupt directional changes
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The device efficiently performs a single cycle of strokes with smooth direction switching and load control, preventing pressure peaks and mechanical damage, while ensuring safe locking and release of the load.
Implementation Method 1
the switching occurring in the intermediate reversal point of the strokes and being actuated by overpressure
Implementation Method 2
limiting pressure to prevent mechanical damage
Implementation Method 3
unidirectional choke valve, which connects the first seat to the second seat
Data Source
Figure 1
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Figure 5
AI summary
A fluid-operated control device for double-acting actuators includes a valve body which integrates a first overcenter valve in which the inlet is connected to a distribution device by means of a first connecting branch and the outlet is connectable to a first chamber of at least one fluid-operated cylinder, the valve body further integrating a second overcenter valve in which the inlet is connected to the distribution device by means of a second connecting branch and the outlet is connectable to a second chamber of the fluid-operated cylinder, the first overcenter valve being actuatable by means of a first control branch which is connected to the second connecting branch and being provided with particular fluid throttling, check and drainage elements connected to the first connecting branch, the second overcenter valve being actuatable by means of a second control branch connected to the first connecting branch, the distribution device being provided with a control chamber and being automatically switchable between a first operating condition, in which the first connecting branch is connected to a delivery branch of a working fluid and the second connecting branch is connected to a return branch of the working fluid and the control chamber of the distribution device is connected to the return branch of the working fluid by means of a unidirectional throttle valve, and a second operating condition, in which the first connecting branch is connected to the return branch by means of the unidirectional throttle valve and the second connecting branch is connected to the delivery branch, the switching between the first operating condition and the second operating condition being controlled by an overpressure valve integrated in the valve body and having the inlet connected to the first connecting branch by means of a third control branch and the outlet connected to the control chamber of the distribution device.