Electro-hydrostatic Homogeniser Piston Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing high-pressure homogenisers lack flexibility in terms of flow rate and pressure, are not easily adaptable to changing specifications, and are difficult to maintain compared to known solutions.
Innovation Solution
A high-pressure homogeniser utilizing an electro-hydrostatic linear motion transmission system with a brushless electric motor and stand-alone pumping modules, allowing independent control of piston motion and pressure regulation, enhancing efficiency and scalability.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a fixed crankshaft with synchronous pistons is used, then the homogeniser structure is simple and reliable, but the flexibility in flow rate and pressure control is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The system is divided into independent pumping modules, each with its own electro-hydrostatic actuator and control unit. This segmentation allows each module to be controlled independently, providing flexibility in flow rate and pressure while keeping individual module complexity manageable. The modular architecture enables adaptable configuration without requiring complete system redesign.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements dynamic control of piston motion through electro-hydrostatic actuators with electronic control units that can independently regulate each piston's law of motion. This replaces the fixed mechanical crankshaft system with dynamically adjustable actuators, enabling real-time modification of flow rate and pressure parameters without mechanical reconfiguration.
2Adaptability or versatility
If traditional homogeniser design is used, then manufacturing and maintenance are straightforward, but adaptation to changing specifications is difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The homogeniser is constructed from standardized, interchangeable pumping modules that can be manufactured independently using conventional processes. Each module contains identical components (piston, cylinder, electro-hydrostatic actuator), enabling standardized manufacturing while allowing flexible configuration to meet different specifications through modular assembly rather than custom manufacturing.
Solution Approach 2:
The electro-hydrostatic actuators and control units are designed with universal interfaces and standardized mounting configurations, allowing the same basic module design to serve multiple applications and specifications. This universality enables easy adaptation to changing requirements through software configuration and modular reassembly rather than manufacturing new components.
3Ease of operation
If complex hydraulic systems with duplicated arrangements are used, then control flexibility is improved, but maintenance difficulty increases
Solution Approach 1:
The hydraulic system is segmented into independent electro-hydrostatic actuators, each with its own pump and control circuitry integrated into separate pumping modules. This segmentation isolates potential failure points, allowing maintenance on individual modules without affecting the entire system. Complex control functions are achieved through electronic control units rather than complex mechanical hydraulic circuits, simplifying maintenance.
Solution Approach 2:
The electro-hydrostatic actuators incorporate integrated control units with sensors and feedback mechanisms that enable self-diagnosis and automated adjustment. This self-monitoring capability reduces the need for manual inspection and complex maintenance procedures, allowing operators to identify and address issues without specialized hydraulic system knowledge.
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 solution provides increased homogenisation efficiency, flexibility in flow rate and pressure, and simplified maintenance by enabling modular expansion and quick adaptation to varying production needs, while standardizing components for efficient customer response.
Implementation Method 1
electro-hydrostatic linear motion transmission system with a brushless electric motor
Implementation Method 2
brushless electric motor
Implementation Method 3
forcing the fluid to pass through an interspace with reduced dimensions afforded between the first and the second chamber
Data Source
Figure 1a~1b
Figure 2a~3
Figure 4~5
AI summary
High-pressure homogeniser (100) comprising: a volumetric piston pump (1) comprising a plurality of pumping pistons (10); a homogenising valve (20) arranged downstream of the volumetric piston pump (1); linear motion transmission means (5) of the electro-hydrostatic type, comprising an electric motor (6) and a pump (7) directly driven by the electric motor (6), the pump (7) being operatively active on the pistons (10); a control unit (40) configured to control the linear motion transmission means (5) such that a reciprocating motion is imposed to each piston (10) according to a law of motion which is pre-established and independent from the laws of motion of the other pistons (10).