Flow Divider Assembly for Hydraulic Pump Directional Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing flow control mechanisms for hydraulic systems, particularly in vehicle implements, face challenges in efficiently dividing the flow of a variable displacement pump into different paths, lacking sufficient control and flexibility.
Innovation Solution
The development of flow divider assemblies that incorporate constant proportion flow dividers, electronically actuated solenoid valves, bi-directional valves, and pilot-operated valves to manage the flow distribution, allowing for adjustable ratios and directional control by modifying the angle of thrust bearings or using solenoid valves to bypass motors, enabling precise control over the output to drive motors.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a variable displacement pump is used to supply hydraulic flow, then the pump can adjust its output flow, but the flow cannot be efficiently divided into multiple paths with different flow ratios
Solution Approach 1:
The hydraulic system is segmented into multiple flow paths with dedicated flow control mechanisms for each path. The flow divider assembly separates the single pump output into multiple independent circuits, each capable of receiving controlled flow portions. This segmentation allows each path to be independently controlled while maintaining overall system adaptability.
Solution Approach 2:
A flow divider assembly acts as an intermediary device between the variable displacement pump and the multiple hydraulic actuators. This mediator component distributes flow from the single pump source to multiple paths, enabling flow division without requiring multiple pumps or complex valve networks. The flow divider simplifies the overall system architecture while maintaining flow control capability.
2Measurement precision
If flow division is implemented without proper control valves, then the system structure is simpler, but the control precision and flexibility are insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
Different types of flow control valves are applied to different flow paths based on their specific control requirements. The system uses a combination of constant proportion flow dividers for fixed ratio applications and adjustable flow control valves for variable ratio applications. This localized approach to valve selection optimizes control precision for each specific path while avoiding unnecessary complexity in paths that don't require it.
Solution Approach 2:
The flow control system utilizes adjustable valves that can change flow parameters dynamically. By modifying valve opening positions and flow coefficients, the system can precisely control flow distribution ratios. This parameter adjustment capability allows the system to adapt to different operational requirements without requiring physical reconfiguration or additional hardware.
3Stability of the object's composition
If constant proportion flow dividers are used, then the flow distribution is stable, but the adaptability to different flow ratios is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The flow control system integrates both constant proportion flow dividers and adjustable flow control valves in a unified assembly. This multi-functional design allows the same hydraulic circuit to operate in different modes: stable fixed ratio distribution when using constant proportion dividers, and flexible variable ratio distribution when using adjustable valves. The system can switch between these modes depending on operational requirements.
Solution Approach 2:
The flow distribution system transitions from static fixed ratios to dynamic adjustable ratios. By incorporating adjustable flow control valves alongside constant proportion dividers, the system can dynamically change flow distribution ratios during operation. This dynamic capability allows the system to adapt to varying load conditions and operational requirements while maintaining stability when fixed ratios are sufficient.
Data Source
AI summary
A flow divider assembly for use with a hydraulic pump provides fluid flow to separate drive motors for use in a vehicle or other application. Flow may be provided alternatively to a first fluid side and second fluid side. First and second flow divider motors are in communication with an output of a shuttle valve. A first bypass valve is connected to the first fluid side and a second bypass valve is connected to the second fluid side, and both bypass valves have an open position and a closed position. A multi-position, pilot operated valve is operably connected to both flow divider motors and to both bypass valves. An embodiment permits the output of the system to be driven in either forward or reverse directions.