Flow Divider Assembly with Adjustable Thrust Bearings
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing flow control mechanisms for hydraulic systems, particularly in vehicle implements, fail to effectively divide the flow of a variable displacement pump into different paths efficiently, lacking flexibility and control options.
Innovation Solution
The development of flow divider assemblies that incorporate constant proportion flow dividers and electronically actuated solenoid valves, allowing for adjustable split ratios and bypass capabilities to manage flow distribution between motors, enabling precise control of flow paths.
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 total flow output, but the flow cannot be effectively divided into different paths with precise control ratios
Solution Approach 1:
The hydraulic system is segmented into multiple independent flow paths, each with its own flow divider assembly and control mechanism. The pump output is divided into separate circuits that can be independently controlled, allowing precise flow distribution to multiple actuators simultaneously.
Solution Approach 2:
The flow divider assembly incorporates adjustable thrust bearings that can be dynamically repositioned to change the split ratio between flow paths. This dynamic adjustment capability allows the system to adapt flow distribution in real-time based on operational requirements.
2Adaptability or versatility
If fixed flow division is used, then the system structure is simple, but the system lacks flexibility to accommodate varying motor outputs and applications
Solution Approach 1:
The thrust bearings are mounted on adjustable mechanisms that allow dynamic repositioning along the pump shaft axis. This enables continuous adjustment of the flow split ratio without changing the basic system structure, providing flexibility for different motor outputs and applications.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes the flow distribution parameter by adjusting the physical position of the thrust bearings. By varying the bearing position, the split ratio between flow paths is modified, allowing the same hardware to accommodate different operational requirements.
3Measurement precision
If multiple valves are added to control flow paths, then flow control precision improves, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The flow divider assembly uses the pump's own pressure and flow characteristics to automatically balance and control the flow distribution. The adjustable thrust bearings create pressure-dependent flow splitting without requiring external control valves, reducing system complexity while maintaining precision.
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
Enables flexible and precise control of flow distribution to multiple paths, accommodating varying motor outputs and applications by adjusting thrust bearing angles and using solenoid valves to bypass motors, enhancing operational flexibility and efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
electronically actuated solenoid valves
Implementation Method 2
flow of a variable displacement, single direction pump needs to be divided to different flow paths
Data Source
AI summary
A flow divider assembly for use with a hydraulic pump provides flow to separate drive motors for use in a vehicle or other application. A pair of flow divider motors may be mounted on a block and have a common axis of rotation. The ratio between the two may be controlled by adjustment of the angles of the respective thrust bearings of the flow divider motors. A valve may connect the outlet of one of the flow divider motors or the outlet of the other flow divider motor. passage to the second outlet passage. Additional bypass valves may be provided to permit direct connection between the hydraulic pump and the separate drive motors.