Variable-Orifice Flow Regulator for Slew Flow Compensation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional electrohydraulic servo valve systems experience significant flow disturbances due to slew flow, which are not effectively compensated for by fixed leakage mechanisms that fail to account for changes in actuator velocity or load.
Innovation Solution
A pressure regulator system with a tunable orifice is introduced, where the only input for compensation is the actual slew flow, allowing for adjustable leakage to maintain constant flow and minimize additional leakage, thereby reducing errors from other system factors.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a fixed controlled leak is provided through the EHSV to compensate for slew flow, then some compensation for slew flow is achieved, but the compensation cannot adjust for changes in actuator velocity or load conditions
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the Dynamics principle by replacing the fixed controlled leak with a dynamic leakage path through a variable orifice. The orifice size is modulated in real-time based on feedback signals representing actual slew flow conditions, allowing the compensation mechanism to adapt continuously to changing actuator velocity and load conditions. This transforms a static compensation system into a dynamic one that responds to operational variations.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements Feedback by using feedback signals that represent actual slew flow conditions to control the variable orifice. The system continuously monitors the slew flow and adjusts the orifice size accordingly, creating a closed-loop control mechanism. This feedback approach enables the compensation system to respond accurately to real-time changes in actuator velocity and load, resolving the adaptability issue.
2Ease of operation
If high pressure fluid is used for hydraulic actuation of the EHSV, then mechanical positioning of the variable pumping member is achieved, but large flow disturbances are created in the outlet flow
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the Taking out principle by extracting the harmful slew flow effect from the main outlet flow path. The variable orifice creates a separate leakage path that diverts the slew flow away from the outlet, allowing the main flow to remain undisturbed. This separates the actuation function from the flow delivery function, eliminating the harmful interaction.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses an intermediary mechanism (the variable orifice with controlled leakage path) to mediate between the high-pressure actuation fluid and the outlet flow. This intermediary allows the slew flow to be managed separately through the orifice, preventing it from directly disturbing the outlet flow while still enabling the necessary mechanical actuation.
3Reliability
If additional leakage paths are added to compensate for slew flow, then flow compensation is improved, but system complexity and potential for error increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the Universality principle by designing the variable orifice mechanism to perform multiple functions simultaneously: it provides the leakage path for slew flow compensation, acts as a flow control element, and serves as a tuning mechanism. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate dedicated components for each function, thereby simplifying the overall system despite the enhanced compensation capability.
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 system significantly reduces flow disturbances by compensating for slew flow, maintaining a constant output flow and limiting additional leakage, with changes in flow rates minimized to 50% or less compared to conventional systems.
Implementation Method 1
The constant flow regulator is configured to decrease the leakage flow in response to the drain port of the fluid control device
Data Source
AI summary
Embodiments of the disclosure relate to a system designed to compensate for flow disturbances when changing a flow rate in the system. The system includes a flow source device having an inlet and an outlet. The inlet is configured to receive fluid at a first pressure, and the outlet is configured to output the fluid at a second pressure that is higher than the first pressure. The system also includes a fluid control device having an inlet port and a drain port. The inlet port of the fluid control device is configured to receive flow from the outlet of the flow source device. Further, the system includes a constant flow regulator configured to provide a leakage flow to a drain output. The constant flow regulator is configured to decrease the leakage flow in response to the drain port of the fluid control device.