Integrated Hydraulic Actuator Pump Assembly for Precise Flow Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional hydraulic systems for linear actuators are complex, large, and prone to damage in harsh environments, leading to increased machine downtime and reduced reliability.
Innovation Solution
A compact and reliable linear hydraulic actuator system that integrates a hydraulic pump assembly with a linear actuator, using a variable-speed and/or variable-torque pump to control fluid flow and pressure without additional flow control devices.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional hydraulic systems use multiple separate components (hydraulic cylinder, pump, motor, fluid reservoir, valves), then the system can provide necessary hydraulic functions, but the system becomes large, complex, and prone to damage in harsh environments
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the hydraulic pump, fluid reservoir, and control valves into a single integrated pump assembly that is directly coupled to the hydraulic cylinder. This merging of previously separate components reduces the overall system complexity and eliminates the need for multiple external connections, thereby improving reliability in harsh environments.
Solution Approach 2:
The integrated pump assembly serves multiple functions simultaneously: it acts as a fluid reservoir, a pumping mechanism, and a flow control unit. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate dedicated components for each function, reducing system complexity while maintaining full hydraulic operational capability.
2Speed
If the motor and hydraulic pump are run at high speed to provide pressurized fluid, then the hydraulic cylinder can move quickly, but temperature builds up in the hydraulic fluid
Solution Approach 1:
The integrated pump assembly acts as an intermediary between the motor and hydraulic cylinder, incorporating internal flow control mechanisms that regulate fluid delivery. This allows the system to maintain high actuator speed while the pump assembly manages fluid temperature through controlled flow rates and internal cooling pathways.
3Ease of operation
If a variable-displacement hydraulic pump and directional flow control valve are used to control flow, then precise flow control is achieved, but the system becomes more complex and requires additional components
Solution Approach 1:
The patent integrates the flow control valve functionality directly into the pump assembly, merging what were previously separate control components into a unified structure. This integration maintains precise flow control capability while eliminating the need for external flow control valves and their associated connections.
Solution Approach 2:
The pump assembly is designed to provide both pumping action and flow control functions through integrated mechanisms. The same assembly that delivers pressurized fluid also contains internal provisions for regulating flow rate and direction, eliminating the need for separate dedicated control components.
4Ease of manufacture
If numerous separate components are used with connecting shafts, hoses, pipes, and fittings, then the system can be assembled with standardized parts, but the connections are susceptible to damage or degradation in harsh working environments
Solution Approach 1:
By integrating the pump assembly and directly coupling it to the hydraulic cylinder, the patent eliminates numerous external connecting components such as hoses, pipes, and fittings. The merged design uses direct mechanical couplings that are inherently more robust and less susceptible to environmental degradation.
Solution Approach 2:
The system is segmented into two main integrated units: the pump assembly and the hydraulic cylinder assembly. This segmentation reduces the number of connection points from multiple separate components to just one primary coupling interface, thereby reducing potential failure points while maintaining manufacturing simplicity.
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 provides precise control of fluid flow and pressure, reduces the risk of cavitation and high fluid temperatures, and enhances reliability and durability in harsh environments.
Implementation Method 1
The linear actuator includes a piston rod movable within a body of the linear actuator. A hydraulic pump assembly provides pressurized hydraulic fluid to the linear actuator.
Implementation Method 2
A compact and reliable linear hydraulic actuator system that integrates a hydraulic pump assembly with a linear actuator, using a variable-speed and/or variable-torque pump to control fluid flow and pressure
Implementation Method 3
A hydraulic pump assembly provides pressurized hydraulic fluid to the linear actuator, which causes the piston rod to move within a body of the linear actuator.
Data Source
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Figure 1A
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AI summary
A linear actuator system includes a linear actuator and two integrated pump assemblies connected in series and to the linear actuator to provide fluid to operate the linear actuator. Each integrated pump assembly includes a pump with at least one fluid driver comprising a prime mover and a fluid displacement assembly to be driven by the prime mover such that fluid is transferred from a first port of the pump to a second port of the pump. The pump assembly also includes two valve assemblies to isolate the pump from the system. The linear actuator system also includes a controller that establishes at least one of a speed and a torque of the at least one prime mover to exclusively adjust at least one of a flow and a pressure in the linear actuator system to an operational set point.