Hydraulic Actuator Robotic Joint Magnetic Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional hydraulic cylinders face inefficiencies in fluid management and control, particularly when dealing with variable loads and obstructions, as they rely on constant pump speed and lack precise control over fluid pressure and movement.
Innovation Solution
The hydraulic actuator system employs a magnetic field generated by wire windings and a moving magnet to precisely control hydraulic fluid flow, using an electronic control circuit to manage current through the windings, allowing for variable fluid pressure and compliance with obstructions by adjusting the magnetic field and fluid flow.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a constant speed hydraulic pump is used to produce hydraulic pressure, then the system structure is simple, but the system lacks precise control over fluid pressure and movement, and efficiency decreases when motion is not imminent
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the conventional mechanical constant-speed pump system with an electromechanical system comprising an electric motor, variable displacement pump, and electronic control circuit. This substitution enables precise control of hydraulic fluid flow and pressure through electrical signals, directly addressing the control precision limitation while accepting increased system complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements a variable displacement pump that can dynamically adjust its output based on system requirements. The pump's displacement is variable, allowing the system to optimize fluid delivery in real-time rather than operating at fixed capacity, thereby improving both control precision and operational efficiency.
2Loss of energy
If the hydraulic pump runs at constant speed, then the system is simple to operate, but energy is wasted when unused pressurized hydraulic fluid is returned to the reservoir
Solution Approach 1:
The patent incorporates an electronic control circuit that receives feedback regarding system pressure and flow requirements. This feedback mechanism allows the variable displacement pump to adjust its output to match actual demand, preventing energy waste from returning excess pressurized fluid to the reservoir while maintaining precise control.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the operating parameters of the hydraulic system by implementing variable displacement capability. The pump's displacement parameter can be adjusted based on system needs, enabling operation at optimal efficiency points and reducing energy losses associated with constant-speed operation and fluid return.
3Adaptability or versatility
If conventional hydraulic cylinders are used with constant pump speed, then the system structure is simple, but the system cannot comply with obstructions or handle variable loads effectively
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a dynamic control system where the variable displacement pump can adapt its output in real-time based on load conditions and obstructions. This dynamic capability allows the system to handle variable loads effectively by adjusting fluid delivery to match actual requirements, overcoming the rigidity of constant-speed systems.
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
This system enables precise control over hydraulic fluid movement and pressure, allowing for efficient handling of variable loads and compliance with obstructions, enhancing the stability and accuracy of robotic movements.
Implementation Method 1
A magnetic field generated by wire windings and a moving magnet to precisely control hydraulic fluid flow
Implementation Method 2
A magnet moves within the tube as a result of and in response to the magnetic field produced by current through the subset of wire windings
Implementation Method 3
When the hydraulic pump pushes hydraulic fluid into the first chamber, a valve in the second chamber is open allowing hydraulic fluid to drain from the second chamber into a reservoir
Data Source
AI summary
A robotic joint that includes a hydraulic actuator. The hydraulic actuator includes a hollow tube that has a first opening at a first end of the hollow tube and that has a second opening at a second end of the hollow tube. The hollow tube contains hydraulic fluid. A moveable magnet moves within hollow tube as a result of a magnetic field within the hollow tube. A magnetic field source located outside the hollow tube creates the magnetic field within the hollow tube. When the moveable magnet moves to the first end of the hollow tube, a first piston pushes hydraulic fluid out of the first opening. When the moveable magnet moves to the second end of the hollow tube a second piston pushes hydraulic fluid out of the second opening.