Hydraulic Connector Axis Intersection for Rotator Link Stress Reduction
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Hydraulic conduit failures in logging equipment due to stress and exposure during rotational movement, leading to increased operational costs and reduced production.
Innovation Solution
A hydraulic assembly with a pivot connection and connector configuration where the connection axis intersects the pivot axis, allowing hydraulic conduits to pass between pins, reducing stress and exposure, and enabling flexible routing to minimize damage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If hydraulic conduits are routed through a rotator link assembly with pivot connections, then the hydraulic system can drive rotational movement of the implement, but the conduits are subjected to stress and exposure to surrounding objects during movement
Solution Approach 1:
The connector is designed to rotate relative to the hydraulic element, allowing the connection to dynamically adapt to the rotational movement of the implement. This dynamic capability enables the conduit to flex naturally with the movement rather than being rigidly constrained, reducing stress accumulation while maintaining the ability to drive rotational motion.
Solution Approach 2:
The hydraulic conduit is configured to flex naturally within hose limits, utilizing the flexible properties of the hose material to accommodate rotational movement. This flexibility allows the conduit to bend and rotate without developing stress concentrations that would lead to failure, while still maintaining hydraulic integrity.
2Ease of operation
If the connector is positioned away from the pivot axis, then the hydraulic element can be easily connected, but the conduit is more exposed to surrounding objects and stress during rotation
Solution Approach 1:
The connector is positioned at an angle to the pivot axis rather than directly in line with it, creating a three-dimensional routing path for the conduit. This angular arrangement allows the conduit to follow a more favorable path that reduces exposure to surrounding objects while still maintaining ease of connection. The angled configuration enables the conduit to flex in multiple directions, accommodating both accessibility and protection requirements.
3Device complexity
If conventional hydraulic conduit connectors are used in a rotator link assembly, then the system can be simple in design, but the conduits are difficult to protect from stress and damage during movement
Solution Approach 1:
The connector serves multiple functions: it provides a secure connection between the conduit and hydraulic element, allows for rotational movement, and positions the conduit to flex naturally within hose limits. This multi-functionality achieves conduit protection and movement capability without adding significant complexity to the overall hydraulic assembly design.
Data Source
AI summary
A hydraulic assembly including a pivot connection defining a pivot axis, a hydraulic element linked to the pivot connection, and a connector for connecting a hydraulic conduit to the hydraulic element. The connector defines a connection axis and the connector is configured such that the connection axis approximately intersects the pivot axis. The hydraulic assembly may be used in various applications, including in forestry equipment, for example, with a rotator link assembly.