Hydraulic Quick Coupling Inductance Check for Connection Verification
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Current hydraulic line connections relying on quick-release couplings are subject to operator discretion, leading to potential incorrect connections and accidental disconnections, which can cause damage to machines and operators.
Innovation Solution
A device using electromagnetic induction to electronically verify the correct connection of hydraulic lines by monitoring the inductance changes between male and female couplings, providing visual and acoustic signals for successful or incorrect connections, and offering in-cab HMI control for real-time monitoring and statistics.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If operator visually checks and manually tests the connection, then the device complexity is low, but the reliability of connection verification deteriorates due to operator discretion and potential errors
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the manual mechanical verification system with an electromagnetic sensing system. The electromagnetic inductance system automatically detects coupling connection status by measuring inductance changes, eliminating reliance on operator visual inspection and manual testing, thereby significantly improving verification reliability while maintaining acceptable system complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The system enables self-verification of coupling connections through automatic electromagnetic detection. The inductance measurement system continuously monitors connection status without requiring operator intervention, allowing the hydraulic system to self-check and self-report connection correctness, thereby improving reliability without proportionally increasing complexity
2Difficulty of detecting and measuring
If no electronic monitoring is implemented, then the device complexity remains low, but the ability to detect accidental disconnections deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a feedback mechanism where the electromagnetic inductance system continuously monitors coupling connection status and provides real-time feedback through visual indicators (LED lights) and acoustic signals. This automatic feedback system enables immediate detection of accidental disconnections, significantly improving detection capability while the simplicity of the indicator system keeps overall complexity manageable
Solution Approach 2:
The electromagnetic inductance system acts as an intermediary between the mechanical coupling connection and the operator. It converts the mechanical connection state into electrical inductance signals, which are then translated into easily interpretable visual and acoustic feedback, thereby enhancing disconnection detection capability without requiring complex monitoring infrastructure
3Reliability
If electromagnetic inductance system is added to electronically verify connection, then the reliability of connection checking improves, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces complex manual checking procedures with a relatively simple electromagnetic inductance sensing system. The inductance measurement circuitry, while adding some complexity, provides automated and accurate connection verification, improving reliability while the complexity increase is offset by the elimination of manual verification steps and enhanced detection capabilities
Solution Approach 2:
The electromagnetic inductance system serves multiple functions: it detects coupling connection status, monitors for accidental disconnections, provides real-time feedback through visual and acoustic indicators, and enables data collection for predictive maintenance. This multi-functionality justifies the added complexity by delivering comprehensive connection management capabilities that significantly improve overall system reliability
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
Ensures accurate connection verification, alerts to accidental disconnections, and provides usage statistics for predictive maintenance, reducing human error and potential damage.
Implementation Method 1
the control device (1) is associated with the female coupling (20) and comprises an electromagnetic induction system
Data Source
AI summary
A device configured for checking that hydraulic lines are connected to each other correctly includes male and female quick-release couplings, of which the female quick-release coupling has a coil or solenoid winding with an electrical inductance. An electronic control unit is configured to supply current to the winding and to detect variations of the inductance value with respect to the variation of the position of the male quick-release coupling relative to the winding of the female quick-release coupling.