Hydraulic Drive for Fatigue Tests Using Dual Piston Segmentation

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional hydraulic drives for fatigue tests require high power due to the need for large servo-actuators to apply both static and dynamic loads, leading to high energy consumption and complex systems.

Innovation Solution

A hydraulic drive system utilizing a multiple cylinder configuration with two pistons, where one piston applies a static load and the other applies a dynamic load, with the pistons being connected via a piston rod and controlled by separate hydraulic partial controls, reducing energy requirements and simplifying the control method.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Force

If a large servo-actuator is used to sustain both static and dynamic loads, then the load capacity is sufficient, but the power requirement and energy consumption increase significantly

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveload capacityVSAvoidenergy consumption
Core Design Contradiction:
ForceVSUse of energy by moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent divides the single servo-actuator into two separate actuators: one dedicated to sustaining the static load and another for applying the dynamic load. This segmentation allows each actuator to be optimized for its specific function, reducing the overall power requirement since the static load actuator does not need to cycle continuously

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The first actuator is designed to perform the universal function of sustaining the static component of the load throughout the entire test duration, while the second actuator handles the dynamic component. This functional separation enables more efficient energy usage overall

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Device complexity

If a single servo-actuator is used to generate both mean load and alternating load, then the system structure is simpler, but the power requirement increases due to continuous oil flow needs

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesystem structureVSAvoidpower requirement
Core Design Contradiction:
Device complexityVSPower

Solution Approach 1:

The hydraulic system is segmented into two independent control circuits: one for the static load actuator and one for the dynamic load actuator. This allows the static actuator to maintain pressure without continuous pump operation, reducing overall power requirements

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

3Force

If a large servo-actuator is used to sustain static load, then the static load capacity is adequate, but the oil flow requirement for dynamic loading increases energy consumption

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvestatic load capacityVSAvoidenergy loss
Core Design Contradiction:
ForceVSLoss of energy

Solution Approach 1:

By separating the static and dynamic load functions into different actuators, the system eliminates the energy waste associated with a large actuator continuously cycling. The static actuator maintains load without requiring dynamic oil flow, while only the smaller dynamic actuator requires continuous pumping during cyclic operation

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

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 configuration reduces the overall energy consumption and simplifies the control of hydraulic drives for fatigue tests, achieving lower power requirements and more efficient load application with minimal additional pressure medium needed, while maintaining accurate load control.

Implementation Method 1

pressure medium can be applied to a first piston to sustain a static load; simultaneously or subsequently pressure medium can be applied to a second piston alternately in opposite directions so that a dynamic load is generated

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectHydraulic pressure: Hydraulic Press

Data Source

PatentEP2746591B1Hydraulic drive for fatigue tests and method of controlling the hydraulic drive
Publication Date: 2020.07.08 ROBERT BOSCH GMBH
  • EP2746591B1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP2746591B1 patent drawingFigure 2~3
  • EP2746591B1 patent drawingFigure 4

AI summary

The invention discloses a hydraulic drive for load tests and/or material fatigue tests. The hydraulic drive comprises a double cylinder including two pistons connected via a piston rod. A static load can be sustained via the first piston and a dynamic load can be controlled by the second piston.