Hydraulic Float Position Control via Integrated Valve Merging
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current hydraulic arrangements with float positions are costly and prone to operator errors due to the need for additional valves and complex valve relationships to manage pressure and prevent unintended lowering of booms or levers, especially when leaks occur.
Innovation Solution
A hydraulic arrangement with a controller having a fourth switch position that connects the second supply pipe directly to the reservoir, eliminating the need for a second on/off valve and simplifying valve relationships, while an on/off valve automatically opens in the float position to ensure control pressure is maintained.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If additional on/off valves and hydraulic pipes are added to enable float position with load holding, then safety and load holding capability are improved, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the float position control and load holding functions into a single integrated valve arrangement. The first and second on/off valves work together with the hydraulic pipe connecting both chambers to enable float position, while the automatic shut-off valve provides load holding capability. This merging eliminates the need for separate, complex valve relationships while maintaining safety and functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The hydraulic pipe serving as the connection between first and second chambers performs multiple functions: it enables float position by allowing pressure equalization, facilitates load holding through coordinated valve operation, and eliminates the need for additional dedicated hydraulic lines. This multi-functionality reduces overall system complexity while maintaining reliability.
2Adaptability or versatility
If additional on/off valves and hydraulic pipes are fitted to enable float position, then float position functionality is improved, but manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the float position control mechanism with existing hydraulic components. By using the hydraulic pipe to connect both chambers and coordinating the operation of on/off valves with automatic shut-off functionality, the system achieves float position capability without requiring entirely separate, expensive additional components.
Solution Approach 2:
The existing hydraulic components are made multi-functional to reduce manufacturing costs. The hydraulic pipe serves both as a structural connection and as the medium for float position control. The on/off valves are integrated with automatic shut-off capabilities, eliminating the need for separate dedicated float control components and reducing overall manufacturing expenses.
3Reliability
If complex valve relationships are implemented to prevent unintended lowering, then safety is improved, but operator error risk increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements automatic shut-off functionality that operates without requiring complex manual valve coordination by the operator. The automatic shut-off valve responds to pressure differential changes between chambers, automatically preventing unintended lowering. This self-regulating mechanism reduces operator error risk while maintaining safety, as the system protects itself against leaks and unintended movements without requiring the operator to navigate complex valve relationships.
4Stress or pressure
If multiple valves are used to control pressure chambers, then pressure control capability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines pressure control functions into a coordinated valve arrangement. The first and second on/off valves work together with the automatic shut-off valve to control pressure in both chambers. By merging these control functions into an integrated system with a single hydraulic pipe connection, the patent achieves comprehensive pressure control capability while reducing the need for numerous separate valves and control lines.
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 design reduces costs and minimizes operator errors by simplifying valve operations and eliminating the need for additional valves, allowing for a fully functional float position with reduced complexity and increased safety during load handling.
Implementation Method 1
a hydraulic fluid feeder (18) which can supply hydraulic fluid to a first supply line (22) for the first chamber (28) and a second supply line (24) for the second chamber (30)
Implementation Method 2
a hydraulic pipe (46) arranged between the first and the second chamber (28, 30), an on/off valve (50) arranged in the hydraulic pipe (46)... by means of the controller (12) at least the second supply pipe (24) can be connected to the reservoir (20), wherein preferably only one on/off valve (50) is utilized which alone suffices to connect the first chamber (28) to the second chamber (30)
Implementation Method 3
an automatic shut-off valve (32) arranged in the first supply pipe (22)... a constant pressure can be set at the piston base side of the cylinder chamber
Implementation Method 4
a volumetric control valve assembly (52) arranged in the hydraulic pipe (46)
Data Source
AI summary
A hydraulic arrangement for implementing a float position is provided. The arrangement includes: a hydraulic cylinder having a first chamber and a second chamber, a first supply pipe connected to the first chamber and a second supply pipe connected to the second chamber; a volumetric control valve assembly located within a hydraulic pipe and arranged between the first and second chamber; a hydraulic fluid feeder in fluid communication with a hydraulic reservoir; and a controller having a raise position, a lower position, a neutral position, and a float position to control the hydraulic cylinder. The second supply pipe is fluidly connected to the hydraulic reservoir and the first and second supply pipes are substantially prevented from being fluidly connected to the hydraulic fluid feeder when the controller is in the float position.