Hydraulic Control Module Layout for Balanced Fireproof Manifolding
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional control modules for hydraulic systems experience asymmetrical loads due to vibrations and lack fireproofing, necessitating improved construction to address these challenges.
Innovation Solution
The control module features a tank surrounded by valves and passages, with feet positioned at both ends to balance the module and reduce asymmetrical loads. The housing integrates the tank and manifold, using additive manufacturing to create a lightweight, heat-resistant structure without the need for additional fire shielding.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a conventional control module design is used with mechanical linkage between tank and manifold, then the structure is simple to manufacture, but asymmetrical loads occur due to vibrations and fireproofing requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the tank and manifold into a single integrated housing structure, eliminating the need for separate fireproofing measures. The housing itself provides fire resistance while incorporating internal passages for fluid distribution, thereby merging multiple functions into one component and reducing overall structural complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The housing serves multiple functions simultaneously: it acts as the fireproof containment structure, provides the fluid distribution manifold through internal passages, and supports the valve assemblies. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate fire shield components while maintaining all necessary hydraulic functions.
2Ease of manufacture
If valves are located asymmetrically in the control module, then the structure is simpler to manufacture, but asymmetrical loads are experienced during operation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent deliberately positions valves asymmetrically around the circumference of the tank at specific angular intervals (e.g., 0°, 90°, 180°, 270°) to create a balanced distribution of loads. This controlled asymmetry in positioning ensures that gravitational and vibrational forces are evenly distributed across the module structure during operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The housing structure is designed with counterbalancing features that offset the weights of valve assemblies and fluid passages. The distribution of structural material and the positioning of mounting feet create counterbalancing moments that neutralize asymmetrical loads generated by the valve positions and internal components.
3Reliability
If a separate fire shield is added around the tank, then fireproofing is ensured, but weight and component count increase
Solution Approach 1:
The fireproofing function is merged into the housing structure itself rather than being implemented as a separate fire shield. The housing material and design inherently provide fire resistance, eliminating the need for additional fireproofing components and thereby reducing overall module weight.
Solution Approach 2:
The housing serves as both the structural containment and the fireproof barrier simultaneously. This multi-functional design eliminates redundant components that would be required if fireproofing were implemented as a separate system, thereby reducing weight and component count.
4Ease of manufacture
If multiple separate components are used for tank and manifold, then manufacturing is easier, but heat dissipation is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The tank and manifold are merged into a single integrated housing with internal fluid passages. This integration creates direct thermal coupling between the hydraulic fluid and the housing structure, enabling the housing to act as a heat sink that dissipates heat generated by fluid compression and valve operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The housing acts as an intermediary thermal pathway between the hydraulic fluid and the external environment. The internal passages allow thermal energy to transfer from the fluid to the housing walls, which then dissipate heat to the surrounding air, providing passive thermal management.
Data Source
Figure 1A
Figure 1B
Figure 2A~2B
AI summary
There is provided a control module for a hydraulic system. The module comprises a tank and a plurality of valves. The tank is configured to store hydraulic fluid and is substantially cylindrical. The plurality of valves fluidly connect with the tank and are configured to control distribution of hydraulic fluid from the tank to one or more components of the system. The plurality of valves are spaced around a circumference of the tank. One or more passages fluidly connect the tank with at least one of the plurality of valves and/or a first of the plurality of valves with a second of the plurality of valves.