Hydraulic Pump Low-Output Control for Fast Steering Response
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Solution Overview
Problem
Hydraulic systems in electric and hybrid working vehicles face inefficiencies due to the need for continuous pumping of hydraulic fluid, leading to energy wastage and delays in hydraulic power steering response when the vehicle is idle, as the electric motor must be constantly powered or actuated on demand.
Innovation Solution
The hydraulic pump operates in a low output state when hydraulic fluid is not required, utilizing the flow for auxiliary functions and ramping up quickly when needed, with energy stored in a hydraulic accumulator used for tasks like releasing a spring applied hydraulically released (SAHR) brake, thereby reducing energy wastage and improving response times.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Speed
If the hydraulic pump is continuously driven by a separate electric motor, then hydraulic fluid is instantaneously available for hydraulically actuated devices, but energy is wasted
Solution Approach 1:
The hydraulic pump operates dynamically with two distinct output states (high and low) rather than continuously at full capacity. The control system adjusts the pump output based on real-time hydraulic fluid demand, allowing the pump to be responsive when needed while conserving energy during idle periods.
Solution Approach 2:
The system maintains a low output state that provides a minimal flow of hydraulic fluid in advance, ensuring that when full hydraulic power is needed, the pump can rapidly transition to high output state without delay. This preliminary low-level operation prepares the system for immediate response while minimizing energy consumption during idle periods.
2Use of energy by moving object
If the electric motor is actuated in response to demand for hydraulic fluid, then energy is saved, but there is a lag between demand and supply of hydraulic fluid
Solution Approach 1:
The hydraulic pump operates in a low output state continuously or periodically to maintain a minimal flow of hydraulic fluid ready for immediate use. This preliminary action ensures that when full hydraulic power is demanded, the system can respond rapidly without significant lag, while the low output state minimizes energy consumption during idle periods.
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically transitions between low and high output states based on demand. The low output state maintains system readiness with minimal energy consumption, while the ability to rapidly transition to high output state ensures minimal time delay when full hydraulic power is required.
3Use of energy by moving object
If the hydraulic pump operates in a low output state, then energy wastage is reduced, but hydraulic fluid flow rate is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The hydraulic pump dynamically adjusts its output between low and high states based on demand. During idle periods, the low output state minimizes energy consumption while providing sufficient flow for auxiliary functions. When full hydraulic power is demanded, the pump transitions to high output state to provide the required flow rate.
Solution Approach 2:
The low output state of the hydraulic pump is utilized for multiple auxiliary functions including operating the hydraulic accumulator, releasing brakes, and controlling valve movements. This multi-functionality allows the pump to maintain system operation and readiness at low energy consumption levels without requiring high flow rates during idle periods.
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 energy consumption, minimizes delays in hydraulic power steering response, and enhances the overall efficiency of the hydraulic system by utilizing stored energy for auxiliary functions.
Implementation Method 1
a hydraulic pump configured to supply hydraulic fluid to the one or more hydraulically actuated devices
Implementation Method 2
storing energy in a hydraulic accumulator for later use
Data Source
AI summary
A hydraulic system for an electric working vehicle or hybrid working vehicle of the kind having an electric source of power and an alternative source of power, the hydraulic system comprising: one or more hydraulically actuated devices; and a hydraulic pump configured to supply hydraulic fluid to the one or more hydraulically actuated devices; wherein the hydraulic pump is configured to operate in a low output state when a flow of hydraulic fluid is not required by the one or more hydraulically actuated devices; and wherein the hydraulic system is configured to use hydraulic fluid supplied by the hydraulic pump in the low output state for one or more auxiliary functions of the hydraulic system.