Integrated Hydraulic Return Manifold to Minimize Leak Points
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional fluid return systems for work machines, such as motor graders, are complex, expensive, and prone to leaks due to multiple components and joints.
Innovation Solution
A system comprising a manifold and a mount, where the manifold is fixedly mounted to the fluid tank and defines an inner volume for receiving returning fluid, and the mount establishes a fluid connection between the manifold, a filter, and the fluid tank.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If conventional fluid return systems use multiple components and joints, then the system can be assembled from standardized parts, but the construction becomes complex and manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple separate components (manifold, mounting bracket, fluid conduit) into a single integrated manifold assembly. The manifold is designed with built-in mounting features and integrated fluid passages, eliminating the need for separate mounting brackets and multiple connection joints, thereby simplifying construction while maintaining manufacturability
Solution Approach 2:
The manifold serves multiple functions simultaneously: it distributes fluid to multiple hydraulic devices, provides structural mounting support, and integrates filtering capabilities. This multi-functionality reduces the overall number of components needed in the fluid return system while maintaining assembly efficiency
2Ease of manufacture
If conventional fluid return systems use multiple joints and connections, then the system can be assembled modularly, but potential leak points increase
Solution Approach 1:
By integrating the fluid passages and connections directly into the manifold body, the patent eliminates multiple external joints and connections that would otherwise be required. This integration reduces the number of potential leak points while maintaining modular assembly capabilities through standardized mounting interfaces
Solution Approach 2:
The patent extracts and eliminates unnecessary intermediate components and connection joints from the fluid return path. By directly integrating the fluid conduit into the manifold structure, it removes potential failure points while preserving the modular benefits of standardized mounting features
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
The system simplifies the fluid return process, reduces manufacturing costs, and minimizes potential leak points, thereby enhancing the reliability and efficiency of fluid management in work machines.
Implementation Method 1
The mount defines one or more passageways. The one or more passageways are configured to establish a fluid connection between the inner volume of the manifold, a filter of the work machine, and an internal volume of the fluid tank.
Data Source
AI summary
A system, for returning fluid from one or more hydraulic devices to a fluid tank of a work machine, includes a manifold and a mount. The manifold is configured to be fixedly mounted to the fluid tank. The manifold defines an inner volume for receiving a flow of the fluid returning from the one or more hydraulic devices. The mount is configured to be fixedly mounted to each of the fluid tank and the manifold. The mount defines one or more passageways configured to establish a fluid connection between the inner volume of the manifold, a filter of the work machine, and an internal volume of the fluid tank.