Hydraulic Steering Unit With Selectable Bridge Arrangements
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing hydraulic steering units lack the ability to adapt steering characteristics to varying operating conditions, such as on-road and off-road use, which can result in uncomfortable steering for drivers.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of a second bridge arrangement of variable orifices in parallel with the first bridge arrangement, allowing for selection between different steering characteristics through a selection mechanism, enabling the driver or system to choose between reaction and non-reaction steering behaviors based on operational conditions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a single bridge arrangement is used in the hydraulic steering unit, then the device complexity is low, but the adaptability to different operating conditions is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The bridge arrangement is segmented into multiple independent bridge arrangements (first bridge arrangement and second bridge arrangement), each with different steering characteristics. This allows the system to switch between different bridge arrangements based on operating conditions, thereby improving adaptability without requiring a single complex bridge arrangement design.
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically switches between different bridge arrangements using selection means. The bridge arrangement is made dynamic and adjustable rather than fixed, allowing the steering characteristics to be changed according to operating conditions such as on-road or off-road use, thus improving adaptability.
2Adaptability or versatility
If different bridge arrangements with different steering characteristics are provided, then the adaptability is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The bridge arrangement is divided into multiple independent units (first bridge arrangement and second bridge arrangement), each with specific steering characteristics. This segmentation allows for modular design where each bridge arrangement can be optimized for specific conditions while maintaining overall system manageability.
Solution Approach 2:
Multiple bridge arrangements are provided that can serve different functions under different operating conditions. The selection means enables a single system to perform multiple steering characteristic functions, making the system universal rather than requiring separate systems for different conditions.
3Adaptability or versatility
If selection means are added to switch between bridge arrangements, then the adaptability is enhanced, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The selection means can be actuated automatically based on operating conditions without requiring manual intervention. The system has the capability to self-select the appropriate bridge arrangement based on detected conditions, reducing the need for complex manual control mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The system incorporates feedback mechanisms to detect operating conditions and automatically select the appropriate bridge arrangement. This feedback-based automatic selection reduces the need for complex manual control interfaces while maintaining high adaptability.
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 solution allows for adaptable steering behavior, providing a comfortable steering experience by enabling the selection of either a reaction or non-reaction characteristic, enhancing driver control and vehicle handling across different conditions.
Implementation Method 1
hydraulic fluid from the pressure port which is guided to the working ports through the bridge arrangement
Implementation Method 2
the flow path comprises the first left orifice and the second right orifice, so that hydraulic fluid from the pressure port flows through the first left orifice to the steering motor
Implementation Method 3
a first bridge arrangement of variable orifices having a first left orifice connected to the main flow path and to a first left connecting point at the left working flow path
Data Source
AI summary
A hydraulic steering unit includes a pressure port connected to a main flow path and a tank port connected to a tank flow path, and a working port arrangement having left and right working flow paths. A first bridge arrangement has first left and first right orifices connected to the main flow path and to first left or first right connecting points, respectively, each connecting point associated respectively with the left or right working flow paths, and second left and second right orifices connected to the tank flow path and to the first left or first right connecting points, respectively. A second bridge arrangement has a similar orifice arrangement connected to second left or second right connecting points. The first and second bridge arrangements have different steering characteristics. Selection means for connecting one of the bridge arrangements between the pressure port and the working port arrangement are provided.