Interlocked Valve Control Assembly for Hydraulic Pressure Sequencing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing hydraulic systems experience pressure spikes and premature failure of hydraulic seals due to improper sequencing of valve closures, which can lead to uncontrolled pressure and flow of hydraulic fluid during maintenance or operation.
Innovation Solution
A multiple valve control assembly that includes a first cam/lever assembly to close a pressure line valve before a second cam/lever assembly can close a tank line valve, ensuring the pressure line is locked out before the tank line, using a locking mechanism to prevent simultaneous rotation and maintain control over hydraulic fluid flow.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If both valves are closed simultaneously without sequencing, then the tank line can be closed, but pressure spikes occur on hydraulic seals causing premature failure
Solution Approach 1:
The first cam/lever assembly is designed to close the pressure line valve before the second cam/lever assembly can close the tank line valve. The locking mechanism prevents the second valve from closing until the first valve is already closed, thereby preliminarily establishing the correct closure sequence and preventing pressure spikes on hydraulic seals.
2Reliability
If the pressure line valve is closed first without a locking mechanism, then the correct closure sequence is achieved, but simultaneous rotation of both cams is possible allowing improper sequencing
Solution Approach 1:
A locking mechanism acts as an intermediary between the two cam/lever assemblies. This mechanism includes a locking surface on the first cam that engages with a corresponding surface on the second cam, preventing the second cam from rotating until the first cam has completed its closure motion. This ensures proper sequencing while maintaining ease of operation through a simple mechanical interlock.
3Reliability
If a locking mechanism is added to prevent simultaneous cam rotation, then valve sequencing is controlled, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The locking mechanism is merged with the existing cam/lever assemblies rather than being a separate independent system. The locking surfaces are integrated into the peripheral surfaces of the cams themselves, combining the valve actuation and interlocking functions into a unified structure. This minimizes additional complexity while ensuring reliable sequencing control.
Data Source
AI summary
A multiple valve control assembly is described. The multiple valve control assembly includes a first cam/lever assembly to close a first valve, and a second cam/lever assembly to close a second valve. A first locking surface of the first cam/lever assembly, when the first cam/lever assembly is in the open position, physically blocks the rotation of the second cam/lever assembly. This provides for a pressure line to be closed by the first cam/lever assembly before the tank line can be closed by the second cam/lever assembly.