Modular Hydraulic Control Device Valve Failure Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing hydraulic control devices for mobile working machines lack enhanced functional reliability and safety features, particularly in detecting failures of pressure reducing and electro-proportional pressure control valves, and do not effectively manage temperature control in cold environments.
Innovation Solution
A modular function block system is integrated into the control device, featuring standardized flange patterns and valve elements, allowing for load-sensing line connections and leakage oil lines, which enables detection of valve failures and temperature control through additional channels for heat dissipation, reducing the need for additional sensors and enhancing overall system reliability.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a modular function block system is integrated into the control device, then functional reliability is improved through detection of valve failures and temperature control, but device complexity increases due to additional components and standardized flange patterns
Solution Approach 1:
The control device is divided into modular function blocks that can be independently connected via standardized flange patterns. Each function block performs specific tasks (temperature control, failure detection) and can be added or removed based on requirements, improving reliability without permanently increasing overall system complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The standardized flange patterns enable universal connectivity between different function blocks and the control device. A single flange pattern design supports multiple functions (temperature control, pressure monitoring, failure detection) through different function block configurations, reducing the need for multiple specialized connection types.
2Reliability
If load-sensing lines are connected to valve elements through the flange pattern, then detection of valve failures is enabled, but the manufacturing precision requirements increase for ensuring proper fluid-conducting connections
Solution Approach 1:
The function blocks automatically detect valve failures by monitoring load-sensing line pressures through the standardized flange connections. The system uses its own operational parameters (pressure readings from load-sensing lines) to detect failures without requiring external diagnostic equipment, maintaining reliability while avoiding additional manufacturing complexity.
3Temperature
If additional channels are provided for heat dissipation in the flange pattern, then temperature control capability is improved, but the device complexity and manufacturing complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The standardized flange pattern serves multiple functions: it provides electrical connections, fluid-conducting connections for load-sensing lines, and thermal pathways for heat dissipation. This multi-functionality allows temperature control capability to be added without creating separate specialized connection structures, thereby limiting the increase in device complexity.
4Adaptability or versatility
If standardized flange patterns are implemented for connecting function blocks, then adaptability and ease of assembly are improved, but manufacturing precision requirements increase to ensure proper alignment and sealing
Solution Approach 1:
The standardized flange pattern is designed as a segmented, modular connection interface with distinct alignment features and sealing surfaces. This segmentation allows for tolerance compensation through the modular assembly process, enabling high adaptability while managing manufacturing precision requirements through standardized, repeatable connection geometries.
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to a control device, in particular for hydraulically controlling components of mobile working machines, consisting of at least one pressure supply connection (P) and a tank or return connection (T) in addition to two user connections (A, B) and control and/or regulating valves (10, 14, 16, 18) which are connected between the individual connections (P, T, A, B), in addition to two control lines (C, Z) which can control at least one of the control and/or regulating valves. Said invention is characterized in that a modular-type functional block (24, 26) is connected to at least one of the control lines (C, Z).