MRF Brake Isolation in Hydraulic Flow Control for Clean Recirculation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing hydraulic fluid systems using magneto-rheological (MR) fluid are limited by the high weight and ferromagnetic particles, which are not suitable for aerospace applications requiring contaminant-free fluid recirculation and low fluid weight.
Innovation Solution
A hydraulic fluid system incorporating a magneto-rheological fluid (MRF) brake with a static quantity of ferromagnetic particles, isolated from the hydraulic fluid circuit, and an integrated configuration with a hydraulic motor, where the MRF brake is not recirculated, and the viscosity is controlled by an electrical signal to adjust braking torque.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Force
If magneto-rheological fluid is used to manipulate fluid pressure relationship, then braking torque control is achieved, but fluid weight increases and ferromagnetic particles contaminate the hydraulic fluid
Solution Approach 1:
The system is divided into two separate fluid circuits: a hydraulic fluid circuit for power transmission and a magneto-rheological fluid circuit for braking control. The MRF brake is isolated from the main hydraulic circuit, allowing independent operation of each fluid system with specialized properties.
Solution Approach 2:
The magneto-rheological fluid with ferromagnetic particles is extracted and isolated from the main hydraulic fluid circuit. A static quantity of MRF is contained within the MRF brake, preventing contamination of the recirculating hydraulic fluid while maintaining braking functionality.
2Ease of operation
If magneto-rheological fluid with ferromagnetic particles is recirculated, then braking control is maintained, but fluid contaminants increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system separates the hydraulic fluid circuit from the MRF circuit, creating independent closed loops. The MRF brake contains a static quantity of ferromagnetic fluid that does not recirculate through the main hydraulic system, eliminating contamination risks.
Solution Approach 2:
The ferromagnetic particles are extracted from the recirculating hydraulic fluid by containing them exclusively within the MRF brake. This isolation prevents any ferromagnetic contamination of the hydraulic fluid while maintaining full braking control capability.
3Measurement precision
If electrical control signal is applied to MRF brake, then viscosity control precision is improved, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The mechanical viscosity control system is replaced with an electrical control system. An electrical control signal applied to the MRF brake enables precise, real-time adjustment of MRF viscosity through electromagnetic actuation, eliminating the need for mechanical adjustment mechanisms.
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 allows for precise control of braking torque and fluid flow in aerospace applications, ensuring contaminant-free fluid recirculation and meeting the low fluid weight requirement, enhancing the system's efficiency and adaptability.
Implementation Method 1
The MRF brake may include a rotor (e.g., rotatable) that is disposed within the magneto-rheological fluid, This rotor may be interconnected with the output of the hydraulic motor. An electrical control signal to the MRF brake (e.g., to a coil) may be used to control the viscosity of the magneto-rheological fluid
Implementation Method 2
An electrical control signal to the MRF brake (e.g., to a coil) may be used to control the viscosity of the magneto-rheological fluid, which in turn may control a braking torque exerted by the MRF brake on the output of the hydraulic motor
Data Source
AI summary
A hydraulic fluid system is disclosed and that utilizes a hydraulic motor or gear pump and a magneto-rheological fluid (MRF) brake that is interconnected with an output of the hydraulic motor. The MRF brake may utilize a rotatable rotor that is disposed within a magneto-rheological fluid and that is interconnected with an output (e.g., a rotatable output shaft) of the hydraulic motor. An electrical control signal may be provided to the MRF brake (e.g., to a magnetic coil) to adjust the viscosity of the magneto-rheological fluid, and thereby a braking torque exerted on the output of the hydraulic motor.