Nested Pressure Regulating Valves for Extended Hydraulic Control Range
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Solution Overview
Problem
Hydraulic systems face limitations in controlling pressure differentials within a wide range using single pressure regulating valves, as they can only achieve a maximum pressure differential within their predefined ranges, restricting the operational flexibility of hydraulic functions.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of nested pressure regulating valves, where a control port of one valve is connected to the reference port of another, allowing the system to achieve a pressure differential range that is the sum of the individual ranges, enabling greater control over system pressure differentials through additive regulation by two solenoid-operated proportional valves.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a single pressure regulating valve is used, then the device complexity is reduced, but the pressure differential control range is limited to the valve's predefined range
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements nested pressure regulating valves where the second valve is nested within the first valve's pressure control system. The control port of the first valve connects to the reference port of the second valve, creating a nested configuration where the second valve operates within the pressure differential range established by the first valve. This nesting approach enables the system to achieve a combined pressure differential range that is the sum of both individual valve ranges, effectively extending the overall control range while maintaining a relatively compact and integrated valve configuration.
2Adaptability or versatility
If two pressure regulating valves are used in series, then the pressure differential control range is extended to the sum of individual ranges, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the control functions of two pressure regulating valves into a unified nested configuration. Instead of using two independent valves with separate control systems, the invention combines them by connecting the control port of the first valve to the reference port of the second valve. This merging approach allows both valves to work together as an integrated pressure control system, achieving an extended pressure differential range while reducing the complexity that would arise from completely separate valve configurations.
Solution Approach 2:
The nested valve configuration provides multi-functionality by enabling the system to operate in multiple pressure differential ranges using the same physical hardware. The controller can selectively energize the first solenoid, the second solenoid, or both solenoids in combination, allowing the system to adapt to different pressure control requirements without requiring additional valves or reconfiguration. This universal approach extends the pressure differential control range while maintaining a single, versatile valve assembly.
3Adaptability or versatility
If higher pressure differential range is achieved with a single valve, then the pressure control range is extended, but the solenoid force requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the pressure differential control function across two separate valves, each with its own proportional solenoid. Instead of requiring one high-force solenoid to control the entire extended pressure range, the system divides the task: the first solenoid controls the first valve for a portion of the pressure range, and the second solenoid controls the second valve for another portion. This segmentation allows each solenoid to be sized for lower force requirements while collectively achieving the same total pressure differential range that would otherwise require a much more powerful single solenoid.
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 a system pressure differential range that is twice what individual valves can achieve, providing higher resolution and flexibility in pressure control, reducing costs by using lower-force solenoids and enhancing operational capabilities in applications like off-highway vehicle braking systems.
Implementation Method 1
a first proportional solenoid. The first proportional solenoid is configured to provide a first output force on the first control valve
Data Source
AI summary
A hydraulic system is provided. The hydraulic system may include a fluid pressure source in fluid communication with a supply line, a return line in fluid communication with a tank, a hydraulic function having a workport, a first control valve having a first proportional solenoid, a second control valve having a second proportional solenoid, and a controller. The controller being configured to selectively energize the first proportional solenoid, the second proportional solenoid, or the first proportional solenoid and the second proportional solenoid to control a system pressure differential, defined between the return line and the workport, within a range that is defined by a sum of a first predefined range defined by the first control valve and a second predefined range defined by the second control valve.