Paver Finisher Track Tensioning via Variable Displacement Pump
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing track tensioning systems for paver finishers are complex, inefficient in power usage, and prone to failures due to the need for different hydraulic pressures during advancing and reverse motions, leading to excessive wear and power consumption.
Innovation Solution
A simplified hydraulic tensioning system using a closed circuit with a variable-displacement pump and pressure regulating valve to adjust the pressure of the tensioning cylinder, ensuring optimal force application in both directions, reducing power consumption and component count.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a hydraulic tensioning system uses different hydraulic pressures for advancing and reverse motions, then the track tensioning is optimized for each direction, but the system complexity and power consumption increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the advancing and reverse motion control into a single hydraulic circuit with one variable displacement pump. The pump integrates the functions of two separate pumps by using a spool valve to redirect hydraulic fluid, allowing the system to achieve different tensioning pressures for both directions without requiring duplicate components, thereby reducing system complexity while maintaining optimized track tensioning.
Solution Approach 2:
The variable displacement pump serves multiple functions: it provides hydraulic pressure for both advancing and reverse motions, and its displacement can be varied to optimize tensioning for each direction. The spool valve acts as a universal control element that directs fluid flow to achieve different operational modes, making the system more versatile without adding complexity.
2Reliability
If a hydraulic tensioning system uses different hydraulic pressures for advancing and reverse motions, then the track tensioning is optimized for each direction, but the power consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a variable displacement pump that can dynamically adjust its output pressure and flow rate based on the operational requirements. During advancing motion, the pump operates at one displacement setting optimized for that direction, and during reverse motion, it adjusts to a different displacement setting. This dynamic adjustment eliminates the need to maintain high pressure continuously, significantly reducing power consumption while ensuring optimal tensioning for each direction.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes the hydraulic pressure parameter dynamically based on the motion direction. By using a spool valve to redirect hydraulic fluid and a variable displacement pump to adjust pressure levels, the system applies appropriate tensioning pressure for advancing and reverse motions without wasting energy maintaining constant high pressure, thus optimizing power consumption.
3Device complexity
If a hydraulic tensioning system uses a simplified closed circuit with variable displacement pump, then the device complexity is reduced, but the ability to provide different pressures for different directions must be maintained
Solution Approach 1:
The patent incorporates pressure sensors and control systems that provide feedback to the variable displacement pump and spool valve. The system monitors the hydraulic pressure and motion direction, automatically adjusting the pump displacement and valve positioning to maintain optimal tensioning pressure for each direction. This feedback mechanism ensures the simplified system retains full adaptability for different pressure requirements.
Solution Approach 2:
The variable displacement pump automatically adjusts its own displacement based on system requirements, and the spool valve self-regulates fluid direction based on motion sensing. This self-service capability allows the simplified system to maintain the complexity of pressure adjustment without requiring additional external control components, preserving adaptability while reducing overall system complexity.
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
The system optimizes power usage and reduces wear by providing proportional force during reverse motion, enhancing the reliability and efficiency of track tensioning, thereby minimizing diesel engine power draw and extending component lifespan.
Implementation Method 1
a spring which is preloaded by a screw system, or as an alternative it consists of a spring which is preloaded by a cylinder with pressurized grease, or as an alternative it consists of a spring which is preloaded by an hydraulic cylinder
Implementation Method 2
a hydraulic cylinder, or simply it consists of a hydraulic cylinder
Data Source
AI summary
A tensioning system of traction tracks of a machinery by means of a hydraulic cylinder applying a tensioning force on at least one of the wheels on which the track is wound according to a closed chain configuration in which the hydraulic cylinder is fed with different pressures according to the traction direction, in a first traction direction the feeding pressure of the tensioning hydraulic cylinder being a first pressure approximately corresponding to the pressure which is generated by a pump which is present on a closed circuit feeding the traction devices, in a second traction direction the feeding pressure of the tensioning hydraulic cylinder being a second pressure corresponding to the pressure of the closed circuit up to a predetermined upper limit value.