Rotating Hydraulic Line Support Assembly for Torsion Relief
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing support systems for hydraulic lines in machinery, such as rigid hose joints and clamps, lack flexibility and can cause pressure drops and dislodgment due to uneven weight distribution and vibrations, leading to operational issues and reduced lifespan.
Innovation Solution
A support assembly comprising rings and a frame that allows for axial retention and rotational movement of hydraulic lines, using complementary components with connection apertures and protrusions to secure the lines while minimizing contact and allowing for torsional flexibility, thereby reducing strain and maintaining fluid flow.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If rigid hose joints such as bulkheads, unions, and manifolds are used to secure hydraulic lines, then the hydraulic lines are firmly supported and positioned, but the flexibility of each individual line and the group is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces static rigid joints with a dynamic support system consisting of a frame and multiple rings that can rotate independently around hydraulic lines. This allows the system to adapt to movements and maintain flexibility while providing secure support, directly resolving the contradiction between stability and flexibility.
2Manufacturing precision
If clamps, chains or straps are used to support hydraulic lines at precise locations, then the lines are secured in position, but uneven weight distribution and vibrations cause the lines to become dislodged or slide over time
Solution Approach 1:
The rotatable rings provide dynamic adjustment capability that allows the hydraulic lines to self-align and distribute loads evenly during operation. This prevents the dislodgment and sliding issues experienced with fixed clamps, chains, or straps by enabling continuous adaptation to vibrations and movement.
Solution Approach 2:
The support system divides the hydraulic line group into multiple segments, each supported by individual rings on separate lines. This segmentation allows independent movement and weight distribution for each line, preventing the collective failure mode seen in unified clamp or chain systems.
3Object-affected harmful factors
If hydraulic swivels are used to join hydraulic lines, then torsion effects on the lines are reduced, but pressure drop within the lines increases due to the rigid joints restricting fluid passage
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the swivel joint function from the hydraulic line itself and replaces it with an external support system consisting of rings that rotate around the lines. This removes the rigid joint from the fluid pathway, eliminating the pressure drop restriction while maintaining the torsion reduction benefit through the rotatable ring mechanism.
Data Source
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AI summary
A support assembly for hydraulic lines is disclosed. The support assembly includes a frame designed to retain at least one ring within its opening. Each ring is configured to be secured about a single hydraulic hose, thus simultaneously securing it within the frame. Each ring can rotate with respect to the frame about their longitudinal axis, reducing the stress exerted directly on the hydraulic line. The support assembly further includes a second frame in which the frame is attached. The frame can rotate about an axis that is perpendicular to the rotation of the rings to further lessen the stress on the hydraulic lines. The support assembly is attached to a hydraulically operated machine by a base plate or bracket onto which the second frame is fixedly attached.