Separated Spool Fluid Controller for Independent Metering
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing fluid controllers for hydraulic actuators require four solenoid proportional valves for independent metering control, which is inefficient and costly.
Innovation Solution
A fluid controller design that uses separated-type spools and integrated-type spools, along with a reduced number of pilot chambers and solenoid proportional valves, to achieve independent metering control with fewer valves.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If four solenoid proportional valves are used for independent metering control, then independent metering control is achieved, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the functions of four solenoid proportional valves into a single spool valve assembly. The spool is divided into multiple sections (first spool section, second spool section, third spool section) that collectively perform the metering control functions previously requiring four separate valves, thereby reducing device complexity while maintaining independent metering control capability
Solution Approach 2:
The single spool valve assembly performs multiple functions simultaneously: it controls metering for both meter-in and meter-out operations, and can independently regulate fluid flow in multiple directions. This multi-functional design replaces the need for four specialized solenoid proportional valves, reducing system complexity while preserving full independent metering control
2Ease of operation
If four solenoid proportional valves are used for independent metering control, then independent metering control is achieved, but cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges four separate solenoid proportional valves into a single integrated spool valve mechanism. By combining these components into one assembly, the quantity of expensive solenoid proportional valves is reduced from four to one, directly lowering system cost while maintaining independent metering control functionality
Solution Approach 2:
The spool valve assembly is designed to perform all metering control functions that previously required four separate valves. This universal design eliminates the need to purchase and install multiple specialized components, reducing overall system cost while achieving the same operational capability
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 proposed fluid controller achieves independent metering control for hydraulic actuators with a reduced number of solenoid proportional valves, improving efficiency and reducing costs.
Implementation Method 1
Patent Literature 1 mentions 'electro-hydraulic displacement control' in relation to the first to fourth spools 130 to 160. This appears to mean that electrical signals are converted into pilot pressures, and the spools are displaced by these pilot pressures. Generally speaking, solenoid proportional valves are used in such a configuration.
Implementation Method 2
The first spool blocks the first supply/discharge passage from both the pump passage and the tank passage, or allows the first supply/discharge passage to communicate with one of the pump passage or the tank passage.
Implementation Method 3
The second spool blocks the second supply/discharge passage from both the pump passage and the tank passage, or allows the second supply/discharge passage to communicate with the other one of the pump passage or the tank passage.
Implementation Method 4
At least one of the spools is a separated-type spool including a first spool and a second spool that are separated apart from each other in an axial direction of the separated-type spool
Data Source
AI summary
A housing includes a spool hole that receives a separated-type spool including a first and a second spool separated from each other in an axial direction of the separated-type spool. The first spool allows a first supply/discharge passage to communicate with either a pump passage or a tank passage. The second spool allows a second supply/discharge passage to communicate with the other pump passage or the tank passage. The housing includes: a first pilot chamber faced by an end surface of an opposite side of the first spool from the second spool; and a second pilot chamber faced by an end surface of an opposite side of the second spool from the first spool. A portion of the spool hole between the first spool and the second spool forms a third pilot chamber. The housing includes a pilot passage that communicates with the third pilot chamber.