Sequential Cylinder Valve Layout for Stabilizer Foot Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing valve systems are limited in their ability to sequentially operate stabilizer feet with offset center of rotation, failing to provide universal compatibility and preventing unwanted rotations, especially in crane applications where dual control is required without system modifications.
Innovation Solution
A device comprising multiple conduits and control valves, including a first control valve with a poppet mechanism and a second one-way valve, allows sequential actuation of two or more cylinders, ensuring compatibility with both on-axis and offset stabilizer feet by controlling fluid flow to prevent unwanted rotations and enabling dual control operations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If a single valve system is used for sequential operation, then the device complexity is reduced, but the adaptability to different stabilizer foot types (on-axis and offset) deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a universal sequential operation valve system that can control both on-axis and offset stabilizer feet through a single integrated design. The valve incorporates multiple control ports and a configurable poppet mechanism that can route fluid flow differently based on the stabilizer type, eliminating the need for separate valve systems for different foot configurations.
Solution Approach 2:
The valve system employs a dynamic poppet mechanism that can change its position and configuration during operation. The poppet includes variable orifices and flow paths that can be adjusted or automatically reconfigured to accommodate different stabilizer foot types, allowing the same physical valve to adapt its internal flow characteristics to match the specific requirements of on-axis or offset feet.
2Ease of manufacture
If an existing valve design is used, then the manufacturing cost is reduced, but the reliability in preventing unwanted rotations deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a second control valve as an intermediary component in the fluid control system. This additional valve acts as a mediator between the operator's command and the cylinder operation, providing an extra layer of control that ensures unwanted rotations are prevented. The second valve can isolate or block fluid flow to specific cylinders based on the stabilizer type, adding reliability without significantly complicating the overall manufacturing process.
3Ease of operation
If a simplified valve system is used, then the ease of operation is improved, but the capability to handle dual control operations deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The valve system is segmented into multiple independent control functions within a single integrated unit. The first control valve handles primary cylinder operation while the second control valve manages secondary cylinder operation or alternative control modes. This segmentation allows the system to provide simplified single-command operation for standard use while maintaining the capability for dual control operations when needed, without requiring separate valve systems.
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 device enables universal sequential operation of stabilizer feet, preventing unwanted rotations and allowing dual control without system modifications, ensuring reliable and automatic movement sequences for various stabilizer types.
Implementation Method 1
a first control valve (4), disposed along said second branch (22) of said first conduit (2)
Implementation Method 2
a control system (100) disposed along said first branch (21) of said first conduit (2), which includes a second control valve (101)
Implementation Method 3
a restriction (7), arranged in said first pilot conduit (41) between said first control valve (4) and said second conduit (3)
Data Source
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AI summary
The present invention relates to a device for operating two or more cylinders, comprising: a first conduit (2), provided with a first branch (21), arranged to be connected to a first chamber of a first cylinder (10), and a second branch (22), arranged to be connected to a first chamber of a second cylinder (11); a second conduit (3), provided with a first branch (31), arranged to be connected to a second chamber of the first cylinder (10), and a second branch (32), arranged to be connected to a second chamber of the second cylinder (11); a first control valve (4), disposed along the second branch (22) of the first conduit (2), which is movable between an opening configuration, in which it allows flow along the second branch (22) of the first conduit (2), and a closing configuration, in which it prevents flow along the second branch (22) of the first conduit (2); a control system (100) disposed along said first branch (21) of said first conduit (2), comprising a second control valve (101) which is movable between an opening configuration, in which it allows flow along said first branch (21) of said first conduit (2) from said first conduit (2) to said first chamber of said first cylinder (10), and a closing configuration, in which it prevents flow along said first branch (21) of said first conduit (2); said control system (100) further comprising discharge means (102, 103) configured to allow discharge from said first chamber of said first cylinder (10) to said first conduit (2) as a result of a pressure in said second conduit (3) or as a result of a magnitude therefrom.