Split Function Valve Sequencing Hydraulic Flow for Agricultural Machinery
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing control mechanisms for tillage tools in agriculture impose unnecessary stress and fatigue on the wing folding linkage and frames by simultaneously raising the tool and folding the wings, and require multiple hydraulic sources or manual valve control, which is inefficient and time-consuming.
Innovation Solution
A control system that converts a single input flow into two output flows, sequencing the outputs to first raise the machine and then fold the wings, preventing simultaneous operations and reducing stress on the machinery, using a combination valve and check valves to manage hydraulic pressure and flow.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If a single hydraulic system is used to simultaneously raise the tillage tool and fold the wings, then the hydraulic system is simplified, but unnecessary stress and fatigue are imposed on the wing folding linkage
Solution Approach 1:
The sequencing valve ensures that the machine is completely raised before the wings begin to fold. This preliminary completion of the raising action prevents the wing folding linkage from bearing unnecessary loads during the raising operation, thereby protecting the linkage from stress and fatigue while still using a single hydraulic system.
2Ease of operation
If the tillage tool is lowered prior to unfolding the wings, then the operation sequence is simplified, but the ground engaging portions are pinched into the ground causing stress on the frames
Solution Approach 1:
The sequencing valve ensures that the wings are completely unfolded before the machine begins to lower. This preliminary completion of the unfolding action prevents the ground engaging portions from being pinched into the ground, thereby protecting the frames from stress while maintaining a simplified automatic operation sequence.
3Strength
If a wing lockout kit is used to block hydraulic oil from the wing fold circuit, then the wing folding linkage is protected from stress, but manual valve control is required each time the operator enters or exits a field
Solution Approach 1:
The sequencing valve automatically controls the hydraulic flow sequence based on the system pressure and flow conditions. When the raise operation is complete, the valve automatically directs flow to the wing fold circuit without requiring manual intervention. This self-service capability eliminates the need for operators to manually control valves while still protecting the wing folding linkage from unnecessary stress.
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 solution reduces maintenance costs and increases equipment life by preventing unnecessary loading and stress on the wing folding linkage and frames, allowing for efficient operation with a single hydraulic source and eliminating manual valve control requirements.
Implementation Method 1
converting a single input flow into two output flows. The method further includes sequencing the output flows to completely raise a machine prior to folding of wings associated with the machine
Data Source
AI summary
A method includes converting a single input flow into two output flows. The method further includes sequencing the output flows to completely raise a machine prior to folding of wings associated with the machine.