Hydraulic Top Link Float Switching With Bypass Check Valves
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing hydraulic upper link devices are not suitable for applications requiring a 'floating position' where the length can be adjusted independently, as they cannot implement this functionality effectively.
Innovation Solution
Incorporating 2/2-way valves with electrically actuable switching elements connected via a common control line to switch between blocking and flow positions, allowing for easy transition to a floating position and subsequent reactivation of the locking position, along with metal pipes for secure connections and a control unit to manage the hydraulic system.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the hydraulic top link uses a locking block with check valves to secure the length, then the reliability of the locked position is improved, but the ability to achieve float position is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The locking block is segmented into multiple functional sections: check valves for automatic locking, bypass lines for alternative flow paths, and 2/2-way valves for controlled switching. This segmentation allows the system to perform both locking and floating functions through different pathway configurations.
Solution Approach 2:
The 2/2-way valves act as intermediary switching elements that control whether hydraulic fluid flows through the check valves (locking mode) or through the bypass lines (floating mode). This intermediary mechanism enables transition between the two operational states without compromising either function.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the hydraulic top link allows free adjustment for float position, then the adaptability to terrain is improved, but the stability of the locked position is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically switches between two states: a locked state where check valves maintain fixed length for stability, and a floating state where bypass lines enable free adjustment for adaptability. The 2/2-way valves provide dynamic control of the hydraulic pathways, allowing the system to transition between stability and flexibility as needed.
3Measurement precision
If the hydraulic top link incorporates position sensors and complex control units, then the precision of float position control is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The check valves provide automatic self-locking functionality without requiring external sensors or complex control systems. The hydraulic system itself serves the control function through pressure-actuated valve mechanisms, eliminating the need for additional electronic components while maintaining precise position control capability.
4Strength
If the hydraulic top link uses metal pipes for secure connections, then the strength of the connection is improved, but the ease of assembly and disassembly is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
Traditional mechanical fastening methods (bolts, nuts, welding) are replaced with a hydraulic coupling system. The hydraulic connections use quick-connect couplings that provide metal-to-metal sealing for strength while allowing tool-free assembly and disassembly, combining the advantages of both rigid and flexible connection methods.
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
Enables simple and safe establishment of the floating position, allowing connected devices to move freely, and easy reactivation of the locking position, ensuring secure and adjustable hydraulic upper link settings.
Implementation Method 1
The hydraulic top link (1) has a piston rod (3) arranged in a cylinder tube (2)... The length of the top link can be adjusted by extending or retracting the piston rod (3) relative to the cylinder tube (2)
Implementation Method 2
The locking block (13), which can be connected to the top link (1)... is equipped with check valves (15, 16), which can be bypassed via bypass lines (11.7, 12.7)
Data Source
Figure 1
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Figure 3
AI summary
Device for adjusting a hydraulic top link of an attachment of an agricultural machine with a locking block arranged on the top link, which is connected via two first hydraulic lines to the top link designed as a double-acting hydraulic cylinder and via two further hydraulic lines to a hydraulic system, wherein the locking block has two unlockable check valves, each arranged between one of the first and one of the further hydraulic systems.In order to create a simple, comfortable and safe switching of the hydraulic top link to float position in the simplest and most cost-effective way possible, it is provided that the locking block with the two unlockable check valves is integrated into a control block containing two 2/2-way valves, that each unlockable check valve is assigned a 2/2-way valve, and that the respective 2/2-way valve is arranged in a bypass line bypassing the assigned unlockable check valve.