Universal Hydraulic Section for Load Sensing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional load sensing hydraulic systems face issues with flow saturation, leading to unpredictable machine operation and increased complexity and cost due to the need for different structural components for flow-sharing and priority sections, as well as challenges with reverse flow from workports to the pump feed line.
Innovation Solution
A universal hydraulic section for load sensing applications that can function as both a flow-sharing and priority section, featuring a six-way three-position main spool with pressure compensation means and a plug system that allows for isolation of predefined channels, eliminating reverse flow and simplifying construction by using a single type of section with adaptable internal connections.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If hybrid solutions with different flow-sharing and priority sections are used, then operational reliability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies universality by designing a single hydraulic section that can function as both a flow-sharing section and a priority section. The section includes a spool valve with a predefined channel that can be selectively connected or isolated via a plug system, allowing the same hardware to adapt to different operational modes. This eliminates the need for separate flow-sharing and priority sections, thereby reducing device complexity while maintaining operational reliability.
2Reliability
If hybrid solutions with different flow-sharing and priority sections are used, then operational reliability is improved, but manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent reduces manufacturing cost by creating a universal hydraulic section that serves dual purposes as both flow-sharing and priority section. This single design eliminates the need for producing two different types of sections with different structures, reducing tooling costs, assembly complexity, and inventory requirements. The plug system enables flexible configuration without requiring separate molded parts for each section type.
3Reliability
If hybrid solutions with different flow-sharing and priority sections are used, then operational reliability is improved, but the distributor size increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the functions of flow-sharing and priority sections into a single unified hydraulic section design. By combining these previously separate components into one integrated structure with selective connectivity via plugs, the overall distributor volume is reduced. The shared internal geometry and common components eliminate the need for separate housing and channel structures that would be required for distinct flow-sharing and priority sections.
4Device complexity
If traditional load sensing systems are used, then device complexity is reduced, but operational stability deteriorates under flow saturation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces dynamic adaptability through a plug system that allows selective isolation of the predefined channel in the spool valve. This enables the hydraulic section to switch between flow-sharing mode (channel connected) and priority mode (channel isolated), providing dynamic response to operational conditions. The ability to adjust connectivity in real-time maintains operational stability under flow saturation while keeping the base design relatively simple.
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 solution provides a compact, cost-effective, and simplified hydraulic distributor that maintains constant flow to critical users, reduces operational oscillations, and eliminates reverse flow, enhancing operational safety and reducing production costs.
Implementation Method 1
a main spool (2) longitudinally displaceable within said section (1) in order to selectively transmit pressurised hydraulic fluid coming from a feed line (Pal) from a pump (100) to workports (A, B) through a metering orifice (3)
Implementation Method 2
Downstream of the main spool (2) pressure compensation means (16) are provided, able to maintain a substantially constant pressure-drop through the metering orifice (3)
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3
AI summary
Hydraulic section (1) comprising: a main spool (2); pressure compensation means (16) able to maintain a substantially constant pressure drop through a metering orifice (3) of said main spool (2); a first chamber (7) interposed between said main spool (2) and a first end (16a) of said compensation means (16); a second chamber (6) situated at a second end (16b) of said compensation means (16), said second chamber (6) being connectable to a feed line (Pal) from a pump (100) by means of a predefined channel (Pp) in such a way that said hydraulic section (1) operates as a priority section, or being connectable to a line (LS) for detecting the highest load pressure in such a way that said hydraulic section (1) operates as a flow-sharing section.