Valve Stack Assembly Offset Axes Direct Linkage
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Solution Overview
Problem
In work machines, the spatial constraints often prevent the hydraulic valve from being located proximate to the control knob, necessitating complex mechanical linkages like bell-cranks, which complicate user control and feedback of the valve position.
Innovation Solution
A valve stack assembly comprising a first and second valve assembly mechanically and fluidly coupled via an end block, with the valve axes offset, allowing for direct mechanical linkage through actuator arms and spool assemblies to facilitate user control and feedback, even in spatially constrained environments.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Area of stationary object
If the valve is located remotely from the control knob due to spatial constraints, then the valve can be positioned in available space, but complex mechanical linkages like bell-cranks are required which complicate user control and feedback
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces complex mechanical linkages (bell-cranks) with a direct mechanical coupling system where the control knob is directly coupled to the valve assembly through a shaft and gear mechanism. This substitution eliminates the need for intermediate bell-crank linkages while maintaining the ability to transmit rotational motion from the control knob to the valve, thereby reducing mechanical complexity while accommodating spatial constraints.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a gear mechanism as an intermediary between the control knob shaft and the valve assembly. This gear intermediary allows for the transmission of rotational motion while accommodating the spatial offset between the control knob location and the valve location, eliminating the need for complex bell-crank linkages and providing a more straightforward mechanical path.
2Area of stationary object
If electronic solenoid control is used, then spatial constraints are accommodated, but the user cannot directly feel the condition of the valve
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a mechanical intermediary system (shaft and gear mechanism) that couples the electronic control system to the valve assembly. This mechanical intermediary allows the user to apply direct rotational force to the control knob while the electronic solenoid provides the actual valve control, thereby maintaining both spatial flexibility and direct user feedback capability through the mechanical coupling.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges electronic solenoid control with direct mechanical coupling by combining the electronic actuation system with a mechanical shaft and gear mechanism. This hybrid approach allows the electronic solenoid to provide precise valve control while the mechanical coupling maintains direct user feedback, effectively merging the advantages of both electronic and mechanical control systems.
3Area of stationary object
If bell-crank linkage is used to connect control knob to remote valve, then spatial constraints are addressed, but user control and feeling of valve position becomes difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the bell-crank linkage mechanical system with a direct shaft and gear coupling mechanism. This substitution maintains the ability to accommodate spatial constraints through the gear mechanism while eliminating the control precision issues associated with bell-crank linkages, as the direct coupling provides a more straightforward and precise mechanical path from control knob to valve.
Data Source
AI summary
A valve stack assembly includes a first valve assembly having at least one valve and defining a first plurality of fluid passageways. The valve stack assembly also includes a second valve assembly having at least one valve and defining a second plurality of fluid passageways. An end block defines a third plurality of fluid passageways. The end block is mechanically and fluidly coupled to the first valve assembly and the second valve assembly, such that the third plurality of fluid passageways fluidly couples the first plurality of fluid passageways and the second plurality of fluid passageways to one another. The first valve assembly is disposed along a first valve axis and the second valve assembly is disposed along a second valve axis. The first valve axis is offset from the second valve axis.