Variable Pump Port Plate Stability via Counteracting Actuators
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Solution Overview
Problem
Bent axis pumps and motors suffer from deformation-induced leakage due to insufficient support of the port plate under high pressure, leading to reduced efficiency and the inability to extend the drive shaft through the port plate for inline connections.
Innovation Solution
Incorporating a dual hydraulic actuator system acting parallel to the second axis of rotation, with one actuator connected to the control unit and the high-pressure port, and a third actuator counteracting the forces on the port plate, to directly support the area with fluctuating pressure and reduce deformations, while allowing the drive shaft to be extended through the port plate.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the port plate is supported by hydraulic actuators in the centre plane, then the deformations under high pressure are reduced, but the device complexity increases due to additional actuators and control mechanisms
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a dual hydraulic actuator system where one actuator applies force to position the port plate while the other actuator counteracts the high pressure forces. This counterbalancing approach prevents port plate deformation without requiring an overly complex single-actuator solution, as the two actuators work in opposition to maintain stability under pressure.
2Reliability
If the first radius of the port plate is increased to improve sealing, then the leakage is reduced, but the port plate stiffness decreases and deformations increase under high pressure
Solution Approach 1:
The counteracting hydraulic actuator compensates for the reduced stiffness of the port plate by applying opposing forces that prevent deformation. This allows the system to use a larger first radius for improved sealing while the actuator system counterbalances the resulting flexibility issues under high pressure.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the operational parameters of the port plate by using hydraulic actuators to dynamically control its position and deformation state. This allows the port plate to maintain optimal sealing contact despite changes in physical parameters like increased radius, as the hydraulic system adjusts forces to compensate for the resulting flexibility.
3Adaptability or versatility
If an opening is made in the port plate to extend the drive shaft through it for inline connections, then the adaptability is improved, but the port plate stiffness is further reduced and deformations increase
Solution Approach 1:
The dual hydraulic actuator system counteracts the additional deformation caused by the drive shaft opening. By applying balanced forces, the actuators compensate for the reduced structural integrity, allowing the port plate to maintain adequate stiffness despite the opening required for inline drive shaft connections.
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 configuration significantly reduces leakage and deformations, enhancing the efficiency of the pump or motor and enabling inline connections by maintaining port plate stability and stiffness.
Implementation Method 1
the port plate positioning drive comprises a first hydraulic actuator and a second hydraulic actuator acting on the port plate in the direction parallel to the second axis of rotation and counteracting each other
Implementation Method 2
a first hydraulic actuator and a second hydraulic actuator acting on the port plate in the direction parallel to the second axis of rotation and counteracting each other
Data Source
AI summary
The invention concerns a variable pump or hydraulic motor with a drive shaft with a first axis of rotation and first plungers connected to the drive shaft and rotatable around the first axis of rotation. A port plate mounted in the housing can rotate around an axis intersecting the first axis, for adjusting the stroke volume. The port plate positioning drive comprises two counter-acting hydraulic actuators acting on the port plate in the direction of the first plungers.