Abstract: The invention relates to a priority control means with which the actuation sequence of two servo motors can be automated. For this purpose a priority control valve is provided which on actuation of the higher priority control valve immediately blocks the lower priority servo motor. If the priority servo motor has reached a certain position the associated control valve is automatically switched back so that the actuation of the lower priority servo motor then follows automatically. Via a changeover valve the working pressure of the respective servo motor is furthermore automatically switched to the pump control of an adjustment pump or, with a constant pump, to the load-pressure-dependent pressure control so that a load-dependent regulation takes place.

Abstract: A load sensing priority flow control system is disclosed of the type including an engine-driven pump (11), a load sensing priority flow control valve (15), a priority load circuit (steering control valve (17) and steering cylinder (21)), and an auxiliary load circuit (19). Disposed between the excess flow output port (45) of the priority valve and the auxiliary load circuit (19) is a bypass valve arrangement (55) including a bypass valve member (57) which is biased by a downstream pressure signal (61) and spring (63) to a first position in which the auxiliary load circuit is communicated to the reservoir, to prevent loading the system and stalling the engine when the engine speed and flow from the excess flow port (45) are below a predetermined minimum. As engine speed and flow from the port (45) increase, an upstream pressure signal (59) biases the bypass valve toward a second position in which the auxiliary load circuit is blocked from communication with the reservoir, and can be pressurized and actuated.

Abstract: A hydraulic control arrangement for height regulation of an agricultural vehicle has a control valve with a control slider provided with a first piston portion with a control edge and a second piston portion with a throttle point. In the positions of neutral and lifting of the control slider the control edge blocks the communication from a control chamber to a working chamber which is connected with a spring chamber of a throttle valve. In the position of lifting the control edge opens and the pressure medium flows via the throttle point from the working chamber in the control chamber. Thereby the pressure in the spring chamber of the throttle valve is lifted. Therefore a lower neutral circulating pressure and a higher pressure level in the position of lifting is possible.

Abstract: A reversing and adjustment mechanism, especially for a reversible plough adapted for hydraulically adjustable furrow width and hydraulic reversing of the plough, wherein the reversing and adjustment mechanism comprises a hydraulic cylinder (8) with a "hydraulic memory" for adjustment of the furrow width. The oil chambers on both sides of the ordinary piston (15) in the adjustment cylinder (8) communicate with a reservoir (24) via two pilot-controlled check valves (26, 25) with open passage toward the adjustment cylinder (8) and a second direction-control valve (10). The chamber (31) in the adjustment cylinder (8) between the rear head and a freely movable piston (17) communicates on the one hand with a hydraulic cylinder (7) for reversing the plough, preferably with the rod end thereof, via a first check valve (14) with open passage toward the reversing cylinder (7), and on the other hand communicates with the reservoir (24) via a flow-control valve (28) and a first direction-control valve (9).

Abstract: A hydraulic control system is provided, including first and second bidirectional fluid actuated motors adapted to travel a predetermined amount in each direction. A directional control valve is placed in fluid communication with a supply of high pressure, hydraulic fluid and a reservoir and has a first operating position for directing the supply of fluid to the motors in a first direction of flow and a second operating position for directing the supply of fluid to the motors in a direction of flow opposite to the first direction of flow. A combination sequence and regeneration valve is in continuous fluid communication with the supply and the second motor for preventing the operation of the second motor until the first motor has reached its limit of travel and for regenerating fluid from one side of the second motor to the other side when the first motor has reached its limit of travel and the control valve is in its second operating position.

Abstract: In a working vehicle comprising a hydraulic power steering cylinder (25) and hydraulic lift cylinder (31), a novel hydraulic system is employed which comprises a flow control valve means (47) having an orifice (51) and relief valve (52) and arranged such that it divides output flow of a single pump (43) driven by engine (10) into a constant flow directed towards steering cylinder and a surplus flow directed towards lift cylinder. Piston (54) is particularly provided which varies, in cooperation with an orifice (55) between the pump and control valve means, the biasing force of valve spring (53) of the relief valve so as to vary the flow directed towards steering cylinder within a predetermined range in response to engine speed. The system is fashioned such that it secures a flow for a relatively quick operation of lift cylinder at a low engine speed while securing a predetermined constant flow for steering cylinder at the normal engine speeds.

Abstract: A hydraulic apparatus for a vehicle having a propulsion engine comprises a control valve, a flow dividing valve, pumps driven by the engine for delivering fluid to the valves, and steering and implement circuit operatively connected to the control and flow dividing valves. The control valve includes plunger provided with orifices having variable degrees of openings and a spool connected to the plunger and the flow dividing valve includes a spool. With the hydraulic apparatus this constructed, fluid having an amount necessary for operating the steering circuit is always fed thereinto by operatively connecting the spools of the control and flow dividing valves and sharing the fluid into the steering and implement circuit by controlling the fluid dividing valve in accordance with pressure difference between the upstream and downstream portions of the orifices in the control valve.

Abstract: A hydraulic system is disclosed for energizing the power steering and various work handling hydraulic load circuits of a lift truck. A single positive displacement pump supplies the requirements of the plural load circuits and is driven by a changeable speed prime mover. Manually actuable selector means are operatively connected with the load circuits and speed control means are provided for the prime mover. A priority demand valve is connected between the pump and the respective load circuits. When only the power steering circuit is selected, the prime mover is operated in a low speed range and the priority demand valve supplies the required flow to the power steering circuit. When the lift circuit is selected, the prime mover is operated in a high speed range and the priority demand valve supplies the flow requirements to the power steering circuit and to the lift circuit.

Abstract: An apparatus for controlling fluid flow to a steering motor and an auxiliary apparatus is capable of smoothly changing between conditions in which it directs relatively small and relatively large flows of fluid to the auxiliary apparatus. The apparatus includes a priority valve assembly having a valve member positioned in accordance with variations in the demand for steering fluid. A land on the valve member cooperates with a fixed valve surface to form a variable size orifice through which fluid flows to a steering controller. A second land on the valve member cooperates with a fixed valve surface to form a variable size main auxiliary flow control orifice through which all of the fluid flow to the auxiliary apparatus is directed during relatively low fluid flow rates to the auxiliary apparatus.

Abstract: Separate branch conduits extend from a common pump to two fluid power operated systems. One of the branch conduits supplies a relatively low volume of fluid through a pilot flow conduit to a steering control valve in one of the systems to adjust its operating pressure when the steering control valve is displaced from its neutral position. The other branch conduit delivers pressurized fluid directly to the steering control valve on a priority basis. A pressure regulating valve connected between the other branch conduit and the pilot flow conduit isolates the steering system from a higher pressure in the other fluid power operated system and adjusts the operating pressure in the steering system to meet steering load demands.

Abstract: A priority valve is disclosed for controlling fluid flow between a power source and a secondary hydraulic function operated by the power source. The priority valve includes a housing having first and second bores formed therein. An inlet passage connects the power source to the first bore while an outlet passage connects the first bore to the hydraulic function. A priority function is also fluidly connected to the power source upstream of the priority valve. A valve spool is positioned in the first bore. The valve spool is movable between a first position blocking fluid flow from the first passage to the outlet passage and a second position permitting fluid flow therebetween. A pin is movably positioned in the second bore and has an enlarged end which extends into the first bore. Springs are present for urging the valve spool toward the first position and the pin toward the spool valve. A load signal passage connecting the priority function to the second end of the first bore.

Abstract: In a hydrostatic auxiliary power steering apparatus, a short-circuit passage of a control valve establishes a restricted flow path from a pump pressure line to a reservoir return line in the neutral position of the control valve wherein all other flow paths are blocked. A fixed flow restrictor in the pump pressure line conducts a continuous flow from one of two pumps connected to the pressure line for regulation of the fluid power steering circuit by the pressure drop across the flow restrictor. If one of the pumps is of the variable volume type, the pressure downstream of the flow restrictor is utilized to regulate pump flow adjustment. If fluid under operating pressure is supplied to both the fluid power steering circuit and another fluid operating circuit, a flow dividing valve controlled by the pressure differential across the flow restrictor distributes pressurized fluid between the two fluid circuits.

Abstract: A priority valve is disclosed for controlling fluid flow between a power source and a priority function and secondary function operated by the power source. The priority valve includes a housing having first and second bores formed therein. An inlet passage connects the power source to the first bore while first and second outlet passages connect the first bore to the primary and secondary functions respectively. A valve spool is positioned in the first bore and is movable between a first position permitting fluid flow from the inlet passage to the first outlet passage while blocking fluid flow to the second outlet passage and a second position permitting fluid flow from the inlet passage to the second outlet passage while blocking fluid flow to the first outlet passage. A pin is movably positioned in the second bore and has an enlarged end which extends into the first bore. a load signal passage connects the priority function to the second end of the first bore.

Abstract: An electrohydraulic control system which includes first and second electrically controlled fully variable hydraulic pumps adapted to be driven by the vehicle engine. In the specific embodiment of the invention herein disclosed, the first pump is coupled to the steering and braking control valves, and the second pump is coupled to the bucket and hoist control valves. An electrically controlled poppet valve selectively interconnects the respective pump outputs. Operator-responsive controllers, namely a bucket/hoist joy-stick controller, a vehicle propulsion controller and a steering controller, provide associated electrical signals as respective functions of operator demand. Electrically operated valves control application of hydraulic fluid to the bucket and hoist drive mechanisms, and pressure and position sensors are connected to such valves and actuating mechanisms.

Abstract: A control system has two fixed-displacement pumps for supplying pressurized fluid to a pair of steering cylinders via a steering valve and to a pair of implement cylinders via an implement valve. Connected next to the pumps is a demand valve which is pilot operated to deliver to the steering cylinder pair the pressurized fluid from only one pump upon slight displacement of the steering valve and the pressurized fluid from both pumps upon greater displacement of the steering valve. The demand valve is further pilot operated to deliver to the implement cylinder pair the pressurized fluid from only one pump when the implement valve is actuated in a direction to lower the implement assembly, and the pressurized fluid from both pumps when the implement valve is actuated in a direction to raise the implement assembly.

Abstract: A quick changeover hydraulic circuit for use in an auger drive mode or percussion hammer mode, controllable in each mode by the same flow regulator. The circuit comprises a first branch circuit which powers a first auxiliary hydraulic powered device and a hydraulic motor for drill steel rotation. A second branch circuit powers a hydraulic percussion motor for a drill steel hammer or a rotary hydraulic motor for an auger, only one of which is in the circuit at one time. An interbranch circuit comprises a priority flow divider which distributes flow. In a first mode with the percussion motor for the drill steel hammer connected into the second branch the flow is delivered to the steel rotation motor and the first auxiliary device. In a second mode with the auger motor connected into the second branch, combined flow from both branches is delivered to the auger motor.

Abstract: A remote controlled hydraulic circuit of the type comprising a source of pressurized fluid, a number of hydraulic motors connectible to the source of pressurized fluid, and control means for connecting the source of pressurized fluid to the hydraulic motors, the control means being remotely piloted by a series of pressure signals each of which corresponds to the opening of the connection between the source of pressurized fluid and a respective hydraulic motor. The hydraulic circuit according to the invention includes selector means for establishing priority for supplying pressurized fluid to one or more preferential hydraulic motors. These selector means are intended to detect, when operatively active, pressure signals corresponding to the supply of pressurized fluid to the preferential hydraulic motors and, in this condition, to render inoperative the control means associated with the other hydraulic motors, should they already have been activated to effect the supply of these other hydraulic motors.

Abstract: A fluid flow control system includes a priority valve which is controlled by a pressure differential applied across the valve, and which directs priority flow to a steering circuit and excess flow to an auxiliary circuit. The system insures that during steering, a relatively high pressure differential is required to shift the priority valve away from a priority steering position in which all fluid flow is delivered to the steering circuit. It also insures that when the flow to the steering circuit is sufficient to satisfy the steering demand, and the valve is also directing flow to the auxiliary circuit, a lower pressure differential is required to shift the valve in a direction for increasing the flow to the auxiliary circuit.

Abstract: A flow regulating channel in a servo steering valve controls exhaust flow with varying restriction from a fluid operating motor while controlling operation of a separate steering servo motor on a priority basis. An operational control valve for the fluid operating motor has a valve passage that is open only in the neutral position to complete a recirculating flow path from a common servo pump through the flow regulating channel that is fully open in the neutral position of the steering valve.

Abstract: A lift truck is disclosed with a changeable speed electric motor for driving a single positive displacement pump to supply the power steering and various work handling hydraulic load circuits. Manually actuable selector means are operatively connected with the load circuits and a speed range control means is operatively connected with the selector means for energizing the electric motor in different speed ranges according to the actuation of the selector means. A priority demand valve is connected between the pump and the respective load circuits and supplies fluid to the load circuits, giving priority to the power steering circuit. The speed range control means includes speed regulating means for the electric motor. The motor is energized from the battery and the regulating means includes a pulsing circuit with a motor current feedback to vary the mark/space ratio of the pulses produced by the pulsing circuit.

Abstract: A fluid control system (10) for controlling the torque of a fluid motor (22) and varying the flow to the fluid motor (22) has a mechanism (56) to control the torque and flow in proportion to the operator's input to a pilot operated control valve (16) that controls the fluid motor (22). The mechanism (56) controls the torque and flow of the fluid motor (22) during both acceleration and deceleration of the fluid motor (22). The fluid control system eliminates the need for special, complicated control valves.

Abstract: A vehicle hydraulic system wherein there is provided a primary pump coupled to a steering control valve through which steering of the vehicle is effected. A main priority valve is used to meter the flow of pressurized hydraulic fluid from the primary pump to either the steering control valve or an implement valve which is utilized to effect operation of auxiliary equipment, in accordance with the priority demands of the steering system. An auxiliary ground-drive pump provides a source of pressurized hydraulic fluid at all times the vehicle is in motion and is coupled to the steering control valve to provide a source of pressurized fluid when necessary or circulates the pressurized fluid to sump. The application of the output from the ground-drive pump is controlled by a secondary priority valve coupled to the output from the ground-drive pump to direct the output to the steering control valve or to sump.

Abstract: A priority flow control system in which the priority feature is obtained by progressively lowering the pressure differential of nonpriority valves, once the maximum pump output is reached, so that all of the system valves always retain their compensated proportional flow feature.

Abstract: A single hydraulic supply line feeds fluid under pressure to a hydraulic percussive machine with a percussion motor and a rotation motor. The feed passes through two valves of the constant volume priority flow dividing type. The first valve gives priority to the percussion motor to the extent of establishing idling speed. The second valve in the bypass of the first valve gives priority to the rotation motor while its bypass reaches the percussion motor. Working speed of the percussion motor can only be obtained after the rotation motor is up to speed and control of the feed above the priorities controls the percussion motor speed only.

Abstract: A hydraulic system is disclosed for use in an automotive vehicle including an engine, a power steering gear, and a brake booster. The system includes a single engine driven pump in fluid communication with first and second fluid flow control means. The first fluid flow control means responsive to fluid inputs for discharging a small or large predetermined amount of hydraulic fluid to control the operation of the power steering gear. The second fluid flow control means supplies a constant amount of hydraulic fluid to control the operation of the brake booster.

Abstract: A pilot control valve (35) is provided for use in a load sensing system including a priority flow control valve (21). The pilot valve includes a flow orifice (47) through which passes flow from the priority outlet port (23) to the motor (13). The pilot valve includes a valve sleeve (73) and a relatively rotatable valve spool (75). This valving controls fluid communication between the load signal port (49) and the system reservoir and main flow path, upstream and downstream of the flow orifice. Movement of the valve spool from a minimum flow position to a maximum flow position progressively varies the load signal (51) from reservoir pressure to system pressure, thus causing the output of the priority valve (21) to progressively increase from a minimum flow to a maximum flow.

Abstract: A self-leveling series type hydraulic system including boom and bucket valves which separately control boom and bucket cylinders and a flow divider valve positioned in the exhaust flow path from the rod end of the boom cylinder. The flow divider valve splits the flow sending a portion of it to the cap end of the bucket cylinder so as to maintain the bucket in a level condition during raising of the boom with the remaining flow connected to one of the boom valve motor ports whereby the bucket valve can be separately actuated concurrent with the boom valve and supplied with oil so as to override the self-leveling function if desired.

Abstract: A power fluid system for a vehicle embodying a two-fluid pump which utilizes an existing source of fluid under pressure is provided. The existing source of fluid enables a second source of fluid under pressure to be established through the two-fluid pump. Vehicles often require high pressure fluid to operate auxiliary equipment such as traction or anti-skid units, limited-slip differentials, and hydraulic load-leveling systems. More specifically, the two-fluid pump is a linear pump operated by fluid under pressure from the power steering pump of the vehicle. The two-fluid pump can supply a different fluid under higher pressure for the auxiliary equipment, as required. The pump is pulse cycled quickly to provide adequate quantities of both sources of fluids with the use of small capacity accumulators.

Abstract: A control mechanism (48) is provided to controllably maintain a constant force on an actuator (18) and provide fluid flow to a downstream control valve (24) by controlling a pilot differential pressure between first and second ends (38,40) of a pilot operated control valve (14). A two position valve (56,66) acting in response to a predetermined pressure level in the actuator (18) modulatably controls the flow of pressurized pilot fluid to the pilot operated control valve (14) to position the pilot operated control valve (14). This maintains the pressure in the actuator (18) at the predetermined pressure level and passes the excess flow of fluid from a source (12) to the downstream control valve (24).

Abstract: A lifting and dumping apparatus for use with a front end loading refuse vehicle. The apparatus includes a pair of lift arms which extend forward of the cab of the vehicle and which are pivotally secured to the sides of the vehicle. A rotatable front tube extends between the front ends of the left arms, and a pair of fork arms are pivotally connected to the front tube. The fork arms can pivot between an open position and a closed position. In the open position the fork arms extend forward of the lift arms, generally perpendicular to the front tube for engagement with a detachable refuse container, and in the closed position the fork arms are generally parallel to the front tube so that their projection forward of the left arms is eliminated. Hydraulic cylinders are provided for pivoting the fork arms, and a hydraulic circuit is provided with a sequencing valve to close the fork arms one at a time.

Abstract: The heretofore known transmission control systems providing automatic sequential engagement of the fluid clutches have valves directly controlled by the operator and are not readily convertible to be pilot operated. The present invention has a selector valve (31) movable between first and second positions for communicating a supply line (19) with first and second fluid clutches (11,12) respectively. A fluid actuated valve (44) is moved to a first position communicating a third fluid clutch (13) with a drain line (18) when the fluid pressure in a fluid chamber (61) thereof drops below a preselected value and to a second position communicating the supply line (19) with the third fluid clutch (13) when the fluid pressure in the fluid chamber (61) exceeds the preselected value. A dump valve (76) drops the fluid pressure in the chamber (61) below the preselected value in response to a momentary pressure drop in the supply line (19) upon moving the selector valve (31) between the first and second positions.

Abstract: Prior art interrupted series type load sensitive hydraulic systems have not had the capability of both providing full speed simultaneous vehicle cornering and implement correction while preventing the same when the implements are operating at a high pressure level, and preventing low torque motor stall. Herein, an input flow path (22) delivers pressurized fluid flow from a source (12) to a first priority (steering) circuit (14). A series flow path (24) delivers the output flow from the circuit (14) to an implement circuit (16). A parallel flow path (26) delivers a portion of the flow from the source (12) to the implement circuit (16). A valving structure (42) is in the series flow path (24). The valving structure (42) is opened in response to load pressure in the implement circuit (16) being at or below a selected value and is closed in response to the load pressure in the implement circuit being above said value.

Abstract: For work vehicles, for example, cold weather can be a problem. Disengaging the vehicle clutch (26) aids starting by reducing engine loads during starting. Where the clutch (26) is hydraulically actuated, it can be disengaged by keeping fluid pressures below required engagement pressure when supplying other elements common to the clutch hydraulic circuit. Apparatus is provided which during starting directs fluid to, for example, pump drive bearings (20) at less than clutch engagement pressure. An input signal to the apparatus from the vehicle operator after engine start-up then builds pressure to activate the clutch (26) while continuing to supply the pump drive bearings (20) for lubrication. Upon a preselected fluid flow to the apparatus, such as at engine shutdown, the apparatus automatically returns to the condition at which available pressure levels are less than required for clutch engagement.

Abstract: A system is disclosed for controlling the flow of fluid from a pair of pumps (15,15') to a steering system (11) and a pair of auxiliary load circuits (13,13'). The steering system includes valving (43) defining a variable flow control orifice (45), and the steering system normally operates with a pressure differential X across the variable orifice, and provides load pressure signals (47,49,49',53,53') representative of demand for fluid by the steering system. Fluid flow from the pumps is controlled by a pair of priority flow control valves (21,21') including a pair of valve members (27,27') each of which is biased by a spring (29,29') toward a position permitting flow to the steering system. The spring (29) exerts a biasing force equivalent to the pressure differential X while the spring (29') exerts a biasing force equivalent to a pressure differential Y, which is less than X.

Abstract: A priority flow divider is disclosed for dividing hydraulic fluid flow between a steering circuit and an auxiliary circuit thereby providing better efficiency and greater productivity for the auxiliary circuit. The priority flow divider includes a cylindrical housing having a slidable spool valve therein, and the housing further includes an inlet port connected to the steering pump in the steering circuit, a discharge port connected to the steering valve, in the steering circuit, and a discharge port connected to the auxiliary hydraulic circuit. The spool valve has enlarged cylindrical portions which are connected by recessed connecting portions of a reduced diameter.

Abstract: A pressure-compensated directional control valve assembly suitable for use in hydraulic power steering systems of off-highway working vehicles. The valve assembly integrally comprises a control valve for controlling communication between two engine-driven pumps and a steering cylinder, and a pressure compensator valve for controlling the fluid pressure delivered from the pumps to the control valve. Constantly comparing its outgoing fluid pressure with the fluid pressure at control ports of the control valve, the pressure compensator valve delivers to the control valve the pressurized fluid from one or both of the pumps. Any excess of the pressurized fluid is directed from the pressure compensator valve to, for example, an implement hoist cylinder of the work vehicle.

Abstract: The invention relates to apparatus for supplying pressurized fluid to various controlled members (16,30,34). A problem with prior apparatus is the need for a plurality of separate apparatuses to supply the controlled members. The invention solves this problem through the use of a single valve (25) that controls the supply of pressurized fluid from a fluid source to first (34), second (16) and third (30) controlled members, in which the single valve (25) has a first relief valve segment (46) to relieve the pressure of fluid flowing from the source to the first controlled member (34), a second relief valve segment (100) to relieve the pressure of fluid relieved by the first relief valve segment (46), and a third valve segment (138) to direct the fluid relieved by the first relief valve segment (46) to the second (16) and third (30) controlled members. A movable lever (26) is connected to the third valve segment (138) to shift this valve segment (138) and control the direction of the fluid.

Abstract: A vehicle hydraulic system is disclosed of the type including a steering control valve (29), a brake system (31), and an auxiliary load circuit (65). Fluid flow to these load circuits is controlled by a flow control valve assembly (11) including a priority spool valve (85) which controls the flow of fluid from the inlet port (13) to the priority fluid chamber (75). Fluid flows from the priority fluid chamber to the steering control valve and the brake load system, in parallel, and at equal levels of priority. A shuttle valve assembly (83) receives a steering load signal by means of a load signal line (44) and a brake load signal from the load signal chamber (111), and transmits the higher of the two load signals into the load signal chamber (93) which biases the priority spool valve toward a position to permit a greater flow of fluid into the priority fluid chamber.

Abstract: A hydraulic control system having a pump and circuits connecting the pump to a pair of hydraulic motors through first and second circuits is provided with a priority valve system operative to provide a priority of fluid pressure to the first motor up to a predetermined minimum pressure and thereafter to maintain the pressure in the first circuit and simultaneously supply fluid to the second motor of the second circuit. The priority valve system is also responsive to a load on a second motor to split the flow of fluid between the two motors above the predetermined minimum pressure up to a second pressure after which the second predetermined pressure is maintained in the first circuit while fluid is being supplied to the second conduit.

Abstract: Fluid control valve apparatus is provided having a directional control valve for metering passage of fluid from a supply passage to a feeder passage for first actuator. A pressure compensating valve is provided for regulating flow through the directional control valve and for delivering excess fluid to a compensating valve output port for power operation of a second actuator. A main relief valve is connected to the first actuator feeder passage downstream from a metering portion of the directional control valve for sensing a first actuator stall condition. The main relief valve, when actuated, delivers fluid to a tank from a supply passage, through the metering portion of the directional control valve, and a relief passage including the main relief valve upon sensing an overload condition. The rate of flow through the relief passage is subject to limitation only by the metering portion of the direction control valve.

Abstract: An agricultural tractor is provided with a hitch and draft control system hydraulically related to a plurality of other hydraulic functions. The hydraulic fluid distribution is preferenced by a priority valve including a variable orifice in series with the hitch and draft control system. The variable orifice acts as a raise rate control device and also as a controlling member for a load sensing variable displacement pump.

Abstract: A priority system has a valve assembly which has an inlet, first and second outlets, and apparatus for controllably limiting fluid pressure at the first outlet to a preselected maximum value by controllably communicating the second outlet with the inlet. The priority system has a fluid reservoir, a work element and control apparatus connected to the work element, second outlet and reservoir which receives fluid from the second outlet and passes the fluid to the fluid reservoir or work element.

Abstract: A load responsive flow control valve for use in a system controlling a plurality of loads. The system is powered by a single fixed displacement pump equipped with a load responsive bypass valve or by a variable displacement pump equipped with a load responsive control, which during simultaneous control of multiple loads automatically maintains the pump discharge pressure at a level higher than the pressure required by the largest load being controlled. To transmit to the pump control signal of the highest system load, without creating a back flow, load sensing passages of individual valve spools contain check valves. Upstream of the check valves load sensing passages of individual spools are vented to reservoir with valve spools in neutral position, to prevent accumulation of leakage pressure affecting the pump control and to permit the use of priority type control with selected valve spools.

Abstract: an open center hydraulic system in which a pair of flow divider valves is connected in series with the system's hydraulic pump to create a parasitic pressure upstream of these flow valves and the feeder and separator clutches are controlled remotely by simple solenoid actuated two-position valves. The cylinders actuating the clutches are of sufficient size upon application of the minimum parasitic pressure to hold the clutches in a given position so that no center neutral position is necessary on the two-position valves.