Both Inlet And Exhaust Controlled By Motive Fluid Pressure In Supply Line Or Chamber Patents (Class 91/433)
  • Patent number: 11591017
    Abstract: A pilot neutralizing system of a work vehicle may include a pilot neutralizer. The work vehicle may include a first frame portion and a second frame portion. The work vehicle has an actuating assembly used to pivot the first frame portion relative to the second frame portion. The pilot neutralizer is electrically coupled to a controller receiving a signal indicative of an articulation position. The pilot neutralizer is hydraulically coupled between an operator control member and a steering valve to selectively change a pilot signal at the steering valve. The pilot signal is used to switch the steering valve to change a direction of a hydraulic fluid flowing from the steering valve to the actuating assembly. When the articulation position reaches a cushion region during steering, the pilot neutralizer is de-energized or energized by the controller to change the pilot signal at the steering valve to resist the actuating assembly from moving.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 23, 2021
    Date of Patent: February 28, 2023
    Assignee: Deere & Company
    Inventors: Scott R. Stahle, Brian K. Kellogg, Grant R. Henn
  • Patent number: 10838371
    Abstract: Information is collected from a management target device having a drive unit such as a machine tool, and this collected information is more practically used. An information collection device includes a collection unit that collects, from management target devices having a drive unit, operating state information which is information indicating an operating state of the management target device while operating accompanying movement of the drive unit; and a comparison unit that extracts a plurality of sets of information matching in a predetermined condition from the operating state information thus collected, and outputs a comparison result of the plurality of sets of information thus extracted.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 17, 2018
    Date of Patent: November 17, 2020
    Assignee: FANUC CORPORAITON
    Inventor: Tadashi Okita
  • Patent number: 10710227
    Abstract: A fastener driver comprises a driver blade movable from a retracted position to an extended, driven position for driving a fastener into a workpiece, a gas spring mechanism for driving the driver blade from the retracted position to the driven position, the gas spring mechanism including a storage chamber cylinder containing a pressurized gas, means for determining a pressure in the storage cylinder chamber, and an indicator activated in response to the determined pressure in the storage cylinder chamber being less than a predetermined pressure value.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 9, 2017
    Date of Patent: July 14, 2020
    Assignee: TTI (MACAO COMMERCIAL OFFSHORE) LIMITED
    Inventors: Edward Pomeroy, Zachary Scott, John Schnell, Essam Namouz
  • Patent number: 10704571
    Abstract: A poppet valve system that includes a valve body having a first and second end and defining a valve cavity and a poppet assembly extending from the first end to the second end and through the valve cavity. The poppet assembly can include a movable poppet head disposed at the first end of the poppet assembly and configured generate a seal by contacting a portion of the valve body and configured to define an opening between the valve cavity and a pressure cavity. The poppet assembly can also include a movable guiding element disposed at the second end of the valve body and a shaft extending from the first end to the second end and coupled to the poppet head and guiding element.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 4, 2018
    Date of Patent: July 7, 2020
    Assignee: OTHER LAB, LLC
    Inventors: Pete Lynn, Kevin Albert, Giancarlo Nucci, Tim Swift, Maria Telleria, Loren Russell, Jonathan Pompa
  • Patent number: 10443758
    Abstract: Systems and methods for electrohydraulic valve calibration are provided. In one aspect, a calibration circuit includes a calibration conduit isolated from a supply conduit, a first calibration orifice configured to provide fluid communication between the calibration conduit and a fluid source, and a second calibration orifice arranged in series with the first calibration orifice. The second calibration orifice is on a spool of a electrohydraulic control valve and is configured to selectively provide fluid communication between the calibration conduit and a low pressure source. The calibration circuit further includes a pressure sensor configured to measure a pressure in the calibration conduit between the first calibration orifice and the second calibration orifice. The second calibration orifice is isolated from the at least one workport of the electrohydraulic control valve.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 7, 2017
    Date of Patent: October 15, 2019
    Assignee: HUSCO International, Inc.
    Inventor: Tim Dolan
  • Patent number: 10054174
    Abstract: Actual pressure of a hydraulic clutch of a motor vehicle can be regulated by: a) providing a value for a desired pressure to be present in a clutch cylinder; b) filling the clutch cylinder with hydraulic fluid to achieve the desired pressure; c) wherein, if the desired pressure lies between 0 and 7 bar, the actual pressure in the clutch cylinder is adjusted by regulating a rotational speed of the pump of the electric motor, and if the desired pressure is greater than 7 bar, the actual pressure in the clutch cylinder is adjusted by regulating a motor current of the electric motor; d) regulating the actual pressure until the desired pressure is achieved.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 19, 2014
    Date of Patent: August 21, 2018
    Assignee: GKN Automotive Ltd.
    Inventors: Andreas Langhanki, Khac Anh Phan
  • Patent number: 9971359
    Abstract: The invention relates to a controlled three-way proportional valve unit comprising: a valve assembly with two individual valves; an actuating device actuating valves of the valve assembly; and a control unit acting upon the actuating device and having a control signal input, the valves of the valve assembly being designed as poppet valves arranged on opposite sides and having counter-rotatable valve spindles. The valve spindles are prestressed relative each other in opposite directions by a prestressing element such that, when the actuating unit is inactive, a first poppet valve is open and the second poppet valve is closed. The actuating device comprises an actuator common to both poppet valves, acts upon the two valve spindles and changes the position of the valve spindles counter to the effect of the prestressing element.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 6, 2015
    Date of Patent: May 15, 2018
    Assignee: HOERBIGER AUTOMATISIERUNGSTECHNIK HOLDING GMBH
    Inventors: Daniel Haller, Max Schrobenhauser, Jochen Schaible
  • Patent number: 9371872
    Abstract: A method and a device for calibrating a wet clutch is provided. The clutch comprises a pump, a piston, a proportional valve, a controller, and a pressure sensor. The method comprises the steps of closing the clutch by sending a pressure profile with fill parameters from the controller to the proportional valve, recording a pressure signal of the hydraulic fluid, comparing the pressure profile with the pressure signal, determining whether at least one defined feature is in the pressure signal that is indicative of errors in the fill parameters, and if said feature is determined in the pressure signal, modification of the pressure profile by changing at least one of the fill parameters.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 13, 2014
    Date of Patent: June 21, 2016
    Assignee: Dana Belgium N.V.
    Inventors: Mark R. J. Versteyhe, Keivan Shariatmadar
  • Patent number: 9279236
    Abstract: A hydraulic system includes a hydraulic actuator, a pump configured to supply fluid to the hydraulic actuator, and a first accumulator fluidly connected to the hydraulic actuator. The first accumulator is configured to store fluid received from the hydraulic actuator. The hydraulic system also includes a motor drivingly connected to the pump and fluidly connected to the first accumulator. The motor is configured to receive the stored fluid from the first accumulator to drive the pump. The hydraulic system further includes a first discharge valve fluidly connected between the first accumulator and the hydraulic actuator. The first discharge valve is configured to supply the stored fluid from the first accumulator to the hydraulic actuator without the stored fluid from the first accumulator circulating through the pump.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 4, 2012
    Date of Patent: March 8, 2016
    Assignee: Caterpillar Inc.
    Inventors: Jiao Zhang, Pengfei Ma, Tonglin Shang, Gang Victor Wen, Bryan Edward Nelson, Dayao Chen
  • Patent number: 9193049
    Abstract: The invention relates to a circuit arrangement for operating a hydraulic torque wrench or similar, comprising a piston-cylinder unit (18) that can be controlled at a predetermined pressure by a pump (11). Said arrangement is characterized in that the piston-cylinder unit (18) can be controlled by the pump (11) by means of a proportional valve (12) which acts both as a reversing unit between the forward and return travel and as a pressure control valve.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 6, 2011
    Date of Patent: November 24, 2015
    Assignee: LOESOMAT Schraubtechnik Neef GmbH
    Inventor: Marc Gareis
  • Patent number: 8857313
    Abstract: An actuation system (200) is provided. The actuation system (200) includes a fluid operated actuator (211) and a control valve (230). The control valve (230) is movable between a first position and a second position and is adapted to open a fluid flow path from a pressurized fluid supply (240) to the actuator (211) when the control valve (230) is in the first position. A diverting fluid conduit (246) is provided that is adapted to divert a portion of the pressurized fluid supplied to the actuator (211) when the control valve (230) is in the first position. The pressurized fluid diverted through fluid conduit (246) biases the control valve (230) towards a second position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 9, 2008
    Date of Patent: October 14, 2014
    Assignee: Norgren GmbH
    Inventors: Herbert Ridder, Gerhard Bohmer, Martin Engels
  • Patent number: 8851580
    Abstract: A pneumatic brake system that includes at least one pneumatic latching valve; a single device, such as a solenoid, for providing momentary pilot signals to pneumatic latching valve; a source of pressurized supply air in communication with the pneumatic latching valve; a spring brake or other pneumatic device in communication with the pneumatic latching valve; and, optionally, an indicator device for monitoring and displaying the state of the pneumatic latching valve. Upon receiving a first momentary pilot signal the pneumatic latching valve changes from closed to open and delivers pressurized air to the spring brake. Upon receiving a second momentary pilot signal, the pneumatic latching valve changes from open to closed and exhausts pressurized air from the spring brake to the external environment. The valve remains “latched” in its current state until the signaling device is energized and the next momentary pilot signal is received.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 9, 2012
    Date of Patent: October 7, 2014
    Assignee: Bendix Commerical Vehicle Systems LLC
    Inventor: Robert J Herbst
  • Patent number: 8844280
    Abstract: A hydraulic control system is disclosed. The hydraulic control system may have a hydraulic actuator, a valve arrangement, and an operator input device configured to generate a first signal indicative of a desired hydraulic actuator velocity. The hydraulic control system may also have a sensor configured to generate a second signal indicative of an actual flow rate of fluid entering the hydraulic actuator, and a controller. The controller may be configured to determine a desired flow rate of fluid into the hydraulic actuator based on the first signal; to estimate the actual flow rate based on the desired flow rate, a correction flow rate, and a system response model; and to determine the actual flow rate based on the second signal. The controller may also be configured to make a comparison of the estimated and determined actual flow rates of fluid, and to determine the correction flow rate based on the comparison.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 28, 2011
    Date of Patent: September 30, 2014
    Assignee: Caterpillar Inc.
    Inventors: Grant S. Peterson, Randall T. Anderson
  • Publication number: 20140196601
    Abstract: Improvements to the steam engine for the purpose of small scale generation of electricity using biomass fuels and for co-generation of heat and electricity using biomass fuels in both developed and less developed countries are described. The engine is particularly well adapted to co-generation where the thermal load, as in building heating and many process applications, is extremely variable, because of its ability to operate efficiently under partial load. For the same reason, it would be suited to solar generated steam. Experiments have been conducted with steam as the working fluid. The design may in some or all respects be applied to other working fluids.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 17, 2014
    Publication date: July 17, 2014
    Inventor: Carl Norman Bielenberg
  • Patent number: 8739680
    Abstract: A spool for a servovalve. The spool includes a first end land and a second end land. The spool includes an intermediate land having a first side and a second side opposite the first side. The intermediate land is positioned between the first end land and the second end land in a spaced-apart, axially aligned relationship such that a first annular space is defined between the first end land and the first side of the intermediate land and a second annular space is defined between the second end land and the second side of the intermediate land. The intermediate land further includes at least one fluid passageway formed in and extending through the intermediate land from the first side to the second side to establish fluid communication between the first annular space and the second annular space to provide a fluid pressure feedback between the first and second annular spaces.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 18, 2010
    Date of Patent: June 3, 2014
    Inventor: Dennis Reust
  • Patent number: 8726785
    Abstract: A method and apparatus are provided for hydraulic fluid supply between a hydraulic pump and a hydraulic drive unit, switching hydraulic fluid flow direction to the hydraulic drive unit or stopping hydraulic fluid flow to the hydraulic drive unit when measured hydraulic fluid pressure crosses a predetermined pressure threshold value. The method further comprises calculating an amount of mechanical work done by the hydraulic drive unit and warning an operator or limiting hydraulic fluid flow rate to the hydraulic drive unit when the calculated mechanical work for the drive cycle is less than an expected amount of mechanical work. The apparatus for practicing the method further includes a pressure sensor associated with a hydraulic fluid supply conduit between the pump and the drive unit, and an electronic controller programmed to operate the drive system according to the method.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 31, 2012
    Date of Patent: May 20, 2014
    Assignee: Westport Power Inc.
    Inventor: Greg Batenburg
  • Patent number: 8667885
    Abstract: An actuating device for a shift element of a transmission which is acted upon by a hydraulic actuating pressure (p_B1) and comprises a valve device. To vary the actuating pressure (p_B1), the valve device is acted upon by a control pressure (p_EDS) in an area of active surfaces (A18, A19) of at least a first and a second valve slides. An active surface (A38) of the first valve slide (A8) is acted upon by a hydraulic pressure (p_B2) which is equivalent to the actuating pressure (p_B1), acts in opposition to the control pressure (p_EDS) and can be adjusted as a function of the control pressure (p_EDS) applied, such that a smaller variation of the actuating pressure (p_B1) results from a change of the control pressure (p_EDS) within a first pressure range of the control pressure (p_EDS) than within a second pressure range of the control pressure (p_EDS).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 19, 2010
    Date of Patent: March 11, 2014
    Assignee: ZF Friedrichshafen AG
    Inventors: Thilo Schmidt, Georg Gierer
  • Patent number: 8607917
    Abstract: Provided an electrically-operated hydraulic actuator unit that includes an electrically-operated motor controlled by a control apparatus and actuating a volume adjusting mechanism through driving-side and driven-side arms, and a clutch mechanism in which the driven-side arm presses a contact member against a clutch case so that the driven-side arm is locked when a force from the volume adjusting mechanism is applied to the driven-side arm. The control apparatus can set duties of first to fourth drive signals to be output to the electrically-operated motor in a neutral-side start period, a neutral-side ordinary actuation period, a higher-volume-side start period and a higher-volume-side ordinary actuation period. The duties of the first and fourth drive signals are larger than that of the second drive signal, the duty of the third drive signal is larger than that of the fourth drive signal, and an integrated ON-time of the third drive signal is larger than that of the first drive signal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 21, 2011
    Date of Patent: December 17, 2013
    Assignee: Kanzaki Kokyukoki Mfg. Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Minoru Kamada, Nobuhiko Ichinose
  • Patent number: 8534182
    Abstract: A hydraulic control system includes an oil control valve to control oil flow within a valvetrain. The control valve varies the flow rate to actuate an engine component from a first position to a second position based upon fluid pressure from the control valve. Varying the flow rate through the control valve includes increasing the flow rate through the control valve to increase the pressure to a first level to actuate the engine component to the first position. After the engine component is actuated, the flow rate through the control valve is maintained at a level sufficient to maintain the engine component in the first position. To actuate the engine component to the second position the flow rate through the control valve is then decreased. The fluid flow rate through the control valve is then maintained at a level sufficient to maintain the engine component in the second position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 6, 2012
    Date of Patent: September 17, 2013
    Assignee: Eaton Corporation
    Inventors: Robert D. Keller, Gerrit V. Beneker, Robert A. Dayton
  • Patent number: 8516944
    Abstract: The invention discloses a valve arrangement for supplying pressure medium to a hydraulic load (2) having a directional valve (8), which has an inflow measuring diaphragm (10, 12) and a directional part (14, 16) flowing in the flow direction. The directional valve is associated with an individual pressure scale (18). In a return from the load, a load-lowering valve (44, 46) is provided, to which a pilot pressure is applied in the opening direction. According to the invention, said pilot pressure is tapped in channel between the pressure scale and the directional part.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 14, 2008
    Date of Patent: August 27, 2013
    Assignee: Robert Bosch GmbH
    Inventor: Matthieu Desbois-Renaudin
  • Patent number: 8505291
    Abstract: An exemplary hydraulic system includes a digital valve operable to fluidly connect a hydraulic load to a pressure supply, and an orifice disposed in a flow path between the hydraulic load and the digital valve. A digital controller is operably connected to the digital valve. The digital controller stores a target pressure drop across the orifice and is configured to determine an actual pressure drop across the orifice and formulate a control signal based on the target pressure drop and the actual pressure drop. The controller transmits the control signal to the digital valve for controlling the operation of the valve.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 13, 2009
    Date of Patent: August 13, 2013
    Assignee: Eaton Corporation
    Inventors: Duqiang Wu, G. Clark Fortune, Aaron H. Jagoda, John Ryan Kess, Thomas J. Stoltz, Paul Brenner, Benjamin Morris
  • Publication number: 20130145928
    Abstract: An aircraft door actuator, including: a pneumatic cylinder for the opening of the door including a chamber into which a pressurized gas is injected via a first port, means for supplying the chamber of the cylinder with pressurized gas, via a supply pipe and said first port, means for setting the chamber to atmospheric pressure when the piston is in the position for opening the door, so as to allow said door to be moved into the closing position, including: a pressurized gas exhaust pipe a gate-valve means for guiding the opening of the gate-valve via the pressurized fluid located in the chamber when the door is in the opening position, so as to open the exhaust pipe in order to set said chamber of the cylinder to atmospheric pressure in a rapid manner once the door is open.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 6, 2012
    Publication date: June 13, 2013
    Applicant: RATIER FIGEAC
    Inventor: RATIER FIGEAC
  • Patent number: 8375989
    Abstract: A method of operating a control valve assembly for a hydraulic system includes detecting the current operation of a first position sensor and a second position sensor to determine if at least one of the first position sensor and the second position sensor is inoperable. A pressure of the fluid at a first work port and a second work port is measured, and one of a first valve and a second valve is actuated when one of the first position sensor and the second position sensor is determined to be inoperable. The first valve is actuated based upon the fluid pressure measured at the second work port to adjust the flow of the fluid through the first work port. The second valve is actuated based upon the fluid pressure measured at the first work port to adjust the flow of the fluid through the second work port.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 22, 2009
    Date of Patent: February 19, 2013
    Assignee: Eaton Corporation
    Inventor: Chris W. Schottler
  • Patent number: 8356544
    Abstract: The invention concerns a method for controlling a raising drive, the raising process occurring by means of pressure activation of at least one lift cylinder and the lowering process occurring by means of relieving, and a control of the lowering speed occurring by means of a variable flow resistance. In order to achieve a load-independent lowering speed, the flow resistance is determined in dependence of at least one load signal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 7, 2008
    Date of Patent: January 22, 2013
    Assignee: Sauer-Danfoss Aps
    Inventors: Martin Raadkjaer Joergensen, Rudi Thomsen
  • Publication number: 20120325080
    Abstract: One or more examples of the gas boosters described herein aim to provide a light weight gas booster configured to produce high output pressure levels at high volumes. Generally described, one or more examples of the gas boosters reduce the dead volume in a piston assembly, thereby increasing the ratio of the output pressure to the input pressure. In that regard, several examples of the gas boosters disclosed herein have a first check valve as a disk-type check valve or the like and a second check valve as a ball-type check valve or the like. Furthermore, one or more examples include an inwardly acting cam configured to convert rotary motion to reciprocating motion by an inner surface thereof.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 22, 2011
    Publication date: December 27, 2012
    Applicant: Fluke Corporation
    Inventors: Robert B. Haines, Richard Rosenthal
  • Patent number: 8327750
    Abstract: A hydraulic control system includes an oil control valve to control oil flow within a valvetrain. The control valve varies the flow rate to actuate an engine component from a first position to a second position based upon fluid pressure from the control valve. Varying the flow rate through the control valve includes increasing the flow rate through the control valve to increase the pressure to a first level to actuate the engine component to the first position. After the engine component is actuated, the flow rate through the control valve is maintained at a level sufficient to maintain the engine component in the first position. To actuate the engine component to the second position the flow rate through the control valve is then decreased. The fluid flow rate through the control valve is then maintained at a level sufficient to maintain the engine component in the second position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 22, 2009
    Date of Patent: December 11, 2012
    Assignee: Eaton Corporation
    Inventors: Robert D. Keller, Gerrit V. Beneker, Robert A. Dayton
  • Patent number: 8286652
    Abstract: A method of limiting jerk in a hydraulic system of a machine includes defining a maximum pressure rate. An output pressure of a hydraulic fluid is continuously measured over time from a work port of a hydraulic valve to determine an output pressure rate. The measured output pressure rate is compared to the maximum pressure rate. A requested flow rate is adjusted when the measured output pressure rate is greater than the maximum pressure rate to decrease the pressure differential generated in response to changing the flow rate of the hydraulic fluid through the valve, which thereby limits a change in acceleration or deceleration of the hydraulic system to limit felt jerk in the machine.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 22, 2009
    Date of Patent: October 16, 2012
    Assignee: Eaton Corporation
    Inventor: Wade L. Gehlhoff
  • Patent number: 8240241
    Abstract: A method and apparatus are provided for hydraulic fluid supply between a hydraulic pump and a hydraulic drive unit, switching hydraulic fluid flow direction to the hydraulic drive unit or stopping hydraulic fluid flow to the hydraulic drive unit when measured hydraulic fluid pressure crosses a predetermined pressure threshold value. The method further comprises calculating an amount of mechanical work done by the hydraulic drive unit and warning an operator or limiting hydraulic fluid flow rate to the hydraulic drive unit when the calculated mechanical work for the drive cycle is less than an expected amount of mechanical work. The apparatus for practicing the method further includes a pressure sensor associated with a hydraulic fluid supply conduit between the pump and the drive unit, and an electronic controller programmed to operate the drive system according to the method.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 2, 2010
    Date of Patent: August 14, 2012
    Assignee: Westport Power, Inc.
    Inventor: Greg Batenburg
  • Publication number: 20120164000
    Abstract: The present invention generally relates to an abrasive particles injection system. In one aspect, a high pressure solids pump for use in an abrasive particles injection system is provided. The high pressure solids pump includes a pump body having a chamber with an inlet and an outlet. The high pressure solids pump further includes a first valve connected to the inlet for allowing abrasive particles to enter the chamber. The high pressure solids pump also includes a second valve connected to the outlet for allowing pressurized abrasive particles to exit the chamber. Additionally, the high pressure solids pump includes a piston member movable within the chamber of the pump body, wherein the piston member is configured to pressurize the abrasive particles. In another aspect, a method of injecting abrasive particles into a high pressure line is provided.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 27, 2011
    Publication date: June 28, 2012
    Inventors: Richard Dennis Bottos, David William Blacklaw
  • Patent number: 8061261
    Abstract: An antagonistic fluid control system, wherein the system may comprise multiple antagonistic pressure control valves operable with a single actuator, or multiple pressure control valves operable with respective antagonistic actuators. The pressure control valves are configured to provide functional and efficiency advantages, and operate together to provide several operating or valving states. A first valving state comprises an active valving state configured to actively control the movement of the load. A second valving state comprises an inactive actuation state, wherein either the return and pressure ports of one pressure control valve are closed, or only the return ports of one pressure control valve are opened, to allow the other pressure control valve to operate in an active valving state. A third valving state comprises a passive valving state, wherein the pressure control valves are operated in a slosh mode configured to allow the load to freely move or dangle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 28, 2008
    Date of Patent: November 22, 2011
    Assignee: Raytheon Company
    Inventors: Stephen C. Jacobsen, Marc Olivier
  • Patent number: 8033209
    Abstract: A lifting mechanism has a continuously variable lifting mechanism valve, with a multi-position valve, by way of which a lifting cylinder can be made to communicate with a pump or a tank. In the flow path of the pressure fluid from the multi-position valve to a pressure chamber, effective in the “carrying” direction, of the lifting cylinder, there is a relief pressure limiting valve, by way of which a relief pressure can be proportionally set. During relief pressure regulation, a metering aperture, which is predetermined by the proportionally variable multi-position valve, is opened, so that the volumetric flow of pressure fluid to the tank is minimized via the pressure limiting valve.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 26, 2008
    Date of Patent: October 11, 2011
    Assignee: Robert Bosch GmbH
    Inventor: Soenke Jessen
  • Publication number: 20110185888
    Abstract: An arrangement for a hydraulic eccentric adjustment for setting a predetermined displacement volume in a hydrostatic motor and, in particular a radial piston motor (1). The arrangement has an adjustment device which, to position an eccentric element (2), can be acted upon with pressure medium via a shuttle valve (5) such that at least one actuating piston (19), of an adjustment cylinder (3) that can be acted upon on both opposed sides is provided, as the adjustment device. A first pressure chamber (7) of the cylinder is connected to a first supply line (9), for setting a smaller displacement volume while a second opposed pressure chamber (8) is connected to a second supply line (10), for setting a larger displacement volume. The two supply lines (9, 10) are connected to one another by a connecting line (11).
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 29, 2009
    Publication date: August 4, 2011
    Applicant: ZF FRIEDRICHSHAFEN AG
    Inventors: Jurgen Legner, Stephan Schinacher
  • Patent number: 7954318
    Abstract: A hydraulic system having a solenoid bleed valve for bleeding air out of the system is provided. The present invention is a hydraulic system having an actuator, a coupling operably associated with the actuator, and a first solenoid valve operably associated with the actuator and the coupling, where the first solenoid is operable to control pressure applied to the coupling. The present invention also includes a second solenoid valve operably associated with the actuator and the first solenoid, where the second solenoid is operable to relieve pressure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 23, 2008
    Date of Patent: June 7, 2011
    Assignee: BorgWarner Inc.
    Inventor: Larry A. Pritchard
  • Patent number: 7930970
    Abstract: A control unit for a work machine that allows automatically obtaining optimal operability even when the weight of a work arm in the work machine is changed. In a work machine where at least a part of a work arm to be operated by a fluid pressure actuator is provided so as to be replaceable, a control unit for a work machine includes: a pilot-operated control valve that controls the fluid pressure actuator; a proportional solenoid valve that pilot-controls the pilot-operated control valve by a pilot control pressure according to an electrical signal corresponding to a manual operation amount; a measuring means that measures a weight of at least the part of the work arm; and a controller that converts characteristics between the manual operation amount and the pilot control pressure of the proportional solenoid valve to characteristics according to the weight of the work arm measured by the measuring means.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 20, 2007
    Date of Patent: April 26, 2011
    Assignee: Caterpillar S.A.R.L.
    Inventors: Hiroyasu Nishikawa, Sei Shimahara, Manabu Nakanishi
  • Patent number: 7779863
    Abstract: The present invention describes, generally, a method and system for controlling the dynamics of an actuatable load functioning or operable within a servo or servo-type system, wherein the dynamics of the load are controlled by way of a unique asymmetric pressure control valve configured to provide intrinsic pressure regulation. The asymmetric pressure control valve, which may be referred to as a dynamic pressure regulator because of its capabilities, utilizes different sized free floating spools that are physically independent of one another and freely supported in interior cavities of respective corresponding different sized valving components that make up the valve body to regulate the pressures acting within the overall system between the control or pilot pressure and the load or load pressure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 29, 2007
    Date of Patent: August 24, 2010
    Assignee: Raytheon Sarcos, LLC
    Inventors: Stephen C. Jacobsen, Shane Olsen, Michael Morrison
  • Patent number: 7591214
    Abstract: Provided is a driving motor controlling device of a construction machine, including a driving motor which is included in the construction machine having a swivel joint interposed between an upper body and a lower body, and is connected to a pump and a tank through the swivel joint, and a motor control valve which switches a state for connecting the pump and the tank to the driving motor such that the driving motor is controlled to a stop state, a normal rotation state, or a reverse rotation state, wherein the motor control valve has a neutral position for the stop state, a normal rotation position for the normal rotation state, and a reverse rotation position for the reverse rotation state, and is switched to the neutral position, the normal rotation position, or the reverse rotation position, based on a command from a control device manipulated by a operator and a pressure of an inflow side of hydraulic oil into the driving motor, wherein the motor control valve is disposed in the lower body in which the dri
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 29, 2006
    Date of Patent: September 22, 2009
    Assignee: Nabtesco Corporation
    Inventors: Teruhisa Ando, Nobuaki Shimizu, Masahiro Tsunemi, Hitoshi Yamaguchi
  • Patent number: 7513188
    Abstract: A power steering system includes a power cylinder, an accumulator, a reservoir, a pair of valves, and a pair of pressure transducers. The system selectively fluidly couples the accumulator and/or reservoir to the double-acting power cylinder and thereby causes the power steering system to function in the manner of a force-based power steering system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 11, 2005
    Date of Patent: April 7, 2009
    Assignees: ArvinMeritor Technology, LLC, Techco Corp.
    Inventor: Edward H. Phillips
  • Patent number: 7509905
    Abstract: The present invention describes, generally, a method and system for controlling the dynamics of an actuatable load functioning or operable within a servo or servo-type system, wherein the dynamics of the load are controlled by way of a unique pressure control valve configured to provide intrinsic pressure regulation. The pressure control valve, which may be referred to as a dynamic pressure regulator because of its capabilities, utilizes dual spools that are physically independent of one another and freely supported in the valve body to regulate the pressures acting within the overall system between the control or pilot pressure and the load or load pressure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 23, 2007
    Date of Patent: March 31, 2009
    Assignee: Raytheon Sarcos, LLC
    Inventors: Stephen C. Jacobsen, Shane Olsen, Michael Morrison
  • Publication number: 20090056531
    Abstract: A lifting mechanism has a continuously variable lifting mechanism valve, with a multi-position valve, by way of which a lifting cylinder can be made to communicate with a pump or a tank. In the flow path of the pressure fluid from the multi-position valve to a pressure chamber, effective in the “carrying” direction, of the lifting cylinder, there is a relief pressure limiting valve, by way of which a relief pressure can be proportionally set. During relief pressure regulation, a metering aperture, which is predetermined by the proportionally variable multi-position valve, is opened, so that the volumetric flow of pressure fluid to the tank is minimized via the pressure limiting valve.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 26, 2008
    Publication date: March 5, 2009
    Inventor: Soenke Jessen
  • Publication number: 20090031891
    Abstract: A hydraulic circuit is disclosed. The hydraulic circuit may have a variable displacement pump. The variable displacement pump may have a fluidic displacement control configured to vary a flow of pressurized fluid based on a fluid signal and an electronic displacement control configured to vary the flow of pressurized fluid based on an electronic signal. The flow of pressurized fluid may be controlled by the one of the fluidic and electronic displacement controls that requests the smallest flow of pressurized fluid. The hydraulic circuit may also have a control valve connected between the pump and the fluidic displacement control, and the control valve may be configured to transmit the fluid signal to the fluidic displacement control.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 31, 2007
    Publication date: February 5, 2009
    Inventors: Jason L. Brinkman, Jeffrey L. Kuehn
  • Publication number: 20090013860
    Abstract: A load balancing pneumatic manipulator comprising an inflatable reservoir for establishing via an amplifier a pressure within a lift cylinder that is sufficient to balance the weight of an object being lifted. The reservoir is inflated and deflated by inflation and deflation valves, respectively, that may be operated from an operator control center proximal an end effector of the manipulator. The valves may be actuated via pushbuttons or actuated in a mutually exclusively fashion via a neutrally biased reciprocating actuator. The manipulator advantageously allows loads of different weights to be lifted in a semi-automatic fashion with operator involvement to select the load balancing pressure. The manipulator further comprises an air release system that closes a blocking valve in the event of release of the object being lifted and optionally in the event of a loss of air supply pressure.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 14, 2007
    Publication date: January 15, 2009
    Inventor: Raymond David Givens
  • Publication number: 20080282691
    Abstract: A pressure-compensating directional control valve, for actuating hydraulic actuators, comprising at least one modular valve body, with one through receptacle for a slidable shuttle, a driving fluid delivery port connected to a pump, a discharge fluid port, a first output opening and a second output opening, connected to the first and second chamber, of a hydraulic actuator, at least one bridge for selective communication, by way of the shuttle, of the delivery port with the first or second chambers of the actuator, for actuation thereof, a unidirectional hydrostat connected to the bridge to draw selectively a pressure signal of the load of the actuator, the signal for adjusting selectively the delivery pressure of the pump so as to keep substantially constant the pressure drop between the delivery port and the actuator in any load condition.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 24, 2007
    Publication date: November 20, 2008
    Inventors: Claudio Bulgarelli, Massimiliano Musiani
  • Patent number: 7444920
    Abstract: The valve arrangement for the activation of a structural element has three inlet switching valves through which a pressure-loaded medium can be conducted. These inlet switching valves are connected on their inflow side to a pressure supply by inflow lines and are arranged parallel to one another in flow terms. Moreover, the valve arrangement has a connection element, which is connected to outflow sides of all the inlet valves by pressure lines. A control line acted upon by the medium is connected to the pressure supply. The three switching-valve groups can be activated by the control line, and in each case two switching valves and in each case one inlet switching valve are assigned to each switching-valve group. A activation valve can be interposed in each case between a switching-valve group and the control line. Three outflow lines for the medium can be arranged between an outflow location for the medium and the connection element.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 22, 2006
    Date of Patent: November 4, 2008
    Assignee: ABB Patent GmbH
    Inventors: Tobias Herrmann, Wolfgang Warmuth
  • Publication number: 20080216644
    Abstract: An antagonistic fluid control system, wherein the system may comprise multiple antagonistic pressure control valves operable with a single actuator, or multiple pressure control valves operable with respective antagonistic actuators. The pressure control valves are configured to provide functional and efficiency advantages, and operate together to provide several operating or valving states. A first valving state comprises an active valving state configured to actively control the movement of the load. A second valving state comprises an inactive actuation state, wherein either the return and pressure ports of one pressure control valve are closed, or only the return ports of one pressure control valve are opened, to allow the other pressure control valve to operate in an active valving state. A third valving state comprises a passive valving state, wherein the pressure control valves are operated in a slosh mode configured to allow the load to freely move or dangle.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 28, 2008
    Publication date: September 11, 2008
    Inventors: Stephen C. Jacobsen, Marc Olivier
  • Patent number: 7406982
    Abstract: A hydraulic system has an electrohydraulic valve that controls flow of fluid to operate a hydraulic actuator, such as a cylinder or motor. A set of characterization data is provided which describes performance of the electrohydraulic valve as a function of changes in differential pressure across that valve. The hydraulic system is operated by specifying desired movement of the hydraulic actuator and in response deriving a desired valve flow coefficient which designates a level of fluid flow through the electrohydraulic valve. A compensated control signal is produced from the desired valve flow coefficient and the characterization data, to counter act effects that changes in differential pressure have on flow of fluid. The electrohydraulic valve is activated in response to the compensated control signal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 24, 2005
    Date of Patent: August 5, 2008
    Assignee: HUSCO International, Inc.
    Inventors: Joseph L. Pfaff, Keith A. Tabor
  • Patent number: 7373869
    Abstract: Pressure trapped in an inactive hydraulic actuator can result in the actuator moving in a direction which is opposite to that desired upon subsequent activation. The present method detects a trapped pressure condition and takes remedial action before activating the hydraulic actuator for motion. The pressure differentials across valves that control the fluid flow to and from the hydraulic actuator are used to detect a trapped pressure condition. In response to that detection, a selected valve is initially opened in a manner that releases the trapped pressure while producing motion in the desired direction. After the trapped pressure condition has been resolved, one or more other valves are operated to produce the desired motion of the hydraulic actuator.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 13, 2006
    Date of Patent: May 20, 2008
    Assignee: HUSCO International, Inc.
    Inventors: Joseph L. Pfaff, Keith A. Tabor
  • Patent number: 7364004
    Abstract: An apparatus (10) for use in turning steerable vehicle wheels (14, 16) includes a hydraulic power steering motor (12). A pump (26) is operable to supply hydraulic fluid to the power steering motor (12). A gearset (50) is connected with the engine of the vehicle and the pump (26). The gearset (50) is operable to drive the pump at a first speed during turning of the steerable vehicle wheels (14, 16) at relatively low vehicle speeds. The gearset (50) is operable drive the pump at a second speed during turning of the steerable vehicle wheels at relatively high vehicle speeds. The second speed which is less than the first speed. The gearset is a differential gear mechanism.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 22, 2005
    Date of Patent: April 29, 2008
    Assignee: TRW Automotive U.S. LLC
    Inventor: Daniel E. Williams
  • Patent number: 7353743
    Abstract: A position control system is used for controlling a fluid operated cylinder having at least one fluid chamber defined by a piston located within a housing for movement between first and second end limits of travel. The system includes at least two electrically actuated proportional flow control valves connected to each port of the cylinder for selectively and proportionally controlling fluid flow into and out of the at least one chamber. At least one pressure sensor is provided for measuring fluid pressure with respect to each chamber. At least one discreet position sensor is located adjacent a midpoint of the cylinder for sensing a discreet centered position of the piston. A controller includes a program and is operably connected for controlling actuation of the at least two valves in response to pressure measured by the at least one pressure sensor and location measured by the at least one position sensor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 2, 2004
    Date of Patent: April 8, 2008
    Assignee: Viking Technologies, L.C.
    Inventors: John Bugel, Jeff Moler, Mark P. Oudshoorn
  • Patent number: 7308848
    Abstract: A method and system for controlling the dynamics of an actuatable load operable within a servo or servo-type system, wherein the dynamics of the load are controlled by way of a unique pressure control valve configured to provide intrinsic pressure regulation, thus eliminating the need for electronically or mechanically user controlled systems. The pressure control valve, which may be referred to as a dynamic pressure regulator, utilizes dual spools that are physically independent of one another and freely supported in the valve body to regulate the pressures acting within the overall system between the control or pilot pressure and the load or load pressure. The dual spools function in cooperation with one another to maintain a state of equilibrium in the system, namely to keep pressure acting on or within the actuator (the load pressure), or the feedback pressure corresponding to the load pressure, the same as the pilot pressure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 1, 2005
    Date of Patent: December 18, 2007
    Assignee: Sarcos Investments LC
    Inventors: Stephen C. Jacobsen, Shane Olsen, Michael Morrison
  • Patent number: 7296669
    Abstract: An actuator with a simple function for the control of a friction clutch in the drive train of a motor vehicle having a cylinder/piston unit for generating the contact pressure of the clutch should be fast, inherently safe and nevertheless simple and inexpensive. For this purpose, a controllable pump (3) generates a pressure medium and makes it available to the cylinder/piston unit (1) via a self-regulating valve unit (2). A dump valve (8) consists of a sleeve (10) and a spring-assisted slide (12) therein. The sleeve has a first opening (11), through which the pressure medium can flow from the cylinder/piston unit (1). The slide (12) exposes the opening (11) in a first position and conceals the opening of a second position. The clutch is controlled in this way by actuating the electric motor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 31, 2003
    Date of Patent: November 20, 2007
    Assignee: Magna Drivetrain AG & Co KG
    Inventors: Johannes Quehenberger, Franz Gratzer, Dieter Schmidl