Self-Centering Linear Hyd. Actuator

Is it a school task?

As you may have noticed school tasks are not supported by CR4.

However I give you 2 hints: you can center the piston either by mechanical or by hydraulic force balance.

Solutions will depend on several factors so that you should analyse your system before making a choice, one question will be if the piston has to be maintained or not in the middle position, under which loads and with which precision.

It is also to take the decision if you only want to use mechanical systems or use the help of electronics.

When you made up your mind and have a solution come back with a sketch and ask for critical suggestions. If your sketch is in JPG format you can insert it as a picture. Try to enlarge it as much as possible to make it readable.

No it is not a school problem. It is the rear steer system for a monster truck I am building. I currently just have a toggle switch that activates a spool valve left or right. -Not self centering. What other info can I give to clarify my situation.

Thanks.

Make your sketch according to what I wrote and give also dimensions and pressure range, which should be the cylinder stiffness in the middle position? [force versus displacement] What kind of hydraulic system you have on bord? Variable pump? Fixed delivery with accumulators?

Being a mobile hydraulic system the problem is a bit more complex.

Thank you for your suggestions. I have decided to go with 2 hydraulic cylinders side by side such that when both are in the retracted position the rear wheels are centered. In this configuration I believe that i can use a three way spool valve activated by momentary buttons on the steering wheel. Does this sound feasable?

Make a sketch and you will see by your self if it woks or not and when you came to the result it does present the sketch.

There are many solutions to your problem. I suggest talking with the engineering dept at a local Hydraulics firm.

I would be happy to consult with you, however we are only allowed to work with people depending on geographic location, If outside my area, I must refer you to a partner.

I'm not going to even attempt to provide you with anything on the forum, as the solution depends highly on your existing system, and I don't want to write a novel.

If you are in the western United States, send me a PM, and I'd be glad to help. If outside the Western United states, you can still send me a PM, and I'll give you some contact information of those who can help you in your area.

regards,

-R