Description:DESCRIPTION
Technical Field
[0001] This disclosure relates generally tohydraulic actuatorsand more particularly to a hydraulic actuators, and more specifically to a hydraulic actuator system designed to convert hydraulic pressure into controlled rotational motion.
BACKGROUND
[0002] Hydraulic actuators are widely used in various industrial and mechanical systems to convert hydraulic energy into mechanical motion. These devices utilize pressurized fluid to create linear or rotational motion, allowing for efficient control of machinery and systems that require precise movement. In particular, hydraulic systems are favoured for their ability to generate substantial force in relatively compact units, making them essential in fields such as manufacturing, construction, and transportation.
[0003] Traditional hydraulic actuators typically rely on linear motion, which then needs to be converted into rotational motion using additional mechanical components. This can complicate system design and introduce inefficiencies, wear, and potential failure points. Moreover, ensuring smooth and controlled rotational movement while maintaining the actuator's structural integrity and minimizing energy losses remains a significant engineering challenge.One of the primary challenges in current hydraulic actuator designs is their complexity when converting linear motion to rotational motion. Traditional systems often require additional gear assemblies or linkage mechanisms, which increases the overall size and complexity of the system. This can lead to inefficiencies in both energy transmission and maintenance, as these additional parts are subject to wear and tear over time, reducing the overall lifespan and reliability of the actuator.
[0004] Furthermore, achieving precise control over rotational motion in hydraulic actuators is often difficult, especially when attempting to fine-tune speed and torque in real-time applications. In some designs, the conversion of hydraulic pressure into smooth rotational motion can result in mechanical inconsistencies, such as jerky movements or unwanted vibrations. These shortcomings become even more pronounced in applications requiring high precision, such as robotic arms, machine tools, or automotive systems.
[0005] Accordingly, there is a need for a hydraulic actuator that simplifies the conversion of hydraulic pressure into controlled rotational motion while minimizing the number of moving parts, reducing system complexity.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0006] In an embodiment, a hydraulic actuator is disclosed. The hydraulic actuator may include a cylinder having a bore and an inlet port for receiving hydraulic fluid. The hydraulic actuator may further include a hollow cylindrical sleeve positioned within the bore of the cylinder. In an embodiment, the hollow cylindrical sleeve has at least one helical groove along its length. The hydraulic actuator may further include a piston positioned within the hollow cylindrical sleeve. The hydraulic actuator may further include at least one guiding means fixed to the piston and configured to engage with the at least one helical groove of the hollow cylindrical sleeve. The hydraulic actuator may further include a rotator engaged with the piston via a key. In an embodiment the key is fixedly attached at a top of the rotator for engaging the piston. In an embodiment, movement of the piston along the at least one helical groove driven by hydraulic pressure applied by the hydraulic fluid, causes rotation of the piston due to interaction between the at least one helical groove and the at least one guiding means. In an embodiment, the rotation of the piston causes the rotator to rotate due to interaction between the rotator and the piston via the key. The hydraulic actuator may further include a square socket fixed at a bottom of the rotator. In an embodiment, the rotation of the rotator results in rotation of the square socket.
[0007] In another embodiment, the hydraulic actuator may further include an upper cap secured to the cylinder at top using a set of first fasteners. In an embodiment, the upper cap may provide structural integrity to the hydraulic actuator.
[0008] In another embodiment, the hydraulic actuator may further include a lower cap positioned at a bottom of the hydraulic actuator. In an embodiment, the lower cap may support the rotator.
[0009] In another embodiment, the hydraulic actuator may further include a mid-cap positioned between the cylinder and the lower cap. In an embodiment, the mid-cap may be secured to the cylinder at a bottom of the cylinder using a set of third fasteners.
[0010] In another embodiment, the square socket may be used to engage with an external component of an external system for transferring rotational motion to the external system.
[0011] In another embodiment, the upper cap may be secured to the cylinder using a set of studs to provide additional structural support for the hydraulic actuator.
[0012] In another embodiment, the lower cap may be secured using a set of second fasteners to provide a sealed connection between the lower cap and the cylinder.
[0013] In another embodiment, the mid-cap may be configured to house and guide the piston.
[0014] In yet another embodiment, the at least one guiding means may include a set of balls engaging with the at least one helical groove to facilitate smooth rotation of the piston within the hollow cylindrical sleeve.
[0015] It is to be understood that both the foregoing general description and the following detailed descriptions are exemplary and explanatory only and are not restrictive of the invention, as claimed.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWING
[0016] The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and constitute a part of this disclosure, illustrate exemplary embodiments and, together with the description, serve to explain the disclosed principles.
[0017] FIG. 1illustrates an exploded view of a hydraulic actuator, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.
[0018] FIG. 2illustrates a perspective view of a hollow cylindrical sleeve, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.
[0019] FIG. 3illustrates a perspective view of the hydraulic actuator, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0020] The foregoing description has broadly outlined the features and technical advantages of the present disclosure in order that the detailed description of the disclosure that follows may be better understood. Additional features and advantages of the disclosure will be described hereinafter which forms the subject of the claims of the disclosure. It should be appreciated by those skilled in the art that the conception and specific embodiments disclosed may be readily utilized as a basis for modifying other devices, systems, assemblies, and mechanisms for conducting the same purposes of the present disclosure. It should also be realized by those skilled in the art that such equivalent constructions do not depart from the scope of the disclosure as set forth in the appended claims. The novel features which are believed to be characteristics of the disclosure, to its device or system, together with further objects and advantages will be better understood from the following description when considered in connection with the accompanying figures. It is to be expressly understood, however, that each of the figures is provided for the purpose of illustration and description only and is not intended as a definition of the limits of the present disclosure.
[0021] The terms “including”, “comprises”, “comprising”, “comprising of” or any other variations thereof, are intended to cover a non-exclusive inclusion, such that a system or a device that comprises a list of components or steps does not include only those components or steps but may include other components or steps not expressly listed or inherent to such setup or device. In other words, one or more elements in a system or apparatus proceeded by “comprises… a” does not, without more constraints, preclude the existence of other elements or additional elements in the system or apparatus.
[0022] Reference will now be made to the exemplary embodiments of the disclosure, as illustrated in the accompanying drawings. Wherever possible, same numerals have been used to refer to the same or like parts. The following paragraphs describe the present disclosure with reference to FIG.1-FIG. 3. As summarized above, in one broad aspect, the present invention provides a hydraulic actuator for converting hydraulic pressure into controlled rotational motion.The invention aims to address the limitations of traditional designs by introducing an innovative approach that integrates a hollow cylindrical sleeve with helical grooves. This design allows for direct interaction between the hydraulic-driven piston and the helical grooves to produce smooth and controlled rotation without the need for additional gear mechanisms.
[0023] By incorporating guiding means within the piston and ensuring precise engagement with the helical grooves, the invention facilitates more efficient energy transfer, allowing for real-time adjustments in rotational speed and torque. Additionally, the inclusion of main structural components, such as the upper and lower caps, improves the durability of the hydraulic actuator and operational lifespan.
[0024] Referring now to FIG. 1, an exploded view 100 of a hydraulic actuator 101 is illustrated, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.The hydraulic actuator 101 is designed to convert hydraulic pressure into controlled rotational motion and comprises several main components, each contributing to the efficient operation of the hydraulic actuator 101.
[0025] At the core of the hydraulic actuator 101is a cylinder 102, which contains a bore (not shown) that houses the main internal components. The cylinder 102 also includes an inlet port (not shown) for receiving hydraulic fluid, which powers the hydraulic actuator 101. The hydraulic actuator 101 further includes a hollow cylindrical sleeve 104 positioned within the bore of the cylinder 102. The hollow cylindrical sleeve 104 plays a critical role in generating rotational motion, as the hollow cylindrical sleeve 104 has at least one helical groove 104a along its length. The hydraulic actuator 101further includes a piston 106 positioned within the hollow cylindrical sleeve 104. The at least one helical groove 104a provides a defined path for the movement of the piston 106. The hydraulic actuator 101 further includes at least one guiding means 106a fixed to the piston 106 and configured to engage with the at least one helical groove 104a of the hollow cylindrical sleeve 104. In an embodiment, the at least one guiding means 106a may include a set of balls engaging with the at least one helical groove 104a to facilitate smooth rotation of the piston 106 within the hollow cylindrical sleeve 104.
[0026] The hydraulic actuator 101 further includes a rotator 108 engaged with the piston 106 via a key (not shown in figure). The key is fixedly attached at a top of the rotator 108 for engaging the piston 106. Movement of the piston 106 along the at least one helical groove 104a driven by hydraulic pressure applied by the hydraulic fluid, causes rotation of the piston 106 due to interaction between the at least one helical groove 104a and the at least one guiding means 106a. The rotation of the piston 106 causes the rotator 108 to rotate due to interaction between the rotator 108 and the piston 106 via the key.The hydraulic actuator 101 further includes a square socket (not shown in FIG. 1) fixed at a bottom of the rotator 108. In an embodiment, the rotation of the rotator 108 results in rotation of the square socket. The square socket is used to engage with an external component (not shown) of an external system (not shown) for transferring rotational motion to the external system.
[0027] The hydraulic actuator 101 further includes an upper cap 110 secured to the cylinder 102 at top using a set of first fasteners 112a, 112b, 112c, and 112d (collectively referred to as 112). The upper cap 110 provides structural integrity to the hydraulic actuator 101. The upper cap 110 is secured to the cylinder 102 using a set of studs 114a, 114b, 114c, and 114d (collectively referred to as 114) to provide additional structural support for the hydraulic actuator 101.
[0028] The hydraulic actuator 101 further includes a lower cap 116 positioned at a bottom of the hydraulic actuator 101. The lower cap 116 supports the rotator 108. The lower cap 116 is secured using a set of second fasteners 118a, 118b, and 118c (collectively referred to as 118) to provide a sealed connection between the lower cap 116 and the cylinder 102.
[0029] The hydraulic actuator 101 further includes a mid-cap 120 positioned between the cylinder 102 and the lower cap 116. The mid-cap 120 is secured to the cylinder 102 at a bottom of the cylinder 102 using a set of third fasteners (not shown). The mid-cap 120 is configured to house and guides the piston 106.
[0030] Referring now to FIG. 2,a perspective view 200 of a hollow cylindrical sleeve 104 is illustrated, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. The hollow cylindrical sleeve 104 is a vital component of the hydraulic actuator system and plays a crucial role in converting linear hydraulic motion into rotational motion.
[0031] In this embodiment, the hollow cylindrical sleeve 104 is designed with a cylindrical outer body and is positioned within the bore of the cylinder 102 (as shown in FIG. 1). The hollow cylindrical sleeve 104 is hollow, allowing for the passage and positioning of other internal components, such as the piston 106. The hollow design also facilitates the movement of the piston 106 within the hollow cylindrical sleeve 104, ensuring efficient operation while reducing the weight of the overall actuator system.
[0032] One of the defining features of the hollow cylindrical sleeve 104 is the presence of at least one helical groove 104a along its periphery, which is clearly visible in FIG. 2. The at least one helical groove 104a is a continuous, spiral-shaped channel that runs along the length of the hollow cylindrical sleeve 104. This groove is designed to engage with the guiding means 106a (such as a set of balls) attached to the piston 106. The interaction between the guiding means 106a and the at least one helical groove 104a enables the piston 106 to follow a spiral path when driven by hydraulic pressure, thus producing rotational motion as the piston 106 moves linearly along the length of the shaft 104.
[0033] In one embodiment, the at least one helical groove 104a is specifically engineered with a predetermined pitch, which determines the rate of rotation relative to the linear movement of the piston 106. The pitch of the at least one helical groove 104a can be customized based on the specific application and performance requirements of the hydraulic actuator 101. A finer pitch would result in slower rotational movement for each unit of linear displacement, while a coarser pitch would provide faster rotational movement. This flexibility allows the hydraulic actuator 101 to be adapted for various applications requiring precise control over the speed of rotation.
[0034] The hollow cylindrical sleeve 104 is typically made from a durable material such as high-strength steel or an alloy capable of withstanding the high pressures and mechanical stresses exerted during operation. The material selection is crucial to ensure the longevity of the hollow cylindrical sleeve 104, as it must resist wear from the repeated movement of the piston 106 and the guiding means 106a within the at least one helical groove 104a.
[0035] Referring now to FIG. 3, a perspective view 300 of the hydraulic actuator 101, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. This figure shows the hydraulic actuator 101 in its assembled form and highlights several critical components of the hydraulic actuator 101, including the square socket 302. The figure also shows a hydraulic pump 304.
[0036] The hydraulic actuator 101 is positioned at a centre of the perspective view 300 and includes the outer body and structure that house the internal components such as the piston 106, hollow cylindrical sleeve 104, and other mechanical parts as described in previous figures. The design ensures that the hydraulic fluid, which enters through the hydraulic pump 304, generates the necessary pressure to actuate the piston 106 and, subsequently, produce rotational motion.
[0037] In the centre of the top portion of the hydraulic actuator 101, the square socket 302 is visible. The square socket 302 is a vital component that is fixed at a bottomof the rotator 108 inside the hydraulic actuator 101. As the hydraulic pressure moves the piston 106, the rotator 108 turns via the key, and the square socket 302 translates this rotational movement to external components. The square socket 302 is typically connected to an external system, transferring the rotational energy generated within the actuator to drive other machinery or systems.
[0038] Thus, the disclosed hydraulic actuator 101 tries to overcome the technical problem of converting hydraulic pressure into controlled rotational motion in an efficient and reliable manner. Traditional hydraulic actuators face challenges such as complexity in design, limited control over rotational motion, and inefficiencies in translating hydraulic energy into mechanical movement. The present hydraulic actuator 101 addresses these issues by employing thehollow cylindrical sleeve 104 with the helical groove 104a and the guiding means 106a that ensures smooth and precise movement of the piston 106. This design optimizes the conversion process, enabling more efficient transfer of hydraulic pressure into controlled and consistent rotational motion.
[0039] Furthermore, the structure of the hydraulic actuator 101, including the inclusion of caps and fasteners, enhances its durability and ensures structural integrity, even under high-pressure conditions. The use of guiding means 104a, such as ball bearings, further facilitates smooth rotation and reduces wear, extending the actuator's lifespan. The compact and robust nature of the design minimizes energy loss and ensures that the system can be used in a wide range of industrial applications where precision and efficiency are crucial.
[0040] In large-scale industrial fluid control systems, such as pipelines for oil, gas, or water, the hydraulic actuator 101 can be used to control the opening and closing of valves. The square socket 302 can be used to engage with the valve mechanism, allowing for precise and reliable rotational motion. This ensures smooth operation under high-pressure conditions, with the ability to control flow rates by rotating the valve at different angles based on hydraulic pressure inputs.
[0041] In manufacturing processes where controlled rotational motion is essential, the hydraulic actuator 101 can be used to drive machinery such as conveyor belts, rotating arms, or drilling tools. The square socket 302 transmits torque to the machine components, ensuring consistent motion. This can be particularly useful in applications where the hydraulic actuator must perform under varying loads and pressures, providing both strength and precision.In manufacturing processes where controlled rotational motion is essential, the hydraulic actuator 101 can be used to drive machinery such as conveyor belts, rotating arms, or drilling tools. The square socket 302 transmits torque to the machine components, ensuring consistent motion. This can be particularly useful in applications where the hydraulic actuator must perform under varying loads and pressures, providing both strength and precision.
[0042] The hydraulic actuator 101 can be implemented in steering systems for heavy-duty vehicles such as bulldozers, tractors, or cranes. The square socket 302 can be connected to the vehicle’s steering mechanism, converting hydraulic pressure from the vehicle's hydraulic system into precise steering motions. This use case takes advantage of the actuator’s ability to provide controlled, forceful rotation, improving manoeuvrability in rugged environments.
[0043] In oil and gas drilling operations, the hydraulic actuator 101 can be applied to rotate drilling tools used to penetrate rock layers. The square socket 302 can be used to engage with the drill bit or rotational machinery, allowing the actuator to deliver the necessary torque and speed. This ensures that the drilling process remains steady and effective, with the ability to adjust the force and speed based on the pressure applied to the hydraulic system.
[0044] In automated robotic systems used for assembling parts, the hydraulic actuator 101 can control the rotation of robotic arms or other movable parts. The square socket 302 allows for controlled, stepwise motion, ensuring precise alignment and placement of components. This is particularly useful in high-precision manufacturing settings, such as the assembly of automotive or aerospace components, where even minor misalignments can cause issues in final product quality.
[0045] In wind turbines, the hydraulic actuator 101 can be used to control the pitch of the blades. The square socket 302 can be linked to the blade's pivot mechanism, adjusting the angle of the blades relative to wind direction and speed. This allows the turbine to optimize energy generation by rotating the blades to the most efficient angle, even under varying wind conditions.
[0046] In communication systems, such as satellite dishes or radar antennas, the hydraulic actuator 101 can provide the necessary rotational motion to orient the dish or antenna toward the required direction. Thesquare socket 302 allows for smooth and precise adjustments, ensuring accurate alignment with satellites or communication targets, improving signal quality and stability.
[0047] In advanced locking systems, such as those used in vaults or secure industrial settings, the hydraulic actuator 101 can be used to rotate locking mechanisms. The square socket 302 can be connected to internal locking components, allowing for controlled rotational movements that lock or unlock doors, safes, or security gates, ensuring both safety and smooth operation.
[0048] The foregoing description of the specific embodiments will so fully reveal the general nature of the embodiments herein that others can, by applying current knowledge, readily modify and/or adapt for various applications such specific embodiments without departing from the generic concept, and, therefore, such adaptations and modifications should and are intended to be comprehended within the meaning and range of equivalents of the disclosed embodiments. It is to be understood that the phraseology or terminology employed herein is for the purpose of description and not of limitation. Therefore, while the embodiments herein have been described in terms of embodiments, those skilled in the art will recognize that the embodiments herein can be practiced with modification within the spirit and scope of the embodiments as described herein.
[0049] The foregoing description and accompanying figures illustrate the principles, embodiments and modes of operation of the invention. However, the invention should not be construed as being limited to the particular embodiments discussed above. Additional variations of the embodiments discussed above will be appreciated by those skilled in the art.
[0050] Therefore, the above-described embodiments should be regarded as illustrative rather than restrictive. Accordingly, it should be appreciated that variations to those embodiments can be made by those skilled in the art without departing from the scope of the invention as defined by the following claims.
[0051] The terms “comprise”, “comprising”, “includes”, “including”, “having” and their conjugates mean “including but not limited to” and indicate that the components listed are included, but not generally to the exclusion of other components. Such terms encompass the terms “consisting of” and “consisting essentially of”.
[0052] As used herein, the singular form “a”, “an” and “the” may include plural references unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. For example, the term “a compound” or “at least one compound” may include a plurality of compounds, including mixtures thereof.
[0053] The word “exemplary” is used herein to mean “serving as an example, instance or illustration”. Any embodiment described as “exemplary” is not necessarily to be construed as preferred or advantageous over other embodiments or to exclude the incorporation of features from other embodiments.
[0054] The word “optionally” is used herein to mean “is provided in some embodiments and not provided in other embodiments”. Any particular embodiment of the disclosure may include a plurality of “optional” features unless such features conflict.
[0055] It is appreciated that certain features of the disclosure, which are, for clarity, described in the context of separate embodiments, may also be provided in combination in a single embodiment. Conversely, various features of the disclosure, which are, for brevity, described in the context of a single embodiment, may also be provided separately or in any suitable sub-combination or as suitable in any other described embodiment of the disclosure. Certain features described in the context of various embodiments are not to be considered essential features of those embodiments, unless the embodiment is inoperative without those elements.
[0056] Although the disclosure has been described in conjunction with specific embodiments thereof, it is evident that many alternatives, modifications and variations will be apparent to those skilled in the art. Accordingly, it is intended to embrace all such alternatives, modifications and variations that fall within the spirit and broad scope of the disclosure.
, Claims:WE CLAIM:
1. A hydraulic actuator (101), comprising:
a cylinder (102) having a bore and an inlet port for receiving hydraulic fluid;
a hollow cylindrical sleeve (104) positioned within the bore of the cylinder (102), wherein the hollow cylindrical sleeve (104) has at least one helical groove (104a) along its length;
a piston (106) positioned within the hollow cylindrical sleeve (104);
at least one guiding means (106a) fixed to the piston (106) and configured to engage with the at least one helical groove (104a) of the hollow cylindrical sleeve (104);
a rotator (108) engaged with the piston (106) via a key,
wherein the key is fixedly attached at a top of the rotator (108) for engaging the piston (106),
wherein movement of the piston (106) along the at least one helical groove (104a) driven by hydraulic pressure applied by the hydraulic fluid, causes rotation of the piston (106) due to interaction between the at least one helical groove (104a) and the at least one guiding means (106a), and
wherein the rotation of the piston (106) causes the rotator (108) to rotate due to interaction between the rotator (108) and the piston (106) via the key; and
a square socket (302) fixed at a bottom of the rotator (108)
wherein the rotation of the rotator (108) results in rotation of the square socket (302).

2. The hydraulic actuator (101) as claimed in claim 1, further comprising an upper cap (110) secured to the cylinder (102) at top using a set of first fasteners (112), wherein the upper cap (110) provides structural integrity to the hydraulic actuator (101).

3. The hydraulic actuator (101) as claimed in claim 1, further comprising a lower cap (116) positioned at a bottom of the hydraulic actuator (101), wherein the lower cap (116) supports the rotator (108).

4. The hydraulic actuator (101) as claimed in claim 1, further comprising a mid-cap (120) positioned between the cylinder (102) and the lower cap (116), wherein the mid-cap (120) is secured to the cylinder (102) at a bottom of the cylinder (102) using a set of third fasteners.

5. The hydraulic actuator (101) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the square socket(302) is used to engage with an external component of an external system for transferring rotational motion to the external system.

6. The hydraulic actuator (101) as claimed in claim 2, wherein the upper cap (110) is secured to the cylinder (102) using a set of studs (114) to provide additional structural support for the hydraulic actuator (101).

7. The hydraulic actuator (101) as claimed in claim 3, wherein the lower cap (116) is secured using a set of second fasteners (118) to provide a sealed connection between the lower cap (116) and the cylinder (102).

8. The hydraulic actuator (101) as claimed in claim 4, wherein the mid-cap (120) is configured to house and guide the piston (106).

9. The hydraulic actuator (101) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the at least one guiding means (106a) comprises a set of balls engaging with the at least one helical groove (104a) to facilitate smooth rotation of the piston (106) within the hollow cylindrical sleeve (104).