Search Results

A hydrostatic actuation system referred to as the Electro Hydraulic Actuator (EHA) has been designed and prototyped. In this paper, a mathematical model of the EHA is reviewed and analyzed. This theoretical analysis is supported by open-loop experimental results that indicate the presence of nonlinearities but at a degree that is considerably less than that of conventional hydraulic systems with servo-valves. The behavior of the system can be approximated as piece-wise linear with the damping ratio and natural frequency changing according to a piece-wise operating region. The EHA model is used in conjunction with experimentation and numerical optimization for quantifying the influence of unknown parameters in this system. A parametric model for the EHA is subsequently proposed and validated.

This paper describes the design strategy adopted for developing a new high performance actuation system referred to as the ElectroHydraulic Actuator (EHA). The design approach can be divided into fives phases that include: pre-conceptual analysis, conceptual design, preliminary design, detailed design and, integration and test. An important aspect of the design process is the use of modeling and simulation for the analysis, sizing and selection of off-the-shelf parts, and for the detailed design of new custom made components. EHA is based on hydrostatic transmission. It is a unique device with its own characteristics and requires hydraulic components that are specifically tailored to its needs. A prototype of EHA has been produced and has demonstrated an extremely high level of performance. The performance of this prototype complies with design requirements and validates the chosen design approach.