Engine augmentation of hydraulic control system

摘要

A power distribution system includes a prime mover and a hydraulic drive system. The hydraulic drive system includes an accumulator to store energy and supplement that available from the prime mover. A control monitors torque imposed on the prime mover and utilizes energy stored in the accumulator to offload the prime mover when its operating conditions are to be changed. Effecting a change under reduced load conditions mitigates inefficient operation of the prime mover.

主权项

1. A method of controlling power distribution in a power transmission system having a prime mover drivingly connected to a hydraulic drive system, said hydraulic drive system including an accumulator to store energy and an adjustable hydraulic machine to transfer energy between said accumulator and said prime mover, said method comprising the steps of:
determining a load imposed on said prime mover by said hydraulic drive system, comparing the load to an output of the prime mover to determine whether a change of operating condition of the prime mover is warranted, upon determining a change is warranted, supplying energy from said accumulator to offload said prime mover, and changing the operating condition of the prime mover whilst the load is reduced, wherein control of the prime mover is integrated with control of the hydraulic drive system, wherein the integration of control of the prime mover with control of the hydraulic drive system comprises a control unit integrated with the prime mover.