Electro-viscous fluid actuator for fluid hydraulic system - electrically controls fluid flow resistances of one of each pair of valves to select direction and sense of actuating member movement

摘要

The electroviscous fluid actuator comprises a pair of electroviscous valves located in separate housings and provided with electrically conducting valve members. The valve members are connected to a common actuating member by electrically insulating bars. A pressurised electroviscous fluid is urged by the pump around a circuit formed by the two valves in series. Electric control appts. varies the fluid flow resistance of the valves by providing an electrical potential difference across the pairs of adajcent valve members to effect longitudinal movement of the actuating member. The actuator has a fast rate of response.