Digital Control of Electrorheological Valves

The idea to replace continuously adjustable proportional valves by a certain number of simple on/off valves is known under the name of digital hydraulics. Theoretical and practical examinations have shown the usefulness of this concept. This contribution is concerned with the adaption of the concept of digital hydraulics to electrorheological (ER) valves. Based on a mathematical model of continuously adjustable ER valves, a new construction of a digitally controlled ER valve is presented. The proposed construction is distinguished by its very compact and simple design in comparison to digital hydraulic systems based on conventional valves. The proposed digital ER valve is tested on an ER valve test stand. Static and dynamic measurements show a good performance and hence the practical applicability of the proposed approach.