Directional valve - standing

Fluid flow to an actuator passes through a directional valve whose operating element (a roller/plunger) is actuated by a cam (shown partially at the bottom of the photo.) The cam is attached to the actuator's spline shaft. In the event that a range-limiting bolt breaks allowing the actuator to rotate the foot pedal excessively, the cam raises the plunger and causes the valve to redirect fluid flow around the actuator, thereby stopping motion.

The cam limits the pedal range of motion to approximately -12° (plantarflextion) and +5° (dorsiflextion.)


Last modified: 2006-08-09 Ross Wagner