Design and analysis of a direct load sensing electro-hydrostatic actuator

This paper describes the design and analysis of a direct load sensing electro-hydrostatic actuator (EHA) to solve the heating problem of the motor in current EHAs. The design utilizes load sensing technology to automatically adjust the variable displacement pump, so that the motor can work in the high efficiency area to reduce the heating. Especially it can significantly enhance the efficiency of EHA under high load and slow rate conditions. Based on analysis of the principle of load sensing EHA, this article demonstrates the feasibility of load sensing EHA. Simulation and experimental data show that direct load sensing EHA can improve motor heating problem and limit energy loss.