We are having some problems with jamming. We are trying to push two cylinders out at the same time. This pushes a bar that is on a rail system. The problem we are having is if one extend faster then the other the rail system will jam. Has anyone had any luck with solving this problem?
Use a manifold?
Ensure that the tubing runs from the cylinders to the valves are the exact same length for both cylinders.
And maybe slide some flow restrictor fittings in–you may be able to tune the system to run straight that way.
If it was me… I’d find another way to operate the system than 2 cylinders and a rail. But, that probably isn’t an option right now.
If speed isn’t an issue, you could try using a one solenoid to feed the two cylinders via Y or T connectors. Keep the tube length from the final connector to the cylinder the same.
Our entire intake slides in and out using this method. We controlled friction by 3D printing inserts that the slides mount through.
This. Other options if the physical modifications are possible:
Move the cylinders closer to each other, to reduce the differential torque they can apply.
At least 2 bearings on each rail, separated my the largest distance you can manage. The farther apart the bearings, the smaller the side load from the torque generated by the cylinders extending unevenly. If you tell me you only have one bearing on each rail, well there’s your problem.
Last year, I was given the task of learning pneumatics from scratch and assembling a compact system that pushed our shooter up in an aiming position, with a plunger to push the ball into the launcher.
The system that we made was:
SYSTEM: regulator -> tee (in) to lift loop and plunger loop
LOOP: double-acting FESTO solenoid -> 2x (in AND out) tee between both pistons -> pistons
We used approximately the same amount of tubing per side, but I doubt that’s part of the equation. If both pistons act on the same loop, you won’t have the issue you’re having, as equal amounts of pressure are distributed. If not, an in-line regulator valve as mentioned above would be great to tinker with.
If it persists, I’d suggest looking at a different set of pistons.
You could also do something to keep the angle between your bar and the pistons square - gussets or cross braces. You probably don’t need it to be completely rigid, but enough that the “fast” one is slowed and the “slow” one sped up enough to prevent the jamming.
just to give everyone an update.
We do have the tube the same length with running and they are T with restrictions. This works 90% of the time however we wanted it better
Last night we added a system like they have on drafting boards for there parallel bar. This seems to work out very well. You can now just pull it from one side and it does not jam.
Something like this? Very clever! Thanks for the update.
https://cdn.instructables.com/FOL/8NN6/IH6O4H8U/FOL8NN6IH6O4H8U.MEDIUM.jpg
Yup. Good idea positing a picture. This system is really hard to understand unless you see a picture