Research on digital design of hydraulic manifold block based on layer assignment connectivity algorithm

Current hydraulic systems often utilize integrated valve blocks to replace traditional external piping connections. This compact internal network design significantly reduces the number of pipes and fittings, although the design process for the internal network is highly inefficient. This paper studied the structure and design process of hydraulic integrated valve blocks. An optimization model was developed to minimize channel path lengths and pressure losses. Considering the structural characteristics of hydraulic integrated valve blocks, a multi-endpoint channel layout optimization algorithm based on the rectilinear Steiner minimum tree structure was proposed. This method converts the three-dimensional channel path optimization problem into a planar endpoint set path connectivity optimization problem. The flow field of common right-angle channel in networks was simulated and analyzed to determine the most reasonable design method for right-angle channel crossings. The secondary development technology of modeling software was utilized to realize the automatic connection design of the channel network inside the hydraulic valve block. The results show that the layer allocation connectivity algorithm can quickly and effectively perform multi-endpoint channel layout optimization for valve blocks, demonstrating the feasibility of this algorithm.