Clutch and throttle system for remote control of engine speed

Abstract

A hybrid control system is employed utilizing both hydraulic and pneumatic principles to effectively control the engine speed from a remote location as well as controlling the clutch engagement between the engine and a typical load such as a high pressure pump. The hybrid control system utilizes a pneumatic actuator for disengagement of the normally engaged engine clutch mechanism and a hydraulic actuator for control of engine throttle setting. Each of these actuators is controlled through the use of several electrically actuated solenoid valves which are effective to selectively apply a source of air pressure either to the pneumatic clutch actuator for disengaging the clutch or applying air pressure to the top of a hydraulic fluid reservoir to operate a hydraulic actuator connected to the engine throttle mechanism. Increase or decrease in engine speed is accomplished respectively by either releasing the hydraulic pressure in the hydraulic actuator to atmosphere or pressurizing, from the air supply source, the hydraulic fluid in a hydraulic reservoir. Constant speed settings for the engine are obtained by the electrical control of a normally closed solenoid blocking valve means which is effective to isolate the hydraulic fluid transferred from the hydraulic reservoir to the hydraulic actuator from the pressurized hydraulic fluid reservoir. A safety interlock mechanism is also provided to assure decrease in engine RPM whenever the clutch is disengaged.