Mathematical modeling of a two spool flow control servovalve using a pressure control pilot

A nonlinear dynamic model for an unconventional, commercially available electrohydraulic flow control servovalve is presented. The two stage valve differs from the conventional servovalve design in that: it uses a pressure control pilot stage; the boost stage uses two spools, instead of a single spool, to meter flow into and out of the valve separately; and it does not require a feedback wire and ball. Consequently, the valve is significantly less expensive. The proposed model captures the nonlinear and dynamic effects. The model has been coded in Matlab/Simulink and experimentally validated.