Self-study
Create a basic pneumatic project that involves setting up a single-acting
pneumatic cylinder controlled by a 3/2-way control valve.
Proposal: This basic project provides a simple, controlled pneumatic
circuit, which is a great starting point for understanding cylinder and
valve interaction in FluidSim.
I. Components:
a. Pneumatic Cylinder (Single-Acting)
b. 3/2-Way Control Valve (manual)
c. Air Compressor or Air Supply Source
d. Tubing/Connectors
II. Steps
1) Add a Pneumatic Cylinder:
a) Place a single-acting pneumatic cylinder in the workspace. This type of
cylinder only requires air pressure on one side to extend, with a spring return
for retraction.
b) Connect the output of the cylinder to the desired mechanical action (e.g.,
pushing or lifting an object).
2) Place a 3/2-Way Control Valve:
a) Insert a 3/2-way valve. This valve has three ports (inlet, outlet, and exhaust)
and two states (open and closed).
b) A manual valve with a push-button will be used for you to control it.
3) Connect the Air Supply:
a) Attach the air compressor or an air supply source to the inlet of the 3/2-way
control valve.
b) Ensure that the air pressure is set to an appropriate level for the cylinder.
4) Connect the Valve to the Cylinder:
a) Connect the outlet of the 3/2-way valve to the input of the single-acting
cylinder.
b) The exhaust port of the valve should be open to release air when the valve
switches states, allowing the cylinder to retract.
5) Set Up Controls:
a) It uses a manual control valve to test the button to apply air pressure to the
cylinder, extending it.
6) Run the Simulation:
a) Start the simulation.
b) Test the system by pressing the button or activating the switch to extend
the cylinder.
c) Release the control to allow the cylinder to retract, completing the cycle.
