Automatic model reduction of fluid-power component networks

In the previous work, search algorithms for automatic generation of topological models describing three-dimensional cavities have been presented. Such search algorithms try to automatically describe geometry in terms of pipes, volumes and orifices suitable for time-domain simulation. These are elements commonly known to every engineer in the fluid power area. Once the model is established on a high level of detail, it is most common that the model needs to be reduced, simplified, both reducing the number of components and lowering the dynamic content. This paper evaluates the application of such automatic model-reduction. A simple model is used to exemplify an automatic reduction of a number of pipes. The approach presented maintains the important geometric information for reference back to the original geometry in the CAD-program. The model reduction uses a spectral-error as a selection criterion when establishing a set of models. All models in the generated system are stored in order of decreasing dynamics. A strategy reducing only one component at a time is used, avoiding the evaluation of all possible combinations for a given topological model.