Hydraulic actuator with internal channels and quick connections

Abstract

An extendable and retractable hydraulic actuator has a housing that defines an internal bore within which a piston and rod are arranged to move longitudinally. According to the hydraulic pressure on either side of the piston, the piston is forced back and forth in the bore causing the end of the actuator to either extend or retract. The bore has dual inlet and outlet ports, normally at one end of the actuator, such that one inlet port causes fluid to enter and force the rod in one direction while fluid from the other port flows to an opposite end of the actuator through channels within the housing and enters the bore on the opposite side of the piston forcing the piston to move in the opposite direction. A swing plate that pivots about one of the quick connection fittings secures the fittings to the housing.

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.