23.10.2025 Munich. With the new VIPR valve unit, HAWE Hydraulik is demonstrating how the power density of hydraulics can be combined with machine learning to significantly improve the productivity and efficiency of hydraulic systems. The combination of hydraulics and intelligent software opens up enormous potential. With adaptive models, power losses can be reduced, control quality and reaction speed can be increased, and wear and energy consumption can be minimized. Applications can be found not only in agricultural machinery but also forestry technology, in truck-mounted loading cranes, municipal vehicles and work platforms.
VIPR is an intelligent valve unit that combines four proportional seated valves arranged in a so-called "independent metering" setup. Integrated pressure sensors and a powerful electronic control system make it possible to monitor, evaluate and individually control all channels leading to a working function. This seated valve technology eliminates the need for additional load-holding valves or shut-off valves that negatively affect the energy efficiency of the hydraulic system without sacrificing safety. The special feature of the valve unit is its software-based, great flexibility:
- Whether pressure or flow rate control – the decision lies solely in the control system and does not require any changes to the hardware.
- Operating modes such as floating position or regeneration can be implemented via software, without additional valves or control blocks.
- By shifting complexity from hardware to software, a universal "one valve for everything" principle is created.
Thanks to the on-board sensor technology and self-learning algorithms, VIPR learns from the data generated during use. This significantly shortens the commissioning process. After a few test runs, the system adapts optimally to the specific requirements. The combination of neural networks and classic control approaches ensures a robust and reliable control system that adapts flexibly to the respective working conditions.
HAWE Hydraulik will be presenting the valve unit VIPR at Agritechnica in Hanover from November 9 to 15, 2025, at booth 16C11.