Intelligent filtration for electro-hydraulic work vehicles

Abstract

The present invention relates to intelligent filtration for electric-hydraulic work vehicles. An intelligent work vehicle filtration system is provided that includes a hydraulic subsystem, a controller architecture, and an electric drive subsystem that includes a battery pack. The hydraulic subsystem in turn includes a fine filter device having a first filter efficiency, a coarse filter device having a second filter efficiency that is less than the first filter efficiency, a hydraulic circuit in which the fine filter device and the coarse filter device are positioned, and a hydraulic pump that is controllable to circulate hydraulic fluid around the hydraulic circuit. During operation of the intelligent work vehicle filtration system, the controller architecture selectively places the intelligent work vehicle filtration system in an external power supply filter mode in which hydraulic flow is directed through the fine filter device while bypassing the coarse filter device when the electric drive subsystem is electrically coupled to an external power source for charging the battery pack.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates to systems and methods for strategically altering the filter performance and energy requirements of a hydraulic filtration system on an electric-hydraulic work vehicle, at least in part, based on the vehicle's state of charge. Background Technology

[0002] Work vehicles are typically equipped with substantial hydraulic systems that aid in lifting and manipulating heavy loads, performing demolition and excavation operations, and other energy-intensive tasks during operation. Examples of work vehicles equipped with robust hydraulic systems include various types of loaders, excavators, timber tractors, tractors, and other vehicles used in the construction, mining, agriculture, and forestry industries. Such hydraulic systems on work vehicles typically contain a relatively large volume of hydraulic fluid (e.g., more than 40 gallons or approximately 151 liters of oil) that controls its pressurized flow to actuate hydraulic cylinders, hydraulic motors, and other hydraulic actuators. In some cases, work vehicles are also equipped with an actively lubricated axle and drivetrain gearbox assembly, through which oil or another liquid lubricant (referred to herein as "hydraulic fluid") circulates to provide continuous lubrication during operation. Regardless of whether the hydraulic system of the work vehicle provides active lubrication, hydraulic actuation, or a combination of these functions, the hydraulic fluid within the system is ideally maintained in a relatively clean and low-contamination state to promote optimal hydraulic system operation and extend the useful life of the hydraulic fluid and associated hydraulic components. Summary of the Invention

[0003] An intelligent work vehicle filtration system is deployed on an electro-hydraulic (E / H) work vehicle. In one embodiment, an intelligent work vehicle filtration system is provided, comprising: a hydraulic subsystem, a controller architecture, and an electric drive subsystem including a battery pack. The hydraulic subsystem further includes: a fine filter device having a first filtration efficiency; a coarse filter device having a second filtration efficiency less than the first filtration efficiency; a hydraulic circuit in which the fine and coarse filter devices are positioned; and a hydraulic pump controllable to circulate hydraulic fluid around the hydraulic circuit. During operation of the intelligent work vehicle filtration system, when the electric drive subsystem is electrically connected to an external power source for charging the battery pack, the controller architecture selectively places the intelligent work vehicle filtration system into an externally-powered filter mode, in which hydraulic flow is directed through the fine filter device, bypassing the coarse filter device.

[0004] A method is executed by a controller architecture within an intelligent work vehicle filtration system incorporated in an E / H work vehicle. The E / H work vehicle includes a hydraulic subsystem comprising a hydraulic pump and an electric drive subsystem, respectively. Implementations of the method include a step or process of monitoring when the electric drive subsystem is electrically connected to an external power source for charging the battery pack. The method further includes the steps or processes of selectively placing the intelligent work vehicle filtration system, at least in part, based on whether the electric drive subsystem is electrically connected to an external power source, into: (i) an externally powered filter mode, wherein hydraulic flow is directed through a fine filter device contained in the hydraulic subsystem, bypassing a coarse filter device also contained in the hydraulic subsystem; and (ii) a battery-powered filter mode, wherein hydraulic flow is directed through the coarse filter device, bypassing the fine filter device, to reduce the energy demand on the battery pack when power is supplied to the hydraulic pump during operation of the E / H work vehicle.

[0005] Details of one or more embodiments are set forth in the accompanying drawings and the description below. Other features and advantages will become apparent from this description, the drawings, and the claims. Attached Figure Description

[0006] At least one example of this disclosure will be described below in conjunction with the following figures:

[0007] Figure 1 An electro-hydraulic (E / H) work vehicle (here, an E / H wheel loader) is schematically illustrated with an intelligent work vehicle filtration system as presented in an exemplary embodiment according to this disclosure;

[0008] Figure 2 This is a flowchart of an example method for enabling a smart work vehicle filtration system to switch between different hydraulic filtration modes, including a battery-powered filter mode and an externally powered filter mode;

[0009] Figure 3 and Figure 4 An example implementation of the intelligent work vehicle filtration system (partially shown) is illustrated when running in example battery-powered and externally powered filter modes, respectively;

[0010] Figure 5 A graphical illustration demonstrates an intelligent filtering scheme independent of the schedule, which, in its implementation, can be achieved by an intelligent work vehicle filtering system during execution. Figure 2 The example methods described herein are implemented; and

[0011] Figure 6A schedule-based intelligent filtering scheme is illustrated graphically, which in other implementations can be executed by an intelligent work vehicle filtering system. Figure 2 The example methods described herein are used to implement this.

[0012] The same reference numerals in the various figures indicate the same elements. For simplicity and clarity, descriptions and details of well-known features and techniques may be omitted to avoid unnecessarily obscuring the exemplary and non-limiting embodiments of the invention described in the following detailed description. It should also be understood that, unless otherwise stated, features or elements appearing in the figures are not necessarily drawn to scale. Detailed Implementation

[0013] Embodiments of the present disclosure are illustrated in the accompanying drawings, which are briefly described above. Various modifications to the exemplary embodiments will be conceived by those skilled in the art without departing from the scope of the invention as set forth in the appended claims.

[0014] Filter performance terminology

[0015] As used herein, the terms “filter efficiency,” “filter effectiveness,” and “filter performance” are used interchangeably to refer to the effectiveness of a hydraulic filter unit (such as a media-containing oil filter) in removing contaminants from a hydraulic flow passing through the filter unit. Hydraulic filter efficiency is typically described by a beta (β) ratio or grade, which can be defined using the following formula, where the variable x represents the contaminant particle size in micrometers:

[0016]

[0017] As used herein, the terms “coarse” and “fine” are used to describe the comparative performance level or effectiveness of different filter devices included in a given hydraulic subsystem deployed on an electro-hydraulic work vehicle. These terms are used strictly in a comparative or relative sense, wherein a first filter device included in the work vehicle's hydraulic subsystem is identified as a “fine filter device” when it is more effective at filtering contaminants from the hydraulic flow compared to a second filter device (“coarse filter device”) also included in the hydraulic subsystem. Therefore, in the context of a particular work vehicle hydraulic subsystem, a first filter device with relatively high filter effectiveness (e.g., indicated by a first relatively high β ratio) can be referred to as a “coarse filter device”, provided that the hydraulic subsystem also includes a second filter device with higher filter effectiveness (e.g., indicated by a second β ratio greater than the first β ratio).

[0018] Overview

[0019] As previously indicated, some industrial work vehicles are equipped with relatively robust hydraulic systems used to power hydraulic actuators to provide a continuous flow of liquid lubricant through an active lubrication assembly, or both, during work vehicle operation. Given their relative size and complexity, work vehicle hydraulic systems are often the primary energy consumers on many work vehicle platforms. Maintaining large volumes of hydraulic fluid within desired temperature ranges can be energy-intensive, especially when rapidly heating large volumes of hydraulic fluid to high temperatures during cold starts. The same energy is consumed in supporting high-performance filtration of large volumes of hydraulic fluid to maintain high-quality, low-contamination hydraulic fluid across multiple on-duty / off-duty cycles of a given work vehicle. Considering the critical nature of hydraulically actuated work vehicle functions and the often debris-laden environments in which these vehicles operate, providing reliable, high-performance hydraulic filtration is crucial in the context of many work vehicle platforms.

[0020] Further energy consumption related to high-performance hydraulic filtration varies with the filter flow rate (volume of hydraulic fluid filtered per unit time) and the pressure drop across one or more filter units within a given hydraulic subsystem on an industrial vehicle. The pressure drop across a given filter unit containing media (such as an oil filter containing cellulose, synthetic, or microglass filter media) is also directly related to the effectiveness or performance level of the filter unit. In this respect, high-performance (high β ratio) filter units inevitably impose relatively high resistance to the hydraulic flow, resulting in a significant pressure drop gradually forming across the filter unit during operation of the hydraulic subsystem. Consequently, when a given high-performance (high β ratio) filter unit is inserted into the hydraulic circuit, the energy demand on the hydraulic pump (or pumps) used to circulate the hydraulic fluid around the hydraulic circuit increases accordingly. The pump energy demand can be roughly reduced by replacing a high-performance (high β ratio) filter unit with a lower-performance (lower β ratio) filter unit within a given hydraulic circuit. However, this substitution results in a lower filter performance level, which is generally unacceptable for large-volume hydraulic subsystems on industrial vehicles.

[0021] In the case of non-hybrid work vehicles powered by internal combustion engines, the energy consumption dedicated to high-performance hydraulic filtration is usually a minor concern, partly due to the high energy density of liquid petroleum fuels. However, in work vehicles equipped with large-volume hydraulic systems and hydraulic pumps powered by rechargeable battery packs, a significant portion of the energy stored in the battery packs may be consumed in supporting continuous high-performance hydraulic filtration. This type of work vehicle (including battery-powered hydraulic pumps) is referred to herein as an “electro-hydraulic” work vehicle and includes: (i) a hybrid work vehicle comprising an internal combustion engine, an electric motor (which functions as both a motor and a generator), and a hydraulic system driven by battery power (e.g., via energizing one or more hydraulic pumps) during at least some phases of operation of the work vehicle; (ii) a purely electric or “battery” work vehicle comprising an electric motor (e.g., a motor capable of functioning as both a motor and a generator), a battery pack or module, and a hydraulic system comprising one or more pumps driven by the electric motor when drawing energy from the battery pack; and (iii) any other work vehicle comprising a hydraulic system in which pressurized hydraulic flow is propelled by one or more hydraulic pumps that are powered primarily or exclusively by battery energy storage during at least some phases of operation of the electro-hydraulic (E / H) work vehicle. In addition, in each of the above situations, the E / H work vehicle has a charging interface (e.g., a socket or other connector) that allows the rechargeable battery pack to be electrically connected to an external power source (typically the local power grid) using a charging cable when the work vehicle is not in operation.

[0022] Therefore, there is a persistent industrial demand for improved work vehicle filtration systems utilized on E / H work vehicles, which reduce the energy demand associated with hydraulic filtration during work vehicle operation on a shift, while maintaining hydraulic fluid quality during extended periods of E / H work vehicle use and across multiple shift cycles. To meet this demand, an intelligent work vehicle filtration system is disclosed below, which utilizes a larger (typically, essentially unlimited) power supply available to the E / H work vehicle during off-peak charging periods to provide highly efficient hydraulic filtration when the E / H work vehicle is connected to an external power source for charging the vehicle's battery pack. In contrast, during the work vehicle's shift operation, hydraulic filtration is performed at intentionally limited performance levels to maintain hydraulic fluid quality within acceptable levels, while minimizing energy demand on the battery pack when power is supplied to the hydraulic pumps used to circulate the hydraulic fluid around the work vehicle's hydraulic circuits (multiple hydraulic circuits). This energy-saving and performance-reducing hydraulic filtration is permitted during work vehicle operation due to the strategic application of high-performance filtration during off-peak periods of the E / H work vehicle's operating cycle. In particular, when an E / H work vehicle is connected to the power grid or another external power source, the high performance of the hydraulic fluid and the initial, exceptionally low contamination state of the hydraulic fluid due to the shutdown filtration mean that even when the work vehicle is operating in a debris-filled environment, the degraded hydraulic filtration can usually maintain sufficient hydraulic fluid health.

[0023] The implementation of the intelligent work vehicle filtration system includes a hydraulic subsystem, an electric drive subsystem, and a processing subsystem or "controller architecture" coupled to the hydraulic and electric drive subsystems. The hydraulic subsystem further includes a hydraulic circuit, at least one hydraulic pump controllable to circulate hydraulic fluid around the hydraulic circuit, and at least two filter devices positioned in parallel within the hydraulic circuit. The filter devices include at least one fine (high-performance) filter device and at least one coarse (low-performance) filter device. As previously stated, the terms "coarse" and "fine" are used herein in a strictly comparative sense to indicate that the first filter device (coarse filter device) within a given hydraulic subsystem provides a lower filtration efficiency or effectiveness than the second filter device (fine filter device). The electric drive system includes a battery pack with rechargeable chemistry, an electric motor capable of operating as a motor and typically also capable of operating as a generator when reverse-driven, and various other components typically included in the electric drive subsystem and the vehicle battery pack, as discussed more fully below.

[0024] During operation, the controller architecture allows the intelligent work vehicle filtration system to selectively switch between several distinct hydraulic filtration modes, including: (i) an externally powered filtration mode, in which hydraulic flow is directed through a fine filter device, largely or completely bypassing a coarse filter device; and (ii) a battery-powered filtration mode, in which hydraulic flow is directed through a coarse filter device, largely or completely bypassing a fine filter device. When the electric drive subsystem is electrically connected to an external power source (such as the grid) for charging the battery pack, the controller architecture selectively places the intelligent work vehicle filtration system in the externally powered filtration mode. Conversely, when, for example, the hydraulic pump is powered by the battery pack, the controller architecture selectively places the intelligent work vehicle filtration system in the battery-powered filtration mode. In this way, the filtration performance and energy requirements of the hydraulic subsystem change in response to changes in the vehicle's state of charge, and specifically, in response to the connection of the E / H work vehicle to an external power source for charging the vehicle's battery pack. Additionally, in at least some embodiments, when switching between an externally powered filter mode and a battery-powered filter mode, the controller architecture can also change the output of the hydraulic pump used to circulate hydraulic fluid around the hydraulic circuit; for example, the controller architecture can control the hydraulic pump to provide an increased pump flow output in the externally powered filter mode relative to the pump flow output in the battery-powered filter mode.

[0025] The implementation of this intelligent work vehicle filtration system can also operate in one or more additional filtration modes besides the primary filtration modes mentioned above. For example, in at least some implementations, the intelligent work vehicle filtration system can also operate in a coarse filter override mode, wherein during E / H work vehicle operation, hydraulic flow is routed through a fine filter device (instead of a coarse filter device), while the hydraulic pump is powered via a battery pack. When available, the coarse filter override mode is desirable to be applied when one or more of the following conditions occur: (i) a malfunction of the coarse filter device is detected, such as excessive fouling of the coarse filter components; (ii) a malfunction of the flow loop in which the coarse filter device is located is detected, such as excessive leakage of hydraulic fluid; and / or (iii) an operator input requesting the activation of the coarse filter override mode is received. Therefore, in implementations, such a coarse filter override mode can be applied strictly as needed to utilize the provision of an independent quasi-redundant filtration path (fine filter path) in the event that the normal operation of the coarse filter path is interrupted in some way. Alternatively, the controller architecture may apply coarse filter override in response to receiving a corresponding operator input; for example, when an operator input requests the coarse filter override mode to be enabled when the E / H work vehicle is expected to be used in a highly polluted work environment (such as a closed environment containing high-density particulate air debris, such as a structural or mining environment).

[0026] Variable-level computer implementation logic can be incorporated into implementations of intelligent work vehicle (E / H) filtration systems to selectively perform hydraulic filtration functions when the filtration system is operating in a given hydraulic filtration mode. For example, in at least some implementations, the controller architecture can determine when to place the E / H filtration system into an externally powered filter mode based not only on the E / H vehicle's connection to an external power source but also on scheduling constraints or conditions. This schedule-based approach can advantageously prevent or at least minimize unnecessary energy consumption and component wear during extended periods of E / H vehicle inactivity, such as periods when E / H vehicles remain inactive or idle for several consecutive days. In such implementations, the controller architecture can determine the earliest expected start (EAS) time (the start of the desired operating window) and begin fine filtration of the hydraulic fluid (i.e., placing the E / H filtration system into externally powered filter mode) a predetermined period before the EAS time (e.g., approximately several hours). In this way, the E / H filtration system can provide sufficiently fine filtration of the hydraulic fluid before the E / H vehicle is on duty, while minimizing unnecessary filtration during extended periods of E / H vehicle inactivity. This controller architecture can determine the EAS time based on operator input, or perhaps infer it from historical patterns of E / H work vehicle usage. In other implementations, this schedule-based logic may not be applied by the controller architecture of the intelligent work vehicle filtering system, which enables the external power supply filter mode solely based on the intelligent work vehicle filtering system's connection to an external power source or other considerations, such as ensuring the battery pack reaches a minimum state of charge before implementing the external power supply filter mode.

[0027] The system design of this intelligent work vehicle filtration system can and will vary between different implementations, as long as the intelligent work vehicle filtration system can operate in multiple discrete or distinct filtration modes (including a battery-powered filter mode and an externally powered filter mode). This indicates that, in a general example implementation of the intelligent work vehicle filtration system's hydraulic circuit including a first flow loop and a second flow loop (where a fine filter and a coarse filter are positioned in parallel, respectively), the hydraulic subsystem can also include a flow switch assembly; that is, an assembly containing one or more valves that can be controlled by a controller to selectively direct or route hydraulic fluid through selected flow loops and filter devices. During operation of the intelligent work vehicle filtration system, the controller architecture controls the flow switch assembly to selectively route the hydraulic flow: (i) when the intelligent work vehicle filtration system operates in externally powered filter mode, the hydraulic flow is routed through the first flow loop and the fine filter device; and (ii) when the intelligent work vehicle filtration system operates in battery-powered filter mode, the hydraulic flow is routed through the second flow loop and the coarse filter device. In various implementations, the flow switch assembly includes at least a first valve actuated in response to a command issued by the controller architecture to selectively allow or block hydraulic flow through a first flow loop and a fine filter device. In some embodiments, the first valve may be a first shut-off valve positioned in the first flow loop and paired with a second shut-off valve positioned in a second flow loop. In this way, depending on the specific filtration mode of the intelligent work vehicle filtration system at a given time point, the controller architecture can command one of the shut-off valves to move to an open position while simultaneously commanding the other shut-off valve to move to a closed position to guide hydraulic flow through the appropriate flow loop. In other embodiments, the flow switch assembly can be implemented using different valve and fitting configurations, such as a configuration including a single three-way valve positioned at the upstream junction of the first and second flow loops.

[0028] Now, will be combined Figures 1 to 6Additional description of an example intelligent work vehicle filtration system is discussed below. While the example intelligent work vehicle filtration system is described primarily in the context of a specific type of E / H construction vehicle (i.e., an E / H wheel loader), implementations of the intelligent work vehicle filtration system can be utilized in a wide variety of E / H work vehicles employed across a broad range of industries. In this respect, implementations of the intelligent work vehicle filtration system can be advantageously integrated into any E / H work vehicle containing hydraulic fluid ideally maintained at a relatively high quality level, while extending the vehicle's battery life per charge, particularly for work vehicles equipped with considerably large hydraulic systems having a cumulative volumetric capacity exceeding approximately 110 liters or 29 gallons. A non-exhaustive list of such work vehicles includes E / H work vehicles used in the construction and mining industries (e.g., backhoe loaders, front-end loaders, skid steer loaders, and excavators), E / H work vehicles used in agriculture (e.g., tractors), and E / H work vehicles used in forestry (e.g., timber tractors and logging stackers). Therefore, the following description should be understood as providing only a non-limiting example background that may better illustrate embodiments of this disclosure.

[0029] Example of an intelligent work vehicle filtering system and associated methods

[0030] Initial reference Figure 1 The E / H work vehicle (here, E / H wheel loader 20) is equipped with an intelligent work vehicle filtering system 22 according to an exemplary embodiment of this disclosure. In addition to the intelligent work vehicle filtering system 22, the exemplary E / H wheel loader 20 also includes a front loader (FEL) assembly 24 terminated in connection with a tool or implement (such as a bucket 26). The FEL assembly 24 is mounted to the body or chassis 28 of the E / H wheel loader 20 and extends forward from there. A cab 30 is located above the front of the main chassis 28 and surrounds an operator console containing a seat, operator controls, and other means for operating the E / H wheel loader 20. The chassis 28 of the E / H wheel loader 20 is supported by two pairs of front and rear ground engagement wheels 32. The E / H wheel loader 20 also has a jointed body that allows the front or front loader frame 34 of the E / H wheel loader 20 to rotate or pivot relative to the main chassis 28 about an upright axis 36.

[0031] The FEL assembly 24 of the E / H wheel loader 20 includes a double boom or lifting arm 38 that extends forward from the front loader frame 34 to the rear of the FEL bucket 26. At one end, each lifting arm 38 is engaged to the front loader frame 34 of the wheel loader via a first pin or pivot joint 40. At a second, longitudinally opposite end, each lifting arm 38 is engaged to the FEL bucket 26 via a second pin or pivot joint 42. Two lifting arm cylinders (hidden from view) are also mounted between the front loader frame 34 of the E / H wheel loader 20 and the lifting arms 38. Extension of the lifting arm cylinders causes the lifting arms 38 to rotate about the pivot joint 40 and the FEL bucket 26 to move upward. The E / H wheel loader 20 also includes a bucket cylinder 46 that is mechanically coupled between the front loader frame 34 and the linkage mechanism 44. The central portion of the linkage 44 is rotatably or pivotally mounted between the lifting arms 38, while the end of the linkage is pivotally engaged with the FEL bucket 26 opposite to the bucket cylinder 46. The linkage 44 may be a four-bar linkage, a Z-link linkage, or a similar linkage suitable for converting the translation of the bucket cylinder 46 into the rotation (rolling up or extending) of the FEL bucket 26.

[0032] As in Figure 1 The intelligent work vehicle filtration system 22, schematically depicted in the upper part, includes a controller architecture 48, an electric drive subsystem 50, a hydraulic subsystem 52, and any number of sensors 54. The wheel loader 20 also includes an operator interface 56, which may include any combination of buttons, switches, joysticks or levers, pedals, a steering wheel, a touchscreen interface, and other operator controls located within the loader cab 30. Additionally, the operator interface 56 includes at least one display device or monitor, also located within the cab 30, allowing the operator to view status information, input data, and otherwise control the E / H wheel loader 20, as conventionally known. The connection between the controller architecture 48 and the various components or subsystems 50, 52, 54, 56 of the intelligent work vehicle filtration system 22 is indicated by signal communication lines 58. The illustrated signal communication lines 58 may represent wireless connections, wired connections, or any combination thereof.

[0033] The term "controller architecture" as used in this document is used in a non-limiting sense and generally refers to the processing components of the intelligent work vehicle filtering system 22. Therefore, the controller architecture 48 of the intelligent work vehicle filtering system 22 can take any form suitable for performing the processing functions described herein. The controller architecture 48 can encompass or be associated with any actual number of processors (central processing unit and graphics processing unit), onboard control computer, navigation equipment, computer-readable storage, power supply, storage devices, interface cards, and other standardized components. Furthermore, the controller architecture 48 can include, or can cooperate with, any number of firmware and software programs or computer-readable instructions designed to perform any processing tasks, calculations, and control / display functions. Computer-readable instructions executed by the controller architecture 48 can be stored in non-volatile sectors of the computer-readable storage 60 also included in the intelligent work vehicle filtering system 22. Although in Figure 1 While generally illustrated as a single frame, memory 60 can encompass any amount and type of storage medium suitable for storing computer-readable code or instructions, as well as other data used to support the operation of the intelligent work vehicle filtration system 22. Such other data may include: data indicating the date and time of the expected shift operation of the E / H wheel loader 20; data defining permissible operating parameters of the hydraulic subsystem, exceeding which could trigger the activation of diagnostic flags or perhaps trigger the intelligent work vehicle filtration system 22 into the coarse filter overrun mode described below; operator preference data related to the functionality of the intelligent work vehicle filtration system 22; or other data useful in performing the processes and functions described herein.

[0034] The hydraulic subsystem 52 of the E / H wheel loader 20 may include any number and type of hydraulic actuators and / or active lubrication assemblies, which are generally... Figure 1 The active hydraulic function block 62 shown in the upper right corner is included. In the illustrated embodiment, specifically, the hydraulic subsystem 52 includes the aforementioned hydraulic cylinders 46 (bucket and lift cylinders) for actuating the FEL assembly 24, along with various other conventionally known hydraulic components, such as valves, pipes, hydraulic pumps (e.g., hydraulic pump 86 hereinafter), filters, hydraulic fluid regulators (e.g., oil coolers), etc. Similarly, during operation of the E / H wheel loader 20, the axle assembly (generally represented by the dashed circle 66) connecting the front wheel set 32 ​​and the rear wheel set 32 ​​can be lubricated by an active, pump-driven hydraulic flow. Various rotating components contained in the transmission or gearbox (in Figure 1The axle assemblies 66 (generally represented by a dashed rectangle 68) can also be actively lubricated via a continuous hydraulic flow. In many cases, the hydraulic fluid will not be exchanged between these actively lubricated axle assemblies 66 and the drivetrain gearbox 68, and these actively lubricated assemblies are fluidly connected to separate hydraulic circuits. However, in other cases, during operation of the E / H wheel loader 20, the hydraulic fluid can be shared between the actively lubricated axle assemblies 66 (where present) and the drivetrain gearbox 68. In at least some embodiments, the hydraulic subsystem 52 of the E / H wheel loader 20 can have a cumulative volumetric capacity exceeding 110 liters (approximately 29 gallons).

[0035] In addition to the components mentioned above, the hydraulic subsystem 52 also includes hydraulic circuits 70, 72, 74, 76, and 78, which include first flow loops 70, 74, 76, and 78 and second flow loops 72, 74, 76, and 78. At least one fine filter device 80 is located in the first flow loops 70, 74, 76, and 78, while in parallel with the fine filter device 80, at least one coarse filter device 82 is located in the second flow loops 72, 74, 76, and 78. As previously indicated, the terms “fine” and “coarse” are used strictly in a relative sense throughout this document to distinguish between a first filter device (here, the fine filter device 80) having greater filtration efficiency (e.g., a higher β ratio) and a second filter device (here, the coarse filter device 82) having less filtration efficiency (e.g., a lower β ratio). The fine filter device 80 and the coarse filter device 82 may each take the form of a filter device suitable for removing contaminants from a porous medium by passing a hydraulic flow through it. In implementations, and as a non-limiting example, the fine filter device 80 and the coarse filter device 82 may take the form of oil filters containing cellulose, glass fiber, synthetic media, or another filter media and having different β ratios for filtering particles with a specified minimum size (e.g., between 2 and 5 micrometers).

[0036] The hydraulic subsystem 52 also includes a reservoir 84 and at least one hydraulic pump 86. When the hydraulic pump 86 is properly energized or otherwise driven, it draws hydraulic fluid (e.g., oil) from the reservoir 84 and discharges a pressurized hydraulic flow from the pump outlet to... Figure 1 The hydraulic flow is advanced around hydraulic circuits 70, 72, 74, 76, and 78, indicated by small arrows. For illustrative purposes, Figure 1The arrows indicate the simultaneous hydraulic flow through two flow loops and two filter devices 80, 82; however, in actual implementation, the hydraulic flow will typically be routed either exclusively (or substantially exclusively) at a given time point through a single selected flow loop and a single filter device (fine filter device 80 or coarse filter device 82). In this respect, the flow switch assembly 88 is also positioned in the hydraulic circuits 70, 72, 74, 76, 78 and is controllable to route the hydraulic flow through a selected flow loop in the first flow loop 70, 74, 76, 78 and the second flow loop 72, 74, 76, 78. The controller architecture 48 commands the flow switch assembly 74 to route hydraulic flow through the first flow loops 70, 74, 76, 78 and the fine filter device 80 when the intelligent work vehicle filtration system 22 is operating in at least a first mode (e.g., the externally powered filter mode or the coarse filter over-control mode described below), and to route hydraulic flow through the second flow loops 72, 74, 76, 78 and the coarse filter device 82 when the intelligent work vehicle filtration system 22 is operating in at least a second mode (e.g., the battery-powered filter mode described below).

[0037] In some cases, terminal 90 and umbilical cable 92 may be provided for directly powering hydraulic pump 86 via connection to an external power source when the intelligent work vehicle filtration system 22 is operating in externally powered filter mode. When umbilical cable 92 is provided, it may be independent of a separate umbilical cable 94, which in some embodiments is used to connect the rechargeable battery pack 96 within the electric drive subsystem 50 to an external power source. Alternatively, both the battery pack 96 and hydraulic pump 86 of the electric drive subsystem 50 may be connected to an external power source via a single terminal 98 and a cable or umbilical wire; for example... Figure 1 The umbilical cable 94 is shown on the left. Cables 92 and 94 can be connected to vehicle-side charging terminals 90 and 98, respectively, which are also included in the intelligent work vehicle filtration system 22, either through a plug-in connection of mating (e.g., male and female) connectors (in which case cables 92 and 94 can be provided separately from the E / H wheel loader 20), or alternatively in a more permanent manner, such that cables 92 and 94 remain continuously attached to the E / H wheel loader 20 during normal vehicle use (in which case a storage compartment can be provided on the E / H wheel loader 20 to store cables 92 and 94 when not in use). Again, in all implementations of the intelligent work vehicle filtration system 22, and more generally in all implementations of the E / H wheel loader 20, it is not necessary to provide auxiliary terminals 90 and their associated auxiliary cables 92; however, when provided, these electrical components can allow current to be supplied to the hydraulic pump 86, bypassing the electric drive subsystem 50, to simplify integration and wiring schemes, for example.

[0038] The electric drive subsystem 50 also includes additional components 100, typically used in conjunction with a rechargeable battery pack to generate, for example, a battery module. Such components will typically include: electrical components for regulating the rate at which the battery pack 96 is charged during plug-in charging; components for thermal regulation of the battery pack 96; components for monitoring the health of the battery pack 96; and components for monitoring the current state of charge (SOC) of the battery pack 96, to name just a few examples. The electric drive subsystem 50 also includes a motor (generally covered by frame 100) capable of operating as an electric motor; and, when reverse-driven, perhaps also capable of operating as a generator to produce current, which is particularly applicable when the E / H wheel loader 20 takes the form of a hybrid vehicle that also includes an internal combustion engine (not illustrated). Various other components suitably included in the electric drive subsystem 50 include any number of control units (e.g., power management unit, battery control, and motor / generator control unit (if applicable)) and a power distribution module. Finally, the battery pack 96 itself may also have any suitable rechargeable chemistry, such as lithium-ion chemistry or nickel-cobalt-aluminum (NCA) chemistry. As appears in this document, the term "battery pack" is used broadly to refer to any rechargeable battery device or apparatus, regardless of the number and type of individual cells contained therein.

[0039] During operation of the intelligent work vehicle filtration system 22, the controller architecture 48 strategically modulates the filter performance and energy requirements of the hydraulic subsystem 52, at least in part, based on whether the E / H wheel loader 20 is currently connected to the power grid for recharging the battery pack 96. The controller architecture 48 monitors relevant data inputs (e.g., sensor data from the electric drive subsystem 50 indicating whether terminals 98 and cable 94 are electrically connected to an external power source) and selectively switches the intelligent work vehicle filtration system 22 between several distinct filtration modes at appropriate times. These filtration modes include at least an externally powered filter mode and a battery-powered filter mode. As briefly indicated above, when the electric drive subsystem 50 is electrically connected to an external power source for charging the battery pack, the controller architecture 48 can place the intelligent work vehicle filtration system 22 in externally powered filter mode. When the intelligent work vehicle filtration system 22 is in externally powered filter mode, hydraulic flow is routed through the fine filter device 80, bypassing the coarse filter device 82. In contrast, when the hydraulic pump 86 is powered by the battery pack 96, the controller architecture 48 can place the intelligent work vehicle filtration system 22 into a battery-powered filter mode. In this mode, hydraulic flow is directed through the coarse filter device 82, bypassing the fine filter device 80. In some cases, the controller architecture 48 can further selectively place the intelligent work vehicle filtration system 22 into one or more additional filtration modes, such as a coarse filter overdrive mode, as combined below. Figure 2 Further description.

[0040] Now turn to Figure 2 According to an exemplary embodiment of this disclosure, an intelligent operation vehicle filtering method 102 is presented. For illustrative purposes, the following description is as follows: Figure 1 The intelligent work vehicle filtering method 102 is executed by the intelligent work vehicle filtering system 22 on the E / H wheel loader 20 shown. However, it should be appreciated that alternative embodiments of the intelligent work vehicle filtering method 102 can be executed by other intelligent work vehicle filtering systems on a wide range of E / H work vehicle platforms, including but not limited to backhoe loaders, front-end loaders, skid steer loaders, and timber tractors. The intelligent work vehicle filtering method 102 includes multiple processing steps 104, 106, 108, 110, 112, 114, 116, 118, and 120, which are described below in sequence. Depending on the specific manner in which the intelligent work vehicle filtering method 102 is implemented, Figure 2 Each step in the general example may require a single process or multiple sub-processes. Furthermore, Figure 2 The steps illustrated and described below are provided by way of non-limiting example only. In an alternative embodiment of the intelligent work vehicle filtering method 102, additional processing steps may be performed, certain steps may be omitted, and / or the illustrated processing steps may be performed in an alternative order.

[0041] The intelligent work vehicle filtering method 102 begins at step 104. The intelligent work vehicle filtering method 102 can be initiated by operator input that initiates method 102. Alternatively, the intelligent work vehicle filtering method 102 can be initiated in conjunction with the activation of the E / H wheel loader 20 from a completely stopped state. After the intelligent work vehicle filtering method 102 begins (step 104), the controller architecture 48 proceeds to step 106 and determines whether the E / H wheel loader 20 is currently connected to an external power source (such as the power grid) for recharging the vehicle battery pack 96. Such a connection can be established using at least one cable 92, 94, which is inserted into appropriate terminals on the E / H wheel loader 20 and / or surrounding charging infrastructure when the E / H wheel loader 20 is not in active use and is therefore idle. Appropriate charging interfaces or charging stations can be located in storage areas or other structures for temporary accommodation of work vehicles not in use.

[0042] In step 106, if it is determined that the E / H wheel loader 20 is not currently electrically connected to an external power source, the controller architecture 48 proceeds to step 108 and evaluates whether the intelligent work vehicle filtering system 22 should be placed in coarse filter overdrive mode or in battery-powered filter mode. Otherwise, the controller architecture 48 proceeds to step 110 and determines whether any and all applicable criteria are met before placing the intelligent work vehicle filtering system 22 in externally powered filter mode (step 114); in this context, the term "placement" encompasses both initially placing the intelligent work vehicle filtering system 22 in a specific filtering mode and continuing to operate the intelligent work vehicle filtering system in a specific filtering mode if the intelligent work vehicle filtering system 22 is already active. During step 110, if it is determined that none of the criteria for entering externally powered filter mode are met, the controller architecture 48 proceeds to step 114 and determines whether the current iteration of the intelligent work vehicle filtering method 102 should terminate. During step 118, if it is determined that the current iteration of the intelligent work vehicle filtering method 102 should be terminated (e.g., due to operator deactivation), the controller architecture 48 proceeds to step 120 and terminates method 102 accordingly. Conversely, if the intelligent work vehicle filtering method 102 should continue, the controller architecture 48 returns to step 106 and reassesses whether the E / H wheel loader 20 is currently connected to the power grid or another external power source.

[0043] Referring also to step 110 of the intelligent work vehicle filtration method 102, in one embodiment, the controller architecture 48 may consider schedule-based constraints when evaluating whether the intelligent work vehicle filtration system 22 should be placed in externally powered filter mode. In such an embodiment, the controller architecture 48 of the intelligent work vehicle filtration system 22 may utilize a schedule-based approach to limit fine hydraulic fluid filtration to prevent or at least minimize unnecessary energy consumption during extended downtime. In this case, the controller architecture 48 may establish the earliest expected start-up (EAS) time for the E / H wheel loader 20; that is, the earliest time at which the expected operating window of the E / H wheel loader 20 begins. The controller architecture 48 may then place the intelligent work vehicle filtration system 22 in externally powered filter mode (and thus begin high-performance hydraulic filtration) for the duration prior to the EAS time to bring the hydraulic fluid to the desired quality level before the E / H wheel loader 20 is used on duty. This duration can be a fixed period of time stored in memory 60 (e.g., approximately 1 to 3 hours prior to the established EAS time); or the duration can be changed by the operator, or it can be changed based on filtration needs inferred from sensor data indicating the current hydraulic fluid quality. In some cases, the controller architecture 48 can determine the EAS time based on operator input; or the EAS time can be inferred from the historical usage of the E / H wheel loader 20. (The following is in conjunction with...) Figure 6 Additional discussion is provided regarding this schedule-based constraint in determining when to place the E / H wheel loader 20 (or another E / H work vehicle) in external power filter mode.

[0044] When proceeding to step 114 of the intelligent work vehicle filtration method 102, the controller architecture 48 initially places the intelligent work vehicle filtration system 22 in an externally powered filter mode, or continues to operate the system 22 in this mode if applicable. When the intelligent work vehicle filtration system 22 operates in externally powered filter mode, the controller architecture 48 controls the hydraulic pump 86 to circulate hydraulic fluid around hydraulic circuits 70, 72, 74, 76, and 78, wherein the hydraulic pump 86 is powered using an external power source connected to the E / H wheel loader 20. The hydraulic pump 86 can be directly electrically driven by the external power source, bypassing the electric drive subsystem 50. Alternatively, the power to the hydraulic pump 86 can be routed through the battery pack 96, while simultaneously connecting the battery pack 96 electrically to an external power source for recharging the battery pack 96; the latter scenario also considers powering the hydraulic pump 86 via an external power source. Simultaneously, the controller architecture 48 controls the flow switching assembly 88 to route hydraulic flow through the first flow loops 70, 74, 76, 78 and the fine filter device 80, bypassing the second flow loops 72, 74, 76, 78 and the coarse filter device 82. This effectively provides high-performance, energy-demand filtration of the circulating hydraulic fluid while utilizing the availability of an external power source to support the increased energy demands of the hydraulic pump 86. After step 114, the controller architecture 48 proceeds to step 118 and determines whether the current iteration of the work vehicle filtration method 102 should terminate. If this is determined, the controller architecture 48 terminates method 102 (step 120). Otherwise, the controller architecture 48 returns to step 106, and the above processing steps are repeated or looped.

[0045] Conversely, during step 106, if it is determined that the E / H wheel loader 20 is not connected to an external power source, the controller architecture 48 proceeds to step 108 of the work vehicle filtering method 102. During step 108, the controller architecture 48 determines whether the intelligent work vehicle filtering system 22 should currently operate in battery-powered filter mode (in which case, the controller architecture 48 proceeds to step 112), or conversely, whether the intelligent work vehicle filtering system 22 should currently operate in coarse filter over-control mode (in which case, the controller architecture 48 proceeds to step 116). Figure 2As indicated, the controller architecture 48 can determine to appropriately place the intelligent work vehicle filtration system 22 into coarse filter overload mode in response to: detecting excessive hydraulic flow contamination; detecting a fault within the coarse filter loop (e.g., excessive leakage from pipe 72, excessive leakage from coarse filter unit 82, or excessive fowling of coarse filter unit 82); or detecting operator input requesting the intelligent work vehicle filtration system 22 to enter coarse filter overload mode (e.g., due to operation or anticipated operation of the E / H wheel loader 20 in an abnormally contaminated working environment). When the intelligent work vehicle filtration system 22 is operating in coarse filter overload mode, the controller architecture 48 controls the flow switching assembly 88 to route hydraulic flow through the first flow loops 70, 74, 76, 78 and the fine filter unit 80, bypassing the second flow loops 72, 74, 76, 78 and the coarse filter unit 82, while utilizing the battery pack 96 to power the hydraulic pump 86. In doing so, the intelligent work vehicle filtration system 22 utilizes the availability of the fine filter device 80 to provide high-performance filtration when needed or desired. After step 116, the controller architecture 48 proceeds to step 118 and again determines whether the current iteration of the work vehicle filtration method 102 should terminate (step 120) or continue (step 106).

[0046] During step 108, if it is determined that the intelligent work vehicle filtration system 22 should currently operate in battery-powered filter mode, controller architecture 48 proceeds to step 112 and controls the flow switch assembly 74 to route hydraulic flow through the second flow loops 72, 74, 76, 78 and the coarse filter device 82, bypassing the first flow loops 70, 74, 76, 78 and the fine filter device 80. Subsequently, controller architecture 48 proceeds to step 118 and determines whether the current iteration of the work vehicle filtration method 102 should terminate, as previously described. In step 112, when battery-powered filter mode is implemented, hydraulic filtration is performed at an intentionally reduced performance level or efficiency, thereby minimizing the energy demand on the battery pack when powering the hydraulic pump during operation of the E / H wheel loader 20. However, due to the exceptionally low contamination state of the hydraulic fluid achieved at the start of operation, this reduced-energy-demand hydraulic filtration is generally sufficient to maintain hydraulic fluid health at optimal levels. This exceptionally low contamination state is caused by high-performance hydraulic filtration performed by the intelligent work vehicle filtration system 22 during the off-duty charging period of the E / H wheel loader 20. This cycle of alternating lower-performance filtration during the shift of the E / H wheel loader 20 and high-performance filtration during the off-duty periods of the E / H wheel loader 20 is then repeated to maintain hydraulic fluid quality over extended periods and across multiple shifts of the E / H wheel loader 20 or another E / H work vehicle equipped with the intelligent work vehicle filtration system 22.

[0047] Next, proceed to Figure 3 and Figure 4 The diagram schematically illustrates an example implementation of the intelligent work vehicle filtration system 22 (partially shown) when operating in the battery-powered filter mode and the externally powered filter mode, respectively. In this example, the flow switch assembly 88 includes two valves: (i) a first shut-off valve 122 positioned in a first flow loop 70, 74, 76, 78 downstream of the fine filter unit 80; and (ii) a second shut-off valve 124 positioned in a second flow loop 72, 74, 76, 78 downstream of the coarse filter unit 82 and connected in parallel with the first shut-off valve 122. The shut-off valves 122 and 124 are schematically depicted as being controlled by two separate actuators 126 and 128, each operatively connected to the controller architecture 48. Figure 1In one implementation, actuators 126, 128 may take the form of solenoids. In a further implementation, the flow switch assembly 88 may be implemented using other valve configurations, provided that the flow switch assembly 88 can be controlled by the controller architecture 48 to selectively route hydraulic flow through selected flow loops and filter devices. Such alternative configurations include, for example, a dual-shutdown valve configuration using a single actuator to control two shut-off valves, and / or a dual-shutdown valve configuration positioning one or both of the two shut-off valves upstream of their respective filter devices 80, 82. As a further possibility, the flow switch assembly 88 may be implemented using a single three-way valve positioned in hydraulic circuits 70, 72, 74, 76, 78 (e.g., at the bifurcation point of pipe 74 leading to different flow loops), wherein the first and second outlets of the three-way valve are fluidly connected to the inlet of the fine filter device 80 and the inlet of the coarse filter device 82, respectively. Typically, in the various example configurations in the example configurations above, the flow switch assembly 88 includes a first valve positioned in a hydraulic circuit and movable between a first position and a second position. In the first position, the first valve allows hydraulic flow through the first flow loop and the fine filter device, while in the second position, the first valve blocks hydraulic flow through the first flow loop and the fine filter device.

[0048] exist Figure 3 In the example battery-powered filter mode shown, the hydraulic pump 86 is powered via the battery pack 96 (indicated by symbol 130), while the controller architecture 48 controls the flow switch assembly 88 to close the shut-off valve 122 and open the shut-off valve 124. This routes hydraulic fluid through the second flow loops 72, 74, 76, 78 and the coarse filter unit 82 to drive all currently operating hydraulic functions (generally indicated by box 132). As indicated by arrow 134, a first pressure drop (ΔP1) thus occurs in the coarse filter unit 82. Given the relatively low filtration efficiency of the coarse filter unit 82, this first pressure drop is relatively moderate, thus reducing the energy demand or electrical load applied to the battery pack 96 by the hydraulic pump 86. In contrast, in Figure 4 In the illustrated externally powered filter mode, the hydraulic pump 86 is powered via an external power source (indicated by symbol 136) for charging the battery pack 96, while the controller architecture 48 controls the flow switch assembly 88 to close the shut-off valve 124 and open the shut-off valve 122. Hydraulic fluid is thus routed through the first flow loops 70, 74, 76, 78 and the fine filter device 80 to drive all currently operating hydraulic functions while providing high-performance hydraulic filtration.

[0049] like Figure 4Arrow 138 indicates that when the intelligent work vehicle filtration system 22 operates in externally powered filter mode, a second pressure drop (ΔP2) occurs in the fine filter unit 80, and this second pressure drop exceeds the first pressure drop occurring in the coarse filter unit 82 during battery-powered filter mode operation, such that ΔP2 > ΔP1. In at least some embodiments, the second pressure drop is at least twice the first pressure drop, or in other words, the first pressure drop is equal to or less than half of the second pressure drop, such that 0.5(ΔP2) ≥ ΔP1. The increased load applied to the hydraulic pump 86 can be easily adapted by the external power source 136 without reducing the battery pack 96 ( Figure 1 and Figure 3 The energy storage of the E / H wheel loader 20 is also enhanced by this high-performance shutdown filtration. Furthermore, due to this high-performance shutdown filtration, the shift operation of the E / H wheel loader 20 can begin with the hydraulic fluid in an exceptionally low-contamination state, allowing for reduced-efficiency, low-energy-demand hydraulic filtration during subsequent operating phases of the E / H wheel loader 20. Finally, in some embodiments, when switching from battery-powered filter mode (… Figure 3 Switching to external power supply filter mode Figure 4 In some implementations, controller architecture 48 can control hydraulic pump 86 to reduce or otherwise change pump output, whereas this may not be the case in other implementations.

[0050] As previously indicated, the intelligent work vehicle filtration system 22 should be in externally powered filter mode. Figure 4 At appropriate junctures in operation, controller architecture 48 can advantageously consider schedule-based time constraints. In this regard, consideration should be given to separately... Figure 5 and Figure 6 The example scene depicted in figures 140 and 142 appears in the text. First, regarding... Figure 5The diagram 140 illustrates an example control scheme for placing the intelligent work vehicle filtration system 22 in an externally powered filter mode, independent of schedule considerations, where time is plotted on a horizontal or vertical axis from left to right. This example scenario begins at time point T0, which occurs at more or less any point during the shift of operation of the E / H wheel loader 20. The E / H wheel loader 20 stops or is placed in a stationary, non-operational state at time point T1, where the battery-powered filter mode becomes active, and the battery pack 96 drives the hydraulic pump 86 during this period (T0 to T1), as indicated by bars 144 and 146 in diagram 140. In this example, a certain duration elapses from the stoppage (or rest use) of the E / H wheel loader 20 (time point T1) until the E / H wheel loader 20 is connected to an external power source (such as the power grid) via one or more connector cables 92 and 94. The intelligent work vehicle filtration system 22 responds to the E / H wheel loader 20 being plugged in, and at time T2, it begins high-performance filtration of the hydraulic fluid while simultaneously charging the battery pack 96. Figure 5 As indicated in clauses 148 and 150. Subsequently, at time T3, the E / H wheel loader 20 is disconnected from the external battery power supply and re-enters its shift operating cycle. Therefore, and as indicated in clauses 152 and 154, the intelligent work vehicle filtration system 22 resumes operation in battery-powered filter mode, in which the battery pack 96 supplies power to the hydraulic pump 86 to provide energy-saving filtration with reduced performance during the subsequent shift phase of the E / H wheel loader's operating cycle.

[0051] Finally refer to Figure 6Figure 142 illustrates an exemplary schedule-based filtering scheme appropriately applied by the controller architecture 48 when determining when to place the intelligent work vehicle filtering system 22 into externally powered filter mode. As before, the example scenario begins at time point T0, where the E / H wheel loader 20 is stopped or placed in a non-operational state at time point T1. Before time point T1, and as indicated by clauses 156 and 158, the intelligent work vehicle filtering system 22 operates in battery-powered filter mode, where the battery pack 96 is used to power the hydraulic pump 86. In this example scenario, at time point T1, the E / H wheel loader 20 transitions to off-duty use, and the work vehicle is plugged in. Battery recharging also begins at this time, as indicated by clause 160. However, as indicated by clause 162, the controller architecture 48 does not place the intelligent work vehicle filtering system 22 into externally powered filter mode until a period after time point T1, and specifically, at the subsequent time point T2. In this implementation, controller architecture 48 can establish time point T2 based on (through reverse calculation) the EAS time of the E / H wheel loader 20, which corresponds to time point T3 in this example. As described above, controller architecture 48 can establish the EAS time and begin fine filtration of the hydraulic fluid (i.e., placing the intelligent work vehicle filtration system in externally powered filter mode) for a predetermined duration (e.g., several hours) prior to the EAS time. Thereafter, when the shift operation of the E / H wheel loader 20 resumes at time point T4, the intelligent work vehicle filtration system 22 returns to operation in battery-powered filter mode, where battery pack 96 supplies power to hydraulic pump 86, as indicated by clauses 164, 166. Therefore, considering this schedule-based approach can advantageously prevent or at least minimize unwanted energy consumption and component wear when the E / H wheel loader 20 is kept idle for periods approaching or exceeding 24 hours.

[0052] Examples of intelligent operation vehicle filtration systems

[0053] The following examples of intelligent work vehicle filtration systems are also provided and numbered for easy reference.

[0054] 1. In a first example embodiment, an intelligent work vehicle filtration system for an electro-hydraulic (E / H) work vehicle includes: a hydraulic subsystem, a controller architecture, and an electric drive subsystem comprising a battery pack. The hydraulic subsystem further includes: a fine filter device having a first filter efficiency; a coarse filter device having a second filter efficiency less than the first filter efficiency; a hydraulic circuit in which the fine filter device and the coarse filter device are positioned; and a hydraulic pump controllable to circulate hydraulic fluid around the hydraulic circuit. During operation of the intelligent work vehicle filtration system, when the electric drive subsystem is electrically connected to an external power source for charging the battery pack, the controller architecture selectively places the intelligent work vehicle filtration system into an externally powered filter mode, in which hydraulic flow is directed through the fine filter device and bypasses the coarse filter device.

[0055] 2. The intelligent work vehicle filtration system according to Example 1, wherein the controller architecture is further configured to selectively place the intelligent work vehicle filtration system into a battery-powered filter mode when the hydraulic pump is powered by the battery pack, in which hydraulic flow is directed through the coarse filter device and bypasses the fine filter device.

[0056] 3. The intelligent work vehicle filtration system according to Example 2, wherein the hydraulic circuit includes a first flow loop for positioning the fine filter device and a second flow loop for positioning the coarse filter device in parallel with the fine filter device. Additionally, the intelligent work vehicle filtration system further includes a flow switch assembly controllable to route hydraulic flow through a selected flow loop of the first and second flow loops.

[0057] 4. The intelligent work vehicle filtration system according to Example 3, wherein the flow switch assembly includes a valve positioned in the hydraulic circuit. The valve is movable between a first position and a second position: (i) in the first position, the valve allows hydraulic flow through the first flow loop and the fine filter device; and (ii) in the second position, the valve prevents hydraulic flow through the first flow loop and the fine filter device.

[0058] 5. The intelligent work vehicle filtration system according to Example 4, wherein the controller architecture is configured to command the valve to move to the first position when the intelligent work vehicle filtration system is operating in the externally powered filter mode, and to command the valve to move to the second position when the intelligent work vehicle filtration system is operating in the battery-powered filter mode.

[0059] 6. The intelligent work vehicle filtration system according to Example 3, wherein when the battery pack supplies power to the E / H work vehicle, the intelligent work vehicle filtration system can also operate in a coarse filter over-control mode, in which the controller architecture controls the flow switch assembly to guide hydraulic flow through the first flow loop and the fine filter device.

[0060] 7. The intelligent work vehicle filtration system according to Example 6, wherein the controller architecture is configured to place the intelligent work vehicle filtration system into the coarse filter over-control mode in response to detecting a fault associated with the second flow loop or the coarse filter device.

[0061] 8. The intelligent work vehicle filtration system according to Example 6, wherein the controller architecture is configured to place the intelligent work vehicle filtration system into the coarse filter over-control mode in response to the detection of excessive hydraulic flow contamination.

[0062] 9. The intelligent work vehicle filtration system according to Example 6, wherein the controller architecture is configured to place the intelligent work vehicle filtration system into the coarse filter over-control mode in response to receiving an operator input requesting to enable the coarse filter over-control mode.

[0063] 10. The intelligent work vehicle filtration system according to Example 2, wherein the controller architecture is configured to change the output of the hydraulic pump when the intelligent work vehicle filtration system is switched from the externally powered filter mode to the battery-powered filter mode.

[0064] 11. The intelligent work vehicle filtration system according to Example 2, wherein when the intelligent work vehicle filtration system operates in the externally powered filter mode, a first voltage drop occurs across the fine filter device. Furthermore, when the intelligent work vehicle filtration system operates in the battery-powered filter mode, a second voltage drop occurs across the coarse filter device, the second voltage drop being equal to or less than half of the first voltage drop.

[0065] 12. The intelligent work vehicle filtration system according to Example 1, the intelligent work vehicle filtration system further includes a hydraulic actuator fluidly connected to the hydraulic circuit and controllable to move the implements of the E / H work vehicle.

[0066] 13. The intelligent work vehicle filtration system according to Example 12, wherein the hydraulic actuator includes a hydraulic cylinder controllable to move the front loader assembly of the E / H work vehicle.

[0067] 14. The intelligent work vehicle filtering system according to Example 1, wherein the controller architecture is further configured to: (i) establish the earliest expected start time for the resumption of the shift use of the E / H work vehicle when the E / H work vehicle is out of service and the electric drive subsystem is electrically connected to the external power source; and (ii) place the intelligent work vehicle filtering system in the external power supply filtering mode for a predetermined duration before the earliest expected start time.

[0068] 15. The intelligent work vehicle filtration system according to Example 1, wherein the hydraulic subsystem includes an active lubrication assembly fluidly connected to the hydraulic circuit and selected from a group consisting of an active lubrication axle assembly and an active lubrication transmission gearbox, wherein the hydraulic pump propels a flow of lubricant through the active lubrication assembly during operation of the E / H work vehicle.

[0069] in conclusion

[0070] Therefore, systems and methods have been provided for strategically altering the filter performance and energy requirements of a hydraulic filtration subsystem on an E / H work vehicle, at least in part, based on the vehicle's state of charge. Typically, when an E / H work vehicle is connected to the power grid or another external power source, implementations of intelligent work vehicle filtration systems selectively provide high-performance, energy-demanding hydraulic filtration during off-duty charging periods. In contrast, during on-duty use of the E / H work vehicle, the intelligent work vehicle filtration system is placed in a battery-powered filter mode, in which hydraulic filtration is performed at a purposefully reduced efficiency or performance level, thereby minimizing the hydraulic pump load applied to the battery pack and effectively extending the battery pack's per-charge life. In some implementations, the work vehicle filtration system can also operate in a coarse filter overload mode, which can be activated in response to an operation input command, in response to the detection of a fault associated with the coarse filter unit or flow loop, or in response to the detection of excessive hydraulic fluid contamination occurring during battery-powered operation of the hydraulic subsystem. Finally, in some implementations, the controller architecture may also take schedule considerations into account when determining when to place the intelligent work vehicle filter in external power supply filter mode.

[0071] As used herein, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise, the singular forms “a,” “an,” and “the” are intentionally extended to include the plural forms as well. It should also be understood that the terms “comprising” and / or “including” as used herein specify the presence of a defined feature, element, step, operation, element, and / or component, without excluding the presence or addition of one or more other features, elements, steps, operations, elements, components, and / or combinations thereof.

[0072] The description of this disclosure has been presented for purposes of illustration and description, but is not intended to be exclusive or to limit the disclosure to its form. Many modifications and variations will be apparent to those skilled in the art without departing from the scope and spirit of this disclosure. The embodiments expressly referenced herein were chosen and described in order to best explain the principles of this disclosure and its practical application, and to enable those skilled in the art to understand this disclosure and recognize many alternatives, modifications, and variations to the described examples. Therefore, various other embodiments and implementations besides those expressly described are within the scope of the appended claims.

Claims

1. An intelligent work vehicle filtration system (22) on an electric-hydraulic work vehicle (20), the intelligent work vehicle filtration system (22) comprising: An electric drive subsystem (50) comprising a battery pack (96). Hydraulic subsystem (52), the hydraulic subsystem comprising: A fine filter device (80) having a first filter efficiency; A coarse filter device (82) having a second filter efficiency that is less than the efficiency of the first filter; Hydraulic circuits (70, 72, 74, 76, 78), in which the fine filter device (80) and the coarse filter device (82) are positioned; and A hydraulic pump (86), the hydraulic pump being controllable to circulate hydraulic fluid around the hydraulic circuit (70, 72, 74, 76, 78); and A controller architecture (48) is coupled to the electric drive subsystem (50). The controller architecture (48) has a processing architecture configured to execute control logic to determine that the electric drive subsystem is electrically connected to an external power source for charging the battery pack (96), and when the electric drive subsystem (50) is electrically connected to the external power source, to selectively place the intelligent work vehicle filtration system (22) into an external power supply filter mode, in which hydraulic flow is directed through the fine filter device (80) and bypasses the coarse filter device (82).

2. The intelligent operating vehicle filtration system (22) according to claim 1, wherein, The controller architecture (48) is also configured to selectively place the intelligent work vehicle filtration system (22) into a battery-powered filter mode when the hydraulic pump (86) is powered by the battery pack (96), in which hydraulic flow is directed through the coarse filter device (82) and bypasses the fine filter device (80).

3. The intelligent operating vehicle filtration system (22) according to claim 2, wherein, The hydraulic circuit (70, 72, 74, 76, 78) includes a first flow loop (70, 74, 76, 78) and a second flow loop (72, 74, 76, 78). The fine filter device (80) is positioned in the first flow loop (70, 74, 76, 78), and the coarse filter device (82) is positioned in parallel with the fine filter device (80) in the second flow loop (72, 74, 76, 78). The intelligent operation vehicle filtration system (22) further includes a flow switch assembly (88) which can be controlled to route hydraulic flow through a selected flow loop in the first flow loop (70, 74, 76, 78) and the second flow loop (72, 74, 76, 78).

4. The intelligent operating vehicle filtration system (22) according to claim 3, wherein, The flow switch assembly (88) includes a valve (122) positioned in the hydraulic circuit (70, 72, 74, 76, 78) and movable between a first position and a second position: In the first position, the valve allows hydraulic flow through the first flow loop (70, 74, 76, 78) and the fine filter device (80); and In the second position, the valve prevents hydraulic flow through the first flow loop (70, 74, 76, 78) and the fine filter device (80).

5. The intelligent operating vehicle filtration system (22) according to claim 4, wherein, The controller architecture (48) is configured to command the valve (122) to move to the first position when the intelligent work vehicle filtration system (22) is operating in the externally powered filter mode, and to command the valve to move to the second position when the intelligent work vehicle filtration system (22) is operating in the battery-powered filter mode.

6. The intelligent operation vehicle filtration system (22) according to claim 3, wherein, When the battery pack (96) supplies power to the electric-hydraulic work vehicle (20), the intelligent work vehicle filtration system (22) can also operate in a coarse filter over-control mode, in which the controller architecture (48) controls the flow switch assembly (88) to guide the hydraulic flow through the first flow loop (70, 74, 76, 78) and the fine filter device (80).

7. The intelligent operating vehicle filtration system (22) according to claim 6, wherein, The controller architecture (48) is configured to place the intelligent work vehicle filtration system (22) into the coarse filter over-control mode in response to the detection of a fault associated with the second flow loop (72, 74, 76, 78) or the coarse filter device (82).

8. The intelligent operation vehicle filtration system (22) according to claim 6, wherein, The controller architecture (48) is configured to place the intelligent work vehicle filtration system (22) into the coarse filter over-control mode in response to the detection of excessive hydraulic flow contamination.

9. The intelligent operating vehicle filtration system (22) according to claim 6, wherein, The controller architecture (48) is configured to place the intelligent work vehicle filtration system (22) in the coarse filter over-control mode in response to receiving an operator input requesting the activation of the coarse filter over-control mode.

10. The intelligent operation vehicle filtration system (22) according to claim 2, wherein, The controller architecture (48) is configured to change the output of the hydraulic pump (86) when the intelligent work vehicle filtration system (22) is switched from the externally powered filter mode to the battery-powered filter mode.

11. The intelligent operating vehicle filtration system (22) according to claim 2, wherein, When the intelligent work vehicle filtration system (22) operates in the externally powered filter mode, a first voltage drop (138) occurs across the fine filter device (80); and When the intelligent operation vehicle filtration system (22) is operating in the battery-powered filter mode, a second pressure drop (134) occurs across the coarse filter device (82), and the second pressure drop (134) is equal to or less than half of the first pressure drop (138).

12. The intelligent work vehicle filtration system (22) according to claim 1, the intelligent work vehicle filtration system further includes at least one hydraulic actuator (46), the at least one hydraulic actuator being fluidly connected to the hydraulic circuit (70, 72, 74, 76, 78) and being controllable to move the implement (26) of the electro-hydraulic work vehicle (20).

13. The intelligent operating vehicle filtration system (22) according to claim 12, wherein, The at least one hydraulic actuator (46) includes a hydraulic cylinder (46) which is controllable to move the front loader assembly (24) of the electro-hydraulic work vehicle (20).

14. The intelligent operating vehicle filtration system (22) according to claim 1, wherein, The controller architecture (48) is also configured to: When the electro-hydraulic work vehicle (20) is out of service and the electric drive subsystem (50) is electrically connected to the external power source, the earliest expected start time for the expected resumption of the on-duty use of the electro-hydraulic work vehicle (20) is established. as well as Before the earliest expected start time, the intelligent work vehicle filtration system (22) is placed in the external power supply filter mode for a predetermined duration.

15. The intelligent operating vehicle filtration system (22) according to claim 1, wherein, The hydraulic subsystem (52) includes an active lubrication assembly (66, 68) fluidly connected to the hydraulic circuit (70, 72, 74, 76, 78) and selected from the group consisting of an active lubrication axle assembly (66) and an active lubrication transmission gearbox (68). The hydraulic pump (86) propels the flow of lubricant through the active lubrication assembly (66, 68) during operation of the electro-hydraulic work vehicle (20).

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