Enhanced electrical control of hydraulic system

Abstract

In some implementations, a hydraulic system may include a tank, a hydraulic pump, an actuator, and an unloading valve positioned between the pump and the tank. The hydraulic system may receive one or more inputs associated with the hydraulic system. The hydraulic system may determine one or more desired system pressures associated with the hydraulic system based on the one or more inputs. The hydraulic system may proportionally adjust the opening of the unloading valve to operate the hydraulic system at one or more desired system pressures.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates generally to a hydraulic system and, for example, to enhanced electrical control of a hydraulic system. Background Art

[0002] A machine (e.g., a work machine and / or a construction machine) may be used to perform one or more worksite operations (e.g., one or more material transfer, excavation, scraping, and / or dozing worksite operations). Typically, such a machine includes a hydraulic system that controls the movement of the machine and / or a component of the machine (e.g., an implement). In some cases, the hydraulic system is a proportional flow control (PFC) hydraulic system that proportionally controls the flow rate, directional control, and restriction of a hydraulic fluid within the hydraulic system.

[0003] Typically, a PFC hydraulic system uses a flow control valve with a fixed restriction to a tank (e.g., a low pressure tank), such as a fixed restriction in the last spool portion of the flow control valve, to facilitate hydraulic pump backup control or to enable controlled flow of hydraulic fluid to a tank (e.g., a fluid reservoir) of the hydraulic system at a specific pressure. This configuration allows the hydraulic system to transition between operating modes, directing excess hydraulic pump flow to the tank when backup control is activated, while maintaining a precise pressure level.

[0004] Additionally, PFC hydraulic systems typically use a main relief valve in conjunction with a fixed restriction for power generation functions, such as regeneration or thermal management functions (e.g., by generating a hydraulic system load through elevated hydraulic pump flow and pressure via the main relief valve and fixed restriction). However, in some cases, there are some disadvantages associated with typical PFC hydraulic systems. For example, when the PFC hydraulic system is not operating at full load (e.g., during a part-implement command requiring less flow), the fixed restriction to the tank still creates a constant flow resistance, which results in a loss of hydraulic fluid from the tank, resulting in reduced efficiency (e.g., associated with an increase in thermal load and power consumption).

[0005] Furthermore, to achieve low hydraulic pump loads, PFC hydraulic systems typically use a separate floating unloader valve component to direct the hydraulic pump flow to the tank. As an example, during cold engine starting (e.g., when the demand on the hydraulic system is minimal), the separate floating unloader valve component initiates a controlled flow diversion that effectively reroutes a portion of the output of the hydraulic pump flow to the tank. This redirection prevents the hydraulic pump from operating at an elevated pressure capacity, thereby minimizing the load placed on the engine during cold engine starting. However, this approach (e.g., using a separate floating unloader valve component) introduces greater complexity and expense to the hydraulic circuit while also introducing additional potential points of failure.

[0006] U.S. Patent No. 9,725,884 (the '884 patent) describes a hydraulic circuit for a construction machine. As described in the '884 patent, the hydraulic circuit includes: a center bypass passage into which pressurized oil discharged from a plurality of hydraulic pumps is supplied; a directional control valve group including a plurality of directional control valves arranged in series with the center bypass passage; a drain valve arranged on a downstream side of each center bypass passage relative to the directional control valve group; and a merging circuit that merges pressurized oil supplied to one of the plurality of center bypass passages with pressurized oil supplied to another of the plurality of center bypass passages.

[0007] As further described in the '884 patent, each directional control valve includes a first internal passage that causes pressurized oil supplied to the directional control valve to flow out into each center bypass passage, and a second internal passage that supplies the pressurized oil supplied to the directional control valve to a hydraulic actuator of a construction machine. The center bypass passage and the first internal passage form a parallel passage, wherein the first internal passage causes pressurized oil discharged from a hydraulic pump to flow out to a downstream side of the center bypass passage relative to the directional control valve. The relief valve performs relief control on the pressurized oil supplied through the parallel passage by changing an opening area of ​​the relief valve. The merging circuit includes a merging directional control valve that is disposed on an upstream side of the relief valve and controls an inflow direction of the pressurized oil so that the pressurized oil in the one center bypass passage is merged into the pressurized oil in the other center bypass passage, so that the hydraulic actuator corresponding to the directional control valve is preferentially operated by the pressurized oil in the one center bypass passage through a parallel passage disposed in the other center bypass passage. Summary of the invention

[0008] Some implementations described herein relate to a hydraulic system associated with enhanced electrical control. The hydraulic system may include a tank for storing a fluid supply; a pump for supplying pressurized fluid; an actuator that is movable within a range from a minimum position to a maximum position; an unloading valve positioned between the pump and the tank, wherein the unloading valve includes a proportionally controllable opening; and a controller configured to: receive one or more inputs associated with the hydraulic system; determine one or more desired system pressures of the hydraulic system based on the one or more inputs; and control the opening of the unloading valve to operate the hydraulic system at the one or more desired system pressures.

[0009] Some implementations of the present invention relate to a method for controlling a hydraulic system. The hydraulic system may include a controller, a tank, a pump, and an unloading valve positioned between the tank and the pump, the method comprising: receiving one or more inputs associated with the hydraulic system by the controller; determining one or more desired system pressures associated with the hydraulic system by the controller and based on the one or more inputs; and proportionally adjusting an opening of the unloading valve by the controller so as to operate the hydraulic system at the one or more desired system pressures.

[0010] Some implementations herein relate to a machine having a hydraulic system associated with an enhanced electrical control. The hydraulic system of the machine may include: a tank for storing a fluid supply; a pump for supplying pressurized fluid; an actuator movable from a minimum position to a maximum position; an unloading valve positioned between the pump and the tank and including a proportionally controllable opening; and a controller configured to: receive one or more inputs associated with at least one of the machine or the hydraulic system; determine one or more desired system pressures associated with at least one of the machine or the hydraulic system based on the one or more inputs; and control the opening of the unloading valve to operate the hydraulic system at the one or more desired system pressures. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0011] Figure 1 is a diagram of an example machine described in this article.

[0012] Figure 2 is a diagram of an example hydraulic system according to some embodiments of the present invention.

[0013] Figure 3 is a diagram of an example system in which the example apparatus and / or methods described herein may be implemented.

[0014] Figure 4 is a flow chart of an example process associated with reducing parasitic losses associated with a hydraulic system according to some embodiments of the present invention. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0015] The following detailed description of example implementations refers to the accompanying drawings.The same reference numbers in different drawings may identify the same or similar elements.

[0016] The present invention relates to a hydraulic system associated with enhanced electrical control (e.g., which can reduce parasitic losses and improve efficiency). The hydraulic system can be used by a machine (e.g., a wheel loader, an excavator, a bulldozer, a backhoe loader, and / or a crane, etc.) to perform one or more operations (e.g., one or more loading operations, lifting operations, hauling operations, and / or dumping operations, etc.). As an example, a machine can use a hydraulic system to control one or more implements for performing the one or more operations. The hydraulic system can include one or more hydraulic components (e.g., one or more cylinders, actuators, solenoids, and / or valves, etc.), as described in more detail elsewhere herein.

[0017] Figure 1 is an example machine 100 described herein. Figure 1 As shown, the machine 100 is implemented as a wheel loader. Although the machine 100 is implemented as a wheel loader, the machine 100 can be any suitable machine. Figure 1 As shown, machine 100 includes a frame 102 and one or more traction devices 104 that enable machine 100 to move on a ground surface 106 (e.g., a work surface) and / or below the ground surface (e.g., associated with an underground machine). One or more traction devices 104 include a set of rear wheels 108 (e.g., which can be driven via the engine and transmission power of machine 100) and a set of front wheels 110 (e.g., which can be used primarily to steer machine 100).

[0018] like Figure 1 As further shown, the frame 102 includes a rear end 112 and a front end 114 operatively connected to each other by an articulated joint 116 that enables the rear end 112 and the front end 114 to pivot relative to each other. The set of rear wheels 108 is disposed on the rear end 112 of the machine 100, and the set of front wheels 110 is disposed on the front end 114 of the machine 100 to form part of a hydraulic steering assembly 118 of the machine 100.

[0019] like Figure 1 As further shown, the machine 100 includes an operator station 120 supported by the frame 102. The operator station 120 includes an operator interface 122 (e.g., Figure 1 Although combined with Figure 1The operator interface 122 is shown and described as a steering wheel, but the operator interface 122 may be any suitable operator interface (e.g., one or more joysticks, levers, knobs, pedals, and / or switches, etc.). The operator may interact with the one or more operator interfaces to cause the machine 100 to perform one or more operations associated with the machine 100. As an example, the operator may interact with the one or more operator interfaces to propel the machine 100 on the ground 106, steer the machine 100, and / or control one or more implements associated with the machine 100, as described in greater detail elsewhere herein.

[0020] like Figure 1 As further shown, the machine 100 includes a work tool assembly 130 having a lift arm 132 and a bucket 134. As an example, the lift arm 132 and the bucket 134 may be used to lift, haul, and / or dump materials associated with a work site, as described in greater detail elsewhere herein. The lift arm 132 includes a first end 136 and a second end 138. The first end 136 is pivotally connected to the front end 114 of the frame 102 via a first pivot joint 140, which enables the lift arm 132 to be pivotally raised and lowered relative to the frame 102 and the ground 106. The bucket 134 is pivotally connected to the second end 138 of the lift arm 132 via a second pivot joint 142, which enables the bucket 134 to be tilted relative to the lift arm 132.

[0021] like Figure 1 As further shown in FIG. 1 , the machine 100 includes a prime mover 150 (e.g., an internal combustion engine, etc.) disposed at the rear end 112 of the frame 102 and a hydraulic system 152 (e.g., associated with enhanced electrical controls, as described in more detail elsewhere herein) operably connected to the prime mover 150. The hydraulic system 152 includes a first hydraulic actuator 154 and a second hydraulic actuator 156. The first hydraulic actuator 154 is operably connected to the lift arm 132 and the front end 114 of the frame 102. The first hydraulic actuator 154 can be extended and retracted (e.g., in a telescopic manner) to pivot the lift arm 132 relative to the first pivot joint 140, thereby raising and lowering the bucket 134.

[0022] The second hydraulic actuator 156 is operably connected to the lift arm 132 and the bucket 134. The second hydraulic actuator 154 can be extended and retracted to pivot the bucket 134 about the second pivot joint 142. Although the hydraulic system 152 includes a combination of Figure 1 A first hydraulic actuator 154 and a second hydraulic actuator 156 are depicted, but the hydraulic system 152 may include any suitable hydraulic actuators and / or hydraulic actuator configurations.

[0023] like Figure 1As further shown in FIG. 1 , the machine 100 includes a controller 158 (e.g., an electronic control module (ECM), etc.). The controller 158 may include one or more memories (e.g., one or more non-transitory computer-readable media) and one or more processors communicatively coupled to the one or more memories. The communicative coupling between the one or more processors and the one or more memories may enable the one or more processors to read and / or process information stored in the one or more memories and / or store information in the one or more memories.

[0024] In some implementations, the one or more memories may include one or more volatile and / or non-volatile memories. For example, the one or more memories may include one or more random access memories (RAM), read-only memories (ROM), hard drives, and / or other types of memories (e.g., flash memory, magnetic storage, and / or optical storage). The one or more memories may include one or more internal memories (e.g., one or more RAM, ROM, or hard drives) and / or one or more removable memories (e.g., removable via a universal serial bus connection). The one or more memories may store information, one or more instructions, and / or software (e.g., one or more software applications) related to the operation of the controller 158.

[0025] The controller 158 may include input components that enable the controller 158 to receive input (e.g., operator input and / or sensed input). For example, the input components may include a touch screen, a keyboard, a keypad, a mouse, a button, a microphone, a switch, a sensor, a global positioning system sensor, an accelerometer, a gyroscope, and / or an actuator, etc.

[0026] The controller 158 may include output components that enable the controller 158 to provide outputs, such as via a display, a speaker, and / or a light emitting diode. The controller 158 may include communication components that enable the controller 158 to communicate with other devices via a wired connection and / or a wireless connection. For example, the communication components may include a receiver, a transmitter, a transceiver, a modem, a network interface card, and / or an antenna, etc.

[0027] In some implementations, the controller 158 may be communicatively coupled to one or more sensors (e.g., at the interface) associated with the machine 100 and / or one or more components of the machine 100 (e.g., the work tool assembly 130 and / or the hydraulic system 152, etc.). Figure 1Thus, for example, the one or more sensors 160 may include one or more implement position sensors (e.g., to detect one or more positions or orientations associated with the work implement assembly 130), pressure sensors (e.g., to measure one or more pressures associated with the hydraulic system 152 and / or the work implement assembly 130), flow sensors (e.g., to measure one or more fluid flow rates associated with the hydraulic system 152), and / or implement engagement sensors (e.g., to measure one or more engagement indicators or disengagement indicators associated with the work implement assembly 130), etc.

[0028] Controller 158 may communicate with one or more sensors 160 to perform one or more operations and / or processes, as described in greater detail elsewhere herein. As an example, one or more sensors 160 may transmit information associated with machine 100 and / or work tool assembly 130, and controller 158 may receive information associated with machine 100 and / or work tool assembly 130, as described in greater detail elsewhere herein.

[0029] In some implementations, the controller 158 can receive one or more inputs (e.g., one or more operator inputs via one or more operator interfaces and / or one or more sensor inputs from one or more sensors 160, etc.), and based on the one or more inputs, the controller 158 can control the hydraulic system 152, as described in more detail elsewhere herein. As described above, Figure 1 is provided as an example. Other examples may differ from those in combination with Figure 1 As described.

[0030] Figure 2 is an example hydraulic system 200 (eg, which may correspond to Figure 1 FIG. 1 is a diagram of a hydraulic system 152 of a machine 100. Figure 2 As shown, the hydraulic system 200 includes a hydraulic pump 202, a supply line 204, a main line 206, a tank 208 (eg, a fluid storage), a controller 210 (eg, which may correspond to Figure 1 ), a sensor 212 (which may correspond to sensor 160 , for example), and a control valve assembly 214 .

[0031] like Figure 2 As further shown, the control valve assembly 214 includes an unloading valve 216 (e.g., Figure 2The first hydraulic circuit 218 and the second hydraulic circuit 220 are connected to the unloading valve 216. The unloading valve 216 is in fluid communication with the hydraulic pump 202, the tank 208, the first hydraulic circuit 218 and the second hydraulic circuit 220. The first hydraulic circuit 218 includes a first circuit valve 218a (for example, Figure 2 The first valve control device 218b (shown as a three-position six-way electro-hydraulic proportional control valve) Figure 2 ) and a first hydraulic actuator 218c (e.g., in Figure 2 The cylinder is shown in Figure 1 The second hydraulic circuit 220 includes a second circuit valve 220a (e.g., Figure 2 4-position six-way electro-hydraulic proportional control valve), a second valve control device 220b (for example, Figure 2 ) and a second hydraulic actuator 220c (e.g., in Figure 2 is shown as a cylinder and it can correspond to Figure 1 of the second hydraulic actuator 156).

[0032] Although the unloading valve 216 is shown and described as a three-position six-way electro-hydraulic proportional control valve, the first circuit valve 218a is shown and described as a three-position six-way electro-hydraulic proportional control valve, the first valve control device 218b is shown and described as a solenoid, the first hydraulic actuator 218c is shown and described as a cylinder, the second circuit valve 220a is shown and described as a four-position six-way electro-hydraulic proportional control valve, the second valve control device 220b is shown and described as a solenoid, and the second hydraulic actuator 220c is combined with Figure 2 Shown and described as cylinders, the unloading valve 216, the first circuit valve 218a and the second circuit valve 220a can be any suitable circuit valves, the first valve control device 218b and the second valve control device 220b can be any suitable valve control devices, and the first hydraulic actuator 218c and the second hydraulic actuator 220c can be any suitable hydraulic actuators.

[0033] like Figure 2 As further shown in FIG. 2 , the supply line 204 is fluidly coupled to the tank 208 and the inlet end of the hydraulic pump 202, and the main line 206 is fluidly coupled to the discharge end of the hydraulic pump 202. The hydraulic pump 202 can draw fluid from the tank 208 via the supply line 204. The hydraulic pump 202 can pressurize the fluid and can discharge the pressurized fluid to the main line 206 through the discharge end. The controller 210 can be configured to control the flow of the pressurized fluid through the main line 206 and the control valve assembly 214 (e.g., through the unloader valve 216, the first hydraulic circuit 218 and the second hydraulic circuit 220) and back to the tank 208, as described in more detail elsewhere herein.

[0034] In some implementations, the first circuit valve 218a and the controller 210 may control the first circuit valve 218a via the first valve control 218b and may control the second circuit valve 220a via the second valve control 220b. As an example, the controller 210 may send instructions (e.g., one or more commands associated with the hydraulic system 200) and the first valve control 218b may receive instructions that cause the first valve control 218b to control the first circuit valve 218a. As another example, the controller 210 may send and the second valve control 220b may receive instructions that cause the second valve control 220b to control the second circuit valve 220a.

[0035] The controller 210 may (e.g., based on these instructions) cause the first valve control device 218b to configure or position one or more components (e.g., valve core, stem, actuator, plug and / or orifice, etc.) of the first circuit valve 218a to increase or decrease the opening associated with the first circuit valve 218a. The controller 210 may cause the second valve control device 220b to configure or position one or more components of the second circuit valve 220a to increase or decrease the opening associated with the second circuit valve 220a.

[0036] In some implementations, the first hydraulic circuit 218 and the second hydraulic circuit 220 can be connected to a machine (e.g., Figure 1 machines) and / or work tool components (e.g. Figure 1 As an example, the first hydraulic circuit 218 may be associated with controlling a lift arm of the machine (e.g., Figure 1 132), and the second hydraulic circuit 220 may be associated with a bucket that controls the machine (e.g., Figure 1 Thus, for example, the first hydraulic actuator 218c and the second hydraulic actuator 220c can both be displaced between a minimum position and a maximum position.

[0037] Thus, the first hydraulic actuator 218C can be used to control the displacement (e.g., or movement) of the lift arm 132 between a minimum position and a maximum position (e.g., a lifting movement), and the second hydraulic actuator 220C can be used to control the displacement (e.g., a tilting movement) of the bucket 134 between a minimum movement and a maximum movement. In some implementations, the hydraulic system 200 can use the unloading valve 216 to prevent pressurized fluid from flowing to the tank during displacement (e.g., a partial displacement) of the lift arm 132 and / or during displacement (e.g., a partial displacement) of the bucket 134, as described in more detail elsewhere herein.

[0038] Although the first hydraulic circuit 218 is described as controlling a lift arm of the machine and the second hydraulic circuit 220 is described as controlling a bucket of the machine, the first hydraulic circuit 214 and the second hydraulic circuit 220 may control any suitable hydraulic function associated with the machine and / or work tool assembly. As an example, the first hydraulic circuit 218 and / or the second hydraulic circuit 220 may be used to control directional movement of the machine, control swing (or rotation) of the machine body, control a boom of the machine and / or a bar of the machine, etc.

[0039] In some implementations, the sensor 212 may include a pressure sensor that monitors pressure associated with the hydraulic system 200 (e.g., individual pressures of the first hydraulic circuit 218 and / or the second hydraulic circuit 220, etc.). As an example, the sensor 212 may measure and / or indicate pressure at a rod end of the first hydraulic cylinder 218c and / or the second hydraulic actuator 220c, pressure at a head end of the first hydraulic actuator 218c and / or the second hydraulic actuator 220c, pressure within a circuit line between the first circuit valve 218a and the first hydraulic actuator 218c, and / or pressure within a circuit line between the second circuit valve 220a and the second hydraulic actuator 220c. Figure 2 As further shown, the sensor 212 is communicatively coupled to the controller 210. Thus, for example, the sensor 212 may transmit measurements (e.g., pressure measurements) associated with the hydraulic system 200, and the controller 210 may receive measurements (e.g., pressure measurements) associated with the hydraulic system 200. The controller 210 may generate instructions based on the pressure measurements.

[0040] In some implementations, the unloader valve 216 can regulate the flow of pressurized fluid to the tank 208 (e.g., based on the operating mode of the hydraulic system 200, as described in greater detail elsewhere herein). As an example, the unloader valve 216 can include a valve spool operated by an electro-hydraulic solenoid (e.g., via instructions provided to the electro-hydraulic solenoid by the controller 210). Thus, for example, the hydraulic system 200 can control the valve spool to operate the hydraulic system 200 in one or more positions (e.g., associated with one or more operating modes and / or system modes, etc.).

[0041] As an example, the hydraulic system 200 may cause the unloader valve 216 to operate in a first position (e.g., to provide partial restriction for neutral bleed and / or bypass control, etc.), may cause the unloader valve 216 to operate in a second position (e.g., to fully close the opening of the unloader valve 216, to reduce or eliminate parasitic losses during an implement command and / or during a partial implement command, etc.), and / or may cause the unloader valve to operate in a third position (e.g., to provide sufficient opening area of ​​the unloader valve 216 to facilitate operation during a partial implement command, etc.). Figure 1 unloading function or capability during cold engine start of a machine, etc.).

[0042] In other words, the hydraulic system 200 can operate the unloading valve 216 in one or more operating modes based on one or more inputs associated with the hydraulic system (e.g., the hydraulic system 200 can use control logic to shift the spool of the unloading valve to one or more positions based on the one or more inputs). In this way, the hydraulic system 200 can use enhanced electrical control of the unloading valve 216 to provide a variable unloading function associated with the hydraulic system 200.

[0043] Thus, in some implementations, the unload valve 216 can be proportionally controllable (e.g., the unload valve can be operable in multiple positions). For example, the unload valve 216 can be operable in a first position, a second position, and a third position (e.g., associated with and / or based on one or more operating modes of the hydraulic system). As an example, the unload valve 216 can be operated in a first position to direct a flow of pressurized fluid to the tank 208 at a first pressure associated with the hydraulic system, can be operated in a second position to prevent the flow of pressurized fluid to the tank 208 (e.g., during displacement of the actuator between a minimum position and a maximum position, etc.), and / or can be operated in a third position to direct a flow of pressurized fluid to the tank 208 at a second pressure associated with the hydraulic system that is lower than the first pressure. As an example, the first pressure can be associated with at least one of a backup operating mode of the hydraulic system or a bypass operating mode of the hydraulic system.

[0044] As another example, the second pressure may be associated with an unloaded operating mode of the hydraulic system 200. In this manner, the controller 210 may cause the unload valve 216 to operate in a first position to enable the hydraulic system 200 to operate in a backup or bypass operating mode, in a second position to mitigate (or eliminate) parasitic losses during actuator commands, and / or in a third position to enable the hydraulic system 200 to operate in an unloaded operating mode. Thus, for example, the controller 210 may be configured to determine an operating mode associated with the hydraulic system, and based on the operating mode may cause the unload valve 216 to operate in one or more positions (e.g., a first position, a second position, or a third position, etc.).

[0045] In some implementations, the hydraulic system 200 may be a proportional flow control (PFC) hydraulic system (e.g., a hydraulic system that proportionally controls the flow rate and / or direction of hydraulic fluid within the hydraulic system), and the control valve assembly 214 may be a PFC control valve assembly. The PFC hydraulic system may operate the PFC hydraulic system in a backup operating mode or a bypass operating mode (e.g., associated with the unloading valve 216 operating in a first position), a command operating mode (e.g., a partial command operating mode associated with the unloading valve 216 operating in a second position during a partial actuator command), and / or an unloading operating mode (e.g., associated with the unloading valve 216 operating in a third position) using the unloading valve 216, rather than using a restrictor (e.g., in a final spool portion of a typical PFC control valve assembly) to enable the backup or bypass operating mode, rather than directing pressurized fluid to tank during a partial actuator command (e.g., because a typical PFC valve control assembly is not fully closed during a partial actuator command), and rather than using a separate valve unloading component (e.g., in a typical PFC control valve assembly) to enable the unloading operating mode. As mentioned above, Figure 2 is provided as an example. Other examples may differ from those in combination with Figure 2 as described.

[0046] Figure 3 is an exemplary system 300 (eg, which may correspond to Figure 1 The hydraulic system 152 and / or Figure 2 FIG. 2 is a diagram of a hydraulic system 200 in which the example apparatus and / or example method described herein may be implemented. Figure 3 As shown, the system 300 may include a controller 302 (eg, which may correspond to Figure 1 The controller 158 and / or Figure 2 Controller 210 ), the controller 302 includes a processor 304 and a memory 306 .

[0047] The processor 304 (e.g., of the controller 302) may be implemented in hardware, firmware, and / or a combination of hardware and software. The processor 304 may include a central processing unit (CPU), a graphics processing unit (GPU), an accelerated processing unit (APU), a microprocessor, a microcontroller, a digital signal processor (DSP), a field programmable gate array (FPGA), an application specific integrated circuit (ASIC), or another type of processing component. The processor 304 may include one or more processors that can be programmed to perform functions. The memory 306 (e.g., of the controller 302) may include a random access memory (RAM), a read-only memory (ROM), and / or another type of dynamic or static storage device (e.g., flash memory, magnetic memory, and / or optical memory) that stores information and / or instructions for use by the processor 304 (e.g., information and / or instructions associated with the system 300 and / or one or more components associated with the system 300, etc.).

[0048] like Figure 3 As further shown in FIG. 1 , the system 300 includes a control valve assembly 308 (eg, which may correspond to Figure 2 control valve assembly 214), an operator interface 310 (e.g., which may correspond to operator interface 122 and / or one or more operator interfaces as described in greater detail elsewhere herein), and a sensor 312 (e.g., which may correspond to Figure 1 The sensor 160 and / or Figure 2 sensor 212).

[0049] In some implementations, the control valve assembly 308 may include an unloading valve (e.g., Figure 2 unloading valve 216), one or more hydraulic circuits (e.g., Figure 2 The first hydraulic circuit 218 and / or the second hydraulic circuit 220, and / or one or more hydraulic components (e.g., Figure 2 The devices of environment 300 may be interconnected via wired connections, wireless connections, or a combination of wired and wireless connections. The control valve assembly 308 may be connected to a hydraulic pump (e.g., Figure 2 of hydraulic pump 202) and tank (e.g., Figure 2 The box 208) is fluidically connected.

[0050] In some implementations, the system 300 can operate in a first mode (e.g., a standby operating mode or a bypass operating mode), a second mode (e.g., a partial command operating mode), or a third mode (e.g., an unloaded operating mode). The standby operating mode or the bypass operating mode can be associated with maintaining a fluid at a specific pressure or allowing a pressurized fluid to flow to a tank at a specific pressure level (e.g., to ensure that the system 300 remains ready for immediate use while preventing over-pressurization or overheating). The command operating mode (e.g., the partial command operating mode) can be associated with a control action involving movement (e.g., partial movement) of one or more components of the system 300 (e.g., one or more hydraulic components associated with the system 300). The unloaded operating mode can be associated with reducing the load on the engine during a cold engine start of the machine.

[0051] In some implementations, the controller 302 can receive (e.g., from the operator interface 310 and / or from the sensor 312) one or more inputs associated with the system 300 (e.g., one or more inputs associated with an operator input, a sensor input, an operating condition, and / or an operating requirement, etc.). Based on the one or more inputs, an unloading pressure of the unloading valve at which the pressurized fluid is directed to the tank can be determined. Thus, for example, the controller 302 can determine whether the operating mode is a standby operating mode or a bypass operating mode based on receiving an operator input indicating that a pressure preparation associated with an implement is required (e.g., an operator may interact with an operator interface associated with the implement indicating that the operator intends to use the machine), a sensor measurement indicating that a pressure preparation associated with the implement is required (e.g., a sensor measurement indicating that the implement has been operably connected to the machine), and / or a sensor measurement indicating an overpressure event, etc.

[0052] As another example, the controller 302 may determine that the operating mode is a command operating mode (e.g., a partially command operating mode) based on the controller 302 receiving input indicating a desired displacement of an actuator associated with a hydraulic circuit of the hydraulic system (e.g., less than a maximum displacement of the actuator). As another example, the controller 302 may determine that the operating mode is an unloaded operating mode based on input indicating that a temperature associated with the engine meets a threshold (e.g., the temperature associated with the engine is less than or equal to a temperature threshold), etc.

[0053] In some implementations, the controller 302 can proportionally control the unloading valve between multiple positions to regulate the flow of pressurized fluid to the tank. As an example, the controller 302 can operate the unloading valve in a first position (e.g., based on one or more inputs and / or alternate operating modes), a second position (e.g., based on one or more inputs, command operating modes, and / or partial command operating modes, etc.), or a third position (e.g., based on one or more inputs and / or unloading operating modes). As an example, the controller 302 can send and the unloading valve can receive instructions that cause the unloading valve to operate in a first position based on a first input and / or alternate operating mode, to operate in a second position based on a second input and / or a command operating mode (e.g., a partial command operating mode), or to operate in a third position based on a third input and / or an unloading operating mode.

[0054] Thus, for example, when the unloader valve is in the first position, the unloader valve may be partially open to direct fluid to the tank. As another example, when the unloader valve is in the second position, the unloader valve may be closed (e.g., fully closed) to prevent fluid from flowing to the tank. In this way, parasitic losses are mitigated and the efficiency of the system 300 is improved. As another example, when the unloader valve is in the third position, the unloader valve may be opened to provide unloading capability (e.g., during cold engine starting).

[0055] In some implementations, the controller 302 can operate the unloader valve in a closed position that prevents pressurized fluid from flowing to the tank based on determining that the unloader pressure is zero pressure (e.g., during displacement of the actuator between the minimum position and the maximum position). In other words, during an actuator command (e.g., a partial actuator command), the controller 302 can use the unloader valve to prevent pressurized fluid from being directed to the tank, which mitigates (or eliminates) parasitic losses and improves the efficiency of the system 300.

[0056] As another example, based on determining that the unload pressure is a standby pressure associated with a standby operating mode of the hydraulic system, the controller 302 may operate the unload valve in an open position that directs pressurized fluid to the tank at the standby pressure. As another example, the controller 302 may operate the unload valve in an open position that directs pressurized fluid to the tank at the unload pressure based on determining that the unload pressure is an unload pressure associated with an unload operating mode of the hydraulic system.

[0057] To operate the system 300 in the standby operating mode or the bypass operating mode, the controller 302 may operate the unloader valve in the first position based on the first input. To operate the system 300 in the command operating mode (e.g., the partial command operating mode), the controller 302 may operate the unloader valve in the second position based on the second input. To operate the system 300 in the unload operating mode, the controller 302 may operate the unloader valve in the third position based on the third input.

[0058] Figure 3 The number and arrangement of the devices shown are provided as examples. In practice, there may be Figure 3 Additional devices, fewer devices, different devices, or differently arranged devices may be used compared to those shown in FIG. Furthermore, the invention may be implemented within a single device. Figure 3 Two or more devices shown, or may be Figure 3 The single device shown is implemented as multiple distributed devices. Additionally or alternatively, one set of devices (eg, one or more devices) of environment 300 may perform one or more functions described as being performed by another set of devices of environment 300.

[0059] Industrial Applicability

[0060] As described above, the disclosed subject matter relates to a hydraulic system with enhanced electrical control. The hydraulic system may be used by any machine (e.g., a wheel loader, etc.). In general, the hydraulic system may use enhanced electrical control of an unloading valve (e.g., a control valve assembly associated with the hydraulic system) to provide a variable unloading function associated with the hydraulic system. This enables the hydraulic system to mitigate (or eliminate) parasitic losses (e.g., during partial actuator commands) and improve the efficiency of the hydraulic system.

[0061] Thus, in some implementations, the hydraulic system may include a tank for storing a fluid supply, a pump for supplying pressurized fluid, an actuator displaceable within a range from a minimum position to a maximum position, an unloading valve positioned between the pump and the tank, and a controller. The unloading valve 216 may be proportionally controllable (e.g., the unloading valve may be operable in a plurality of positions to regulate the flow of pressurized fluid to the tank). For example, the unloading valve may be operable in a first position to direct the flow of pressurized fluid to the tank at a first pressure associated with the hydraulic system, may be operable in a second position to prevent the flow of pressurized fluid to the tank during displacement of the actuator between the minimum position and the maximum position, and / or may be operable in a third position to direct the flow of pressurized fluid to the tank at a second pressure associated with the hydraulic system that is lower than the first pressure, as described in greater detail elsewhere herein.

[0062] In some implementations, the hydraulic system can be a PFC hydraulic system, and the unloader valve can be associated with a PFC control valve assembly. The PFC hydraulic system can use the unloader valve to operate the PFC hydraulic system in a backup operating mode or a bypass operating mode (e.g., associated with an unloader valve operating in a first position), a command operating mode (e.g., a partial command operating mode associated with an unloader valve operating in a second position during a partial actuator command), and / or an unloader operating mode (e.g., associated with an unloader valve operating in a third position), without using a throttle (e.g., in a final spool portion of a typical PFC control valve assembly) to enable the backup or bypass operating mode, without directing pressurized fluid to a tank during an actuator command (e.g., because a typical PFC valve control assembly is not fully closed during an actuator command), and without using a separate valve unloader component (e.g., in a typical PFC control valve assembly) to enable the unloader operating mode.

[0063] Figure 4 is a flow chart of an exemplary process 400 associated with enhanced electrical control of a hydraulic system. In some implementations, Figure 4 One or more of the processing boxes may be provided by a hydraulic system (e.g., Figure 1 Hydraulic system 152, Figure 2 The hydraulic system 200 and / or Figure 3 In some implementations, Figure 4 The one or more processing blocks of the hydraulic system may be controlled by another device, or a group of devices separate from or including the hydraulic system, such as a controller (e.g., Figure 1 Controller 158, Figure 2 The controller 210, and / or Figure 3 Controller 302) is used to execute.

[0064] like Figure 4 As shown, process 400 may include receiving one or more inputs associated with a hydraulic system (box 410). For example, as described above, a controller of the hydraulic system may receive one or more inputs associated with the hydraulic system. In some implementations, the hydraulic system may include a tank, a pump, an actuator (e.g., an implement actuator), and an unloading valve positioned between the tank and the pump. The one or more inputs may be associated with one or more operating conditions of the hydraulic system. In some implementations, the hydraulic system may be a PFC hydraulic system, and the input may be associated with a command (e.g., a partial command) associated with a desired displacement (e.g., a desired partial displacement) of an implement actuator of an implement of a machine, as described in more detail elsewhere herein.

[0065] like Figure 4As further shown in FIG. 4 , process 400 may include determining one or more desired system pressures based on one or more inputs (block 420). For example, as described above, the controller may determine one or more desired system pressures based on the one or more inputs. As an example, the one or more desired system pressures may be associated with at least one of a standby pressure, an operating pressure associated with an implement command of an implement of the hydraulic system, or an unload pressure. As another example, the one or more desired system pressures may be associated with one or more operating modes of the hydraulic system.

[0066] In some implementations, the hydraulic system can be associated with a machine and the one or more inputs are associated with at least one of: an operator input associated with at least one of an operator interface of the machine, a sensor device input associated with a sensor device of at least one of the hydraulic system or the machine, or an operating condition associated with at least one of the hydraulic system or the machine.

[0067] like Figure 4 As further shown, process 400 may include proportionally adjusting an opening of the unloader valve to operate the hydraulic system at one or more desired system pressures (block 430). For example, as described above, the controller may include proportionally adjusting an opening of the unloader valve to operate the hydraulic system at one or more desired system pressures. In some implementations, to proportionally adjust an opening of the unloader valve to operate the hydraulic system at one or more desired system pressures, the controller may proportionally adjust the opening between at least a closed position and a partially open position.

[0068] Although Figure 4 Example blocks of process 400 are shown, but in some implementations, process 400 may include Figure 4 More blocks, fewer blocks, different blocks, or differently arranged blocks than those depicted in . Additionally, or alternatively, two or more blocks of process 400 may be performed in parallel.

[0069] In this way, the hydraulic system can use the unloading valve to operate the hydraulic system in one or more operating modes (e.g., based on one or more inputs associated with the hydraulic system). As an example, the hydraulic system can use control logic to operate the unloading valve in one or more positions based on one or more inputs. In other words, the hydraulic system can use enhanced electrical control of the unloading valve 216 to provide a variable unloading function associated with the hydraulic system. This enables the hydraulic system to mitigate (or eliminate) parasitic losses (e.g., during partial actuator commands) and improve the efficiency of the hydraulic system.

[0070] Embodiments of the disclosed subject matter can also be set forth according to the following brackets.

[0071] (1) A hydraulic system comprising: a tank for storing a fluid supply; a pump for supplying pressurized fluid; an actuator capable of moving within a range from a minimum position to a maximum position; an unloading valve positioned between the pump and the tank, wherein the unloading valve includes a proportionally controllable opening; and a controller configured to: receive one or more inputs associated with the hydraulic system; determine one or more desired system pressures of the hydraulic system based on the one or more inputs; and control the opening of the unloading valve to operate the hydraulic system at the one or more desired system pressures.

[0072] (2) The hydraulic system of (1), wherein the one or more inputs are associated with one or more operating conditions of the hydraulic system.

[0073] (3) The hydraulic system of any one of (1) to (2), wherein the one or more desired pressures are associated with at least one of: a standby pressure, an operating pressure associated with an implement command of an implement of the hydraulic system, or an unload pressure.

[0074] (4) A hydraulic system according to any one of (1) to (3), wherein in order to control the opening of the unloading valve to operate the hydraulic system at the one or more desired system pressures, the controller is configured to: move the opening between a closed position and a partially open position.

[0075] (5) The hydraulic system of any one of (1) to (4), wherein the one or more desired system pressures are associated with one or more operating modes of the hydraulic system.

[0076] (6) The hydraulic system according to any one of (1) to (5), wherein the one or more desired system pressures include a first system pressure and a second system pressure different from the first system pressure.

[0077] (7) The hydraulic system according to any one of (1) to (6), wherein the actuator is an implement actuator.

[0078] (8) A method for controlling a hydraulic system, the hydraulic system comprising a controller, a tank, a pump, and an unloading valve positioned between the tank and the pump, the method comprising: receiving one or more inputs associated with the hydraulic system through the controller; determining one or more desired system pressures associated with the hydraulic system through the controller and based on the one or more inputs; and proportionally adjusting an opening of the unloading valve through the controller so as to operate the hydraulic system under the one or more desired system pressures.

[0079] (9) The method of (8), wherein the one or more inputs are associated with one or more operating conditions of the hydraulic system.

[0080] (10) A method according to any one of (8) to (9), wherein proportionally adjusting the opening of the unloading valve by the controller to operate the hydraulic system at the one or more desired system pressures includes: proportionally adjusting the opening between at least a closed position and a partially open position.

[0081] (11) The method of any one of (8) to (10), wherein the one or more desired system pressures are associated with at least one of: a standby pressure, an operating pressure associated with an implement command of an implement of the hydraulic system, or an unload pressure.

[0082] (12) A method according to any one of (8) to (11), wherein the hydraulic system is associated with a machine, and wherein the one or more inputs are associated with at least one of: an operator input associated with at least one of an operator interface of the machine, a sensor device input associated with a sensor device of at least one of the hydraulic system or the machine, or an operating condition associated with at least one of the hydraulic system or the machine.

[0083] (13) The method of any one of (8) to (12), wherein the one or more desired system pressures are associated with one or more operating modes of the hydraulic system.

[0084] (14) The method according to any one of (8) to (13), wherein the actuator is an implement actuator.

[0085] (15) A machine comprising: a hydraulic system comprising: a tank for storing a fluid supply; a pump for supplying pressurized fluid; an actuator movable from a minimum position to a maximum position; an unloading valve positioned between the pump and the tank and comprising a proportionally controllable opening; and a controller configured to: receive one or more inputs associated with at least one of the machine or the hydraulic system; determine one or more desired system pressures associated with at least one of the machine or the hydraulic system based on the one or more inputs; and control the opening of the unloading valve to operate the hydraulic system at the one or more desired system pressures.

[0086] (16) The machine of (15), wherein the one or more desired system pressures are associated with at least one of: a standby pressure, an operating pressure associated with an implement command of an implement of the hydraulic system, or an unload pressure.

[0087] (17) In the machine described in any one of (15) to (16), in order to control the opening of the unloading valve to operate the hydraulic system under the one or more desired system pressures, the controller is configured to cause the opening of the unloading valve to close during the displacement of the actuator between the minimum position and the maximum position to prevent the pressurized fluid from flowing to the tank.

[0088] (18) A machine according to any one of (15) to (17), wherein the one or more inputs are associated with at least one of: an operator input associated with at least one of an operator interface of the machine, a sensor device input associated with a sensor device of at least one of the hydraulic system or the machine, or an operating condition associated with at least one of the hydraulic system or the machine.

[0089] (19) The machine according to any one of (15) to (18), wherein the opening of the unloading valve is movable between at least a closed position and a partially open position.

[0090] (20) The machine of any one of (15) to (19), wherein the actuator is an implement actuator.

[0091] As used herein, the term "component" is intended to be broadly interpreted as hardware, firmware, or a combination of hardware and software. Obviously, the systems and / or methods described herein can be implemented in different forms of hardware, firmware, and / or a combination of hardware and software. The actual dedicated control hardware or software code used to implement these systems and / or methods does not limit the implementation. Therefore, the operation and behavior of the systems and / or methods are described herein without reference to specific software codes-it should be understood that, based on the description herein, software and hardware can be used to implement the systems and / or methods.

[0092] As used herein, satisfying a threshold may refer to a value greater than a threshold, greater than or equal to a threshold, less than a threshold, less than or equal to a threshold, equal to a threshold, not equal to a threshold, etc., depending on the context.

[0093] To the extent that the above implementations collect, store, or use personal information of an individual, it should be understood that such information should be used in accordance with all applicable laws regarding the protection of personal information. In addition, the collection, storage, and use of such information may be subject to the individual's consent to such activities, for example, through well-known "opt-in" or "opt-out" processes, as may be appropriate for the circumstances and type of information. The storage and use of personal information may be in an appropriately secure manner reflecting the type of information, for example, through various encryption and anonymization techniques for particularly sensitive information.

[0094] Even though particular combinations of features are recited in the claims and / or disclosed in the specification, these combinations are not intended to limit the disclosure of the various implementations. In fact, many of these features may be combined in ways that are not specifically recited in the claims and / or disclosed in the specification. Although each dependent claim listed below may be directly dependent on only one claim, the disclosure of the various implementations includes each dependent claim in combination with all other claims in the claim set. As used herein, a phrase referring to "at least one" of a list of items refers to any combination of those items, including single members. As an example, "at least one of the following: a, b, or c" is intended to cover a, b, c, ab, ac, bc, and abc, as well as any combination of multiple identical items.

[0095] When a “processor” or “one or more processors” (or another device or component, such as a “controller” or “one or more controllers”) is described or claimed (either within a single claim or across multiple claims) as performing or being configured to perform multiple operations, the language is intended to broadly cover a variety of processor architectures and environments. For example, unless explicitly stated otherwise (e.g., by use of “a first processor” and “a second processor” or other language that distinguishes the processors in the claims), the language is intended to cover a single processor that performs or is configured to perform all operations, a group of processors that collectively perform or are configured to perform all operations, a first processor that performs or is configured to perform a first operation and a second processor that performs or is configured to perform a second operation, or any combination of processors that perform or are configured to perform operations. For example, when a claim has the form, “one or more processors configured to: perform X; perform Y; perform Z,” the claim should be interpreted to mean “one or more processors configured to perform X; one or more (possibly different) processors configured to perform Y; and one or more (possibly different) processors configured to perform Z.”

[0096] The elements, actions or instructions used herein should not be interpreted as critical or necessary unless clearly described in this way. In addition, as used herein, the articles "a" and "an" are intended to include one or more projects, and can be used interchangeably with "one or more". In addition, as used herein, the article "said" is intended to include one or more projects related to the article "said", and can be used interchangeably with "said one or more". In addition, as used herein, the term "set" is intended to include one or more projects (for example, related projects, unrelated projects, or a combination of related and unrelated projects), and can be used interchangeably with "one or more". In the case of only wanting a project, the term "one" or similar language is used. In addition, as used herein, the term "has", "have", "having" etc. are intended to be open terms. In addition, the phrase "based on" is intended to represent "based at least in part", unless otherwise explicitly stated. Furthermore, as used herein, the term "or" when used in series is intended to be inclusive and used interchangeably with "and / or" unless expressly stated otherwise (eg, if used in combination with "one of" or "only one of").

[0097] In the foregoing description, various exemplary embodiments have been described with reference to the accompanying drawings. However, it will be apparent that various modifications and changes may be made thereto, and additional embodiments may be implemented, without departing from the broader scope of the invention as set forth in the appended claims. Accordingly, the description and drawings are to be regarded as illustrative rather than restrictive.

Claims

1. A hydraulic system comprising: a tank for storing a fluid supply; a pump for supplying a pressurized fluid; an actuator capable of moving within a range from a minimum position to a maximum position; an unloading valve, which is positioned between the pump and the tank, wherein the unloading valve comprises a proportionally controllable opening; and A controller configured to: receiving one or more inputs associated with the hydraulic system; determining one or more desired system pressures for the hydraulic system based on the one or more inputs; and The opening of the unloading valve is controlled to operate the hydraulic system at one or more desired system pressures. 2 . The hydraulic system of claim 1 , wherein the one or more inputs are associated with one or more operating conditions of the hydraulic system.

3. The hydraulic system of claim 1 , wherein the one or more desired pressures are associated with at least one of: Backup pressure, an operating pressure associated with an implement command for an implement of the hydraulic system, or Unload pressure.

4. The hydraulic system of claim 1 , wherein to control the opening of the unloading valve to operate the hydraulic system at the one or more desired system pressures, the controller is configured to: The opening is moved between a closed position and a partially open position. 5 . The hydraulic system of claim 1 , wherein the one or more desired system pressures are associated with one or more operating modes of the hydraulic system. 6 . The hydraulic system of claim 1 , wherein the one or more desired system pressures include a first system pressure and a second system pressure different from the first system pressure.

7. The hydraulic system of claim 1, wherein the actuator is an implement actuator.

8. A method for controlling a hydraulic system, the hydraulic system comprising a controller, a tank, a pump, and an unloading valve positioned between the tank and the pump, the method comprising: receiving, via the controller, one or more inputs associated with the hydraulic system; determining, by the controller and based on the one or more inputs, one or more desired system pressures associated with the hydraulic system; as well as The opening of the unloading valve is proportionally adjusted by the controller to operate the hydraulic system at the one or more desired system pressures.

9. The method of claim 8, wherein the one or more inputs are associated with one or more operating conditions of the hydraulic system.

10. The method of claim 8, wherein proportionally adjusting, by the controller, the opening of the unloading valve to operate the hydraulic system at the one or more desired system pressures comprises: The opening is proportionally adjustable between at least a closed position and a partially open position.

11. The method of claim 8, wherein the one or more desired system pressures are associated with at least one of: Backup pressure, an operating pressure associated with an implement command for an implement of the hydraulic system, or Unload pressure.

12. The method of claim 8, wherein the hydraulic system is associated with a machine, and wherein the one or more inputs are associated with at least one of: an operator input associated with at least one of the operator interfaces of the machine, a sensor device input associated with a sensor device of at least one of said hydraulic system or said machine, or An operating condition associated with at least one of the hydraulic system or the machine.

13. The method of claim 8, wherein the one or more desired system pressures are associated with one or more operating modes of the hydraulic system.

14. The method of claim 8, wherein the actuator is an implement actuator.

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