VARIABLE CONTROL OF THE LIQUID DISTRIBUTION SYSTEM FOR A COMPACTION MACHINE

Abstract

In some embodiments, a fluid distribution system (202) of a compaction machine (100) can receive configuration information specifying the number of revolutions of a compaction element (102) of the compaction machine (100) in conjunction with a distribution cycle and a percentage of the distribution cycle. Based on the configuration information and sensor information, the fluid distribution system (202) can determine a first time interval of the distribution cycle and a second time interval of the distribution cycle. The fluid distribution system (202) can activate one or more fluid pumps (124) of the fluid distribution system (202) according to the first time interval. The fluid distribution system (202) can deactivate one or more fluid pumps (124) according to the second time interval.

Description

Technical field

[0001] The present disclosure relates generally to a fluid distribution system for a compaction machine and, for example, to the variable control of the fluid distribution system. State of the art

[0002] Compacting a surface material, such as soil or asphalt, can improve the surface's strength and stability. In road construction, a paver spreads hot road material, such as asphalt, across a surface, and a mobile compaction machine follows the paver to compact the material to the desired density and achieve an acceptable surface finish. Often, the compaction machine may include one or more compaction elements (e.g., compaction drums) that drive the machine and compact the road material through the machine's weight and vibration. During compaction, road material, such as asphalt, can adhere to a compaction element, which can negatively impact compaction performance.

[0003] Accordingly, the compaction machine can use a fluid distribution system, which includes a fluid pump, to distribute (e.g., spray) fluid, such as water, via one or more fluid distribution components onto the one or more compaction elements to prevent the road surface material from sticking. In many cases, an operator of the fluid distribution system inputs a duration, typically specified as a percentage of a distribution cycle (e.g., on the order of several tens of seconds, such as 40 seconds), for the fluid distribution. This activates the fluid pump and thus distributes the fluid onto the one or more compaction elements for that duration. However, this is a manual, imprecise, and unintuitive control process that often results in fluid waste (e.g.,by distributing more liquid than is necessary to prevent the paving material from sticking to the one or more compaction elements) or by deteriorating the quality of the paving material (e.g. by not distributing enough liquid to prevent the paving material from sticking to the one or more compaction elements).

[0004] U.S. Patent Application No. US2023 / 0078995 (“the 995 Publication”) discloses a timing control for a liquid spraying system of a compaction machine. In the 995 Publication, a control unit is configured to determine a spraying time (e.g., a spray configuration) for a first liquid pump and a second liquid pump based on the fraction of a spraying cycle during which the liquid spraying system is to be active. It is further noted that the control unit sets the spraying time to minimize any overlap between the active time of the first liquid pump and the active time of the second liquid pump, and / or any overlap between the inactive time of the first liquid pump and the inactive time of the second liquid pump.Thus, Publication '995 does not refer to a liquid distribution system comprising a single liquid pump, nor to the fact that activating the liquid pump causes liquid to be distributed onto the compression element for a specific number of revolutions. Accordingly, the number of revolutions of a compression element has no effect on the timing of the liquid spraying system described in Publication '995.

[0005] The fluid distribution system of the present disclosure solves one or more of the above-mentioned problems and / or other problems in this field. Summary

[0006] In some embodiments, a fluid distribution system comprises one or more fluid distribution components configured to distribute fluid at a compression element of a compaction machine; one or more fluid pumps configured to supply fluid to the one or more fluid distribution components; and a control unit configured to: retrieve configuration information specifying a number of revolutions of the compaction element of the compaction machine for which fluid is to be distributed via the one or more fluid distribution components at the compaction element during a distribution cycle, and specifying a percentage of the distribution cycle associated with the number of revolutions; and acquire sensor information connected to the compaction machine.Determine, based on the configuration information and the sensor information, a first time interval of the distribution cycle for the distribution of liquid at the compression element via the one or more liquid distribution components and a second time interval of the distribution cycle for the non-distribution of liquid via the one or more liquid distribution components; initiate the activation of the one or more liquid pumps according to the first time interval; and, based on the activation of the one or more liquid pumps, initiate the deactivation of the one or more liquid pumps according to the second time interval.

[0007] In some embodiments, a compaction machine comprises a compaction element; a fluid distribution system comprising one or more fluid pumps; and a control unit configured to: retrieve configuration information specifying the number of rotations of the compaction element for which fluid is to be distributed at the compaction element during a distribution cycle, and specifying the percentage of the distribution cycle associated with that number of rotations; acquire sensor information; determine, based on the configuration information and the sensor information, a first time interval of the distribution cycle for distributing fluid at the compaction element and a second time interval of the distribution cycle for not distributing fluid; and initiate the activation of the one or more fluid pumps according to the first time interval.and instigating, based on instigating the activation of one or more liquid pumps, the deactivation of one or more liquid pumps according to the second time interval.

[0008] In some implementations, a procedure includes the retrieval of configuration information by a fluid distribution system of a compaction machine, specifying the number of revolutions of a compaction element of the compaction machine in conjunction with a distribution cycle and a percentage of the distribution cycle; the determination of a first and a second time interval of the distribution cycle by the fluid distribution system based on the configuration and sensor information; the activation of one or more fluid pumps of the fluid distribution system according to the first time interval; and the deactivation of one or more fluid pumps according to the second time interval by the fluid distribution system. Brief description of the drawings Fig. Figure 1 is a diagram of an example machine described here. The Fig. Figures 2A-2E show examples of the machine described here. Fig. Figure 3 is a diagram of example components of a device associated with the variable control of a fluid distribution system. Fig. Figure 4 is a flowchart of an example process associated with the variable control of a fluid distribution system. Detailed description

[0009] This disclosure relates to a fluid distribution system suitable for any machine that uses fluid distribution, for example, a machine that uses one or more fluid pumps and one or more fluid distribution components.

[0010] Fig. Figure 1 is a diagram of an example machine 100 described here. While in Fig. While machine 100 is depicted as a compaction machine, it can also be a different type of machine. Machine 100 can be an asphalt compaction machine (e.g., a self-propelled twin-roller compaction machine), a vibratory roller compaction machine, or the like, which can be used to compact various materials, such as soil and / or asphalt.

[0011] The machine 100 has at least one compaction element 102, for example, a compaction roller. For example, as shown, the machine 100 has a front compaction element 102-1 and a rear compaction element 102-2. The compaction elements 102-1, 102-2 ensure ground contact between the machine 100 and the surfaces 104-1, 104-2 of the compaction elements 102-1, 102-2. The surfaces 104-1, 104-2 can be cylindrical surfaces, each forming the outer sides of the shells of the compaction elements 102-2, 102-2. When the machine 100 travels over a mat of paving material, the surfaces 104-1, 104-2 roll against the paving material and exert compaction forces on the paving material due to the weight and / or vibration of the machine 100.In some examples, the machine 100 may include, in addition to or as an alternative to the front compaction element 102-1 or the rear compaction element 102-2, one or more other ground attack elements, such as one or more wheels and / or one or more tracks.

[0012] The machine 100 includes an operator station 106, which is equipped with various systems and / or mechanisms for controlling the operation of the machine 100. For example, the operator station 106 may include a drive system control 108 (represented as a gearshift lever) and / or a steering system control 110 (represented as a steering wheel). Furthermore, the operator station 106 may include a control interface 112. The control interface 112 allows an operator or other user of the machine 100 to specify configuration information related to a fluid distribution system (e.g., the fluid distribution system 202, which is shown here in conjunction with the Fig. 2A-2E is described) are connected. The configuration information can, for example, specify a number of rotations of a compression element 102 (e.g., the front compression element 102-1 or the rear compression element 102-2) during which fluid is to be distributed at the compression element 102 during a distribution cycle (e.g., as described herein with respect to the Fig. 2A-2E described in more detail) and / or a percentage of the distribution cycle associated with the number of rotations. The control interface 112 may include a rotary dial, a knob, a lever and / or a touchscreen interface.

[0013] The machine 100 comprises an engine 114 and a generator 116 coupled to the engine 114, both mounted on a frame 118 of the machine 100. The generator 116 can serve as a power source for various onboard systems and components of the machine 100. The engine 114 can be any type of engine (e.g., internal combustion engine, gas engine, diesel engine, gas fuel engine, natural gas engine, propane engine, or the like) or an electric motor. The engine 114 is configured to drive the motion of the machine 100 (e.g., via compression elements 102-1, 102-2). The machine 100 also includes a braking system 120 designed to reduce the speed of the machine 100 or to bring it to a stop.

[0014] The machine 100 comprises one or more liquid distribution components 122, which may be part of the liquid distribution system (e.g., the liquid distribution system 202). Each liquid distribution component 122 may include a liquid spray bar, one or more nozzles for distributing liquid (e.g., water), a line supplying liquid to the liquid spray bar or the one or more nozzles, and / or other components. The one or more liquid distribution components 122 may be configured to distribute liquid (e.g., water) at one or more of the compression elements 102. As shown, the machine 100 comprises a set of one or more first liquid distribution components 122-1, which may be configured to distribute liquid at the front compression element 102-1 (e.g., at the surface 104-1 of the front compression element 102-1).The machine 100 may additionally or alternatively include a set of one or more second fluid distribution components 122-2 (not shown) that direct the fluid onto the surface 104-2 of the rear compression element 102-2.

[0015] The one or more liquid distribution components 122 can be connected to (e.g., in liquid connection with) one or more liquid pumps 124, which can be part of the liquid distribution system (e.g., the liquid distribution system 202) of the machine 100. Each liquid pump 124 can be any suitable liquid pumping mechanism configured to draw in liquid (e.g., from a liquid reservoir) and deliver the liquid (e.g., pressurized liquid) to the one or more liquid distribution components 122. Each liquid pump 124 can have a constant flow rate (e.g., of liquid), a variable flow rate, or another type of flow rate.

[0016] The machine 100 includes a sensor system 126, which can be configured to identify and / or determine speed information (e.g., the speed of the machine 100 or an intended speed of the machine 100, as input by an operator of the machine 100 via the drive system control 108, the steering system control 110, and / or the control interface 112), rotational speed information associated with a compaction element 102 (e.g., a speed on the order of seconds that the compaction element 102 requires to complete one revolution), and / or other information. The sensor system 126 may, for example, include a speed sensor, an accelerometer, a GPS (Global Positioning System) sensor, a rotation sensor for the compaction element, or other sensors.

[0017] The machine 100 includes a control unit 128 (e.g., an electronic control module (ECM)). The control unit 128 can be configured to perform various operations of the machine 100, such as liquid distribution operations associated with the Fig. 2A-2E are described. The control unit 128 can be connected to one or more systems of the machine 100 to enable, for example, autonomous control of one or more systems of the machine 100 (e.g., autonomous drive, steering, and / or brakes). The control unit 128 can be communicatively connected to a fluid distribution system 202 of the machine 100 and can provide control of the fluid distribution system 202, as described in the Fig. 2A-2E described.

[0018] As stated above, Fig. 1 is shown as an example. Other examples can be found in connection with Fig. as described in point 1.

[0019] The Fig. 2A-2E show examples 200 of the machine 100 described here. As in the Fig. As shown in Figures 2A-2E, the machine 100 comprises at least one compression element 102, the control interface 112, one or more liquid distribution components 122, one or more liquid pumps 124, the sensor system 126, and the control unit 128. As shown in the Fig. As further shown in Figures 2A-2E, the machine 100 can include a liquid distribution system 202, which may include one or more liquid distribution components 122, one or more liquid pumps 124 and / or the control system 128.

[0020] Each liquid pump 124 can be connected to the control unit 128 (e.g., via a wired or wireless connection). Thus, the control unit 128 can send a signal to each liquid pump 124 that activates the liquid pump 124 (e.g., causes the liquid pump 124 to switch on, pump liquid, or the like) or deactivates the liquid pump 124 (e.g., causes the liquid pump 124 to switch off, stop pumping liquid, cease pumping liquid, or the like), as further described herein. In some embodiments, instead of activating or deactivating each liquid pump 124 (e.g. by sending a signal to the liquid pump 124), the control unit 128 can cause the liquid pump 124 to change a pumping speed (e.g. in liters per minute or another unit of measurement) of the liquid pump 124.

[0021] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 2A and under reference number 204, the control unit can receive configuration information, for example, from the control interface 112. For instance, an operator or other user of the machine 100 can interact with the control interface 112 to enter the configuration information. The control interface 112 can then send the configuration information to the control unit 128, for example, via a connection (such as a wired or wireless connection) between the control interface 112 and the control unit 128, which allows the control unit 128 to receive the configuration information.

[0022] The configuration information can specify a number of revolutions of a compression element 102 (a specific compression element 102 of the at least one compression element 102, such as the front compression element 102-1 or the rear compression element 102-2) of the machine 100. The configuration information can specify a number of revolutions of the compression element 102 in conjunction with a distribution cycle of the fluid distribution system 202. For example, the configuration information can specify a number of revolutions of the compression element 102 for which fluid (e.g., water) is to be distributed at the compression element 102, for example, via one or more fluid distribution components 122, during the distribution cycle. In some embodiments, the number of revolutions can be specified as an integer value (e.g., as a whole number such as 1, 2, 3, etc.) or alternatively as a non-integer value (e.g.,a number expressed with a fraction or a decimal place such as 1.1; 1.25; 1.5; 2; 2.125 etc.).

[0023] Additionally or alternatively, the configuration information can specify a percentage of the distribution cycle. For example, the configuration information can specify a percentage of the distribution cycle associated with the number of revolutions of compaction element 102. That is, the configuration information can specify the number of revolutions of compaction element 102 to be performed within that percentage of the distribution cycle.

[0024] As shown by reference number 206, the control unit 128 can receive sensor information from the sensor system 126, for example. The sensor system 126 can send the sensor information (e.g., when the sensor system 126 acquires or determines the sensor information) to the control unit 128, for example, via a connection between the control interface 112 and the sensor system 126, which allows the control unit 128 to receive the sensor information.

[0025] The sensor information can be related to the machine 100. For example, the sensor information can include speed information related to the machine 100 (e.g., a speed or intended speed of the machine 100) and / or rotational speed information related to the compaction element 102 (e.g., the specific compaction element 102 described herein), for example, at one or more points in time.

[0026] As shown by reference number 208, the control unit 128 can determine a first time interval of the distribution cycle and a second time interval of the distribution cycle (e.g., based on the configuration information and / or the sensor information). The first time interval of the distribution cycle is used to distribute liquid at the at least one compression element 102, for example, via the one or more liquid distribution components 122, and the second time interval of the distribution cycle is used to prevent liquid from being distributed (for example, via the one or more liquid distribution components 122).

[0027] Accordingly, the duration of the distribution cycle can be equal to the sum of the first and second time intervals. That is, the duration of the distribution cycle can encompass the first time interval immediately followed by the second, or the second time interval immediately followed by the first. The first time interval can be equal to (e.g., within a tolerance) the duration of the distribution cycle multiplied by the percentage of the distribution cycle (e.g., as specified by the configuration information), and similarly, the second time interval can be equal to (e.g., within a tolerance) the duration of the distribution cycle multiplied by a remaining percentage of the distribution cycle (e.g., 100% minus the percentage of the distribution cycle).

[0028] To determine the first and second time intervals, the control unit 128 can determine a speed associated with the machine 100 (e.g., based on sensor information). For example, the control unit 128 can process the sensor information (e.g., read and / or analyze it) to determine the speed. Additionally, the control unit 128 can identify a circumferential measurement associated with the compaction element 102 (e.g., the specified compaction element 102), which can be stored in a data structure contained in and / or accessible to the machine 100. Accordingly, the control unit 128 can determine the first time interval based on the speed, the circumferential measurement, and the number of revolutions of the compaction element 102 (which is specified, for example, by the configuration information).For example, the control unit 128 can determine the first time interval as the time required to complete the number of revolutions of the compaction element 102, taking into account the circumference measurement associated with the compaction element 102 and the speed associated with the machine 100. That is, the control unit 128 can multiply the number of revolutions by the circumference measurement to obtain a product, and then divide the product by the speed to determine the first time interval. The control unit 128 can then determine the second time interval based on the first time interval and the percentage of the distribution cycle (which is specified, for example, by the configuration information). For example, the control unit 128 can determine the first time interval as equal to (e.g.,within a tolerance) a distribution cycle duration multiplied by the percentage of the distribution cycle. Accordingly, the control unit 128 can determine the duration of the distribution cycle (e.g., by dividing the first time interval by the percentage of the distribution cycle) and determine the second time interval by subtracting the first time interval from the duration of the distribution cycle.

[0029] Alternatively, the control unit 128 can determine the first and second time intervals using the rotational speed information associated with the compression element 102 (e.g., based on sensor information). For example, the control unit 128 can process (e.g., read and / or analyze) the sensor information to determine the rotational speed information. Accordingly, the control unit 128 can determine the first time interval based on the rotational speed information and the number of revolutions of the compression element 102 (which is specified, for example, by the configuration information). For example, the control unit 128 can determine the first time interval as the duration required to complete the specified number of revolutions of the compression element 102, taking into account the rotational speed information.This means that the control unit 128 can multiply the number of revolutions by the rotational speed information to determine the first time interval. The control unit 128 can then determine the second time interval based on the first time interval and the percentage of the distribution cycle, as described above.

[0030] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 2B and under reference number 210, the control unit 128 can initiate the activation of one or more liquid pumps 124. For example, the control unit 128 can initiate the activation of one or more liquid pumps 124 according to the first time interval. That is, as part of the distribution cycle, the control unit 128 can initiate the activation of one or more liquid pumps 124 (e.g., for the duration of the first time interval). In some embodiments, as an alternative to activating the one or more liquid pumps 124 (e.g., because the one or more liquid pumps 124 are already activated), the control unit 128 can cause the one or more liquid pumps 124 to have a first pumping rate according to the first time interval (e.g., for the duration of the first time interval).

[0031] As shown by reference number 212, triggering the activation of one or more liquid pumps 124 (or causing the one or more liquid pumps 124 to operate at the first pumping rate) (e.g., according to the first time interval) can cause the one or more liquid pumps 124 to supply liquid (e.g., water) to the one or more liquid distribution components 122 during the first time interval (e.g., for the duration of the first time interval) (e.g., at the first pumping rate). As shown by reference number 214, the one or more liquid distribution components 122 can therefore distribute liquid onto the at least one compression element 102 during the first time interval (e.g., for the duration of the first time interval). Accordingly, the activation of the one or more liquid pumps 124 can cause the distribution of liquid (e.g., water) to occur during the first time interval (e.g., at the first pumping rate).(for the number of revolutions during the first time interval) liquid is distributed onto the at least one compression element 102.

[0032] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 2C and under reference number 216, the control unit 128 can deactivate one or more liquid pumps 124 (e.g., based on the activation of one or more liquid pumps 124). For example, the control unit 128 can deactivate one or more liquid pumps 124 according to the second time interval. That is, as part of the distribution cycle, the control unit 128 can deactivate one or more liquid pumps 124 (e.g., for the duration of the second time interval). In some embodiments, as an alternative to deactivating one or more liquid pumps 124, the control unit 128 can cause one or more liquid pumps 124 to operate at a second pumping speed (e.g., a different speed than the first, for example, a second pumping speed that is lower than the first pumping speed) according to the second time interval.B. for the duration of the second time interval).

[0033] As shown by reference number 218, deactivating one or more liquid pumps 124 (e.g., according to the second time interval) can prevent the one or more liquid pumps 124 from supplying any liquid (e.g., water) to the one or more liquid distribution components 122 during the second time interval (e.g., for the duration of the second time interval). Accordingly, deactivating the one or more liquid pumps 124 can prevent liquid from being distributed to the at least one compression element 102 during the second time interval.In some embodiments, causing the one or more liquid pumps 124 to have the second pumping speed (which is, for example, lower than the first pumping speed) can reduce the amount of liquid distributed to the at least one compression element 102 during the second time interval (for example, for the duration of the second time interval).

[0034] While the Fig. 2B and Fig. Figure 2C shows that the control unit 128 causes the activation of one or more liquid pumps 124 (e.g., according to the first time interval), followed by the deactivation of one or more liquid pumps 124 (e.g., according to the second time interval) as part of the distribution cycle. Furthermore, the control unit 128 can cause the deactivation of one or more liquid pumps 124 (e.g., according to the second time interval), followed by the activation of one or more liquid pumps 124 (e.g., according to the first time interval) as part of the distribution cycle.corresponding to the second time interval) as part of the distribution cycle, or the control unit 128 can cause the one or more liquid pumps 124 to have the second pumping speed (e.g. corresponding to the second time interval), followed by causing the one or more liquid pumps 124 to have the first pumping speed (e.g. corresponding to the first time interval) as part of the distribution cycle.

[0035] As in Fig. As shown in 2D and under reference number 220, the control unit 128 can acquire other sensor information, for example from the sensor system 126 (e.g., based on at least one of the following operations: triggering the activation of the liquid pump or triggering the deactivation of the liquid pump, as described herein). For example, the sensor system 126 can send the other sensor information (e.g., when the sensor system 126 acquires or determines the other sensor information) to the control unit 128, for example via the connection between the control interface 112 and the sensor system 126, thereby enabling the control unit 128 to receive the other sensor information.

[0036] The other sensor information can be related to machine 100. For example, the sensor information can include other speed information related to machine 100 (e.g., a speed or intended speed of machine 100) and / or other rotational speed information related to the compaction element 102 (e.g., the specific compaction element 102), for example, at one or more other times after the one or more times associated with the sensor information.

[0037] As shown by reference number 222, the control unit 128 can determine another first time interval of another distribution cycle and another second time interval of another distribution cycle (e.g., based on the configuration information and / or the other sensor information). The other first time interval of the other distribution cycle is used for distributing liquid at the at least one compression element 102, for example, via the one or more liquid distribution components 122, and the other second time interval of the other distribution cycle is used for not distributing liquid (for example, via the one or more liquid distribution components 122).

[0038] Accordingly, the duration of the other distribution cycle can be equal to the sum of the other first time interval and the other second time interval. That is, the duration of the other distribution cycle can include the other first time interval immediately followed by the other second time interval, or the other second time interval immediately followed by the other first time interval. The other first time interval can be equal to (e.g., within a tolerance) the duration of the other distribution cycle multiplied by the percentage specified in the configuration information, and accordingly, the other second time interval can be equal to (e.g., within a tolerance) the duration of the other distribution cycle multiplied by a remaining percentage of the other distribution cycle (e.g., 100% minus the percentage specified in the configuration information).

[0039] The control unit 128 can determine the other first time interval and the other second time interval of the other distribution cycle in a similar way as shown here with respect to Fig. Determine as described in 2A and reference number 208. Since, in particular, the speed and / or rotational speed information associated with the machine 100 and / or the compaction element 102 (e.g., as indicated by the other sensor information) may differ from the corresponding speed and / or rotational speed information indicated by the sensor information, the other first time interval may differ from the first time interval, and the other second time interval may differ from the second time interval. Therefore, the duration of the other distribution cycle may differ from the duration of the distribution cycle.

[0040] Accordingly, the control unit 128 can initiate the activation of one or more liquid pumps 124 (e.g., according to the other first time interval) and / or the deactivation of one or more liquid pumps 124 (e.g., according to the other second time interval), for example, in a similar manner to that described here with respect to the Fig. 2B and Fig. 2C described. Alternatively, the control unit 128 can cause one or more liquid pumps 124 to have a different first pumping speed (e.g., corresponding to the other first time interval), and / or the control unit 128 can cause one or more liquid pumps 124 to have a different second pumping speed (e.g., corresponding to the other second time interval), for example, in a similar way to how described here with respect to the Fig. 2B and Fig. 2C described.

[0041] As an alternative to some or all of the above in relation to Fig. The control unit 128 can perform the processes described in 2D, as shown in Fig. 2E and shown under reference number 224, determine that one or more control change criteria are met (e.g., based on the other sensor information received from the control unit 128, as shown herein in relation to Fig. 2D and reference number 220 are described). For example, based on the other sensor information, the control unit 128 can determine that a speed associated with the machine 100 is less than or equal to a minimum speed control change criterion and / or that a rotational speed associated with the compression element 102 is less than or equal to a minimum rotational speed control change criterion. That is, the control unit 128 can determine that the machine 100 is moving too slowly and / or that the compression element 102 is moving too slowly, and can thereby determine that one or more of the criteria for a control change have been met.

[0042] Accordingly, as shown by reference number 226, the control unit 128 can identify another first time interval of another distribution cycle (e.g., for distributing liquid at the compression element 102, for example, via one or more liquid distribution components 122) and another second time interval of another distribution cycle (e.g., for not distributing liquid, for example, via one or more liquid distribution components 122). This other first time interval and this other second time interval can be stored in the data structure described here, and the control unit 128 can identify this other first time interval and this other second time interval by communicating with the data structure.

[0043] The duration of the other distribution cycle can be equal to the sum of the other first time interval and the other second time interval. That is, the duration of the other distribution cycle can include the other first time interval immediately followed by the other second time interval, or the other second time interval immediately followed by the other first time interval. In particular, the other first time interval may not be equal to the duration of the other distribution cycle multiplied by the percentage specified in the configuration information, and correspondingly, the other second time interval may not be equal to the duration of the other distribution cycle multiplied by a remaining percentage of the other distribution cycle (e.g., 100% minus the percentage specified in the configuration information).Furthermore, the other first time interval can differ from the first time interval, and the other second time interval can differ from the second time interval. Therefore, the duration of the other distribution cycle can differ from the duration of the distribution cycle.

[0044] Accordingly, the control unit 128 can initiate the activation of one or more liquid pumps 124 (e.g., according to the other first time interval) and / or the deactivation of one or more liquid pumps 124 (e.g., according to the other second time interval), for example, in a similar manner to that described here with respect to the Fig. 2B and Fig. 2C described. Alternatively, the control unit 128 can cause one or more liquid pumps 124 to have a different first pumping speed (e.g., corresponding to the other first time interval), and / or the control unit 128 can cause one or more liquid pumps 124 to have a different second pumping speed (e.g., corresponding to the other second time interval), for example, in a similar way to how described here with respect to the Fig. 2B and Fig. 2C described.

[0045] In this way, the control unit 128 enables, as shown here in relation to the Fig. 2D-2E describes a variable control of the liquid distribution system 202. For example, the control unit 128 causes the activation or deactivation of at least one of the one or more liquid pumps 124 according to a distribution cycle comprising a first time interval and a second time interval, and then the control unit 128 causes at least one of the activations or deactivations of the one or more liquid pumps 124 according to another distribution cycle having a duration that differs from a duration of the distribution cycle, for example because the other distribution cycle includes a different first time interval having a duration that differs from a duration of the first time interval, and a different second time interval having a duration that differs from a duration of the second time interval.

[0046] As stated above, the Fig. 2A-2E are shown as an example. Other examples can be found in connection with the Fig. 2A-2E as described differ.

[0047] Fig. Figure 3 is a diagram of example components of a device 300 connected to the variable control of a liquid distribution system. The device 300 can correspond to the control interface 112, one or more liquid pumps 124, the sensor system 126, the control unit 128, and / or the liquid distribution system 202. In some embodiments, the control interface 112, the one or more liquid pumps 124, the sensor system 126, the control unit 128, and / or the liquid distribution system 202 can comprise one or more devices 300 and / or one or more components of the device 300. As shown in Figure 3, the device 300 can be configured as follows: Fig. As shown in Figure 3, the device 300 can comprise a bus 310, a processor 320, a memory 330, an input component 340, an output component 350 and / or a communication component 360.

[0048] The bus 310 can include one or more components that enable wired and / or wireless communication between the components of the device 300. The bus 310 can include two or more components of Fig. 3. couple together, such as via operational coupling, communicative coupling, electronic coupling, and / or electrical coupling. For example, the bus 310 may include an electrical connection (e.g., a wire, a track, and / or a conductor) and / or a wireless bus. The processor 320 may include a central processing unit, a graphics processing unit, a microprocessor, a control unit, a microcontroller, a digital signal processor, a field-programmable gate array, an application-specific integrated circuit, and / or another type of processing component. The processor 320 may be implemented in hardware, firmware, or a combination of hardware and software. In some embodiments, the processor 320 may include one or more processors that can be programmed to perform one or more operations or processes described elsewhere herein.

[0049] Memory 330 can include volatile and / or non-volatile memory. For example, memory 330 can include random access memory (RAM), read-only memory (ROM), a hard disk drive, and / or another type of memory (e.g., flash memory, magnetic memory, and / or optical memory). Memory 330 can include internal memory (e.g., RAM, ROM, or a hard disk drive) and / or removable memory (e.g., removable via a universal serial bus connection). Memory 330 can be a non-transient, computer-readable medium. Memory 330 can store information, one or more instructions, and / or software (e.g., one or more software applications) relating to the operation of the device 300. In some implementations, memory 330 can include one or more memories coupled to one or more processors (e.g., processor 320).are communicatively coupled), such as via bus 310. Communicative coupling between a processor 320 and a memory 330 can enable the processor 320 to read and / or process information stored in memory 330, and / or to store information in memory 330.

[0050] The input component 340 enables the device 300 to receive inputs, such as user input and / or captured input. For example, the input component 340 can include a touchscreen, keyboard, keypad, mouse, button, microphone, switch, sensor, global positioning system sensor, global navigation satellite system sensor, accelerometer, gyroscope, and / or actuator. The output component 350 enables the device 300 to provide an output, such as via a display, speaker, and / or LED. The communication component 360 enables the device 300 to communicate with other devices via a wired and / or wireless connection.For example, the 360 ​​communication component can include a receiver, a transmitter, a transceiver, a modem, a network interface card and / or an antenna.

[0051] The device 300 can perform one or more operations or processes described herein. For example, a non-transitory, computer-readable medium (e.g., memory 330) can store a set of instructions (e.g., one or more instructions or codes) for execution by the processor 320. The processor 320 can execute the instruction set to perform one or more of the operations or processes described herein. The execution of the instruction set by one or more processors 320 causes the one or more processors 320 and / or the device 300 to execute the one or more processes. Hardwired circuitry can be used instead of, or in combination with, the instructions to execute the one or more processes. The processor 320 can be configured to execute the one or more operations or processes.Therefore, the implementations described here are not limited to a specific combination of hardware circuits and software.

[0052] The number and arrangement of the in Fig. The three components shown serve as an example. The device 300 can have additional components, fewer components, different components, or components arranged differently than those shown. Fig. 3 shown. A set of components (e.g., one or more components) of the device 300 can perform one or more functions that are described as being performed by another set of components of the device 300.

[0053] Fig. Figure 4 is a flowchart of an example process 400, which is associated with the variable control of a liquid distribution system. One or more process blocks of Fig. 4 can be performed by a liquid distribution system (e.g., liquid distribution system 202) of a machine (e.g., machine 100), such as a compaction machine. Additionally or alternatively, one or more process blocks can be made up of Fig. 4. are performed by another device or group of devices that are separate from or include the fluid distribution system, such as another device or component located inside or outside the fluid distribution system and / or the machine.

[0054] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 4, process 400 can include the acquisition of configuration information (block 410). For example, the fluid distribution system can acquire configuration information as described above. The configuration information can specify the number of revolutions of a compaction element of the compaction machine in conjunction with a distribution cycle, which indicates a percentage of the distribution cycle.

[0055] As in Fig. As further shown in Figure 4, process 400 can include determining a first time interval of the distribution cycle and a second time interval of the distribution cycle (block 420). For example, the fluid distribution system (e.g., based on configuration and sensor information) can determine a first time interval of the distribution cycle and a second time interval of the distribution cycle, as described above. The first time interval can be equal to the duration of the distribution cycle multiplied by the percentage of the distribution cycle.Determining the first time interval of the distribution cycle and the second time interval of the distribution cycle includes determining, based on sensor information, at least one of the following quantities: a velocity associated with the compaction machine or a rotational velocity information associated with the compaction element; determining the first time interval of the distribution cycle based on the at least one of the velocity associated with the compaction machine or the rotational velocity information associated with the compaction element and the configuration information; and determining the second time interval of the distribution cycle based on the first time interval and the configuration information.

[0056] As in Fig. As further shown in Figure 4, process 400 can include initiating the activation of one or more liquid pumps according to the first time interval (block 430). For example, the liquid distribution system can cause the activation of one or more liquid pumps (e.g., of the liquid distribution system) according to the first time interval, as described above.

[0057] As in Fig. As further shown in Figure 4, process 400 can include initiating the deactivation of one or more liquid pumps according to the second time interval (block 440). For example, the liquid distribution system can initiate the deactivation of one or more liquid pumps according to the second time interval, as described above.

[0058] Process 400 may include: determining, based on configuration information and other sensor information, another first time interval of another distribution cycle and another second time interval of the other distribution cycle, wherein the other first time interval differs from the first time interval and the other second time interval differs from the second time interval; causing the activation of one or more liquid pumps according to the other first time interval; and causing the deactivation of one or more liquid pumps according to the other second time interval.

[0059] Process 400 may include: determining, based on other sensor information, that one or more control change criteria are met; identifying, based on the determination that one or more control change criteria are met, a further first time interval of a further distribution cycle and a further second time interval of the further distribution cycle; causing the activation of one or more liquid pumps according to the further first time interval; and causing the deactivation of one or more liquid pumps according to the further second time interval.

[0060] Although Fig. Four example blocks of process 400 show that in some implementations, process 400 can have additional blocks, fewer blocks, different blocks, or differently arranged blocks than those shown. Fig.The four blocks shown are included. Additionally or alternatively, two or more of the blocks of process 400 can be executed in parallel. Industrial applicability

[0061] The fluid distribution system described here can be used with any machine that utilizes fluid distribution. For example, the fluid distribution system can be used with a machine that includes a compaction element, such as a compaction roller, for compacting soil, paving material, or similar materials.

[0062] A typical fluid distribution system allows manual input (e.g., by a machine operator) of a duration for the distribution of fluid onto the compaction element. However, this control process is imprecise and unintuitive (e.g., because it relies on inputting a duration), often resulting in fluid waste (e.g., by distributing more fluid onto the compaction element than necessary to prevent paving material from adhering to it) or impaired machine compaction performance (e.g., by not distributing enough fluid to prevent the road surface material from adhering to the compaction element).

[0063] In some embodiments described here, a control unit of the fluid distribution system can determine, based on configuration and sensor information, a first time interval of a distribution cycle for distributing fluid at a compression element and a second time interval of the distribution cycle for not distributing fluid. The configuration information can be entered by a machine operator and can specify the number of revolutions of the compression element for which fluid is to be distributed at the compression element during the distribution cycle, as well as a percentage of the distribution cycle associated with that number of revolutions. The sensor information can indicate the speed of the machine or the rotational speed of the compression element.

[0064] Accordingly, the control unit causes one or more liquid pumps of the liquid distribution system to be activated according to the first time interval (e.g., for the duration of the first time interval, so that liquid can be distributed to the compression element for the specified number of revolutions) and that the one or more liquid pumps are inactive according to the second time interval (e.g., for the duration of the second time interval, to prevent liquid from being distributed to the compression element for the second time interval). In some embodiments, the control unit causes the one or more liquid pumps to have a first pumping speed according to the first time interval (e.g.,for the duration of the first time interval, to allow a certain amount of liquid to be distributed onto the compression element for the number of revolutions) and causes one or more liquid pumps to have a second pumping speed corresponding to the second time interval (e.g., for a duration of the second time interval, to allow a smaller amount of liquid to be distributed onto the compression element for the second time interval).

[0065] In this way, some embodiments allow for variable control of the fluid distribution system, so that the duration of the first and second time intervals can change depending on a changing speed of the machine and / or the rotational speed of the compaction element. Thus, the fluid distribution system increases the probability that the fluid is distributed efficiently (e.g., by reducing the probability that more fluid is distributed onto the compaction element than is necessary to prevent the paving material from sticking to the compaction element, and / or by reducing the probability that not enough fluid is distributed to prevent the paving material from sticking to the compaction element). This reduces the number of refills required for the fluid reservoir (e.g.,to provide a supply of liquid to be distributed) and thereby increases the machine's productivity (e.g., by reducing downtime required for refilling the liquid reservoir) and also improves the quality of a paving mat compacted by the machine. Inputting the configuration information is also more intuitive for a machine operator (e.g., because the configuration information specifies a number of rotations of the compaction element and a percentage of the distribution cycle instead of an arbitrary duration), which increases the likelihood that the control unit will determine an optimal first and second time interval of the distribution cycle.

[0066] The foregoing disclosure serves for illustration and description purposes, but makes no claim to completeness and does not limit the implementations to the forms disclosed herein. Modifications and deviations may be made in light of the foregoing disclosure or derived from practical implementations. Furthermore, any of the implementations described herein may be combined unless the foregoing disclosure expressly provides a reason why one or more implementations may not be combined. Even if certain combinations of features are cited in the claims and / or disclosed in the patent specification, these combinations are not intended to restrict the disclosure of different implementations.Although each of the dependent claims listed below can depend directly on only one other claim, the disclosure of various implementations includes each dependent claim in combination with every other claim in the claim group. QUOTES INCLUDED IN THE DESCRIPTION

[0000] This list of documents cited by the applicant was automatically generated and is included solely for the reader's convenience. The list is not part of the German patent or utility model application. The DPMA accepts no liability for any errors or omissions. Cited patent literature

[0000] US 2023 / 0078995

[0004]

Images