Remote system and method for regulating the temperature of the operator's cabin of a working machine.

Abstract

This disclosure relates to a remote system for regulating the temperature of an operator's cabin of a work machine, and a method for remotely regulating the temperature of an operator's cabin of a work machine. [Solution] A remote system for regulating the temperature of the operator's cabin of a work machine includes a controller that determines whether at least one door and at least one window of the work machine are closed, determines that the current temperature of the operator's cabin is outside a desired temperature range, determines that the current voltage of the work machine's battery system is above a predetermined threshold, determines that the parking brake of the work machine is applied, and turns on the power and HVAC system of the work machine based on the determination that the doors and windows are closed, the current temperature of the operator's cabin is outside a desired temperature range, the current voltage of the battery system is above a predetermined threshold, and the parking brake is applied.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a work machine. More particularly, the present disclosure relates to a remote system for regulating the temperature of an operator cab of a work machine and a method for remotely regulating the temperature of an operator cab of a work machine.

Background Art

[0002] In cold environments or due to conditions encountered in winter, the operator cab of a work machine may become uninhabitable due to the low temperature inside the operator cab. These low temperatures are generally lower than the ideal body temperature, which is in the range of approximately 36 - 37 degrees Celsius or 98 - 99 degrees Fahrenheit. In such scenarios, the operator needs to physically enter the operator cab, turn on the engine of the work machine, and turn on the heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system of the work machine to warm the operator cab. Additionally, especially in extreme low temperature conditions where cold cranking is required, it may be desirable to turn on the engine to preheat it. Heating the engine may ensure that the work machine is ready to operate.

[0003] In contrast, in regions experiencing high temperatures, such as arid or coastal areas, the operator may be required to physically enter the operator cab, turn on the engine, and turn on the HVAC system to enable the HVAC system to cool the operator cab. If the temperature of the operator cab is outside the ideal temperature range, the operator may experience discomfort and it may reduce the operator's productivity.

[0004] U.S. Patent No. 10,011,156, hereafter referred to as 'Reference No. 156', describes a method for controlling vehicle cabin climate. The method of Reference No. 156 includes receiving and aggregating data related to one or more inputs, at least part of which is obtained in the vehicle and part of which is obtained from a source located remotely from the vehicle. The method further includes using a climate control module to determine an optimal cabin climate based on the aggregated data and to control one or more climate features in accordance with the optimal cabin climate.

[0005] However, the method from Reference No. 156 is designed solely to cool or heat the vehicle cabin without adhering to standard operating procedures that describe the vehicle's maximum operating efficiency, while taking into account safety protocols to maintain the maximum safety of the vehicle and any person in its vicinity. [Overview of the Initiative]

[0006] In one aspect of the present disclosure, a remote system for regulating the temperature of an operator's cabin of a work machine is disclosed. The remote system includes at least one door lock sensor coupled to at least one door of the work machine. The at least one door lock sensor is configured to generate a first input signal indicating whether at least one door is open or closed. The remote system also includes at least one window lock sensor coupled to at least one window of the work machine. The at least one window lock sensor is configured to generate a second input signal indicating whether at least one window is open or closed. The remote system further includes a temperature sensor located inside the operator's cabin. The temperature sensor is configured to generate a temperature signal indicating the current temperature of the operator's cabin. The remote system includes a voltage sensing sensor coupled to the battery system of the work machine. The voltage sensing sensor is configured to generate a voltage signal indicating the current voltage of the battery system. The remote system also includes a parking brake sensor coupled to the work machine. The parking brake sensor is configured to generate a parking brake signal indicating whether the parking brake of the work machine is applied. The remote system further includes a controller that communicates with each of the at least one door lock sensor, the at least one window lock sensor, the temperature sensor, the voltage sensing sensor, and the parking brake sensor. The controller is configured to wirelessly receive user input from the user and turn on the heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems of the work machine. The controller is also configured to determine whether at least one door of the work machine is open or closed based on a first input signal received from at least one door lock sensor. The controller is further configured to determine whether at least one window of the work machine is open or closed based on a second input signal received from at least one window lock sensor. The controller is configured to determine whether the current temperature of the operator's cabin is outside a desired temperature range based on a temperature signal received from a temperature sensor. The controller is also configured to determine whether the current voltage of the battery system is above a predetermined threshold based on a voltage signal received from a voltage sensing sensor.The controller is further configured to determine, based on a parking brake signal received from a parking brake sensor, whether the parking brake of the work machine is applied to prevent the work machine from moving. The controller is configured to turn on the power to the work machine if at least one door is closed, at least one window is closed, the current temperature of the operator cabin is outside the desired temperature range, the current voltage of the battery system is above a predetermined threshold, and the parking brake of the work machine is applied. The controller is also configured to determine whether the power supply is operational. If the power supply is operational, the controller is further configured to turn on the work machine's HVAC system to adjust the current temperature of the operator cabin to be within the desired temperature range.

[0007] Another aspect of this disclosure discloses a method for remotely controlling the temperature of an operator's cabin of a work machine. The method includes generating a first input signal indicating whether at least one door is open or closed using at least one door lock sensor connected to at least one door of the work machine. The method also includes generating a second input signal indicating whether at least one window is open or closed using at least one window lock sensor connected to at least one window of the work machine. The method further includes generating a temperature signal indicating the current temperature of the operator's cabin using a temperature sensor located inside the operator's cabin. The method includes generating a voltage signal indicating the current voltage of the battery system using a voltage sensing sensor connected to the battery system of the work machine. The method also includes generating a parking brake signal indicating whether the parking brake of the work machine is applied using a parking brake sensor connected to the work machine. The method further includes receiving a user input wirelessly from a user to turn on the heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system of the work machine using a controller. The controller communicates with each of the at least one door lock sensor, at least one window lock sensor, temperature sensor, voltage sensing sensor, and parking brake sensor. The method includes determining, by a controller, whether at least one door of the work machine is open or closed based on a first input signal received from at least one door lock sensor. The method also includes determining, by a controller, whether at least one window of the work machine is open or closed based on a second input signal received from at least one window lock sensor. The method further includes determining, by a controller, whether the current temperature of the operator's cabin is outside a desired temperature range based on a temperature signal received from a temperature sensor. The method also includes determining, by a controller, whether the current voltage of the battery system is above a predetermined threshold based on a voltage signal received from a voltage detection sensor.The method also includes the controller determining, based on a parking brake signal received from a parking brake sensor, whether the parking brake of the work machine is applied to prevent the work machine from moving. The method further includes the controller turning on the power to the work machine if at least one door is closed, at least one window is closed, the current temperature of the operator cabin is outside a desired temperature range, the current voltage of the battery system is above a predetermined threshold, and the parking brake of the work machine is applied. The method also includes the controller determining whether the power supply is operational. The method also includes the controller turning on the HVAC system of the work machine to adjust the current temperature of the operator cabin to be within a desired temperature range if the power supply is operational.

[0008] In yet another aspect of this disclosure, a working machine is disclosed. The working machine includes a frame. The working machine also includes a power supply mounted on the frame and configured to provide power for operation to one or more components of the working machine. The working machine further includes an operator cabin mounted on the frame. The working machine includes at least one door connected to the operator cabin. The working machine also includes at least one window connected to the operator cabin. The working machine further includes a battery system configured to provide power to one or more components of the working machine. The working machine includes a parking brake. The working machine also includes a heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system configured to perform at least one of heating and cooling the operator cabin. The working machine further includes a remote system for regulating the temperature of the operator cabin. The remote system includes at least one door lock sensor connected to at least one door. At least one door lock sensor is configured to generate a first input signal indicating whether at least one door is open or closed. The remote system also includes at least one window lock sensor connected to at least one window. At least one window lock sensor is configured to generate a second input signal indicating whether at least one window is open or closed. The remote system further includes a temperature sensor located inside the operator cabin. The temperature sensor is configured to generate a temperature signal indicating the current temperature inside the operator cabin. The remote system includes a voltage sensing sensor connected to the battery system. The voltage sensing sensor is configured to generate a voltage signal indicating the current voltage of the battery system. The remote system also includes a parking brake sensor configured to generate a parking brake signal indicating whether the parking brake of the work machine is applied. The remote system further includes a controller that communicates with each of the at least one door lock sensor, at least one window lock sensor, the temperature sensor, the voltage sensing sensor, and the parking brake sensor. The controller is configured to receive user input wirelessly from the user and turn on the HVAC system of the work machine.The controller is also configured to determine whether at least one door of the work machine is open or closed based on a first input signal received from at least one door lock sensor. The controller is further configured to determine whether at least one window of the work machine is open or closed based on a second input signal received from at least one window lock sensor. The controller is also configured to determine whether the current temperature of the operator cabin is outside a desired temperature range based on a temperature signal received from a temperature sensor. The controller is also configured to determine whether the current voltage of the battery system is above a predetermined threshold based on a voltage signal received from a voltage detection sensor. The controller is further configured to determine whether the parking brake of the work machine is applied to prevent the work machine from moving, based on a parking brake signal received from a parking brake sensor. The controller is configured to turn on the power to the work machine if at least one door is closed, at least one window is closed, the current temperature of the operator cabin is outside a desired temperature range, the current voltage of the battery system is above a predetermined threshold, and the parking brake of the work machine is applied. The controller is also configured to determine whether the power supply is operational. The controller is further configured to turn on the work machine's HVAC system to adjust the current temperature in the operator's cabin to stay within the desired temperature range, provided the power supply is operational.

[0009] Other features and aspects of this disclosure will become apparent from the following description and accompanying drawings. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0010] [Figure 1] Figure 1 is a schematic side view of a work machine according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 2] Figure 2 is a block diagram of a remote system for regulating the temperature of the operator's cabin of the work machine shown in Figure 1, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 3-1]Figure 3 is a flowchart illustrating a method for remotely controlling the temperature of the operator's cabin of the work machine shown in Figure 1, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 3-2] Figure 3 is a flowchart illustrating a method for remotely controlling the temperature of the operator's cabin of the work machine shown in Figure 1, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 4-1] Figure 4 is a process flowchart for a low-level implementation of the method of Figure 3 according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 4-2] Figure 4 is a process flowchart for a low-level implementation of the method of Figure 3 according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 5-1] Figure 5 is a process flowchart for a low-level implementation of the method of Figure 3, according to another embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 5-2] Figure 5 is a process flowchart for a low-level implementation of the method of Figure 3, according to another embodiment of the present disclosure. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0011] Wherever possible, the same reference number will be used throughout the drawing to refer to the same or similar part.

[0012] Referring to Figure 1, a schematic side view of an exemplary work machine 100 is shown. The work machine 100 is embodied as a wheel loader that can be used for purposes such as construction, landscaping, agriculture, and mining. Alternatively, the work machine 100 may be embodied as a truck, mining machine, tractor, motor grader, scraper, or any other work machine known to those skilled in the art that can be used in various industries.

[0013] The working machine 100 includes a frame 102. The working machine 100 also includes a power supply 104 mounted on the frame 102. The power supply 104 provides power to one or more components of the working machine 100, such as the linkage assembly 110 and several wheels 116 of the working machine 100. The power supply from the power supply 104 can be used to meet the operating and mobility requirements of the working machine 100. The power supply 104 may include an engine such as an internal combustion engine, a battery, a fuel cell, or a combination thereof. The power supply 104 is embodied as engine 104 in this specification. The power supply 104 may hereafter be referred to interchangeably as "engine 104".

[0014] The work machine 100 further includes an operator cabin 106 mounted on a frame 102. The operator cabin 106 includes one or more controls (not shown), such as a joystick, brakes, levers, buttons, switches, knobs, voice-visual devices, an operator console, and a steering wheel. The work machine 100 further includes a hood 108 surrounding a power supply 104.

[0015] The working machine 100 also includes a linkage assembly 110 movably connected to the frame 102. The linkage assembly 110 includes an arm 112 movably connected to the frame 102 and a tool 114 movably connected to the arm 112. The tool 114 is used to perform one or more working movements. The working machine 100 further includes several wheels 116. The wheels 116 provide support and mobility to the working machine 100 on the ground.

[0016] The working machine 100 includes one or more doors 118 connected to the operator cabin 106. The working machine 100 may include one door or two doors. Only one door 118 is shown as an example in Figure 1. The working machine 100 also includes one or more windows 120 connected to the operator cabin 106. The working machine 100 may include one window or two windows. Only one window 120 is shown as an example in Figure 1.

[0017] Referring here to Figure 2, the work machine 100 further includes a battery system 122 for providing power to one or more components of the work machine 100. The battery system 122 is a low-voltage battery system. In one example, the battery system 122 may provide a voltage output of 24 volts. The battery system 122 may provide power to the optical system, the mechanical-electronic control module (ECM) 136, or any other mechanical components of the work machine 100. The work machine 100 further includes a parking brake 124. The parking brake 124 is used to prevent the work machine 100 from moving and to keep the work machine 100 firmly in place when parked. The work machine 100 further includes a heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system 126 for heating or cooling the operator cabin 106 (see Figure 1). The HVAC system 126 may include various components such as evaporators, condensers, compressors, and ducts that operate to heat or cool the operator cabin 106.

[0018] The working machine 100 also includes an ignition relay 128 to start the battery system 122. The working machine 100 further includes a key position relay 130 associated with the door 118 of the operator cabin 106 (see Figure 1). The key position relay 130 may indicate whether the door 118 of the operator cabin 106 has been opened using a mechanical key.

[0019] Furthermore, the work machine 100 includes a fuel shut-off valve 132 that supplies fuel to the engine 104 and a starter motor 134 that starts the engine 104. The work machine 100 also includes a machine ECM 136. The machine ECM 136 communicates with the starter motor 134 and the battery system 122.

[0020] The present disclosure relates to a remote system 200 for adjusting the temperature of an operator cab 106 of a work machine 100. The work machine 100 includes the remote system 200. In one example, the remote system 200 may be retrofitted onto the work machine 100. The remote system 200 includes one or more door lock sensors 202 coupled to one or more doors 118 of the work machine 100. The one or more door lock sensors 202 generate a first input signal I1 indicating whether the one or more doors 118 are open or closed.

[0021] The remote system 200 also includes one or more window lock sensors 204 coupled to one or more windows 120 (see FIG. 1) of the work machine 100. The one or more window lock sensors 204 generate a second input signal I2 indicating whether the one or more windows 120 are open or closed.

[0022] The door lock sensor 202 may include any type of sensor that can detect whether the door 118 is open or closed, and also detect whether the door 118 is damaged and unauthorized access to the operator cab 106 has been obtained. Similarly, the window lock sensor 204 may include any type of sensor that can detect whether the window 120 is open or closed, and also detect whether the window 120 is damaged and unauthorized access to the operator cab 106 has been obtained. In some examples, each of the one or more door lock sensors 202 and the one or more window lock sensors 204 includes a pressure sensor, a capacitance sensor, a load sensor, a force sensor, or a touch sensor. In one example, the door lock sensor 202 may include a pressure sensor. In one example, the window lock sensor 204 may include a capacitance sensor. It should be noted that the present disclosure is not limited by the types of the door lock sensor 202 and the window lock sensor 204, and the door lock sensor 202 and the window lock sensor 204 may include any type of sensor known to those skilled in the art.

[0023] The remote system 200 further includes a temperature sensor 206 disposed within the operator cab 106. The temperature sensor 206 generates a temperature signal S1 indicating the current temperature of the operator cab 106. The temperature sensor 206 may include any type of sensor known to those skilled in the art that generates information related to the temperature of the surrounding area where the sensor is attached. The temperature sensor 206 may include, for example, a thermistor, a thermocouple, a resistance temperature detector, an optical fiber sensor, a radiation thermometer, or an optical pyrometer.

[0024] The remote system 200 further includes a voltage detection sensor 208 connected to the battery system 122 of the work machine 100. The voltage detection sensor 208 generates a voltage signal S2 indicating the current voltage of the battery system 122. The voltage detection sensor 208 may include a resistive voltage sensor, a capacitive voltage sensor, an inductive voltage sensor, or any other sensor known to those skilled in the art.

[0025] The remote system 200 also includes a parking brake sensor 210 connected to the work machine 100. The parking brake sensor 210 generates a parking brake signal S3 indicating whether the parking brake 124 of the work machine 100 is in the applied state. In one example, the parking brake sensor 210 may include a position sensor that monitors the parking brake 124 and generates information indicating the position of the parking brake 124. As another method, the parking brake sensor 210 may include any other type of sensor known to those skilled in the art that indicates whether the parking brake 124 of the work machine 100 is in the applied state.

[0026] The remote system 200 further includes a controller 212 that communicates with one or more door lock sensors 202, one or more window lock sensors 204, a temperature sensor 206, a voltage detection sensor 208, and a parking brake sensor 210. The controller 212 also communicates with a mechanical ECM 136, a key position relay 130, an ignition relay 128, and a fuel shut-off valve 132. In some examples, the functions of the controller 212 may be implemented by the mechanical ECM 136. In other words, the functions of the controller 212 and the mechanical ECM 136 may be implemented by a single control module. Furthermore, the voltage detection sensor 208 and the parking brake sensor 210 communicate with the controller 212 via the mechanical ECM 136. In other words, information from the voltage detection sensor 208 and the parking brake sensor 210 is received by the mechanical ECM 136, and the mechanical ECM 136 transmits the information to the controller 212.

[0027] The controller 212 includes one or more memories 214. The memories 214 may include any means for storing information, including hard disks, optical disks, floppy disks, ROM (read-only memory), RAM (random access memory), PROM (programmable ROM), EEPROM (electrically erasable PROM), or other computer-readable memory media known to those skilled in the art. The memories 214 may store various types of information. For example, the memories 214 may store a desired temperature range T1 to be maintained within the operator cabin 106. The desired temperature range T1 may be variable and may depend, for example, on the user or ambient temperature in the location where the work machine 100 is operating. The user may include the operator of the work machine 100. The desired temperature range T1 is the optimal temperature range in which the operator can comfortably sit and perform work operations within the operator cabin 106. Furthermore, the memories 214 may also store a predetermined threshold V1 for the battery system 122. The predetermined threshold V1 is a threshold below which the battery system 122 will not operate efficiently or at all.

[0028] The controller 212 also includes one or more processors 216 that are communicatively coupled to one or more memories 214. Note that one or more processors 216 may embody a single microprocessor or multiple microprocessors for receiving various input signals and generating output signals. Numerous commercially available microprocessors can perform the functions of one or more processors 216. Each processor 216 may include a general-purpose processor, a central processing unit, an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC), a digital signal processor, a field-programmable gate array (FPGA), a digital circuit, an analog circuit, a microcontroller, any other type of processor, or any combination thereof. Each processor 216 may include one or more components that can operate to execute computer executable instructions or computer code that can be stored in and retrieved from one or more memories 214.

[0029] The remote system 200 also includes a display module 218 that communicates with the controller 212. The display module 218 is located outside the operator cabin 106. For example, the display module 218 may be mounted outside the operator cabin 106 or on the frame 102 of the work machine 100 (see Figure 1). The display module 218 may include a speaker, a light such as a strobe light, or any other output device known to those skilled in the art. In the illustrated example in Figure 2, the display module 218 communicates with the controller 212 via the machine ECM 136.

[0030] The controller 212 receives user input I4 wirelessly from the user and turns on the HVAC system 126 of the work machine 100. The user is located outside the work machine 100. The controller 212 receives user input I4 from a user device 220 that is with the user. The user device 220 may be wirelessly connected to the controller 212, for example, via Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, or any other wireless communication means known to those skilled in the art.

[0031] The user device 220 includes a handheld electronic device or a remote control key. For example, the user device 220 may include a smartphone, a tablet, or any other input / output device known to those skilled in the art. In one example, a handheld electronic device may include a software application through which the user can send user input I4 to the controller 212. In another example, the user may access a web page on the handheld electronic device to send user input I4 to the controller 212. Furthermore, a remote control key may include any type of input / output device known to those skilled in the art that can wirelessly transmit / receive data to / from the controller 212. It should be noted that this disclosure is not limited to the technology or device through which the user transmits user input I4 to the controller 212 or receives data from the controller 212.

[0032] The controller 212 determines whether one or more doors 118 of the work machine 100 are open or closed based on a first input signal I1 received from one or more door lock sensors 202. The controller 212 also determines whether one or more windows 120 of the work machine 100 are open or closed based on a second input signal I2 received from one or more window lock sensors 204. The controller 212 further determines whether the current temperature of the operator cabin 106 is outside the desired temperature range T1 based on a temperature signal S1 received from a temperature sensor 206. Furthermore, if the doors 118 and windows 120 of the operator cabin 106 are closed and the current temperature of the operator cabin 106 is outside the desired temperature range T1, the controller 212 starts the battery system 122 via the ignition relay 128.

[0033] The controller 212 determines whether the current voltage of the battery system 122 exceeds a predetermined threshold V1 based on the voltage signal S2 received from the voltage detection sensor 208. The mechanical ECM 136 communicates with the battery system 122 and the voltage detection sensor 208. Furthermore, the mechanical ECM 136 receives a voltage signal S2 from the voltage detection sensor 208 indicating the current voltage of the battery system 122. Furthermore, based on the controller 212's determination of whether the current voltage of the battery system 122 is above or below the predetermined threshold V1, the mechanical ECM 136 transmits the voltage signal S2 to the controller 212.

[0034] The controller 212 also determines, based on the parking brake signal S3 received from the parking brake sensor 210, whether the parking brake 124 of the work machine 100 is applied to prevent the work machine 100 from moving. The machine ECM 136 communicates with the parking brake sensor 210. Furthermore, the machine ECM 136 receives the parking brake signal S3 from the parking brake sensor 210. Furthermore, based on the controller 212's determination of whether the parking brake 124 of the work machine 100 is applied, the machine ECM 136 transmits the parking brake signal S3 to the controller 212.

[0035] Furthermore, the controller 212 turns on the power supply 104 of the work machine 100 if one or more doors 118 are closed, one or more windows 120 are closed, the current temperature of the operator cabin 106 is outside the desired temperature range T1, the current voltage of the battery system 122 is above a predetermined threshold V1, and the parking brake 124 of the work machine 100 is applied. The controller 212 generates a first control signal C1 to turn on the power supply 104. The first control signal C1 is transmitted to the machine ECM 136. Based on the receipt of the first control signal C1, the machine ECM 136 starts the starter motor 134, which then turns on the engine 104.

[0036] Furthermore, the controller 212 sends an output signal O1 to the display module 218 before the power supply 104 is turned on. The controller 212 sends the output signal O1 to the machine ECM 136, which then sends the output signal O1 to the display module 218. Alternatively, the display module 218 may communicate directly with the controller 212. Furthermore, based on the output signal O1 received from the controller 212, the display module 218 generates an alarm A1 before the power supply 104 is turned on. Alarm A1 notifies personnel present around the work machine 100 that the power supply 104 is starting. In one example, alarm A1 may be a visual notification such as a strobe light. In another example, alarm A1 may be an audio notification such as a voice message, alarm, buzzer, or audio-visual notification.

[0037] The controller 212 also determines whether the power supply 104 is operational. In one example, the mechanical ECM 136 determines whether the engine 104 is operational. The mechanical ECM 136 may determine whether the engine 104 is operating based on the reception of input signals from one or more sensors (not shown) associated with the engine 104. For example, the mechanical ECM 136 may monitor parameters such as engine speed, engine load, manifold pressure, coolant temperature, fuel system status, or any other parameters known to those skilled in the art for determining whether the engine 104 is operational. Furthermore, the mechanical ECM 136 transmits information related to the operational status of the engine 104 to the controller 212, which then determines that the power supply 104 is operational.

[0038] Furthermore, the controller 212 turns on the HVAC system 126 of the work machine 100 and adjusts the current temperature of the operator cabin 106 so that it falls within a desired temperature range T1, provided the power supply 104 is operational. The controller 212 generates a second control signal C2 to turn on the HVAC system 126. The second control signal C2 is transmitted directly to the HVAC system 126. Based on the receipt of the second control signal C2, the HVAC system 126 begins to operate to adjust the temperature of the operator cabin 106 so that it falls within the desired temperature range T1. In some examples, the controller 212 also determines the fuel level in the fuel tank of the work machine 100 before generating the output signal O1 and the first control signal C1. The controller 212 may communicate with a fuel level sensor (not shown) to determine whether the fuel level in the fuel tank is sufficient to operate the engine 104 and the HVAC system 126. If the fuel level in the fuel tank is sufficient to operate the engine 104 and the HVAC system 126, the controller 212 generates an output signal O1 and a first control signal C1. In one embodiment, the controller 212 determines whether one or more doors 118 are open based on a first input signal I1 received from one or more door lock sensors 202, whether one or more windows 120 are open based on a second input signal I2 received from one or more window lock sensors 204, whether the current temperature of the operator cabin 106 is within a desired temperature range T1 based on a temperature signal S1 received from a temperature sensor 206, whether the current voltage of the battery system 122 is below a predetermined threshold V1 based on a voltage signal S2 received from a voltage detection sensor 208, and / or whether the parking brake 124 of the work machine 100 is not applied based on a parking brake signal S3 received from a parking brake sensor 210.

[0039] In these embodiments, the controller 212 takes no action; that is, if the controller 212 determines that one or more doors 118 are open, one or more windows 120 are open, the current temperature of the operator cabin 106 is within a desired temperature range T1, the current voltage of the battery system 122 is below a predetermined threshold V1, and / or the parking brake 124 of the work machine 100 is not applied, the controller 212 will not turn on the power supply 104 or the HVAC system 126. Furthermore, if the fuel level in the fuel tank is not sufficient to operate the engine 104 and the HVAC system 126, the controller 212 will not turn on the power supply 104 or the HVAC system 126.

[0040] Furthermore, the controller 212 sends a notification N2 to the user device 220 indicating that the power 104 is not turned on if one or more doors 118 are open, one or more windows 120 are open, the current temperature of the operator cabin 106 is within a desired temperature range T1, the current voltage of the battery system 122 is below a predetermined threshold V1, and / or the parking brake 124 of the work machine 100 is not applied. In addition, the controller 212 also sends a notification N2 if the fuel level in the fuel tank is not sufficient to operate the engine 104 and the HVAC system 126.

[0041] In one embodiment, after turning on the HVAC system 126, the controller 212 continues to monitor the current temperature of the operator cabin 106. Based on the temperature signal S1 received from the temperature sensor 206, the controller 212 determines whether the current temperature of the operator cabin 106 is within a desired temperature range T1. Furthermore, if the current temperature of the operator cabin 106 is within the desired temperature range T1 and a predetermined period TP1 has elapsed since the HVAC system 126 was turned on, the controller 212 turns off the HVAC system 126. The controller 212 generates a third control signal C3 to turn off the HVAC system 126. The third control signal C3 is transmitted directly to the HVAC system 126 to turn it off.

[0042] As used herein, the term “predetermined period TP1” refers to the duration for which the HVAC system 126 and the power supply 104 remain on after the controller 212 turns on the HVAC system 126. The memory 214 may store information related to the predetermined period TP1.

[0043] Furthermore, the controller 212 turns off the power supply 104 if the current temperature of each of the operator cabins 106 is within the desired temperature range T1 and a predetermined period TP1 has elapsed since the HVAC system 126 was turned on. The controller 212 generates a fourth control signal C4 to turn off the power supply 104. The controller 212 transmits the fourth control signal C4 to the fuel shut-off valve 132. Based on the receipt of the fourth control signal C4, the fuel shut-off valve 132 stops supplying fuel to the engine 104 and turns off the engine 104. Thus, the HVAC system 126 and engine 104 operate only until the predetermined period TP1 has elapsed, after which the HVAC system 126 and engine 104 are turned off. In one example, the controller 212 also sends a notification N1 to the user device 220 before the predetermined period TP1 has elapsed. Notification N1 may indicate to the user that the HVAC system 126 and engine 104 will be turned off in, for example, one minute, two minutes, or five minutes.

[0044] In one embodiment, the controller 212 continues to monitor first and second input signals I1, I2 received from the door lock sensor 202 and the window lock sensor 204, respectively, after turning on the HVAC system 126 to determine whether a user entered the operator cabin 106 before a predetermined period TP1 had elapsed. In such an embodiment, while the power supply 104 and the HVAC system 126 are each on, the controller 212 determines whether one or more doors 118 of the work machine 100 are open based on the first input signal I1 received from one or more door lock sensors 202, and / or whether one or more windows 120 of the work machine 100 are open based on the second input signal I2 received from one or more window lock sensors 204. The controller 212 further determines whether the current temperature of the operator cabin 106 is outside the desired temperature range T1 based on the temperature signal S1 received from the temperature sensor 206. In such an embodiment, the controller 212 also determines whether the operator cabin 106 was accessed by a user using a mechanical key. The controller 212 determines whether the operator cabin 106 has been accessed by a user based on the input signal I3 received from the key position relay 130.

[0045] Furthermore, the controller 212 turns off the HVAC system 126 if one or more doors 118 of the work machine 100 are open, and / or one or more windows 120 of the work machine 100 are open, even if the current temperature of the operator cabin 106 is outside the desired temperature range T1. Furthermore, the controller 212 turns off the power supply 104 if one or more doors 118 of the work machine 100 are open, and / or one or more windows 120 of the work machine 100 are open, even if the current temperature of the operator cabin 106 is outside the desired temperature range T1. Thus, the HVAC system 126 and engine 104 operate only when the doors 118 and windows 120 are closed, and the controller 212 turns off the HVAC system 126 and engine 104 respectively if the doors 118 or windows 120 are open.

[0046] Furthermore, in one embodiment, the controller 212 also determines unauthorized access to the operator cabin 106 by breaking a door 118 or window 120. The controller 212 determines unauthorized access based on a first or second input signal I1, I2 from the door lock sensor 202 or window lock sensor 204 and an input signal I3 from the key position relay 130. The controller 212 determines unauthorized access if the door 118 or window 120 of the operator cabin 106 is open and the key position relay 130 does not indicate that a machine key has been used to access the operator cabin 106. In such cases, the controller 212 turns off the engine 104 and the HVAC system 126 to prevent unauthorized access to the work machine 100. In some examples, the controller 212 may also use a display module 218 to generate an alarm indicating that the work machine 100 has been accessed by an unauthorized user.

[0047] Referring to Figure 3, a flowchart of method 300 for remotely controlling the temperature of the operator cabin 106 of the work machine 100 is illustrated. In step 302, one or more door lock sensors 202 connected to one or more doors 118 of the work machine 100 generate a first input signal I1 indicating whether one or more doors 118 are open or closed. In step 304, one or more window lock sensors 204 connected to one or more windows 120 of the work machine 100 generate a second input signal I2 indicating whether one or more windows 120 are open or closed. In step 306, a temperature sensor 206 located inside the operator cabin 106 generates a temperature signal S1 indicating the current temperature of the operator cabin 106. In step 308, a voltage detection sensor 208 connected to the battery system 122 of the work machine 100 generates a voltage signal S2 indicating the current voltage of the battery system 122. In step 308, the parking brake sensor 210 connected to the work machine 100 generates a parking brake signal S3 indicating whether the parking brake 124 of the work machine 100 is in the applied state.

[0048] In step 310, the controller 212 receives user input I4 wirelessly from the user and turns on the HVAC system 126 of the work machine 100. The controller 212 communicates with one or more door lock sensors 202, one or more window lock sensors 204, temperature sensor 206, voltage detection sensor 208, and parking brake sensor 210.

[0049] In step 312, the controller 212 determines whether one or more doors 118 of the work machine 100 are open or closed based on a first input signal I1 received from one or more door lock sensors 202. In step 314, the controller 212 determines whether one or more windows 120 of the work machine 100 are open or closed based on a second input signal I2 received from one or more window lock sensors 204. In step 316, the controller 212 determines whether the current temperature of the operator cabin 106 is outside the desired temperature range T1 based on a temperature signal S1 received from the temperature sensor 206.

[0050] In step 318, the controller 212 determines, based on the voltage signal S2 received from the voltage detection sensor 208, whether the current voltage of the battery system 122 exceeds a predetermined threshold V1. In step 320, the controller 212 determines, based on the parking brake signal S3 received from the parking brake sensor 210, whether the parking brake 124 of the work machine 100 is in an applied state to prevent the work machine 100 from moving.

[0051] In step 322, the controller 212 turns on the power supply 104 of the work machine 100 if one or more doors 118 are closed, one or more windows 120 are closed, the current temperature of the operator cabin 106 is outside the desired temperature range T1, the current voltage of the battery system 122 is above a predetermined threshold V1, and the parking brake 124 of the work machine 100 is applied. In step 324, the controller 212 determines whether the power supply 104 is operational. In step 326, the controller 212 turns on the HVAC system 126 of the work machine 100 and adjusts the current temperature of the operator cabin 106 so that it falls within the desired temperature range T1, if the power supply 104 is operational.

[0052] Furthermore, Method 300 includes the step of the controller 212 sending an output signal O1 to a display module 218 before turning on the power supply 104. The display module 218 communicates with the controller 212. The display module 218 is located externally to the operator cabin 106. Method 300 further includes the step of the display module 218 generating an alarm A1 before the power supply 104 of the work machine 100 is turned on, based on the output signal O1 received from the controller 212.

[0053] Method 300 further includes the step of the controller 212 determining, based on a temperature signal S1 received from a temperature sensor 206, whether the current temperature of the operator cabin 106 is within a desired temperature range T1. Method 300 further includes the step of the controller 212 turning off the HVAC system 126 in each case where the current temperature of the operator cabin 106 is within the desired temperature range T1 and a predetermined period TP1 has elapsed since the HVAC system 126 was turned on. Method 300 further includes the step of the controller 212 turning off the power supply 104 in each case where the current temperature of the operator cabin 106 is within the desired temperature range T1 and a predetermined period TP1 has elapsed since the HVAC system 126 was turned on.

[0054] Method 300 further includes the step of controller 212 determining whether one or more doors 118 of the work machine 100 are open and / or whether one or more windows 120 of the work machine 100 are open, based on a first input signal I1 received from one or more door lock sensors 202 and / or based on a second input signal I2 received from one or more window lock sensors 204, while each of the power supply 104 and the HVAC system 126 is on. Method 300 further includes the step of controller 212 determining whether the current temperature of the operator cabin 106 is outside the desired temperature range T1, based on a temperature signal S1 received from a temperature sensor 206. Method 300 further includes the step of controller 212 turning off the HVAC system 126 if one or more doors 118 of the work machine 100 and / or one or more windows 120 of the work machine 100 are open, even if the current temperature of the operator cabin 106 is outside the desired temperature range T1. Method 300 further includes the step of having the controller 212 turn off the power 104 if one or more doors 118 of the work machine 100 are open and / or one or more windows 120 of the work machine 100 are open, even if the current temperature of the operator cabin 106 is outside the desired temperature range T1.

[0055] Method 300 further includes the step of determining whether the parking brake 124 of the work machine 100 is not applied, based on a first input signal I1 received from one or more door lock sensors 202, whether one or more doors 118 are open, based on a second input signal I2 received from one or more window lock sensors 204, whether one or more windows 120 are open, based on a temperature signal S1 received from a temperature sensor 206, whether the current temperature of the operator cabin 106 is within a desired temperature range T1, based on a voltage signal S2 received from a voltage detection sensor 208, whether the current voltage of the battery system 122 is below a predetermined threshold V1, and / or based on a parking brake signal S3 received from a parking brake sensor 210. Method 300 further includes the step of the controller 212 sending a notification N2 to the user device 220 that the power supply 104 is not turned on if one or more doors 118 are open, one or more windows 120 are open, the current temperature of the operator cabin 106 is within a desired temperature range T1, the current voltage of the battery system 122 is below a predetermined threshold V1, and / or the parking brake 124 of the work machine 100 is not in an applied state.

[0056] Method 300 further includes the step of the controller 212 wirelessly receiving user input I4 from a user device 220 that is with the user. The user device 220 includes a handheld electronic device or a remote control key.

[0057] It should be noted that one or more of the steps shown in Figure 3 and / or described above may be performed in a different order than those illustrated and / or described. Furthermore, various steps can be performed together.

[0058] Figure 4 is a flowchart of process 400 for remotely controlling the temperature of the operator cabin 106 of the work machine 100. Process 400 is a low-level implementation of method 300 described in relation to Figure 3. Referring to Figures 2 and 4, process 400 may be stored in the memory 214 of the controller 212 and retrieved for execution by the processor 216 of the controller 212.

[0059] In block 402, process 400 begins operation. In block 404, controller 212 wirelessly receives user input I4 from the user. In block 406, controller 212 determines whether door 118 and window 120 are closed based on first and second input signals I1 and I2 received from door lock sensor 202 and window lock sensor 204, respectively. In block 406, if controller 212 determines that door 118 and window 120 are open, controller 212 proceeds to block 408, where controller 212 sends a notification N2 to user device 220 indicating that the engine 104 and HVAC system 126 will not be turned on because door 118 and / or window 120 are open. However, in block 406, if controller 212 determines that door 118 and window 120 are closed, process 400 proceeds to block 410.

[0060] In block 410, the controller 212 determines whether the current temperature of the operator cabin 106 is outside the desired temperature range T1. If the controller 212 determines in block 410 that the current temperature of the operator cabin 106 is within the desired temperature range T1, the controller 212 moves to block 408, in which the controller 212 sends a notification N2 to the user device 220 indicating that the engine 104 and HVAC system 126 will not be turned on because the current temperature of the operator cabin 106 is within the desired temperature range T1. However, if the controller 212 determines in block 410 that the current temperature of the operator cabin 106 is outside the desired temperature range T1, process 400 moves to block 412.

[0061] In block 412, the controller 212 starts the battery system 122 via the ignition relay 128. Next, process 400 moves to block 414, where the mechanical ECM 136 is turned on. Next, process 400 moves to block 416, where the controller 212 determines whether the current voltage of the battery system 122 is above a predetermined threshold V1. In block 416, if the controller 212 determines that the current voltage of the battery system 122 is below the predetermined threshold V1, the controller 212 moves to block 408, where the controller 212 sends a notification N2 to the user device 220 that the engine 104 and HVAC system 126 will not be turned on because the current voltage of the battery system 122 is below the predetermined threshold V1. However, in block 416, if the controller 212 determines that the current voltage of the battery system 122 is above the predetermined threshold V1, process 400 moves to block 418.

[0062] In block 418, the controller 212 determines whether the parking brake 124 of the work machine 100 is applied. If the controller 212 determines in block 418 that the parking brake 124 of the work machine 100 is not applied, the controller 212 moves to block 408, in which the controller 212 sends a notification N2 to the user device 220 indicating that the engine 104 and HVAC system 126 will not be turned on because the parking brake 124 is not applied. However, if the controller 212 determines in block 418 that the parking brake 124 of the work machine 100 is applied, the process 400 moves to block 420.

[0063] In block 420, the controller 212 sends an output signal O1 to the display module 218 via the machine ECM 136 to indicate to personnel present around the work machine 100 that the engine 104 is starting. From block 420, process 400 moves to block 422, where the controller 212 sends a first control signal C1 to the machine ECM 136 to start the starter motor 134 in order to turn on the engine 104. Based on the receipt of the first control signal C1, the machine ECM 136 starts the starter motor 134, which then turns on the engine 104. From block 422, process 400 moves to block 424, where the machine ECM 136 determines whether the engine 104 is operational. In block 424, if the machine ECM 136 determines that the engine 104 is not operational, process 400 returns to block 422. However, if the machine ECM 136 determines in block 424 that the engine 104 is operational, process 400 moves to block 426. In block 426, the machine ECM 136 notifies the controller 212 that the engine 104 is operational.

[0064] Next, process 400 moves to block 428, where controller 212 sends a second control signal C2 to HVAC system 126 to turn on HVAC system 126. Then, process 400 moves to block 430, where controller 212 continuously monitors the current temperature of operator cabin 106 based on the temperature signal S1 received from temperature sensor 206. Next, process 400 moves to block 432, where controller 212 compares the current temperature of operator cabin 106 to a desired temperature range T1. If in block 432 controller 212 determines that the current temperature of operator cabin 106 is outside the desired temperature range T1, process 400 returns to block 430. However, if in block 432 controller 212 determines that the current temperature of operator cabin 106 is within the desired temperature range T1, process 400 moves to block 434. In block 434 controller 212 determines whether a predetermined period TP1 has elapsed. If the controller 212 determines that the predetermined period TP1 has not elapsed, process 400 returns to block 432. However, if the controller 212 determines that the predetermined period TP1 has elapsed, process 400 moves to block 436, where the controller 212 turns off the HVAC system 126. Next, process 400 moves to block 438, where the controller 212 turns off the engine 104 using the fuel shut-off valve 132. Finally, process 400 moves to block 440, where process 400 terminates its operation.

[0065] Figure 5 is a flowchart of process 500 for remotely controlling the temperature of the operator cabin 106 of the work machine 100. Process 500 is a low-level implementation of method 300 described in relation to Figure 3. Referring to Figures 2 and 5, process 500 may be stored in the memory 214 of the controller 212 and retrieved for execution by the processor 216 of the controller 212.

[0066] In block 502, process 500 begins operation. In block 504, controller 212 wirelessly receives user input I4 from the user. In block 506, controller 212 determines whether the door 118 and window 120 are closed based on the first and second input signals I1 and I2 received from the door lock sensor 202 and window lock sensor 204, respectively. In block 506, if controller 212 determines that the door 118 and window 120 are open, controller 212 proceeds to block 508, where controller 212 sends a notification N2 to the user device 220 indicating that the engine 104 and HVAC system 126 will not turn on because the door 118 and / or window 120 are open. However, in block 506, if controller 212 determines that the door 118 and window 120 are closed, process 500 proceeds to block 510.

[0067] In block 510, the controller 212 determines whether the current temperature of the operator cabin 106 is outside the desired temperature range T1. If the controller 212 determines in block 510 that the current temperature of the operator cabin 106 is within the desired temperature range T1, the controller 212 proceeds to block 508, in which the controller 212 sends a notification N2 to the user device 220 indicating that the engine 104 and HVAC system 126 will not be turned on because the current temperature of the operator cabin 106 is within the desired temperature range T1. However, if the controller 212 determines in block 510 that the current temperature of the operator cabin 106 is outside the desired temperature range T1, process 500 proceeds to block 512.

[0068] In block 512, the controller 212 starts the battery system 122 via the ignition relay 128. Next, process 500 moves to block 514, where the mechanical ECM 136 is turned on. Next, process 500 moves to block 516, where the controller 212 determines whether the current voltage of the battery system 122 is above a predetermined threshold V1. In block 516, if the controller 212 determines that the current voltage of the battery system 122 is below the predetermined threshold V1, the controller 212 moves to block 508, where the controller 212 sends a notification N2 to the user device 220 that the engine 104 and HVAC system 126 will not be turned on because the current voltage of the battery system 122 is below the predetermined threshold V1. However, in block 516, if the controller 212 determines that the current voltage of the battery system 122 is above the predetermined threshold V1, process 500 moves to block 518.

[0069] In block 518, the controller 212 determines whether the parking brake 124 of the work machine 100 is applied. If the controller 212 determines in block 518 that the parking brake 124 of the work machine 100 is not applied, the controller 212 moves to block 508, where the controller 212 sends a notification N2 to the user device 220 indicating that the engine 104 and HVAC system 126 will not turn on because the parking brake 124 is not applied. However, if the controller 212 determines in block 518 that the parking brake 124 of the work machine 100 is applied, the process 500 moves to block 520.

[0070] In block 520, the controller 212 sends an output signal O1 to the display module 218 via the machine ECM 136 to indicate to personnel present around the work machine 100 that the engine 104 is starting. From block 520, process 500 moves to block 522, where the controller 212 sends a first control signal C1 to the machine ECM 136 to turn on the starter motor 134 in order to turn on the engine 104. Based on the receipt of the first control signal C1, the machine ECM 136 starts the starter motor 134, which then turns on the engine 104. From block 522, process 500 moves to block 524, where the machine ECM 136 determines whether the engine 104 is operational. In block 524, if the machine ECM 136 determines that the engine 104 is not operational, process 500 returns to block 522. However, if the machine ECM 136 determines in block 524 that the engine 104 is operational, process 500 moves to block 526. In block 526, the machine ECM 136 notifies the controller 212 that the engine 104 is operational.

[0071] Next, process 500 moves to block 528, where controller 212 sends a second control signal C2 to HVAC system 126 to turn on HVAC system 126. Then, process 500 moves to block 530, where controller 212 continuously monitors the current temperature of operator cabin 106 based on the temperature signal S1 received from temperature sensor 206.

[0072] From block 530, process 500 may move to block 532, where the controller 212 determines whether the door 118 or window 120 of the operator cabin 106 is open based on first and second input signals I1, I2 received from the door lock sensor 202 and the window lock sensor 204, respectively. In block 532, the controller 212 also determines whether the door 118 of the operator cabin 106 was opened using a mechanical key based on an input signal I3 received from the key position relay 130. If the controller 212 determines that the door 118 or window 120 of the operator cabin 106 is open, or that the door 118 of the operator cabin 106 was opened using a mechanical key, process 500 moves to block 534, where the controller 212 turns off the HVAC system 126. Next, process 500 moves to block 536, where the controller 212 turns off the engine 104 using the fuel shut-off valve 132. Then, process 500 moves to block 538, where process 500 terminates its operation. In this scenario, the operator enters the operator cabin 106 before the predetermined period TP1 has elapsed. Note that the engine 104 and HVAC system 126 are turned off to maintain optimal machine starting conditions.

[0073] From block 530, process 500 may also move to block 540, where the controller 212 determines that the operator has entered the operator cabin 106 after a predetermined period TP1 has elapsed. If the controller 212 determines that the operator has not entered the operator cabin 106 even after the predetermined period TP1 has elapsed, process 500 moves to block 534, where the controller 212 turns off the HVAC system 126. Next, process 500 moves to block 536, where the controller 212 turns off the engine 104 using the fuel shut-off valve 132. Note that the engine 104 and the HVAC system 126 are turned off to conserve fuel and battery power for the battery system 122. Next, process 500 moves to block 538, and process 500 ends its operation.

[0074] It should be noted that individual features illustrated or described in one embodiment may be combined with individual features illustrated or described in another embodiment. The above-described implementations do not limit the scope of this disclosure. Therefore, while some features are illustrated or described to illustrate the use of this disclosure in the context of a functional segment, it should be understood that such features may be omitted from the scope of this disclosure as defined in the appended claims. [Industrial applicability]

[0075] This disclosure describes a remote system 200 and method 300 for regulating the temperature of the operator cabin 106 of a work machine 100. The remote system 200 and method 300 may eliminate the requirement for the operator to physically enter the operator cabin 106 and turn on the engine 104 and HVAC system 126 to cool or heat the operator cabin 106, which may improve the operator's convenience. Furthermore, the remote system 200 and method 300 ensure that the current temperature of the operator cabin 106 is within a desired temperature range T1 that may improve the operator's comfort and productivity. Furthermore, if the remote system 200 and method 300 also turns on the engine 104, the work machine 100 is ready to operate when the operator enters the operator cabin 106 of the work machine 100. This feature of heating the engine 104 may be advantageous in cryogenic environments where cold cranking is required.

[0076] The remote system 200 can be retrofitted to existing work machines to allow users to remotely turn on the engine 104 and the HVAC system 126. The remote system 200 may be cost-effective and easy to implement on work machines because its controller 212 interfaces with existing sensors on the work machine 100 to control the engine 104 and the HVAC system 126.

[0077] Furthermore, the remote system 200 verifies whether it is acceptable to turn on the engine 104 and HVAC system 126 by determining the status of the doors 118 and windows 120, the current voltage of the battery system 122, the status of the parking brake 124, and the current temperature of the operator cabin 106, which may improve the reliability of the remote system 200. In addition, the controller 212 determines whether the doors 118 and windows 120 are closed, which may allow the temperature of the operator cabin 106 to be maintained within the desired temperature range T1 by ensuring proper sealing of the operator cabin 106.

[0078] Furthermore, the remote system 200 may turn off the engine 104 and HVAC system 126 if the operator enters the operator cabin 106 before a predetermined period TP1 has elapsed, in order to maintain optimal machine starting conditions for the operator. In addition, the remote system 200 may turn off the engine 104 and HVAC system 126 if it determines that there has been unauthorized entry into the operator cabin 106, based on the first or second input signals I1, I2 received from the door lock sensor 202 or window lock sensor 204 and the input signal I3 received from the key position relay 130. For example, in some situations, an unauthorized user may attempt to enter the operator cabin 106 by breaking down the door 118 or window 120. In such a situation, if the controller 212 determines that the door 118 or window 120 of the operator cabin 106 is open, and the key position relay 130 does not indicate that the machine key was used to access the operator cabin 106, the remote system 200 turns off the engine 104 and the HVAC system 126 to prevent unauthorized access to the work machine 100.

[0079] The remote system 200 described herein can be customized to communicate with a software application or web page, or a handheld electronic device equipped with a remote control key, according to customer requirements. Furthermore, the remote system 200 and method 300 can alert personnel around the work machine 100 before the engine 104 is turned on by providing an alarm A1, thereby allowing personnel to move away from the work machine 100 if necessary. In addition, the remote system 200 and method 300 can improve environmental safety by providing an alarm A1.

[0080] Furthermore, according to the remote system 200 and method 300, the engine 104 and HVAC system 126 operate until a predetermined period TP1 has elapsed so that the temperature inside the operator cabin 106 is within a desired temperature range T1 when the operator enters the operator cabin 106. Furthermore, before the predetermined period TP1 has elapsed, notification N1 is sent to the user device 220 that the predetermined period TP1 is elapsed, and the engine 104 and HVAC system 126 are subsequently turned off. Only until the predetermined period TP1 has elapsed, the operation of the engine 104 and HVAC system 126 can conserve fuel and battery power in the battery system 122.

[0081] While aspects of this disclosure have been illustrated and described in particular with reference to the embodiments described above, it will be understood by those skilled in the art that various additional embodiments can be conceived by modifying the disclosed working machines, systems, and methods without departing from the spirit and scope of the disclosure. Such embodiments should be understood to fall within the scope of this disclosure as determined by the claims and any equivalents thereof.

Claims

1. A remote system for regulating the temperature of the operator's cabin of a work machine, At least one door lock sensor connected to at least one door of the work machine, the at least one door lock sensor configured to generate a first input signal indicating whether the at least one door is open or closed, At least one window lock sensor connected to at least one window of the work machine, the at least one window lock sensor configured to generate a second input signal indicating whether the at least one window is open or closed, A temperature sensor located in the operator cabin, configured to generate a temperature signal indicating the current temperature of the operator cabin, A voltage detection sensor connected to the battery system of the aforementioned work machine, configured to generate a voltage signal indicating the current voltage of the battery system, A parking brake sensor connected to the aforementioned work machine, configured to generate a parking brake signal indicating whether the parking brake of the work machine is applied, A controller that communicates with each of the following: the at least one door lock sensor, the at least one window lock sensor, the temperature sensor, the voltage detection sensor, and the parking brake sensor, The system receives user input wirelessly from the user and turns on the heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system 126 of the work machine. Based on the first input signal received from the at least one door lock sensor, it is determined whether the at least one door of the work machine is open or closed. Based on the second input signal received from the at least one window lock sensor, it is determined whether the at least one window of the work machine is open or closed. Based on the temperature signal received from the temperature sensor, it is determined whether the current temperature of the operator cabin is outside the desired temperature range. Based on the voltage signal received from the voltage detection sensor, it is determined whether the current voltage of the battery system exceeds a predetermined threshold. Based on the parking brake signal received from the parking brake sensor, it is determined whether the parking brake of the work machine is in the applied state to prevent the work machine from moving. If at least one door is closed, at least one window is closed, the current temperature of the operator cabin is outside the desired temperature range, the current voltage of the battery system is above the predetermined threshold, and the parking brake of the work machine is in the applied state, then the power to the work machine is turned on. Determine whether the power supply is in operation, A remote system comprising: a controller configured to turn on the HVAC system of the work machine in order to adjust the current temperature of the operator's cabin so that it falls within the desired temperature range when the power supply is in the operating state.

2. The remote system according to claim 1, further comprising a display module that communicates with the controller, wherein the controller is configured to transmit an output signal to the display module before the power is turned on, and the display module is configured to generate an alarm before the power is turned on based on the output signal received from the controller.

3. The remote system according to claim 2, wherein the display module is located outside the operator's cabin.

4. The aforementioned controller Based on the temperature signal received from the temperature sensor, it is determined whether the current temperature of the operator cabin is within the desired temperature range. In each case where the current temperature of the operator cabin is within the desired temperature range and a predetermined period has elapsed since the HVAC system was turned on, the HVAC system is turned off. The remote system according to claim 1, wherein the current temperature of the operator cabin is within the desired temperature range and the power is turned off in each case that a predetermined period has elapsed since the HVAC system was turned on.

5. The aforementioned controller While the power supply and the HVAC system are each on, it is determined whether the at least one door of the work machine is open based on the first input signal received from the at least one door lock sensor, and / or whether the at least one window of the work machine is open based on the second input signal received from the at least one window lock sensor. Based on the temperature signal received from the temperature sensor, it is determined whether the current temperature of the operator cabin is outside the desired temperature range. If at least one door of the work machine is open and / or at least one window of the work machine is open, the HVAC system is turned off, even if the current temperature of the operator's cabin is outside the desired temperature range. The remote system according to claim 1, wherein the power is turned off if the at least one door of the work machine is open and / or the at least one window of the work machine is open, even if the current temperature of the operator's cabin is outside the desired temperature range.

6. The aforementioned controller Whether the at least one door is open or not based on the first input signal received from the at least one door lock sensor, Whether the at least one window is open based on the second input signal received from the at least one window lock sensor, Based on the temperature signal received from the temperature sensor, whether the current temperature of the operator cabin is within the desired temperature range. Based on the voltage signal received from the voltage detection sensor, the current voltage of the battery system is determined to be below a predetermined threshold, and The parking brake of the aforementioned work machine determines, based on the parking brake signal received from the parking brake sensor, whether or not it is in the applied state. The remote system according to claim 1, configured to send a notification to a user device indicating that the power is not turned on in any one of the following cases: at least one door is open, at least one window is open, the current temperature of the operator cabin is within the desired temperature range, the current voltage of the battery system is below the predetermined threshold, and the parking brake of the work machine is not in the applied state.

7. The remote system according to claim 6, wherein the controller is configured to wirelessly receive user input from the user device which is with the user, and the user device includes a handheld electronic device or a remote control key.

8. The remote system according to claim 1, wherein each of the at least one door lock sensor and the at least one window lock sensor includes one of a pressure sensor, a capacitance sensor, a load sensor, a force sensor, and a touch sensor.

9. A method for remotely controlling the temperature of the operator's cabin of a work machine, A first input signal indicating whether the at least one door is open or closed is generated by at least one door lock sensor connected to at least one door of the work machine, A second input signal is generated by at least one window lock sensor connected to at least one window of the work machine, indicating whether the at least one window is open or closed. A temperature sensor located inside the operator cabin generates a temperature signal indicating the current temperature of the operator cabin. A voltage detection sensor connected to the battery system of the aforementioned work machine generates a voltage signal indicating the current voltage of the battery system, A parking brake sensor connected to the aforementioned work machine generates a parking brake signal indicating whether the parking brake of the work machine is applied. The controller wirelessly receives user input from the user to turn on the heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system of the work machine, and the controller communicates with and receives from each of the at least one door lock sensor, the at least one window lock sensor, the temperature sensor, the voltage detection sensor, and the parking brake sensor. The controller determines whether the at least one door of the work machine is open or closed based on the first input signal received from the at least one door lock sensor, The controller determines whether the at least one window of the work machine is open or closed based on the second input signal received from the at least one window lock sensor, The controller determines, based on the temperature signal received from the temperature sensor, whether the current temperature of the operator's cabin is outside the desired temperature range. The controller determines whether the current voltage of the battery system exceeds a predetermined threshold based on the voltage signal received from the voltage detection sensor. The controller determines, based on the parking brake signal received from the parking brake sensor, whether the parking brake of the work machine is in the applied state to prevent the work machine from moving. The controller shall turn on the power to the work machine if the at least one door is closed, the at least one window is closed, the current temperature of the operator's cabin is outside the desired temperature range, the current voltage of the battery system exceeds the predetermined threshold, and the parking brake of the work machine is in the applied state. The controller determines whether the power supply is in operation, A method comprising, when the power supply is in the operating state, the controller turning on the HVAC system of the work machine and adjusting the current temperature of the operator's cabin so that it falls within the desired temperature range.

10. The controller transmits an output signal to the display module before turning on the power, the display module communicates with the controller, and the display module is located outside the operator cabin, and transmits the signal. The method according to claim 9, further comprising the display module generating an alarm before the power is turned on, based on the output signal received from the controller.

11. The controller determines, based on the temperature signal received from the temperature sensor, whether the current temperature of the operator's cabin is within the desired temperature range. In each case where the current temperature of the operator cabin is within the desired temperature range and a predetermined period has elapsed since the HVAC system was turned on, the controller turns off the HVAC system. The method of claim 9, further comprising: turning off the power supply by the controller each time the current temperature of the operator cabin is within the desired temperature range and a predetermined period has elapsed since the HVAC system was turned on.

12. While the power supply and the HVAC system are each on, the controller determines whether at least one door of the work machine is open based on the first input signal received from the at least one door lock sensor, and / or whether at least one window of the work machine is open based on the second input signal received from the at least one window lock sensor, The controller determines, based on the temperature signal received from the temperature sensor, whether the current temperature of the operator's cabin is outside the desired temperature range. If at least one door of the work machine is open and / or at least one window of the work machine is open, the controller will turn off the HVAC system, even if the current temperature of the operator's cabin is outside the desired temperature range. The method of claim 9, further comprising: if at least one door of the work machine is open and / or at least one window of the work machine is open, the controller turns off the power, even if the current temperature of the operator's cabin is outside the desired temperature range.

13. The aforementioned controller, Whether the at least one door is open or not based on the first input signal received from the at least one door lock sensor, Whether the at least one window is open based on the second input signal received from the at least one window lock sensor, Based on the temperature signal received from the temperature sensor, whether the current temperature of the operator cabin is within the desired temperature range. Based on the voltage signal received from the voltage detection sensor, the current voltage of the battery system is determined to be below a predetermined threshold, and The parking brake of the aforementioned work machine determines, based on the parking brake signal received from the parking brake sensor, whether or not it is in the applied state, and The method of claim 9, further comprising: the controller sending a notification to a user device indicating that the power is not turned on in any one of the following cases: at least one door is open; at least one window is open; the current temperature of the operator cabin is within the desired temperature range; the current voltage of the battery system is below the predetermined threshold; and the parking brake of the work machine is not in the applied state.

14. The method according to claim 13, further comprising the controller wirelessly receiving user input from the user device which is with the user, wherein the user device includes a handheld electronic device or a remote control key.

15. It is a work machine, Frame and, A power supply mounted on the frame and configured to provide power to one or more components of the work machine, An operator cabin mounted on the aforementioned frame, At least one door connected to the operator cabin, At least one window connected to the operator cabin, A battery system configured to supply power to one or more components of the aforementioned work machine, Parking brake and A heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system configured to perform at least one of heating and / or cooling the operator cabin, A remote system for adjusting the temperature of the operator's cabin, At least one door lock sensor connected to at least one door of the work machine, the at least one door lock sensor configured to generate a first input signal indicating whether the at least one door is open or closed, At least one window lock sensor connected to at least one window of the work machine, the at least one window lock sensor configured to generate a second input signal indicating whether the at least one window is open or closed, A temperature sensor located in the operator cabin, configured to generate a temperature signal indicating the current temperature of the operator cabin, A voltage detection sensor connected to the battery system of the aforementioned work machine, configured to generate a voltage signal indicating the current voltage of the battery system, A parking brake sensor connected to the aforementioned work machine, configured to generate a parking brake signal indicating whether the parking brake of the work machine is applied, A controller that communicates with each of the following: the at least one door lock sensor, the at least one window lock sensor, the temperature sensor, the voltage detection sensor, and the parking brake sensor, The system wirelessly receives user input from the user to turn on the HVAC system of the work machine. Based on the first input signal received from the at least one door lock sensor, it is determined whether the at least one door of the work machine is open or closed. Based on the second input signal received from the at least one window lock sensor, it is determined whether the at least one window of the work machine is open or closed. Based on the temperature signal received from the temperature sensor, it is determined whether the current temperature of the operator cabin is outside the desired temperature range. Based on the voltage signal received from the voltage detection sensor, it is determined whether the current voltage of the battery system exceeds a predetermined threshold. Based on the parking brake signal received from the parking brake sensor, it is determined whether the parking brake of the work machine is in the applied state to prevent the work machine from moving. If at least one door is closed, at least one window is closed, the current temperature of the operator cabin is outside the desired temperature range, the current voltage of the battery system is above the predetermined threshold, and the parking brake of the work machine is in the applied state, then the power to the work machine is turned on. Determine whether the power supply is in operation, A work machine comprising a remote system including a controller configured to turn on the HVAC system of the work machine in order to adjust the current temperature of the operator's cabin so that it falls within the desired temperature range when the power supply is in the operating state.

16. The work machine according to claim 15, wherein the remote system further includes a display module that communicates with the controller, the controller is configured to transmit an output signal to the display module before the power is turned on, and the display module is configured to generate an alarm before the power is turned on based on the output signal received from the controller.

17. The aforementioned controller Based on the temperature signal received from the temperature sensor, it is determined whether the current temperature of the operator cabin is within the desired temperature range. In each case where the current temperature of the operator cabin is within the desired temperature range and a predetermined period has elapsed since the HVAC system was turned on, the HVAC system is turned off. The work machine according to claim 15, wherein the current temperature of the operator cabin is within the desired temperature range and the power is turned off in each case that a predetermined period has elapsed since the HVAC system was turned on.

18. The aforementioned controller While the power supply and the HVAC system are each on, it is determined whether the at least one door of the work machine is open based on the first input signal received from the at least one door lock sensor, and / or whether the at least one window of the work machine is open based on the second input signal received from the at least one window lock sensor. Based on the temperature signal received from the temperature sensor, it is determined whether the current temperature of the operator cabin is outside the desired temperature range. If at least one door of the work machine is open and / or at least one window of the work machine is open, the HVAC system is turned off, even if the current temperature of the operator's cabin is outside the desired temperature range. The work machine according to claim 15, wherein the power is turned off when the at least one door of the work machine is open and / or when the at least one window of the work machine is open, even if the current temperature of the operator's cabin is outside the desired temperature range.

19. The aforementioned controller Whether the at least one door is open or not based on the first input signal received from the at least one door lock sensor, Whether the at least one window is open based on the second input signal received from the at least one window lock sensor, Based on the temperature signal received from the temperature sensor, whether the current temperature of the operator cabin is within the desired temperature range. Based on the voltage signal received from the voltage detection sensor, the current voltage of the battery system is determined to be below a predetermined threshold, and The parking brake of the aforementioned work machine determines, based on the parking brake signal received from the parking brake sensor, whether or not it is in the applied state. The work machine according to claim 15, configured to send a notification to a user device indicating that the power is not turned on in any one of the following cases: at least one door is open, at least one window is open, the current temperature of the operator cabin is within the desired temperature range, the current voltage of the battery system is below the predetermined threshold, and the parking brake of the work machine is not in the applied state.

20. The work machine according to claim 19, wherein the controller is configured to wirelessly receive user input from the user device which is with the user, and the user device includes a handheld electronic device or a remote control key.

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