A
control system for road building machines, particularly pavers, that automatically transitions the
machine between operational states using closed-loop
feedback control to achieve consistent paving joints. The
system comprises a speed input mechanism for setting target speeds, a
launch control input for initiating transitions, a controller executing closed-loop
feedback control algorithms, and sensors monitoring
machine speed, position, velocity, acceleration, and
electrical current. The controller automatically generates controlled acceleration profiles using real-time sensor feedback to transition the
machine from a first operational state to a second operational state, where each state may be either stationary or moving at a specified speed. This enables consistent transitions when starting from rest, accelerating to higher speeds, decelerating to lower speeds, or stopping, thereby eliminating variability in
joint formation caused by manual operation. Optional directional control provides emergency stop functionality. The
system may be retrofitted to existing equipment or integrated into new machines, and can be implemented through
software updates to existing control systems.