Adaptive Controller for Machine Implements

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional control systems for machine implements, such as earthmoving machines, require frequent retuning of control gain parameters due to changing terrain conditions, leading to increased latency and operating costs, as they are not adaptive enough to handle varying operating conditions.

Innovation Solution

An adaptive control system that includes a processor and memory, which receives position and operating condition data from detection systems, compares it to a target position and reference model, and adjusts the implement's position based on updated reference models of the terrain, automatically modifying control gains to adapt to changing conditions.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If conventional P/PD/PI/PID controllers are used for implement positioning, then position control can be achieved, but frequent retuning of control gain parameters is required when terrain conditions change

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveposition control reliabilityVSAvoidadaptability to terrain changes
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The controller dynamically adjusts control gain parameters based on real-time terrain conditions detected by sensors. The system transitions from static, pre-configured gain values to dynamic, adaptive gain values that automatically change with operating conditions, eliminating the need for manual retuning when moving between different terrain types.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The control system performs self-tuning by automatically detecting terrain characteristics and adjusting its own control parameters without external intervention. The processor compares detected terrain data with stored reference models and autonomously modifies gain parameters to optimize performance for the current operating conditions.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

2Measurement precision

If manual retuning of control gain parameters is performed for each new terrain type, then positioning accuracy can be maintained, but operating costs increase and latency is introduced

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvepositioning accuracyVSAvoidretuning time and operational latency
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The system pre-stores multiple terrain reference models in memory before operation begins. When the machine encounters a terrain type, the processor quickly compares sensor data against these pre-prepared models and immediately retrieves or generates appropriate control parameters, eliminating the need for time-consuming manual tuning sessions for each new terrain condition.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The system continuously monitors terrain conditions through position detection systems and sensor arrays, providing real-time feedback to the processor. This feedback loop enables automatic detection of terrain changes and triggers immediate adjustment of control parameters, maintaining positioning accuracy without manual intervention and reducing operational latency.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

3Ease of operation

If expert operators manually control the implement, then complex positioning tasks can be performed, but operator skill and diligence are required increasing operational complexity

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveoperator skill requirementVSAvoidcontrol system complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The system replaces the operator's manual control actions with an automated control algorithm that processes sensor data and generates control commands. The processor substitutes the human operator's decision-making function by comparing terrain data with reference models and automatically adjusting implement position, reducing dependence on operator expertise while maintaining control capability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Data Source

PatentUS9234329B2Adaptive control system and method for machine implements
Publication Date: 2016.01.12 CATERPILLAR INC
  • US9234329B2 patent drawing
  • US9234329B2 patent drawing
  • US9234329B2 patent drawing

AI summary

An adaptive control system for a machine implement is provided. The adaptive control system includes a machine implement of a machine and an adaptive controller operatively coupled to the machine implement. The adaptive controller includes a processor configured to receive a position of the machine implement relative to a terrain from at least one position detection system, receive data regarding operating conditions of the terrain, compare the position with a target position stored in a memory, compare the data regarding the operating conditions with data stored in a reference model of the terrain stored in the memory, and adjust the position of the machine implement based upon the comparisons and based upon an updated reference model of the operating conditions of the terrain.