Adjustable Load Bunk Control for Continuous Forestry Loading
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing forestry vehicle loading systems require manual intervention and operator estimation to adjust the size of the load bunk, leading to interruptions and reduced safety during loading and unloading operations.
Innovation Solution
A bunk load system with adjustable support arms controlled by sensors and a controller that automatically adjusts the height and width based on crane position and load detection, reducing the need for manual labor and enhancing safety.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If manual adjustment of support arms is used, then the bunk size can be adapted, but the loading operation is interrupted and operator workload increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system enables self-service by automatically detecting when the bunk reaches its height limit through sensors and autonomously actuating the hydraulic cylinders to extend the support arms, eliminating the need for operator intervention and maintaining continuous loading operations
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements feedback by using sensors to continuously monitor the bunk filling height and automatically comparing it against predefined limits, triggering automatic adjustment of the support arms when the limit is reached, creating a closed-loop control system that maintains optimal bunk size without operator input
2Ease of operation
If hydraulic actuation is used for support arms, then the bunk size can be adjusted remotely, but the operator must consciously activate and estimate the adjustment
Solution Approach 1:
The system eliminates the need for conscious operator activation by implementing automatic detection through sensors and autonomous actuation of the hydraulic system, making the adjustment process self-service rather than requiring operator estimation and manual control
Solution Approach 2:
The system replaces manual mechanical adjustment with an automated control system that uses sensors to detect bunk height and electronically controls the hydraulic actuation, substituting operator estimation and manual mechanical operation with automated sensing and control
3Quantity of substance
If the bunk is filled to maximum height, then the load capacity is optimized, but the support arms block the operator's view and work space
Solution Approach 1:
The system implements dynamic adjustment by continuously monitoring the bunk filling height and automatically extending the support arms in real-time as the bunk reaches its height limit, allowing the bunk to be filled to maximum capacity while dynamically maintaining clear operator workspace by preventing support arms from blocking the view
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The system allows operators to focus on loading and unloading without interruptions, automatically adjusting the load bunk volume to prevent overloading and reduce operator workload and stress.
Implementation Method 1
the sections being adjustable by hydraulic actuation
Data Source
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AI summary
It is disclosed a bunk load system (10) comprising a load bunk (20) with support arms (30), the support arm (30) having a horizontal (31) and vertical section (32), the sections being adjustable by hydraulic actuation, sensors (40), detecting the position of each section of the load arm, a load height detection system (50), comprising a crane (60) adapted for loading and unloading the load bunk (20), adapted to detect a vertical position of its crane tip (70) in relation to a bottom surface (80) of the load bunk (20), adapted to detect a loading and unloading operation, a controller (90), adapted to receive input from the sensors (40) of the load bunk (20) and receiving the input from the vertical position of the crane tip (70), comparing the input values, and in case the crane (60) is detecting a loading operation and the loading height is at a limit of the load bunk (20), sending as an output a signal to the hydraulic actuation adjusting the height of the vertical section (32) or the length of the horizontal section (31) of the load bunk (20).