Automated Air Intake Screen Cleaning via Pressurized Fluid Jet
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Solution Overview
Problem
Work vehicles often operate with clogged air intake screens due to debris accumulation, leading to impaired engine performance, as there is no effective automated method to detect or clear blockages, requiring manual intervention which is time-consuming.
Innovation Solution
A system and method utilizing a nozzle and pressurized fluid source to automatically clean the air intake screen by directing pressurized fluid through the screen, with a pressure sensor and controller to initiate cleaning when debris accumulation is detected, ensuring efficient debris removal.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If manual cleaning of the air intake screen is performed, then debris removal is achieved, but time consumption increases and automated monitoring is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The system enables self-service cleaning by automatically detecting screen blockage through pressure differential sensing and activating the cleaning mechanism without operator intervention. The controller monitors the pressure sensor data and autonomously initiates the cleaning sequence when blockage is detected.
Solution Approach 2:
The manual mechanical cleaning operation is replaced by an automated system using electronic sensing (pressure sensors), electronic control (controller), and automated actuation (electric motor driving the fan). This substitutes the manual mechanical process with an integrated electromechanical automation system.
2Device complexity
If the air intake screen is left unmonitored, then device complexity is reduced, but engine performance deteriorates due to prolonged clogged operation
Solution Approach 1:
The system implements feedback control by continuously monitoring the pressure differential across the air intake screen through pressure sensors. The controller receives this feedback signal and compares it against predetermined thresholds to determine when cleaning is required, enabling closed-loop monitoring of screen condition.
Solution Approach 2:
The system takes preliminary action by detecting screen blockage before it severely impacts engine performance. The pressure sensor monitors for early signs of blockage, and the controller initiates cleaning proactively when threshold values are reached, preventing performance deterioration rather than responding after damage occurs.
3Productivity
If automated cleaning is implemented, then productivity is improved, but device complexity increases due to additional components
Solution Approach 1:
The system achieves multi-functionality by integrating three distinct functions into a single coordinated system: monitoring (pressure sensors detect blockage), controlling (controller manages the sequence), and cleaning (fan and duct system remove debris). This universal system performs multiple operations that would otherwise require separate manual interventions.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention merges the monitoring, decision-making, and cleaning execution functions into an integrated automated system. The pressure sensors, controller, electric motor, and fan are combined into a unified cleaning assembly that operates as a coordinated whole, reducing the need for separate manual operations and improving overall productivity.
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 effectively removes debris from the air intake screen, ensuring optimal engine performance by automating the cleaning process and preventing prolonged operation with a clogged screen.
Implementation Method 1
a pressurized fluid source configured to supply pressurized fluid to the nozzle. The pressurized fluid received by the nozzle is expelled from the nozzle and directed through the air intake screen
Implementation Method 2
a nozzle provided in operative association with the engine air intake assembly and directed towards the air intake screen, and a pressurized fluid source configured to supply pressurized fluid to the nozzle
Data Source
AI summary
A system for cleaning an air intake screen of a work vehicle may include an engine air intake assembly having an air intake screen through which an airflow is directed for subsequent delivery to an engine of a work vehicle. The system may further include a nozzle provided in operative association with the engine air intake assembly and directed towards the air intake screen. Additionally, the system may include a pressurized fluid source configured to supply pressurized fluid to the nozzle. The pressurized fluid received by the nozzle is expelled from the nozzle and directed through the air intake screen.