Backhoe Loader Parallel Lift Control via Sensor Feedback
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Solution Overview
Problem
Operators of backhoe loaders face inefficiencies and fatigue due to the need for continuous manual adjustment of loader tool orientation relative to the vehicle frame during operations like lifting and dumping, which can lead to premature material dumping and decreased work efficiency.
Innovation Solution
A system with a controller that enables a 'parallel lift' mode, using sensors to maintain the loader tool's angle relative to the vehicle frame during boom movement, allowing automatic adjustment of the tool's position based on the boom's angle, and includes features like return to carry, return to dig, and anti-spill functions to enhance operational convenience and prevent material spillage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the operator manually adjusts the loader tool orientation continuously during boom movement, then the tool orientation can be maintained, but operator fatigue increases and work efficiency decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The system enables the loader tool to automatically maintain its orientation relative to the ground by using sensors to detect boom angle and automatically adjusting the tool actuator, eliminating the need for continuous manual operator intervention and allowing the system to serve itself
Solution Approach 2:
The system employs sensors to continuously monitor the boom angle and provides feedback to the controller, which then automatically adjusts the loader tool orientation accordingly, creating a closed-loop control system that maintains precise tool orientation without manual input
2Stability of the object's composition
If the operator manually adjusts the loader tool orientation continuously, then the initial tool orientation can be maintained, but the complexity of operation increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system replaces the manual mechanical control system with an electronic automation system that uses sensors to detect boom angle and automatically controls the tool actuator through electronic signals, substituting mechanical operator manipulation with automated electronic control
3Ease of operation
If automatic parallel lift control is implemented, then operator fatigue is reduced, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system integrates multiple functions including parallel lift control, return to carry, return to dig, and anti-spill protection within a single automated control framework that uses common sensors and actuators to perform diverse loader tool orientation tasks, maximizing the utility of each component
4Reliability
If the loader tool orientation is automatically maintained relative to the ground, then material dumping is prevented, but the system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system proactively maintains the loader tool orientation in the correct position before material dumping can occur by continuously monitoring boom angle and adjusting tool position in advance, preventing the harmful effect rather than reacting to it after it happens
Data Source
AI summary
A backhoe loader with a controller that uses angular signals from at least one sensor to calculate a loader tool angle with respect to the vehicle frame or with respect to the earth and to maintain the loader tool angle via controller generated commands to a tool actuator as a function of the angular signals and commands to a boom actuator. The controller enables proportional control of the tool angle via a command input device such as an electronic joystick. If the electronic joystick is moved to an appropriate detent position, the controller executes a return to carry function.