CAN Climate Control Integration for Work Machine Diagnostics
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing climate control systems in self-propelled work machines, especially those used in off-road applications, face issues such as dust clogging, increased power usage, system degradation, and downtime due to isolation of controllers, which restricts optimal resource utilization and leads to higher costs.
Innovation Solution
A controller area network (CAN) based climate control system that integrates with other machine systems, sharing data and resources to coordinate operations, including engine control data, for improved control and troubleshooting, using a bidirectional messaging architecture and an electronic processor-based Automatic Temperature Controller (ATC) connected to the CAN.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the climate control system operates independently with dedicated controllers, then system reliability is maintained through isolation, but resource utilization efficiency deteriorates and system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent integrates the climate control controller into the existing CAN bus network of the work machine, merging it with other system controllers (engine, transmission, etc.) to share computational resources, data processing capabilities, and communication infrastructure, thereby improving resource utilization while maintaining system reliability through networked coordination
2Reliability
If the climate control system operates independently with dedicated controllers, then system reliability is maintained through isolation, but device complexity increases due to separate control units
Solution Approach 1:
The climate control controller is designed to function as a multi-functional unit within the CAN bus network, serving both climate control purposes and participating in overall machine system coordination, data sharing, and diagnostic functions, thereby reducing the need for separate dedicated controllers and reducing overall device complexity
3Reliability
If the air-conditioning compressor operates continuously to maintain climate settings in dusty environments, then climate control effectiveness is improved, but power consumption increases and engine load deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The system continuously monitors cabin air quality parameters (dust levels, temperature, humidity) and engine load conditions, using this feedback to dynamically adjust compressor operation, fan speeds, and air recirculation rates, thereby maintaining climate effectiveness while optimizing power consumption and reducing engine load during critical operations
Data Source
AI summary
A controller area network based climate control system for a work machine, and a method of operation of the same, which advantageously and economically integrates into and utilizes the resources and capabilities of a CAN of a work machine, including, but not limited to, shared data from other systems of the machine, particularly engine data including engine operating speed and temperature, for controlling climate control system operation, as well as for troubleshooting and diagnosing problems.