Working Arm Carriage Oscillation Control for Electro-Hydraulic Latency

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Solution Overview

Problem

In electro-hydraulic systems of working machines, operators face latency issues that make it difficult to achieve a desired frequency and amplitude of oscillation for shaking attachments, such as dislodging stuck material or leveling materials, due to the lack of direct linkage to the hydraulic control valve.

Innovation Solution

A control system with an electronic controller and actuator that allows for variable frequency and amplitude oscillations of the carriage, using a user input device like a joystick to transmit oscillation signals, enabling precise control of the attachment's movement and oscillation, even in electro-hydraulic systems.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If electro-hydraulic systems are used to control the attachment, then the system complexity is reduced and ease of operation is improved, but latency is introduced making it difficult to achieve desired oscillation frequency and amplitude

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveease of oscillation controlVSAvoidlatency
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The electronic controller is pre-programmed with oscillation algorithms that automatically generate the required control signals when oscillation is activated. This preliminary preparation of control logic eliminates the latency that would otherwise occur during real-time signal generation, allowing immediate response when the operator activates oscillation mode.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The patent replaces the mechanical direct linkage found in hydraulic-pilot systems with an electronic control system that uses sensors, processors, and electronic signals. This substitution eliminates mechanical friction and mechanical linkage delays, achieving faster and more precise control response times while maintaining ease of operation through electronic interfaces.

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

2Device complexity

If manual joystick movement is used to shake the attachment, then the system structure is simple, but operator skill is required to achieve consistent frequency and amplitude

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecontrol system structureVSAvoidoperator skill requirement
Core Design Contradiction:
Device complexityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The electronic controller automatically generates and regulates the oscillation signals without requiring manual modulation by the operator. The system self-regulates the frequency and amplitude parameters through embedded control algorithms, eliminating the need for operator skill while maintaining a relatively simple overall system structure that builds upon the existing electro-hydraulic platform.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The patent implements electronic control over the hydraulic actuation parameters (frequency, amplitude, duty cycle) that automatically adjust these parameters when oscillation mode is activated. This transformation from manual parameter control to automated parameter regulation simplifies the operator's task while maintaining system effectiveness, requiring only mode selection rather than precise manual control.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

3Reliability

If electro-hydraulic control is implemented, then direct mechanical linkage is eliminated improving safety, but precision control of oscillation parameters becomes difficult

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesystem safetyVSAvoidoscillation parameter precision
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSMeasurement precision

Solution Approach 1:

The electronic control system incorporates feedback mechanisms that monitor the actual oscillation parameters and compare them against target values. The controller continuously adjusts the control signals to the hydraulic actuators based on this feedback, ensuring precise achievement of desired frequency and amplitude while maintaining the safety advantages of electro-hydraulic separation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

Solution Approach 2:

The patent replaces mechanical linkage with an electronic control architecture that uses digital signal processing and electronic feedback loops. This substitution enables precise parameter control through electronic means while maintaining the inherent safety benefits of electro-hydraulic systems, where electrical control signals can be precisely regulated without direct mechanical connection between control and actuation elements.

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

Data Source

PatentEP3909907B1Working machine with implement shaking function
Publication Date: 2024.10.09 J C BAMFORD EXCAVATORS LTD
  • EP3909907B1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP3909907B1 patent drawingFigure 2
  • EP3909907B1 patent drawingFigure 3

AI summary

A working machine (10) comprising a ground engaging structure (12) and a propulsion system for moving the working machine via the ground engaging structure. A body (14) is supported on the ground engaging structure, and a working arm (16) is connected to the body and has a carriage (17) at one end for receiving an attachment (18). A control system (32) is provided for selectively and variably oscillating the carriage.