Cold Planer Control System Mode Transition Automation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current cold planer machines require manual and individual operation to transition between milling and standby modes, which is time-consuming and prone to operator error, lacking an automated system to manage conveyor and ventilation operations efficiently.
Innovation Solution
A control system with a controller that receives inputs from operator interfaces to initiate predetermined sequences for transitioning between milling and standby modes, including automatic conveyor and ventilation management based on preset conditions, ensuring efficient and synchronized operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If manual and individual operation is used to transition between milling and standby modes, then the operator has direct control over each system, but the operation is time-consuming and prone to operator error
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs self-service by automatically transitioning between milling and standby modes through a single operator input. The controller autonomously manages the sequence of operations for the milling drum, conveyor system, and ventilation system without requiring manual intervention for each component, thereby reducing transition time while maintaining operational control
Solution Approach 2:
The controller stores preset sequences of operations that define the exact order in which systems should be activated or deactivated. When the operator initiates a mode transition, the controller executes these pre-planned sequences, ensuring that all systems are transitioned in the correct order without requiring the operator to manually manage each step
2Reliability
If manual and individual operation is used to transition between milling and standby modes, then the operator can monitor each system individually, but the operation is prone to operator error
Solution Approach 1:
The system ensures reliability by having the controller autonomously execute the transition sequence, eliminating human error in the transition process. The controller automatically manages the coordination between the milling drum, conveyor, and ventilation systems, ensuring that no system is overlooked or activated in the wrong order
Solution Approach 2:
The controller monitors the status of each system during transitions and provides feedback to ensure proper execution of the preset sequences. This feedback mechanism allows the controller to verify that each component has successfully transitioned to the desired state, thereby maintaining operational reliability
3Productivity
If automated control is implemented to reduce transition time, then the transition efficiency is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The controller serves multiple functions: it manages the milling drum, conveyor system, and ventilation system transitions, stores preset sequences, and monitors system status. By consolidating these functions into a single controller, the system achieves automated transition efficiency without proportionally increasing overall device complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The preset sequences are stored in advance in the controller's memory, allowing the complex coordination logic to be prepared beforehand. This preliminary preparation of control sequences enables efficient automated transitions without requiring complex real-time decision-making circuitry, thereby limiting the increase in device complexity
4Loss of time
If conveyor system stops immediately when transitioning to standby mode, then the transition is faster, but road material may be left on the conveyor belt
Solution Approach 1:
The preset sequence for transitioning to standby mode includes a specific step that delays the conveyor shutdown until after the milling drum has stopped and the material has been discharged. This preliminary planning of the shutdown sequence ensures that the conveyor continues running long enough to clear remaining material, preventing loss of substance while maintaining reasonable transition speed
Data Source
AI summary
A control system, apparatus, and method for controlling operations of a milling machine are described. Data corresponding to a ventilation mode and a conveyor delay amount set by an operator of the milling machine is stored in memory. Control of transition of operation of the milling machine from a milling mode to a standby mode is according to a first predetermined sequence of operations responsive to a first input at a control panel of the milling machine. Further, control of transition of operation of the milling machine from the standby mode to the milling mode is according to a second predetermined sequence of operations, which is in reverse order relative to the first predetermined sequence of operations, in response to the first input at the control panel.