Vibratory Compactor Control System for Amplitude Segmentation

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing vibratory compactors offer a wide range of vibration amplitude and frequency settings, leading to unnecessary complexity and increased costs for operators, as most job sites require specific combinations that are not efficiently managed by current systems.

Innovation Solution

A vibratory compactor system with a control mechanism that allows for selective settings of vibration amplitudes and frequencies, enabling operators to choose from predefined groups based on job requirements, with automatic adjustments possible through a remote setting device and compaction sensor feedback.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If a full range of vibration amplitudes and frequencies is provided, then compaction versatility is improved, but device complexity and operational complexity increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecompaction versatilityVSAvoiddevice complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The full range of vibration amplitudes and frequencies is segmented into multiple predetermined groups. Each group contains specific combinations of amplitude and frequency settings optimized for particular compaction applications. The control system allows selection between these predefined groups rather than allowing continuous adjustment of all parameters, thereby reducing operational complexity while maintaining compaction versatility.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

2Adaptability or versatility

If a full range of vibration amplitudes and frequencies is provided, then compaction versatility is improved, but costs increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecompaction versatilityVSAvoidcosts
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The vibration control system is segmented into predefined groups of amplitude and frequency combinations. By manufacturing the control system to support selection between these predetermined groups rather than continuous adjustment across the full range, the overall system complexity and manufacturing cost are reduced while still providing the versatility needed for different compaction applications.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

3Adaptability or versatility

If multiple amplitude and frequency settings are available, then compaction adaptability is improved, but operational complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecompaction adaptabilityVSAvoidoperational complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The operating parameters are segmented into predetermined groups where each group represents a coherent set of amplitude and frequency combinations suitable for specific compaction scenarios. The operator simply selects between these predefined groups rather than independently adjusting multiple parameters, which maintains compaction adaptability while significantly reducing operational complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The amplitude and frequency combinations are pre-configured into optimal groups before operation. This preliminary arrangement of parameters into meaningful groups allows the operator to select pre-optimized settings for different compaction needs without having to understand or adjust the underlying parameter relationships, thereby reducing operational complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

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

This solution simplifies the operation of vibratory compactors by limiting amplitude and frequency choices to only those needed for each job, reducing operational complexity and costs while ensuring appropriate compaction levels are maintained.

Implementation Method 1

The vibratory compactor includes a drum assembly having a variable vibratory mechanism that, for example, includes inner and outer eccentric weights arranged on a rotatable shaft

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectEccentric: Eccentric

Implementation Method 2

Amplitude is typically controlled by a transversely moveable linear actuator adapted to axially bear against an axially translatable key shaft, causing the key shaft to rotate. The rotation of the key shaft, in turn, alters relative positions of the inner and the outer eccentric weights to vary amplitude of vibration created within the drum.

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectMechanical Force: Mechanical Force

Implementation Method 3

Frequency of vibration is controlled by changing the speed of a drive motor positioned within the compactor drum.

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElectromagnetic Induction: Electromagnetic Induction

Data Source

PatentUS11453983B2Vibration control system, apparatus, and method for compactor
Publication Date: 2022.09.27 CATERPILLAR PAVING PROD INC
  • US11453983B2 patent drawing
  • US11453983B2 patent drawing
  • US11453983B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A compactor vibration system, apparatus, and method that selectively provide access to vibration control settings. The control can include receiving a setting for a first set of selectable amplitudes of vibration force at which to operate a vibratory system for a first predetermined amount of time, operating the vibratory system during the first predetermined amount of time by inducing the vibration force at amplitudes by the vibratory system, wherein the amplitudes of the vibration force are selected from among the first set of selectable amplitudes, and after the first predetermined amount of time, changing the setting to a second set of selectable amplitudes of the vibration force that is different from the first set of selectable amplitudes.