Construction Machine Control System Segmentation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current control systems for construction machines, such as excavators, are not intuitive and require simultaneous coordination of multiple inputs to achieve precise movements, leading to reduced productivity and a longer learning curve for operators, as they involve complex manipulation of joysticks and hydraulic valves to control the position and function of work tools.
Innovation Solution
A system utilizing two hand-operated control means to control the movement of a construction machine's work tool, with one control means managing the position of the outer link arm end and the other controlling the tool's function, facilitated by actuators and a control system that converts these inputs into signals to activate or deactivate hydraulic or electrical control devices, allowing for intuitive control of rotation, tilting, and velocity adjustments.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If multiple coordinated movements on joysticks are used to control work tool movements, then the work tool can be positioned precisely, but the control complexity increases and operator productivity decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the control system into two separate hand-operated control means: the first control means (e.g., left joystick) controls the position of the outer link arm end, while the second control means (e.g., right joystick) controls the function of the work tool (rotation, tilting, opening/closing). This segmentation allows each hand to independently control specific functions without coordinating multiple simultaneous inputs, reducing control complexity while maintaining positioning precision through the attachment device's controlled rotation and tilting capabilities.
2Manufacturing precision
If multiple simultaneous joystick inputs are required to control digging arm movements, then the desired position can be achieved, but the learning curve increases and productivity decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments control functions by assigning the first hand-operated control means to control the position of the outer link arm end and the second hand-operated control means to control the function of the work tool. This eliminates the need for operators to coordinate multiple simultaneous joystick inputs, reducing the learning curve and increasing productivity while maintaining position accuracy through the controlled rotation and tilting of the attachment device.
3Adaptability or versatility
If separate rolls and buttons on the joystick are used to control work tool functions, then additional functions can be controlled, but the number of control parameters increases and operation becomes more complicated
Solution Approach 1:
The patent assigns all work tool function controls (rotation, tilting, opening/closing) to the second hand-operated control means, separating them from the position control handled by the first control means. This segmentation consolidates multiple control parameters into a dedicated control device, maintaining versatility while simplifying operation by allowing each hand to independently manage specific functions without interference.
4Ease of operation
If crane tip controlling method is applied to construction machines, then control becomes more intuitive, but the work tool cannot maintain precise position and rotation control under load
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the intuitive control approach with precise position control by segmenting functions: the first control means controls the position of the outer link arm end to maintain precise positioning, while the second control means controls the work tool functions through the attachment device. This segmentation allows intuitive control of tool functions while the separate position control maintains precision under load, unlike crane tip controlling where a single lever controls both position and function.
Solution Approach 2:
The attachment device (tiltrotator) acts as an intermediary between the control system and the work tool. It receives control signals for rotation and tilting from the second hand-operated control means and executes these functions while maintaining the work tool's position relative to the outer link arm end. This intermediary mechanism enables intuitive control of tool functions while preserving position control precision under operational loads.
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2a~2b
Figure 3a~3b
AI summary
The invention relates to a system and a method for, with a first and a second hand operated control means (11a, 11 b), controlling movement on a work tool (5) for a construction machine (1). The construction machine (1) comprises a lower carriage (2), a top (3), a digging arm (4) and a work tool (5). The digging arm (4) comprises an inner link arm (4a) with a first and a second inner link arm end (4a1, 4a2) and an outer link arm (4b) with a first and a second outer link arm end (4b1, 4b2). The work tool (5) is secured in the second outer link arm end (4b2) via an attachment device (6) which enables controlled rotation and controlled tilting of the work tool (5) in relation to the outer link arm (4b). The system is characterized in that the first hand operated control means (11a) is intended to control the position of the second outer link arm end (4b2) and the second hand operated control means (11 b) is intended to control the function of the tool (5), comprising controlled rotation and controlled tilting of the work tool (5) in relation to the outer link arm (4b).