Control Circuit for Attachment Mounting Device
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing attachment mounting devices for loader arms often have an auto-close feature that automatically actuates the device into a closed position regardless of the last commanded action, leading to inefficient and nuisance attachment changes.
Innovation Solution
A control circuit with a control valve having at least two energized positions to actuate the attachment mounting device into closed and open positions, including an auto-close feature that is activated after the first energized position and deactivated after the second energized position, ensuring the device remains open after being commanded to open.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the auto-close feature is enabled to automatically keep the attachment mounting device in a closed position, then the device reliability is improved, but the ease of operation deteriorates due to unwanted automatic closings that interfere with efficient attachment changes
Solution Approach 1:
The auto-close feature is made dynamically controllable rather than permanently enabled. The system transitions from a static auto-close state to a dynamic state where the feature can be activated or deactivated based on operator input through the control valve positions, resolving the conflict between reliability and ease of operation
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes the operational parameter of the auto-close feature from a fixed enabled state to a variable state controlled by valve position. By linking the auto-close activation/deactivation to the control valve's first and second energized positions, the system allows operators to adjust the auto-close behavior according to operational needs
2Reliability
If the auto-close feature automatically actuates the device into closed position after being commanded to open, then the device returns to a secure state, but the productivity deteriorates due to nuisance closings that slow down attachment changes
Solution Approach 1:
The system implements feedback control where the control valve positions provide information about operator intent. The auto-close feature monitors valve position signals and adjusts its behavior accordingly - remaining deactivated when the second energized position (open command) is detected, thus preventing feedback-induced nuisance closings that would reduce productivity
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 allows for efficient and quick attachment changes by preventing unwanted auto-closure, allowing operators to maintain control over the attachment mounting device's position, enhancing operational efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
a power actuator is connected to manual levers for power operating movable wedge members... The power actuator is operated through a hydraulic circuit
Implementation Method 2
at least one hydraulic actuator configured to actuate the attachment mounting device into the closed position and into the opened position
Implementation Method 3
The control valve has at least a first energized position and a second energized position. The first energized position applies pressurized fluid to the at least one hydraulic actuator
Data Source
AI summary
A control circuit for an attachment mounting device that has a closed position for securing an implement and an opened position for releasing an implement. The control circuit includes at least one hydraulic actuator, a control valve and an auto-close feature. The control valve has at least a first energized position and a second energized position. The first energized position applies pressurized fluid to the at least one hydraulic actuator to actuate the attachment mounting device into the closed position. The second energized position applies pressurized fluid to the at least one hydraulic actuator to actuate the attachment mounting device into the opened position. The auto-close feature is configured to be activated after the control valve is in the first energized position and is configured to be deactivated after the control valve is in the second energized position.