Drive Train Torque Limiting via Hydraulic Feedback
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing systems for controlling torque in machine drive trains do not effectively limit stress and potential damage to axle assembly components, as they primarily focus on optimizing implement performance rather than managing torque applied to the axle assemblies.
Innovation Solution
A method and system that utilize data from hydraulic cylinder pressures to determine a preferred torque value below a predetermined threshold for drive train components, modifying the torque output of a power conversion unit to approximate this value, thereby limiting strain and damage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If high torque is transmitted from the power conversion unit to the axle assemblies, then the machine can perform heavy work and maintain productivity, but strain and damage occur to components of the axle assemblies leading to failure
Solution Approach 1:
The system continuously monitors implement system hydraulic cylinder pressure and uses this feedback to dynamically adjust engine torque output. The controller receives pressure data, determines current torque applied at the axle assembly, and modifies engine speed to maintain torque below the threshold value, preventing component damage while allowing efficient operation
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes the torque parameter by adjusting engine speed based on hydraulic cylinder pressure readings. When pressure indicates high load conditions that would exceed the torque threshold, the controller reduces engine speed to limit torque output, thereby protecting axle assembly components while maintaining operational efficiency
2Productivity
If engine speed is modified to control power train torque based on implement position and pump pressures, then implement operation efficiency is improved, but torque applied to axle assemblies is not considered and component damage may still occur
Solution Approach 1:
The control system performs multiple functions: it continues to optimize implement operation efficiency based on position and pressure data, while simultaneously protecting axle assembly components by limiting torque. The same controller and sensor system serve both implement performance optimization and drive train protection purposes
Solution Approach 2:
The system takes preliminary action by establishing a predetermined torque threshold value before damage occurs. The controller proactively monitors hydraulic pressure and adjusts engine speed in advance to prevent torque from exceeding the threshold, rather than reacting after damage has occurred
Data Source
AI summary
A method is provided for limiting a torque output associated with a power conversion unit. The method may include receiving data related to a pressure associated with an implement system hydraulic cylinder, determining, based on the data, a preferred torque value, wherein the preferred torque value is below a predetermined threshold value associated with one or more drive train components, and modifying a torque output associated with a power conversion unit to approximate the preferred torque value.