Dynamic Rimpull Limit Control for Wheel Slip Reduction

Resolve Bottlenecks,
Find Innovative Solutions
Generate Solutions

Solution Overview

Problem

Existing systems fail to dynamically adjust the rimpull limit based on wheel slippage for machines like wheel loaders, relying on universal or operator-specified coefficients of traction that are not universally applicable across different conditions.

Innovation Solution

A method and system where a controller receives signals for transmission output speed and location/movement information to determine a traction value, which is used to set a rimpull limit for adjusting transmission output torque, thereby addressing wheel slippage by dynamically modifying the traction value based on detected slip.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If a default or operator-specified coefficient of traction is used to determine rimpull limit, then the system is simple to operate, but the coefficient of traction is not universally applicable in different situations and different underfoot conditions

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveadaptability of coefficient of traction to different underfoot conditionsVSAvoidcomplexity of traction control system
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The system automatically determines the coefficient of traction by measuring wheel slip and calculating the ratio between applied torque and actual movement, eliminating the need for operator input or default values. The system serves itself by using its own operational data (wheel speed, transmission output speed) to dynamically adjust the traction parameter.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The system continuously monitors wheel slip by comparing transmission output speed with actual vehicle movement speed, uses this feedback to calculate the coefficient of traction, and dynamically adjusts the rimpull limit accordingly. This closed-loop feedback ensures the system adapts to changing underfoot conditions in real-time.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

2Productivity

If wheel slip is not controlled, then the machine can maintain higher torque output, but significant wheel slip causes wear and reduces operational efficiency

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveoperational efficiency and reduction of wheel wearVSAvoidenergy loss due to wheel slip
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSLoss of energy

Solution Approach 1:

The rimpull limit is not fixed but dynamically adjusted based on real-time wheel slip conditions. The system continuously modifies the torque threshold that triggers slip control, allowing optimal balance between power transmission and slip prevention adaptively throughout operation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The system changes the coefficient of traction parameter dynamically based on measured wheel slip and calculated traction conditions. By adjusting this key parameter according to actual underfoot conditions, the system optimizes the balance between maintaining torque output and preventing excessive slip that causes energy loss and wear.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

Data Source

PatentUS10981570B2Rimpull limit based on wheel slippage
Publication Date: 2021.04.20 CATERPILLAR INC
  • US10981570B2 patent drawing
  • US10981570B2 patent drawing
  • US10981570B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A machine is disclosed. The machine may include a continuously variable transmission, a location or movement module, and a controller. The controller may receive a first signal indicating a transmission output speed for the machine. The controller may receive, from the location or movement module, a second signal indicating location or movement information of the machine. The controller may determine a traction value based on the first signal and the second signal. The controller may determine a rimpull limit value based on the traction value. The controller may provide the rimpull limit value to the continuously variable transmission, wherein the continuously variable transmission is to determine a transmission output torque of the machine based on the rimpull limit value.