Electro-Hydraulic Control System for Operator Speed Adaptation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing hydraulic apparatus, such as zero turn radius vehicles, lack adequate speed and acceleration control options for different skill levels of operators and do not include in-situ calibration methods, leading to potential safety issues and mechanical linkage complexities.
Innovation Solution
A control system comprising a processor and input device that independently controls hydraulic power units through electro-mechanical actuators, allowing for precise control of fluid flow and speed, and includes a calibration routine to adjust settings for optimal performance.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a mechanical linkage system with swash plate is used to control hydraulic pumps, then the vehicle provides smooth control and moderate operator effort, but the system lacks adequate speed and acceleration control options for different skill levels and requires pre-shipping calibration
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the traditional mechanical linkage system with an electro-hydraulic control system. Electrical actuators control the swash plate position based on electronic sensor input, eliminating the need for complex mechanical linkages and levers. This substitution enables programmable speed and acceleration profiles while maintaining smooth control characteristics, and allows post-manufacturing calibration through software rather than mechanical adjustment.
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements dynamic control characteristics by using electronic control to adjust system parameters in real-time. The electro-hydraulic system can dynamically modify acceleration rates and top speed limits based on operator selection, enabling different operational modes (e.g., beginner vs. advanced operator settings) without changing the physical hardware configuration.
2Ease of operation
If separate levers for each wheel are used with ratio-reducing levers, then smooth control is achieved by limiting movement, but the system does not offer adequate speed and acceleration control options
Solution Approach 1:
The electro-hydraulic control system serves multiple functions: it maintains smooth control characteristics through progressive actuator movement, provides programmable acceleration profiles, enables variable speed limits, and allows different operational modes. This single integrated electronic control system replaces multiple separate mechanical control systems, providing universal functionality across different operating conditions and skill levels.
3Ease of operation
If custom swash plates are used to provide specific feel to the operator, then the vehicle achieves desired control characteristics, but the system requires adjustment prior to shipping to minimize mechanical tolerances effects
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces mechanical calibration adjustment with electronic calibration. Instead of physically adjusting the swash plate position during manufacturing to compensate for tolerances, the system uses electronic sensors and programmable control to establish the neutral position and control characteristics after assembly. This eliminates the need for pre-shipping mechanical adjustment while maintaining precise control feel.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs self-calibration through electronic procedures. The control system can automatically determine the neutral position and calibration parameters through software routines, eliminating the need for manual mechanical adjustment by manufacturers or service technicians. This self-calibrating capability simplifies manufacturing while maintaining operational precision.
4Productivity
If mechanical linkage systems are used for hydraulic control, then the system provides direct control to pumps, but the system lacks in-situ calibration methods and remains out of calibration until service is performed
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces mechanical calibration systems with electronic calibration capabilities. The electro-hydraulic system incorporates electronic sensors and programmable control that enable calibration to be performed in-situ (at the operating location) through software procedures, eliminating the need to transport the vehicle to a service facility for calibration adjustments.
Solution Approach 2:
The system enables operators to perform calibration themselves at the point of use through electronic procedures. The control system guides the operator through calibration steps using software interfaces, automatically adjusting parameters without requiring specialized service equipment or facilities. This self-service calibration capability maintains productivity while simplifying maintenance.
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
The system provides enhanced control and safety features by allowing operators to adjust speed and acceleration settings, reducing operator fatigue, and enabling in-situ calibration to maintain optimal vehicle performance, thus improving operational efficiency and safety.
Implementation Method 1
a first electro-mechanical actuator configured to control an amount and flow rate of a first fluid
Data Source
AI summary
In one aspect, the disclosure herein provides an apparatus that in one configuration includes a first hydraulic power unit for supplying a first fluid under pressure to a first chamber for controlling motion of a first movable member and a second hydraulic power unit for supplying a second fluid under pressure to a second chamber for controlling motion of a second movable member, an input device configured to provide an input signal for controlling the motions of the first and second movable members and a processor configured to: receive the input signal from the input device; and independently set, in response to the input signal from the input device, a first electrical actuator to control an amount and flow rate of the first fluid to the first hydraulic power unit and a second electrical actuator to control an amount and flow rate of the second fluid to the second hydraulic power unit for controlling the motion of the first and second movable members.