Engine Speed Control via Operator Input Feedback
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Solution Overview
Problem
Operators of power machines, such as loaders, face challenges in controlling engine speed optimally, leading to increased fuel usage, engine wear, and noise due to manual adjustment of throttle settings, which can result in inadequate power delivery or excessive power consumption.
Innovation Solution
A control system that automatically adjusts engine speed based on user inputs from controls for travel and lift arm functions, calculating an offset from baseline engine speed to ensure optimal power delivery while minimizing fuel consumption and wear.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Power
If the operator uses a baseline throttle input to set the engine speed to a high RPM level, then the machine has sufficient power to perform work functions, but this results in increased fuel usage, engine wear, and noise
Solution Approach 1:
The control system continuously monitors operator inputs from joysticks and pedals, and automatically adjusts engine RPM in real-time based on the actual work demands detected from these inputs, creating a closed-loop feedback system that optimizes fuel efficiency while maintaining sufficient power
Solution Approach 2:
The system enables the machine to self-regulate engine speed automatically based on operator inputs without requiring manual throttle adjustment, allowing the engine to operate at optimal RPM levels determined by actual work requirements rather than operator estimation
2Use of energy by moving object
If the operator uses a baseline throttle input to set the engine speed to a low RPM level, then fuel consumption is reduced, but the machine becomes underpowered and may experience engine stalls
Solution Approach 1:
The control system monitors operator inputs in real-time and dynamically increases engine RPM when work demands are detected, preventing underpowering and engine stalls while maintaining fuel efficiency during low-demand periods
Solution Approach 2:
The engine speed is made dynamically adjustable based on real-time work demands rather than being fixed at a low baseline, allowing the system to adapt engine RPM to match actual power requirements and avoid both fuel waste and power deficiency
3Ease of operation
If the operator manually controls the throttle using a foot pedal or baseline input, then the operator can adjust engine speed, but this requires additional operator attention and can result in suboptimal engine speed settings
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs automatic engine speed regulation without requiring manual throttle input from the operator, freeing the operator to focus entirely on work function control while the system handles engine management autonomously
Solution Approach 2:
The control system integrates multiple functions into a single automated process: it monitors operator inputs for work function control and simultaneously uses these same inputs to regulate engine speed, eliminating the need for separate throttle control and improving overall operational efficiency
Data Source
AI summary
Power machines, control systems and methods that adjust engine speed based upon actuation of user input controls that control other power machine functions such as travel functions and lift arm functions. By controlling engine speed at least partially in response to the user input devices controlling other machine functions, more optimal engine speeds can be achieved.