Excavator Boom Control via Pressure Feedback
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing hydraulic control systems for excavation machines lack broad applicability, particularly for novice operators, and fail to optimize fuel efficiency and operator comfort during digging and leveling operations due to improper boom control, leading to excessive fuel consumption and operator discomfort.
Innovation Solution
A hydraulic control system with a controller that monitors pressure signals from actuators and automatically adjusts boom operation based on operator input, ensuring proper boom pressure and stability by overriding inefficient control inputs, thereby maintaining efficient fuel use and operator safety.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If automated boom control is implemented to optimize digging cycle, then digging efficiency is improved, but the system lacks broad applicability to manned machines and does not benefit novice operators
Solution Approach 1:
The control system dynamically adjusts boom operation based on real-time conditions. The controller automatically affects boom actuator operation when stick actuator movement is requested and boom input is below threshold, creating a dynamic control mode that adapts to operator needs and working conditions while maintaining manual controllability
Solution Approach 2:
The control system serves multiple functions: it provides automated boom control when needed, maintains manual control when operator input is sufficient, and adapts to different operating conditions. This multi-functional approach makes the system universally applicable to both automated and manned machines, benefiting operators of all skill levels
2Ease of operation
If manual boom control is used during digging operations, then operator control is maintained, but improper boom control leads to excessive fuel consumption and hydraulic losses
Solution Approach 1:
The controller continuously monitors pressure sensor signals from the boom actuator and stick actuator to determine when automatic intervention is needed. By providing feedback on actual boom pressure and operator input levels, the system automatically adjusts boom operation to maintain optimal pressure ranges, preventing excessive fuel consumption while preserving operator control when input exceeds the threshold
3Loss of energy
If boom pressure is not maintained during digging, then fuel consumption increases, but increasing boom pressure automatically may cause instability and operator discomfort
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically adjusts boom pressure based on real-time monitoring of operator input and actual boom pressure. Automatic intervention occurs only when stick actuator movement is requested and boom input is below threshold, creating a dynamic balance between maintaining optimal pressure and preserving machine stability and operator comfort
Data Source
AI summary
A hydraulic control system is disclosed for an excavation machine including a tool linkage system. The hydraulic control system may have a first actuator configured to move a first link of the tool linkage system in response to input from an operator of the excavation machine, and a pressure sensor configured to generate a signal indicative of a pressure of the first actuator. The hydraulic control system may also have a second actuator configured to move a second link of the tool linkage system in response to input from the operator. In addition, the hydraulic control system may have a controller in communication with the pressure sensor, the first actuator, and the second actuator. The controller may be configured to automatically affect operation of the first actuator based on the pressure signal at times when movement of the second actuator is being requested by the operator and movement of the first actuator is being requested by the operator at a level less than a threshold.