Construction Machine Frame Width Adjustment via Steering
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing slipform paving machines face challenges in efficiently adjusting their width due to limitations in the mechanisms used for lateral extension and contraction, which can lead to inefficiencies in operation and adaptability on varying work sites.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of a self-propelled construction machine with a laterally extendible frame, featuring ground engaging units with drive motors, a frame lock system, and a controller that manages hydraulic actuators and steering sensors to facilitate controlled lateral movement and adjustment of the machine's width, allowing for both manual and automatic operation modes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If hydraulic rams oriented perpendicular to the operating direction are used to collapse or expand the frame, then the frame width can be adjusted, but the device complexity increases and the ease of operation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The ground engaging units perform dual functions: they provide propulsion/steering and simultaneously generate the lateral force needed for frame width adjustment. The steering mechanism itself is used to collapse or expand the frame by directing lateral force through the ground engaging units, eliminating the need for separate hydraulic rams oriented perpendicular to the operating direction.
Solution Approach 2:
The ground engaging units are designed to serve multiple purposes: propulsion, steering, and frame width adjustment. By using the same components for both movement and width adjustment, the patent reduces overall system complexity while maintaining adaptability.
2Adaptability or versatility
If hydraulic rams oriented perpendicular to the operating direction are used to collapse or expand the frame, then the frame width can be adjusted, but the ease of operation deteriorates due to additional control mechanisms required
Solution Approach 1:
The ground engaging units perform dual functions: they provide propulsion/steering and simultaneously generate the lateral force needed for frame width adjustment. The steering mechanism itself is used to collapse or expand the frame by directing lateral force through the ground engaging units, eliminating the need for separate hydraulic rams oriented perpendicular to the operating direction.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the frame is supported from the ground with posts and collapsed or expanded solely with hydraulic rams oriented perpendicular to the operating direction, then the frame width can be adjusted, but the productivity decreases due to additional support structures and time required for width changes
Solution Approach 1:
The ground engaging units perform dual functions: they provide propulsion/steering and simultaneously generate the lateral force needed for frame width adjustment. The steering mechanism itself is used to collapse or expand the frame by directing lateral force through the ground engaging units, eliminating the need for separate hydraulic rams oriented perpendicular to the operating direction.
Solution Approach 2:
The frame width adjustment occurs continuously during machine movement rather than requiring separate stationary adjustment operations. The width can be changed at any time during operation by simply steering the ground engaging units, eliminating downtime and maintaining continuous productive action.
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
This solution enables precise and efficient adjustment of the machine's width, enhancing operational flexibility and adaptability on different work sites by utilizing the lateral component of force from ground engaging units and hydraulic actuation, thereby improving the machine's ability to handle varying paving tasks.
Implementation Method 1
This force may be augmented by a linear actuator, such as a hydraulic ram, connected between the side members
Implementation Method 2
steering of at least one of the ground engaging units to provide a lateral force to adjust the width of the machine frame
Implementation Method 3
Each of the ground engaging units includes a drive motor configured such that each ground engaging unit is driven across a ground surface by its respective drive motor
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3~3A
AI summary
A self-propelled construction machine includes machine frame that is laterally extendible to adjust a width of the machine frame. A frame lock can selectively lock and unlock the machine frame to permit the width adjustment. A controller includes a frame extension mode configured to steer at least one ground engaging unit to provide a lateral force to adjust the width of the machine frame as the machine is driven across the ground surface by the ground engaging units.