Grading Machine Drawbar Centershift Control System

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing grading machine control systems lack sufficient positioning and orienting options, making it difficult for inexperienced operators to perform complex grading tasks efficiently and accurately.

Innovation Solution

A control system for a grading machine that includes a user interface and a control system configured to adjust the drawbar centershift position by extending or retracting a drawbar centershift cylinder to one of a plurality of predetermined positions based on user input, allowing for precise positioning and orientation of the blade.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If a control system provides multiple blade positioning and orienting options, then the ability to perform various grading operations is improved, but the device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveblade positioning optionsVSAvoidcontrol system complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The control system is divided into multiple independent control modules, each responsible for a specific blade positioning function (height, angle, pitch, sideshift). This segmentation allows each module to be simplified while collectively providing comprehensive control capabilities.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The control system is designed with universal controls that can manage multiple blade positioning parameters simultaneously. A single control interface can adjust various blade orientations and positions, reducing the need for separate complex control mechanisms for each function.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Ease of operation

If automatic control features are added to assist inexperienced operators, then ease of operation is improved, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveoperator ease of useVSAvoidcontrol system complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The control system includes pre-programmed positioning modes and automatic return-to-center functions that perform common positioning tasks without requiring operator intervention. These preliminary actions simplify operation for inexperienced users while adding minimal complexity through software rather than hardware.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The control system automatically monitors and adjusts blade positioning parameters, with features like automatic centering and position maintenance that allow the system to self-correct without operator input, reducing the skill level needed to operate the machine.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

3Manufacturing precision

If precise blade positioning control is implemented, then manufacturing precision is improved, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveblade positioning precisionVSAvoidcontrol system complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Manufacturing precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The control system incorporates sensors that continuously monitor blade position and orientation, providing real-time feedback to the control modules. This feedback mechanism enables precise positioning control through closed-loop control, achieving high accuracy without requiring overly complex mechanical positioning mechanisms.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

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

Enables inexperienced operators to perform various grading operations with greater ease and accuracy by providing a user-friendly interface for selecting and maintaining specific blade positions, improving operational efficiency and reducing the complexity of blade positioning tasks.

Implementation Method 1

The control system may be configured to receive an input from the user interface and extend or retract the drawbar centershift cylinder to adjust a centershift of the drawbar to one of a plurality of predetermined centershift positions based on the input

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectHydraulic cylinder extension and retraction: Hydraulic Press

Data Source

PatentUS11459726B2Control system for a grading machine
Publication Date: 2022.10.04 CATERPILLAR INC
  • US11459726B2 patent drawing
  • US11459726B2 patent drawing
  • US11459726B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A grading machine may include a machine body, a grading blade, a drawbar connecting the grading blade to the machine body, a drawbar centershift cylinder, a user interface, and a control system. The control system may be configured to receive an input from the user interface and extend or retract the drawbar centershift cylinder to adjust a centershift of the drawbar to one of a plurality of predetermined centershift positions based on the input.