Work Machine Grading Tool Automatic Depth Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing automatic grading systems for work machines lack efficient control over the depth and position of grading tools, leading to operational inefficiencies and potential machine stoppages due to excessive propulsion system power output.
Innovation Solution
A work machine equipped with a chassis, ground-contacting members, and actuators, featuring a receiver to detect wireless signals and an electronic controller that adjusts the actuators in response, allowing for automated adjustment of the grading tool's height and pitch, enabling precise grading without manual operator selection.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If automatic grading systems are implemented without manual operator selection, then operational efficiency is improved, but control precision over grading tool depth and position deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The system employs sensors to detect the position of the grading tool and the depth of earth disruption, feeding this information back to the controller. The controller then automatically adjusts the actuator to maintain precise grading depth, creating a closed-loop feedback system that ensures both high productivity and accurate depth control without manual intervention.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces manual mechanical control with an automated electronic control system. The electronic controller receives input from sensors and wirelessly communicates actuator commands, substituting the mechanical operator's manual selection process with an automated electromechanical system that achieves both efficiency and precision.
2Productivity
If grading tool depth is increased to improve earth disruption function, then productivity is improved, but machine stoppages increase due to excessive propulsion system power output
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically adjusts the grading tool depth and actuator position in real-time based on soil conditions and propulsion system response. Rather than maintaining a fixed deep cutting depth, the controller modulates the depth to optimize earth disruption while preventing excessive power demand that would cause machine stoppages, adapting the parameters dynamically to maintain continuous operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the operational parameters of the grading tool depth and actuator position based on real-time conditions. The controller modifies these parameters to achieve optimal earth disruption efficiency while keeping power consumption within the propulsion system's capabilities, preventing machine stoppages by adjusting parameters before power limits are exceeded.
Data Source
AI summary
A work machine includes a first actuator operatively coupled with a first suspension element and a second actuator operatively coupled with a second suspension element. A grading tool assembly is operatively coupled with the first suspension element and the second suspension element. A receiver is operatively coupled with the chassis and configured and operable to detect a wireless signal. An electronic controller is in operative communication with the receiver, the first actuator, and the second actuator and is configured and operable to control the first actuator and the second actuator in response to a wireless signal detected by the receiver.