Hovering Implement Control System for Wheel Loaders
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing hydraulically actuated implement systems in ground engaging machines face challenges in efficiently and accurately controlling implement positioning, particularly in tasks requiring hovering above a substrate, where manual operation can lead to collisions and inefficiencies, and automated solutions may not fully address operator expertise or work cycle complexity.
Innovation Solution
A control system that electronically reads stored values linked to the implement's starting configuration and outputs control signals to adjust the implement system according to a substrate collision-avoiding pattern, enabling it to hover above the substrate by modifying actuator control signals based on sensed positions and travel data, using a computer-readable memory and electronic control unit.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If manual operation is used to control the implement system, then operator expertise and adaptability to complex work cycles are maintained, but collision risk with substrate increases and operational efficiency decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The control system automatically manages the implement system by reading stored values linked to starting configurations and generating control signals without requiring continuous manual intervention. The system self-regulates the movement from starting configuration to hovering configuration while avoiding substrate collision, freeing the operator to focus on other tasks.
Solution Approach 2:
The control system continuously monitors the implement system's position and configuration during movement. By comparing current position data with stored starting configuration values and desired hovering position, the system adjusts control signals in real-time to maintain proper clearance from the substrate and prevent collision.
2Manufacturing precision
If automated control is implemented to improve positioning accuracy, then collision risk decreases, but the system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The control system pre-stores configuration values and movement patterns in memory before actual operation occurs. When hovering is required, the system retrieves pre-computed control signals based on the current starting configuration, eliminating the need for complex real-time calculations and reducing onboard computational complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses stored value copies of starting configurations and associated control parameters. Instead of continuously computing optimal paths, the system retrieves pre-stored configuration data and applies corresponding control signals, simplifying the control architecture while maintaining positioning precision.
3Productivity
If the implement system moves quickly to improve productivity, then work cycle time decreases, but the risk of substrate collision increases
Solution Approach 1:
The control system dynamically adjusts movement parameters based on the current starting configuration and desired hovering position. By calculating optimal movement paths that account for the implement's current state and the substrate's location, the system achieves fast yet collision-free movement through intelligent speed modulation and path planning.
Solution Approach 2:
The system pre-calculates safe movement trajectories and speed profiles before execution. By storing optimized movement patterns in advance, the system can execute fast movements without collision risk, as the speed and path are predetermined based on the starting configuration and required clearance from the substrate.
Data Source
AI summary
A machine such as a wheel loader includes a frame and ground engaging propulsion elements coupled with the frame. A hydraulically actuated implement system of the machine includes a linkage and an implement and is adjustable from a starting configuration to a second configuration according to a substrate collision avoiding pattern. In the second configuration, the implement hovers above a substrate beneath the machine. Related methodology and control logic is also disclosed.