Hybrid Construction Machine Component Operation Time Calculation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional methods fail to accurately calculate the operation time of components in electric hybrid construction machines, leading to inefficient maintenance and increased costs due to the independence of the energy source from the engine operation.
Innovation Solution
Measuring current flow in electric work devices and using a processing unit to calculate operation time, with alerts for maintenance when approaching predetermined maintenance periods, allowing for accurate tracking and timely maintenance of hybrid construction machine components.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If conventional operation time calculation method using alternator output is applied to hybrid construction machines, then the calculation is simple, but the operation time of components not directly associated with the engine cannot be calculated accurately
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the operation time calculation by component type. It separately calculates operation time for engine-connected components (using alternator output) and for ESS-connected components (using inverter current measurement). This segmentation allows each component's operation time to be accurately tracked according to its specific power source, resolving the contradiction between simplicity and accuracy.
2Device complexity
If conventional technique is used for hybrid construction machines, then the system structure is simple, but it is impossible to calculate operation time of components operated independently by ESS
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediary measurement approach using current detectors and a control unit. The current detectors measure electrical current from the ESS to the inverter, and the control unit processes this data to calculate operation time. This intermediary system bridges the gap between the simple ESS structure and the need for accurate operation time tracking of independently operated components.
3Loss of substance
If operation time is not accurately calculated, then maintenance costs are reduced, but the machine may require additional maintenance and operational efficiency is lowered
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a feedback system where the control unit continuously monitors component operation time and compares it against predetermined maintenance thresholds. When the operation time approaches the maintenance period, the system provides alerts to the operator. This feedback mechanism ensures maintenance is performed at the optimal time, preventing unnecessary maintenance costs while avoiding operational efficiency loss from improper maintenance timing.
Data Source
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AI summary
A hybrid construction machine is disclosed, which comprises an engine, a generator, the generator connected to the engine, a converter connected to the generator, and an ESS (Energy Storage System) connected to the converter. The hybrid construction machine further comprises a converter current detector positioned either between the converter and the generator or between the converter and the ESS to detect the current flowing between the converter and the generator, an ESS current detector positioned between the converter and the ESS to detect the current flowing between the converter and the ESS, a processing unit receiving the current detected from the converter current detector and the ESS current detector and calculating the operation time of the respective component, and a display unit displaying the operation time of the respective component. Since the hybrid construction machine calculates the operation time of the respective component and displays the same to an operator, the operator can properly perform the maintenance and repair in the proper time.