Hydraulic Boom Angle Control Using Piston Position Feedback
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Operators face challenges in aligning construction or demolition tools, such as hydraulic hammers or drills, at the correct angle due to safety and convenience constraints, leading to potential damage or increased wear, as existing solutions either fail to set the angle correctly initially or compromise operator control.
Innovation Solution
A system comprising a hydraulic cylinder with a piston, controller, and piston position sensor that receives control inputs, determines the current angle, and halts the tool when it approximates the desired angle, ensuring proper alignment without losing operator control.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If the operator manually aligns the tool without assistance, then the operator maintains full control of the boom, but the operator cannot easily achieve the correct angle due to safety and convenience constraints
Solution Approach 1:
The system incorporates sensors that continuously monitor the boom's position and angle, providing real-time feedback to the operator through displays or haptic interfaces. This feedback loop enables the operator to make precise adjustments to achieve the correct alignment angle without needing to physically position themselves near the tool, thereby improving measurement precision while maintaining ease of operation from a safe distance
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces manual mechanical alignment methods with automated electronic systems including sensors, controllers, and actuators. These systems automatically calculate and adjust the boom position based on pre-programmed correct angles, substituting the operator's physical alignment efforts with electronic control mechanisms that provide greater precision and safety
2Measurement precision
If automatic angle setting is implemented, then the correct angle is achieved automatically, but the operator loses control of the boom which may cause unexpected movements
Solution Approach 1:
The system employs dynamic control modes that can switch between fully manual operation and automated angle setting based on operator preference or situational requirements. The automated system provides guidance and assistance rather than complete automation, allowing the operator to maintain ultimate control while benefiting from automated precision when needed
Solution Approach 2:
The controller acts as an intermediary between the operator and the boom system, providing automated angle calculation and guidance while still responding to operator commands. The system offers suggested positions and automatic adjustment assistance but requires operator authorization or can be overridden, maintaining the operator as the final decision-maker while benefiting from automated precision
3Productivity
If the tool is operated at an incorrect angle, then the operation can proceed without interruption, but the tool experiences increased wear and potential damage
Solution Approach 1:
The system pre-calculates and stores the correct alignment angles for various operating conditions and tool configurations. Before operation begins, the operator selects the appropriate mode or task, and the system automatically configures the correct angle, preventing incorrect operation from the start rather than correcting it during operation
Solution Approach 2:
Real-time sensors monitor the actual tool angle during operation and provide continuous feedback to the controller. When deviations from the correct angle are detected, the system alerts the operator through visual or audible signals, enabling corrective action before significant wear or damage occurs, thus protecting tool durability while maintaining operational awareness
Data Source
AI summary
A carrier comprising at least one hydraulic cylinder having a piston, a controller and a piston position sensor, wherein the carrier is arranged to carry a tool through the use of the hydraulic cylinder and wherein the controller is configured to: receive control input for moving the tool; receive piston position information for at least one piston of the at least one cylinders; determine a current angle for the tool based on the piston position information; and determine that the current angle approximates a desired angle, and in response thereto halt the tool at the desired angle. According to an aspect the controller may be configured to detect and determine the position of a subject relative the carrier based on hydraulic pressure information and tool operational information. Further, the application concerns methods applied with the embodiments of said carrier.