Hydraulic Pressure Estimation Using Oil Temperature Compensation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for estimating hydraulic power in machines, such as agricultural equipment, are inaccurate due to variations in hydraulic fluid viscosity caused by temperature changes, leading to errors in yield mapping and inefficient operation.
Innovation Solution
A method to determine free-running pressure of a hydraulic motor by measuring hydraulic fluid temperature and using a linear equation to calculate pressure based on temperature, allowing for real-time updates and improved accuracy.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If hydraulic power is estimated using conventional methods without temperature compensation, then the estimation process is simple, but the measurement precision deteriorates due to viscosity variations
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies parameter changes by introducing temperature as a compensating variable. The system measures hydraulic fluid temperature and uses it to adjust the estimated hydraulic power calculation, accounting for viscosity variations. This transforms the estimation from a simple flow-based calculation to a temperature-compensated calculation, improving accuracy without requiring complex additional hardware beyond a temperature sensor.
2Measurement precision
If free-running pressure is measured periodically with the machine idle, then the measurement can be obtained, but the productivity decreases due to machine downtime
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by measuring and storing the free-running pressure and temperature values before the machine enters productive operation. The system captures these baseline values during brief idle periods or startup phases, then uses them for continuous compensation during operation. This allows the system to have accurate compensation parameters ready before productivity-critical operations begin, minimizing the impact on overall machine utilization.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent enables continuous useful action by implementing continuous temperature monitoring and continuous hydraulic power estimation with temperature compensation. Instead of periodic idle measurements, the system continuously tracks temperature and applies compensation in real-time during productive operation, eliminating the need to stop the machine for measurements and maintaining uninterrupted productivity.
3Measurement precision
If temperature compensation is implemented continuously, then the hydraulic power estimation accuracy improves, but the use of energy increases due to continuous monitoring
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies self-service by utilizing the existing hydraulic system's operational characteristics to provide temperature data. The system leverages the natural temperature variations that occur during machine operation and uses readily available sensors from the hydraulic system itself. This approach minimizes additional energy consumption by using existing system resources rather than introducing separate active heating or cooling measurement systems.
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 continuous, accurate estimation of hydraulic power, reducing errors in yield mapping and improving operational efficiency by automatically adjusting machine operations based on determined free-running pressure.
Implementation Method 1
The hydraulic circuit includes a pump, which pumps the hydraulic fluid through the hydraulic circuit to a hydraulic motor
Implementation Method 2
The hydraulic motor power consumption is defined by the hydraulic fluid flow multiplied by hydraulic fluid pressure
Implementation Method 3
receiving a measurement of a temperature of a hydraulic fluid within the hydraulic circuit
Implementation Method 4
Temperature of the hydraulic fluid affects the viscosity of the fluid, which changes the resistance of that hydraulic fluid to flow
Data Source
AI summary
Systems, methods and machines are provided for determining a free-running pressure of a machine. The method can include receiving a measurement of a temperature of a hydraulic fluid within a hydraulic circuit of the machine, the hydraulic circuit including a hydraulic motor configured to pump the hydraulic fluid through the hydraulic circuit; receiving a measurement of a first pressure of the hydraulic fluid at a first point within the hydraulic circuit; and determining the free-running pressure of the hydraulic motor based on the temperature of the hydraulic fluid.