Joystick-Based Hydraulic Third Function Control Without Mechanical Detents
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing hydraulic control systems for work vehicles, such as wheel loaders and scrapers, require mechanical detents for controlling third functions, which are costly and occupy space.
Innovation Solution
A hydraulic control system utilizing an electric valve and electronic control unit to control third and fourth functions via a joystick, eliminating the need for mechanical detents by detecting specific joystick movements and angular positions for actuator activation and memorization.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a mechanical detent is used to control the third function, then the actuator can be reliably activated and maintained, but the system becomes more costly and occupies more space
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical detent system with an electronic control system comprising a joystick, angle sensor, and control unit. The control unit detects joystick angular position and duration to activate the third function actuator, eliminating mechanical components while maintaining reliable actuator control through electronic memory and signal processing
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an electronic intermediary system (control unit and angle sensor) between the operator's joystick input and the actuator activation. This intermediary processes the control signal by detecting angular position and duration, providing reliable actuator control without requiring direct mechanical coupling or detent mechanisms
2Duration of action of stationary object
If a mechanical detent is used to control the third function, then the actuator position can be maintained, but the control system occupies more space
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces space-consuming mechanical detent structures with compact electronic components including an angle sensor and control unit. The electronic system maintains actuator position through memory functionality that stores the activation state, eliminating the need for large mechanical positioning structures while achieving the same position maintenance function
3Manufacturing precision
If a mechanical detent is used for third function control, then precise actuator activation is achieved, but the system becomes more costly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces expensive precision mechanical detent mechanisms with cost-effective electronic components including a standard joystick, angle sensor, and microcontroller-based control unit. The electronic system achieves precise actuator activation through digital angle detection and programmable logic, reducing manufacturing costs while maintaining or improving activation precision
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the control parameter from mechanical position (requiring precise mechanical tolerances) to electrical signal parameters (angular position and duration). The control unit monitors joystick angle thresholds and time duration to activate the actuator, achieving precise control through software logic rather than mechanical precision, thereby reducing manufacturing costs
Data Source
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AI summary
Hydraulic control system (1) for controlling at least a third operation actuator (3; 4) of a work vehicle, provided with valve means (2) fluidly interposed between a third operation actuator (3; 4), a source of fluid in pressure (P) and a discharge (T) and an electronic control unit (6) comprising elaboration means configured to receive a plurality of input (7) and to provide an output signal (8) to control the valve means (2) for operating the third operation actuator (3; 4).