Joystick Trigger for Ride Control Activation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Construction machines like skid steers and compact loaders experience instability due to mass shifts at the end of lift arms, leading to a bumpy ride on uneven terrains, and existing ride control mechanisms require operators to exit the vehicle to engage or disengage, which is inconvenient and not suitable for all operational conditions.
Innovation Solution
A construction machine equipped with a joystick that includes a trigger button to selectively engage and disengage ride control functionality, allowing operators to activate or deactivate ride control while seated and in motion, using an engagement management unit to control solenoids and valves that connect or disconnect the accumulator from hydraulic circuits.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the ride control switch is placed outside the cab, then the ride control functionality can be engaged or disengaged, but the operator must exit the vehicle to do so, reducing ease of operation
Solution Approach 1:
The ride control switch is merged with the existing cab-mounted controls, specifically integrated into the joystick assembly. This allows the operator to activate or deactivate ride control without leaving the cab, combining two previously separate functions (joystick control and ride control switching) into a single integrated control station.
Solution Approach 2:
The joystick assembly is given multi-functionality by incorporating the ride control switch into it. The joystick now serves both its primary function of controlling machine movement and implement operation, and a secondary function of activating/deactivating ride control through its integrated switch or button.
2Stability of the object's composition
If ride control is activated continuously, then ride stability is improved, but stiffness is reduced when implement operations require it
Solution Approach 1:
The hydraulic connection between the accumulator and lift arm circuit is made dynamic rather than static. The system can switch between connected and disconnected states based on operational needs, allowing the hydraulic stiffness to be adjusted in real-time. This is achieved through solenoid-controlled valves that can connect or disconnect the accumulator from the hydraulic circuit as needed.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes the hydraulic parameter of stiffness by controlling the connection state of the accumulator. When the accumulator is connected to the hydraulic circuit, the system exhibits softer, more compliant characteristics for ride stability. When disconnected, the system returns to a stiffer state for improved implement performance.
3Ease of operation
If the operator can activate ride control while in motion, then ease of operation is improved, but control precision during motion may be affected
Solution Approach 1:
The ride control activation function is extracted from the primary movement control functions. The switch or button for ride control is positioned separately from the main joystick movement controls, allowing the operator to activate ride control independently without interfering with precision movement control. This separation prevents accidental activation while maintaining ease of use.
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 seamless activation and deactivation of ride control without leaving the operator's seat, improving ride stability and maintaining ground traction while allowing for increased stiffness when needed, such as during implement operations like digging into a pile.
Implementation Method 1
Ride control, when activated, attaches an accumulator to hydraulic lines that impart movement to the lift arms. The attachment of the accumulator provides a 'softer' connection between the lift arms and the cab. Thus, when uneven terrain imparts movement on the lift arms, implement, and any payload thereon, movement thereof is dampened by the accumulator
Implementation Method 2
using an engagement management unit to control solenoids and valves that connect or disconnect the accumulator from hydraulic circuits
Data Source
AI summary
A construction machine is provided. The construction machine includes a chassis and a ground engaging member (such as a wheel or a track) operable to support and move the chassis over ground. The construction machine further includes a work implement (such as a bucket) coupled to the chassis; a cab mounted on said chassis and having a user seat, and a first controller (such as a joystick) accessible to a user seated in the user seat. The joystick controls at least one of moving the work machine over ground and movement of the bucket. The joystick has a first actuator (such as a trigger button) that is operable to selectively engage ride control functionality.