Lever-Machine Implement Lock-Out with Independent Steering Flow
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing machinery safety systems fail to prevent damage to machines and operators from inadvertent implement movements, as they only focus on collision avoidance without comprehensive protection mechanisms.
Innovation Solution
Implement a lock-out system that monitors the position of machinery implements relative to the machine, generating a lock-out by slowing or stopping hydraulic actuator flow when within a threshold distance, and providing notifications to operators.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the hydraulic flow to the implement is completely stopped to prevent damage, then the machine protection is improved, but the operator loses steering capability
Solution Approach 1:
The hydraulic system is segmented into separate flow paths: one path supplies the implement (blade) and another path supplies the steering system. The lock-out mechanism selectively blocks only the implement flow path while leaving the steering flow path open, allowing independent control of implement protection and steering capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The flow supply is differentiated by function: the implement receives restricted or blocked flow during lock-out conditions, while the steering system receives uninterrupted flow. This local differentiation of flow quality ensures protection where needed without compromising operational capability elsewhere.
2Object-affected harmful factors
If the implement is locked out to prevent contact with the machine, then the damage prevention is improved, but the operator control is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically adjusts the level of control restriction based on real-time conditions. When the implement approaches the machine (within threshold distance), the lock-out activates to restrict implement movement. When the implement is safely positioned, normal control is restored, allowing the operator to resume full adaptability.
Solution Approach 2:
The system continuously monitors the position of the implement relative to the machine and provides feedback control. When the implement enters the threshold zone, the system activates the lock-out notification and flow restriction. When the implement moves outside the threshold zone, the system deactivates the restriction, maintaining operator control adaptability.
3Reliability
If the system continuously monitors implement position to enable proactive protection, then the safety is improved, but the system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses the machine's existing hydraulic control architecture and position sensing capabilities to monitor implement location. Rather than adding entirely new monitoring equipment, the system leverages available sensors and control components to detect when the implement approaches the machine threshold, reducing overall system complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The monitoring system serves multiple functions: it detects implement position, determines when lock-out conditions are met, triggers notifications to the operator, and controls the hydraulic flow restriction. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate dedicated components for each safety function.
Data Source
AI summary
A technique is directed to methods and systems of an implement lock-out on lever-controlled machines. A lock-out system can monitor the position of an implement and lock-out the implement control(s) when the implement is within a threshold distance to parts of the machine. The lock-out system can generate an implement lock-out to slow, stop, or reduce the force of a hydraulic valve(s) controlling the implement. The lock-out system can use inputs such as electronic fence blade position system data, articulation angles, wheel lean angles, steering angles, ripper positions, mode selection or similar data to determine to generate the implement lock-out. The lock-out system can generate the implement lock-out by a flow supply shutoff to the implement while maintaining pressure to the steering valve. The lock-out system can send visual or audible notifications to alert the operator of the implement's proximity to the machine or of an implement lock-out.