Load-Adjusted Engine Speed Control for Mobile Machines
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Solution Overview
Problem
High-idle machines consume excessive fuel, produce high emissions and noise, and experience elevated temperatures due to constant high engine speed, even when lower power is required for tasks, leading to inefficiencies.
Innovation Solution
A control system that adjusts engine speed based on the comparison of current torque to available torque, allowing for selective reduction in engine speed through operator input and automatic modulation by a controller, incorporating multiple operational modes to optimize fuel efficiency and reduce emissions and noise.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Power
If the engine speed is maintained at a high idle level to ensure sufficient power for all conditions, then the machine responsiveness and power availability are improved, but fuel consumption, exhaust emissions, engine temperatures, and noise increase
Solution Approach 1:
The engine speed is made dynamic rather than fixed at high idle. The control system continuously monitors machine operating conditions (traction device speed, work implement load, travel direction) and automatically adjusts engine speed to match actual power demands, allowing the system to transition between high-power and fuel-efficient states as needed
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes the engine operating parameter (speed) based on detected conditions. When reverse travel is detected, the engine speed parameter is reduced from high idle to a lower efficient operating range, while maintaining sufficient power through transmission ratio adjustments and work tool disengagement
2Loss of energy
If the engine speed is reduced during reverse travel to improve fuel efficiency, then fuel consumption and emissions are reduced, but machine responsiveness may be affected
Solution Approach 1:
The control system detects reverse travel direction in advance and proactively reduces engine speed before significant power demand arises. This preliminary adjustment allows the system to operate efficiently during low-demand reverse travel while being ready to quickly restore high engine speed when forward travel or high-power conditions are detected
Solution Approach 2:
The system continuously monitors machine operating conditions including travel direction, traction device speed, and work implement load. This feedback loop allows the control system to dynamically adjust engine speed in response to changing conditions, maintaining responsiveness when needed while optimizing fuel efficiency during appropriate operating conditions
Data Source
AI summary
A control system for a mobile machine is disclosed. The control system may have an engine configured to propel the mobile machine, at least one operator input device configured to indicate a desired engine speed and a desired mode of operation, and a controller in communication with the engine and the at least one operator input device. The controller may be configured to make a comparison of a current torque of the engine to an available torque, and to selectively adjust a speed of the engine from the desired engine speed based on the desired mode of operation and based on the comparison.