Loader Implement Angle Correction via Engine Speed Signals
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing systems for maintaining control over the angle of implements coupled to loaders, such as skid steer loaders, face challenges in accurately correcting angle variations due to kinematic changes and hydraulic cylinder drifts, leading to potential load spills or material loss.
Innovation Solution
A controller-based system that receives engine speed and operator interface signals to calculate and transmit angle correction signals, using both open loop and closed loop subsystems to adjust the angle of the implement, with a limit subsystem preventing overcorrection, and an angle sensor for feedback.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If multiple position sensors are used for automatic implement self-leveling, then implement angle control is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the angle correction function from complex sensor-based systems and implements it using simple engine speed sensors and operator interface signals. The controller calculates angle correction signals based on engine speed (which correlates with hydraulic cylinder extension rate) and operator commands, eliminating the need for multiple position sensors while maintaining effective implement angle control.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces mechanical/sensor-based position detection with an electronic control system that uses engine speed signals and operator interface actuation signals to calculate and execute angle corrections. This substitution reduces physical sensor complexity while achieving precise angle control through computational methods.
2Reliability
If angle correction is applied to maintain implement angle, then load control is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs self-service angle correction by automatically detecting implement angle deviations and applying corrections without operator intervention. The controller continuously monitors engine speed and operator interface signals, calculates necessary angle corrections, and executes them autonomously to maintain load control, eliminating the need for complex manual control systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements feedback control by continuously monitoring engine speed and operator interface actuation, calculating current implement angle based on these signals, comparing it with target angle, and adjusting the coupler accordingly. This closed-loop feedback mechanism ensures reliable load control while keeping the control system relatively simple.
3Speed
If sudden angle corrections are applied, then response speed is improved, but risk of overcorrection increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies partial corrections rather than full corrective actions at once. The controller calculates angle correction signals based on current engine speed and operator commands, applying corrections proportionally to the detected deviation. This partial action approach enables relatively fast response while preventing overcorrection by matching the correction magnitude to the actual angle error.
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically adjusts correction magnitude based on real-time engine speed and operator interface signals. The angle correction signal is calculated dynamically rather than applying fixed corrections, allowing the system to respond quickly to angle deviations while adapting the correction size to prevent overcorrection during transient operations.
Data Source
AI summary
A system for correcting an angle of an implement coupled to a loader is disclosed. The system comprises a controller that is configured to calculate a first angle correction signal based at least upon an engine speed signal and an operator interface actuation signal, the operator interface actuation signal commanding movement of a lift arm on a loader; calculate a second angle correction signal based at least upon a coupler angle signal; transmit the first and second angle correction signals to change the angle of a coupler configured to couple an implement to the lift arm; and temporarily disable transmission of the second angle correction signal.