Loader Latching Alignment Control for One-Trip Coupling
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing loader attachment methods to work vehicles, such as tractors, often fail to achieve a consistent '1-trip' connection due to misalignment issues caused by ground instability and other location factors, despite the use of parking stands and float conditions in hydraulic lift cylinders.
Innovation Solution
A method and apparatus that utilize a control unit to generate pre-positioning and movement instructions for the loader and vehicle, including a float condition in hydraulic lifting cylinders, to facilitate precise alignment and coupling, using a display unit to guide the operator and sensors to confirm successful attachment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Stability of the object's composition
If parking stands are used to support the loader during coupling, then the loader can be positioned stably for decoupling, but misalignment between mounting points persists preventing consistent 1-trip connection
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary alignment actions by pre-positioning the loader in a predetermined orientation using pre-positioning instructions generated by the control unit before the actual coupling operation begins. This preliminary positioning compensates for potential misalignment issues that parking stands alone cannot resolve.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses sensors to detect the actual position and orientation of the loader relative to the work vehicle, then feeds this information back to the control unit which generates real-time pre-positioning and movement instructions. This closed-loop feedback system continuously corrects alignment deviations during the coupling process.
2Manufacturing precision
If the operator manually positions and aligns the loader with the work vehicle, then alignment can be achieved, but attachment time increases and efficiency decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The system enables self-alignment by allowing the work vehicle to automatically move forward under its own power while the control unit generates real-time movement instructions based on sensor feedback. The loader automatically adjusts its position relative to the work vehicle without requiring the operator to manually position it, achieving both precision and speed.
Solution Approach 2:
The system replaces manual mechanical positioning operations with an automated electronic control system that uses sensors, processors, and hydraulic actuators to achieve alignment. This substitution of mechanical manual operations with automated systems reduces both time and labor while maintaining or improving alignment precision.
3Productivity
If the work vehicle moves toward the loader during coupling, then connection can be achieved, but misalignment due to ground instability causes failed attempts
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically adapts to changing conditions during the coupling process by continuously monitoring the relative position and orientation of the loader and work vehicle using sensors. The control unit generates real-time pre-positioning and movement instructions that adjust to ground instability and other environmental factors, maintaining coupling success rate despite dynamic conditions.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes operational parameters in real-time during the coupling process, including the predetermined orientation of the loader, the movement speed and distance of the work vehicle, and the activation timing of the float condition in hydraulic lift cylinders. These parameter adjustments are based on sensor feedback and optimize both speed and reliability.
4Adaptability or versatility
If float condition is established in hydraulic lift cylinders, then the mounting mast can pivot for alignment, but the system lacks coordination for precise 1-trip connection
Solution Approach 1:
The control unit serves multiple functions: it generates pre-positioning instructions for the loader orientation, generates movement instructions for the work vehicle, controls the float condition in hydraulic lift cylinders, and processes sensor feedback. This multi-functional control system coordinates all alignment and movement operations through a single integrated unit, managing complexity while providing comprehensive coordination.
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
The solution enables efficient and consistent one-step loader attachment by ensuring precise alignment and movement coordination between the loader and vehicle, reducing attachment time and improving operational efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
establish a float condition in hydraulic lifting cylinders of the loader to relax a mounting mast of the loader that is operably coupleable with a corresponding mounting frame affixed to the associated work vehicle permitting the mounting mast to move relative to the mounting frame during the coupling
Data Source
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AI summary
A method and apparatus assists coupling a loader with a work vehicle. A pre-position instruction signal is generated to pre-position the loader in a predetermined orientation to facilitate the coupling. A forward movement instruction signal is generated for initiating movement of the associated work vehicle 1 towards the loader. A coupled confirmation signal representative of the loader being coupled with the associated work vehicle is received. A forward movement pause instruction signal for pausing the movement of the associated work vehicle towards the loader is generated responsive to receiving the coupled confirmation signal. One or more of the pre-position instruction signal, the forward movement instruction signal, and/or the forward movement pause instruction signal may be automated signals delivered to the work vehicle for executing the commands or images rendered on a human readable display unit for instructing an operator actions to take for coupling the loader with the work vehicle.