Machine Control System for Wheel Slip Reduction

Resolve Bottlenecks,
Find Innovative Solutions
Generate Solutions

Solution Overview

Problem

Existing wheel slip control systems for machines fail to effectively manage wheel slip across varying terrains and conditions, leading to reduced traction and increased fuel consumption due to wheel slippage and tire damage.

Innovation Solution

A control system that includes a wheel speed sensor and a controller, which modulates the power source parameters based on the comparison between wheel speed and localized speed near the wheel, reducing wheel slip by adjusting torque or speed output.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If wheel slip control systems are implemented to improve traction, then traction control is improved, but the systems fail to effectively manage wheel slip across varying terrains and conditions

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvetraction controlVSAvoideffectiveness across varying terrains
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The control system dynamically adjusts power delivery parameters based on real-time wheel speed sensor data and controller processing, adapting to varying terrain conditions through continuous monitoring and modulation of power source output

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The system uses wheel speed sensors to continuously monitor wheel rotation and provides feedback to the controller, which modulates power source parameters based on detected wheel slip conditions, creating a closed-loop control system that adapts to changing terrains

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

2Object-generated harmful factors

If power source parameters are modulated to reduce wheel slip, then wheel slip is reduced, but fuel consumption increases due to excessive torque application

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvewheel slipVSAvoidfuel consumption
Core Design Contradiction:
Object-generated harmful factorsVSUse of energy by moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The controller applies torque modulation only when and where wheel slip is detected, rather than continuously applying maximum torque, thereby reducing fuel consumption while still effectively managing wheel slip conditions

Inventive Principle:
Principle #16Partial or excessive action

Solution Approach 2:

The system dynamically changes power source parameters such as torque and speed output based on detected wheel slip conditions, optimizing the balance between traction control and fuel efficiency by adjusting parameters in response to real-time operating conditions

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

3Ease of operation

If traditional wheel slip control systems are used, then basic traction control is provided, but tire damage occurs due to inadequate slip management

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvetraction controlVSAvoidtire damage
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The wheel speed sensors continuously monitor wheel rotation and provide feedback to the controller, enabling real-time detection of wheel slip conditions that could lead to tire damage through excessive spinning or dragging

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

Solution Approach 2:

The controller proactively modulates power source parameters to prevent wheel slip conditions that could cause tire damage, applying counter-actions before significant damage occurs by detecting early signs of excessive slip

Inventive Principle:
Principle #9Preliminary anti-action

Data Source

PatentUS9221340B2Machine control system
Publication Date: 2015.12.29 CATERPILLAR INC
  • US9221340B2 patent drawing
  • US9221340B2 patent drawing
  • US9221340B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A control system for a machine having a transmission system is provided. The control system includes a wheel speed sensor and a controller. The wheel speed sensor is configured to generate a signal indicative of a wheel speed. The controller is in communication with the wheel speed sensor. The controller is configured to modulate a parameter of a power source based, at least in part, on a comparison of the wheel speed and a localized speed of the machine near the wheel.