Machine Power System Adjusting Parameters by Operator Skill
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Solution Overview
Problem
Operators often mismatch machine power settings with the intended utilization, leading to unnecessary fuel consumption and increased wear on machine components due to lack of training or experience, especially when performing lighter tasks.
Innovation Solution
A power system management method that adjusts operating parameters based on operator skill level and work cycle conditions, using sensors and a controller to adjust engine speed and hydraulic pump displacement to optimize power usage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Power
If the power system operates in high horsepower mode to meet maximum power demands, then the machine can handle heavy work cycles, but fuel consumption increases and wear on components increases when lighter tasks are performed
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically adjusts the power system operating mode based on real-time monitoring of work cycle characteristics and operator inputs. The controller automatically transitions between high horsepower mode and lower power modes depending on the actual work demands, rather than operating statically at maximum power. This dynamic adaptation resolves the contradiction by matching power output to actual needs.
Solution Approach 2:
The system incorporates feedback mechanisms where the control system monitors work cycle data, operator inputs, and machine performance to continuously adjust power system settings. This closed-loop feedback enables the system to learn from actual utilization patterns and optimize power delivery, reducing fuel consumption while maintaining adequate power for the actual work being performed.
2Power
If the power system operates in high horsepower mode, then the machine can perform heavy work cycles, but wear on machine components increases due to unnecessary strain
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically adjusts operating parameters including engine speed, hydraulic pump displacement, and transmission gear selection based on actual work cycle demands. By avoiding sustained operation at maximum power when lighter tasks are performed, the system reduces mechanical stress and wear on components while maintaining the capability to deliver high horsepower when needed for heavy work cycles.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes operating parameters such as engine RPM, hydraulic pressure, and pump flow rate to match the actual work cycle requirements. Rather than maintaining constant high-power parameters, the system adapts these parameters in real-time, reducing component wear during lighter operations while preserving the ability to handle heavy work cycles when required.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple power system operating modes are provided, then the machine can be adapted to different work cycles, but operators without training or experience will often select the mode that produces the highest horsepower, leading to mismatches
Solution Approach 1:
The system automatically selects and manages power system operating modes without requiring operator intervention or expertise. The control system monitors work cycle characteristics and autonomously determines the appropriate operating mode, eliminating the need for operators to understand or select from multiple power modes. This self-service approach maintains adaptability while simplifying operation for inexperienced users.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses feedback from work cycle monitoring and operator inputs to automatically adjust power system settings. Rather than relying on operator knowledge to select appropriate modes, the system continuously monitors actual work demands and self-adjusts the power delivery characteristics, making the system both adaptable and easy to operate regardless of operator experience level.
Data Source
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AI summary
A power system (30) for a machine (10) is provided. The power system (30) includes an operator interface (78) for entering an operator command relating to one or more functions of the machine (10). The power system (30) includes a hydraulic pump (36, 38, 40, 42) and an engine (32) configured to provide power to the hydraulic pump. A controller (80) is in communication with the operator interface (78), the hydraulic pump (36, 38, 40, 42) and the engine (32). The controller (80) is configured to consider operator skill level information relating to a skill level of the operator of the machine and to determine at least one desired power system operating parameter based on the operator command and the operator skill level information and to adjust at least one of the hydraulic pump (36, 38, 40, 42) and the engine (32) based on the desired power system operating parameter.