Non-Contact Leg-Height Measurement for Milling Machine Frame
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing milling machines face challenges in accurately determining the height and orientation of their frames relative to the ground surface, as external sensors like ultrasonic grade sensors lack precision and require inconvenient setup, while proximity sensors limit positioning to discrete heights.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of a non-contact leg-height measurement system using sensors attached to the milling machine frame, which generate signals indicative of the frame's height relative to the tracks, allowing for precise adjustment via actuators and a controller to determine and adjust the frame's position.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If external ultrasonic sensors are used to determine frame height, then measurement capability is provided, but measurement precision is insufficient and device complexity increases due to external connections
Solution Approach 1:
The sensor is integrated directly into the leg column structure of the milling machine, merging the measurement function with the structural component. This eliminates external connections and reduces device complexity while maintaining measurement capability through the integrated sensor that directly measures leg column length changes
Solution Approach 2:
The leg column itself serves as an intermediary element that both supports the frame and houses the sensor. By placing the sensor within the leg column, the structural component becomes the measurement medium, eliminating the need for separate external sensor mounting and connection systems
2Adaptability or versatility
If proximity sensors are used for frame positioning, then positioning capability is provided, but positioning flexibility is limited to discrete heights
Solution Approach 1:
The sensor provides continuous measurement of the leg column length, enabling dynamic and continuous adjustment of the frame height rather than discrete positioning steps. This allows the frame to be positioned at any desired height within the range, providing both flexibility and precision through continuous feedback
Solution Approach 2:
The sensor continuously measures the leg column length and provides feedback to the control system, enabling precise control of the frame height at any position within the adjustment range. This continuous feedback mechanism allows for both flexibility in positioning and precision in achieving desired heights
Data Source
AI summary
A milling machine may have a frame, a milling drum attached to the frame, and ground engaging tracks that support the frame and propel the milling machine in a forward or rearward direction. The milling machine may have at least one actuator connecting the frame to at least one of the ground engaging tracks. The actuator may adjust a height of the frame relative to at least one of the tracks. The milling machine may also have a non-contact leg-height sensor attached to the frame. The sensor may generate a signal indicative of a height of the frame relative to at least one of the tracks. The milling machine may also have a controller configured to determine the height based on the signal.