Moldboard Linkage Actuation With One Cylinder for Variable Width
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current cold planers with variable width moldboards require multiple actuators and control valves, increasing cost, maintenance, and design complexity.
Innovation Solution
A system with a single actuator and linkage mechanism that moves both moldboard sections simultaneously, reducing the need for individual actuators and control valves.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple actuators and control valves are used for each moldboard section, then each section can be actuated independently, but cost, maintenance efforts, assembly efforts, and design complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple actuation functions into a single actuator that controls both moldboard sections through a common linkage mechanism. The linkage connects the single actuator to both sections, allowing one actuator to perform the work that previously required multiple actuators, thereby reducing system complexity while maintaining actuation capability
Solution Approach 2:
The single actuator is designed to perform multiple functions by actuating both the first and second moldboard sections through the linkage mechanism. This multi-functional actuator replaces what would traditionally require separate actuators for each section, reducing the overall number of components needed in the system
2Measurement precision
If multiple actuators and control valves are used for each moldboard section, then each section can be controlled precisely, but maintenance efforts and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
By merging the actuation control into a single actuator with a linkage system, the patent reduces the number of components that require maintenance. Instead of maintaining multiple actuators and control valves, the system requires maintenance of only one actuator and the linkage mechanism, significantly reducing maintenance efforts and costs while preserving control precision
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple actuators and control valves are used for each moldboard section, then each section can be actuated independently, but design complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent eliminates the need for multiple control valves by using a single actuator that controls both moldboard sections through a mechanical linkage. This merging of control functions reduces the number of control valves from multiple to one, significantly simplifying the hydraulic or pneumatic system design while maintaining the ability to adjust moldboard width
Solution Approach 2:
The linkage mechanism provides dynamic connection between the single actuator and both moldboard sections, allowing the system to adapt its configuration as the sections move. This dynamic mechanical advantage system enables variable width capability without requiring complex control valve arrangements for each section
Data Source
AI summary
A system for actuating a moldboard for a work machine includes a linkage defining a first end and a second end opposite the first end. The linkage is movably coupled with a first moldboard section proximal to the first end. The linkage is movably coupled with a second moldboard section proximal to the second end. The system also includes an actuator including a cylinder adapted to be coupled with a portion of the work machine and a rod member coupled with the linkage. During a raising operation of the moldboard, the linkage and the actuator raise the second moldboard section until the second moldboard section at least partially engages with the first moldboard section post which the linkage and the actuator simultaneously raise each of the first moldboard section and the second moldboard section.