Motor Grader Moldboard Positioning via Automated Actuator Control
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Operators face difficulties in accurately positioning the moldboard of a motor grader relative to its wing, leading to potential damage during operation.
Innovation Solution
A computer-implemented method and system that receive identifiers corresponding to the motor grader's configuration, determine the moldboard's orientation relative to the wing, and adjust it using actuators to align within predefined operating thresholds, ensuring proper positioning.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If manual positioning of the moldboard is used, then the operator has direct control over positioning, but the positioning accuracy is insufficient leading to potential damage
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the manual mechanical positioning system with an automated electronic control system. Sensors detect the relative position between the moldboard and wing, and actuators automatically adjust the moldboard orientation based on detected position data, eliminating reliance on operator skill and manual adjustment mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements continuous feedback by using sensors to monitor the relative position between the moldboard and wing in real-time. The control system receives this position data, compares it against desired parameters, and automatically commands actuators to make corrections, creating a closed-loop control system that maintains accurate positioning.
2Reliability
If automated positioning system is implemented, then positioning accuracy and reliability are improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The control system integrates multiple functions into a single automated positioning system. The same sensors and actuators used for moldboard positioning are also employed for wing position detection and overall machine configuration management, reducing the need for separate dedicated components for each function.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs self-adjustment by automatically detecting its own state through sensors and correcting positioning errors without external intervention. The control system monitors the relative positions and autonomously commands actuators to maintain proper alignment, making the system self-regulating.
3Productivity
If frequent manual adjustments are made, then positioning can be maintained, but time loss and reduced productivity occur
Solution Approach 1:
The automated positioning system operates continuously without interruption to the work process. Sensors constantly monitor positions and actuators make real-time adjustments as needed, eliminating the stop-start nature of manual adjustments and maintaining continuous productive operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The system proactively detects positioning deviations before they result in damage or operational problems. By continuously monitoring and making preemptive adjustments, the system prevents the need for corrective actions that would halt production or require time-consuming manual intervention.
Data Source
AI summary
A computer-implemented method for automatically adjusting a moldboard of a motor grader can include receiving one or more identifiers corresponding to a configuration of the motor grader, and determining, based on the received identifier(s), a first orientation of the moldboard. If the first orientation is not within an operating threshold, the method can further include selecting, based on the one or more identifiers, at least one of a plurality of actuators of the motor grader; and actuating the selected actuator(s) to move the moldboard from the first orientation to a second orientation within the operating threshold.