Motor Grader Draft Frame Positioning via Robotic Saddle
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional motor graders have limited saddle position adjustments restricted to discrete positions, requiring manual adjustment with the moldboard on the ground, and lack the ability to adjust the saddle position when the moldboard is above the ground.
Innovation Solution
A draft frame positioning system with a saddle assembly and positioning cylinders that allow for infinite position adjustments of the draft frame, enabling movement without manual intervention and without the need for the moldboard to be grounded, using a combination of lift, side shift, and saddle positioning cylinders controlled by a sensor and controller system.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a conventional four-bar linkage saddle with discrete positioning is used, then the structure is simple and easy to manufacture, but the saddle position is limited to discrete positions which limits moldboard versatility
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the conventional mechanical four-bar linkage saddle with a parallel robotic mechanism (6-DOF or reduced DOF) that uses actuators and sensors to achieve continuous position control. This substitution enables infinite saddle position adjustments while maintaining structural integrity through computer-controlled actuation rather than discrete mechanical linkages.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from a static discrete-position saddle to a dynamic continuous-position saddle using robotic mechanisms. The saddle can now be positioned at any point within its workspace through controlled actuation of multiple degrees of freedom, enabling real-time adaptability during grading operations.
2Ease of operation
If manual adjustment with locking pin is used, then the device complexity is low, but the ease of operation is reduced and requires moldboard to be on ground
Solution Approach 1:
The robotic saddle mechanism incorporates sensors that automatically detect the desired position and actuate the positioning system without manual intervention. The system serves itself by using feedback from position sensors to control actuators, eliminating the need for operators to manually adjust locking pins while the moldboard is on the ground.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements a closed-loop control system with sensors that continuously monitor saddle position and provide feedback to the controller. This feedback mechanism enables automatic position adjustment to any desired location, improving ease of operation while allowing adjustments regardless of moldboard position.
3Productivity
If discrete position locking mechanism is used, then manufacturing is simple, but productivity is limited due to inability to adjust during operation
Solution Approach 1:
The robotic saddle mechanism enables continuous position adjustment during grading operations without interrupting work. The moldboard can be repositioned at any moment to optimize grading performance, maintaining continuous productive action rather than requiring stops for discrete position changes.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the simple mechanical locking pin system with a robotic positioning system that enables on-the-fly adjustments. This substitution allows operators to change saddle position during grading operations to optimize performance for different terrain conditions, directly improving productivity.
Data Source
AI summary
A draft frame positioning system of a motor grader having a main frame includes an adjustable draft frame configured to be moved to one of a plurality of positions and a moldboard coupled to the draft frame. The moldboard is movable based on the position of the draft frame. A saddle assembly is coupled between the draft frame and the main frame, and the saddle assembly includes a first saddle arm, a second saddle arm, and a saddle top member coupled between the first and second saddle arms. A saddle positioning cylinder moves between an extended position and a retracted position, and the cylinder is coupled at one end to the main frame or the saddle top member and at an opposite end to the saddle assembly. A movement of the saddle positioning cylinder induces movement of the draft frame to any of its plurality of positions.