Motor Grader Steering Control for Constant Path Curvature

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Solution Overview

Problem

The existing automated steering systems for motor graders require operators to input various types of information for path generation, which does not sufficiently reduce the operator's burden, as they still need to manage the steering and path adjustments manually.

Innovation Solution

A control system that includes a control unit to maintain a constant rate of change in the direction of travel per unit distance, automatically controlling the steering mechanism based on sensed operations and environmental data, allowing for reduced operator intervention.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Extent of automation

If automated steering system with path generator is used, then steering control is automated, but operator burden remains high due to manual path information input

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvesteering control automationVSAvoidoperator burden

Core Design Contradiction:

Extent of automationVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The system uses the vehicle's own travel data and sensor information to automatically generate path information, eliminating the need for manual pre-input. The path generator automatically creates travel paths based on real-time vehicle state and environmental data, making the system self-sufficient and reducing operator burden.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The system replaces manual mechanical input operations with automatic electronic path generation. Instead of operators manually entering path data, the system uses sensors, GPS, and algorithms to automatically generate and update travel paths, substituting mechanical operator actions with automated electronic processes.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

2Manufacturing precision

If path information is pre-input manually, then accurate path generation is achieved, but time consumption and operator burden increase

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvepath generation accuracyVSAvoidpath setup time

Core Design Contradiction:

Manufacturing precisionVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The system performs preliminary path generation automatically using stored map data and vehicle parameters before actual travel begins. By pre-configuring the path generation algorithms with necessary data structures and environmental information, the system eliminates time-consuming manual path input while maintaining accuracy during actual operation.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The system continuously monitors actual vehicle position and travel conditions, comparing them with the generated path. This feedback mechanism allows real-time path adjustments and corrections, ensuring path generation accuracy without requiring manual pre-input, as the system self-corrects based on actual travel data.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #23Feedback

Data Source

PatentUS12188205B2Control system, method of controlling work vehicle, and work vehicle

Publication Date: 2025.01.07 KOMATSU LTD

AI summary

A motor grader representing a work vehicle includes a steering mechanism and a control unit. The control unit controls the steering mechanism to maintain constant, a rate of change in a direction of travel per unit travel distance of the motor grader.