On-Board Service Tool for Mobile Equipment Diagnostics
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Solution Overview
Problem
Diagnosing and troubleshooting faults in computerized control systems of mobile equipment is complicated, often requiring external diagnostic tools and significant downtime, and there is a need to customize control system parameters and settings for improved performance in varying environments.
Innovation Solution
An on-board service tool integrated with the mobile equipment's control system, providing a display device for monitoring and modifying control system settings and parameters, with a menu navigation scheme for efficient access to diagnostic, troubleshooting, and calibration information, and incorporating a password scheme for security.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If external troubleshooting/service computer is used to diagnose faults and modify control system parameters, then diagnostic capability and parameter customization are improved, but equipment downtime increases and operational complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the troubleshooting/service computer functionality directly into the mobile equipment's control system computer. The service tool is integrated as part of the control system, allowing diagnostic and parameter modification functions to be performed on-board without requiring external equipment. This merging eliminates the need to transport or connect external diagnostic tools, thereby reducing equipment downtime while maintaining full diagnostic capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The control system computer is equipped with self-diagnostic and self-adjustment capabilities through the integrated service tool. The system can automatically monitor its own operations, detect faults, and allow operators to modify parameters without external assistance. This self-service approach enables the equipment to maintain and optimize itself during normal operations, minimizing downtime and reducing dependency on external service equipment.
2Adaptability or versatility
If control system parameters are made adjustable to customize performance for different environments, then adaptability is improved, but system complexity and risk of unauthorized modification increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the parameter modification authority into different levels: normal operating parameters that can be adjusted by operators during routine operations, and critical control system parameters that require authentication or specialized access. This segmentation allows essential customization for different environments while protecting critical system integrity. The service tool provides structured access to parameters, organizing them by function and access level, which reduces perceived complexity while maintaining adaptability.
3Difficulty of detecting and measuring
If comprehensive diagnostic functions are integrated into the control system computer, then troubleshooting capability is improved, but control system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The control system computer is designed to perform multiple functions: normal operational control, self-diagnostics, fault detection, parameter monitoring, and service mode operations. By making the control system computer universal and multi-functional, the patent eliminates the need for separate dedicated diagnostic hardware. The service tool leverages existing control system resources (processors, memory, sensors, actuators) to provide comprehensive troubleshooting capabilities, thereby improving diagnostic capability without proportionally increasing hardware complexity.
Data Source
AI summary
A self-contained, on-board diagnostic system integrated with a control system and method of using the same. Various control system coefficients and parameter settings may be set and edited with the on-board system, without the use of external hardware. In certain embodiments, an operator panel display may be used as a display for the on-board system. A menu navigation scheme can be employed to access a plurality of screens in an organized, efficient manner. The on-board system can be adapted for use with a tracked trencher and/or other mobile equipment.