Open Gate Shift Pattern for Drivetrain Range Selection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Operators of machines like motor graders face productivity issues due to the need to frequently shift between speed and direction ranges, which requires removing their hand from control levers, leading to brief interruptions in machine operation and reduced productivity.
Innovation Solution
An open gate shift pattern with a control lever that allows for single-step movement between forward, reverse, neutral, and park positions, eliminating the need for complex directional changes and maintaining control over machine functions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the operator uses traditional shift controls located on a different control console, then the machine can be shifted into different ranges, but the operator must remove their hand from the blade controls and reach to the shift controls, causing interruptions in machine operation and reduced productivity
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the shift control functionality with the blade control console by integrating a control lever into the same console where blade controls are located. This merging of previously separate control functions allows the operator to perform both blade manipulation and range shifting from a single location, eliminating the need to reach to a different console and maintaining continuous control over machine operations.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the operator makes shifts using traditional shift controls, then the drivetrain can be changed to different ranges, but the operator is briefly not controlling the blade or must discontinue the grading operation, leading to time loss and reduced productivity
Solution Approach 1:
The control lever is designed with predetermined positions that correspond to specific drivetrain ranges, allowing the operator to pre-select the desired range position before executing the shift. The lever can be moved to the target position in advance, and when the shift is executed, the transition is immediate and direct without requiring intermediate movements or discontinuing the grading operation, thereby minimizing time loss.
3Device complexity
If the shift controls are located separately from the blade controls, then the control functions are distinct, but the operator cannot simultaneously control both blade operations and range selection, requiring hand removal and repositioning
Solution Approach 1:
The control console is designed as a universal control station that handles multiple functions: blade control operations and drivetrain range selection. The control lever serves dual purposes by being able to select different drivetrain ranges while remaining integrated with the blade control system. This multi-functional design allows the operator to maintain control over both blade operations and range selection from a single location without requiring separate control consoles.
Data Source
AI summary
The present disclosure provides a control system for a machine having a transmission. The control system includes an open gate shift pattern having a plurality of defined positions disposed within an outer perimeter. Each of the defined positions corresponds to one of a plurality of forward and reverse ranges of the transmission. A control lever is movably disposed within the shift pattern. A first set of defined positions is aligned in the shift pattern corresponding to the plurality of forward ranges and a second set of defined positions is aligned in the shift pattern corresponding to the plurality of reverse ranges. The control lever is moveable in a single movement to any of the plurality of defined positions for selecting between a forward range and reverse range.