Payload-Adaptive Log Handler Reach Limiting for Tip Stability
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Solution Overview
Problem
Log handlers face challenges in ensuring safe and convenient operation, particularly in rough terrain, due to instability and limited reach caused by varying payloads, which can lead to tipping over.
Innovation Solution
Incorporating means to determine payload and stability parameters using geometry data, implementing a stability assistance system to prevent tipping, and dynamically limiting the horizontal reach based on actual payload, with a control device that adjusts the working equipment to prevent overextension.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If the horizontal reach of the working equipment is extended to increase productivity, then the payload can be moved farther, but the log handler becomes unstable and may tip over
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic reach limitation that adapts to the actual payload. The control device continuously monitors payload magnitude and adjusts the maximum permissible horizontal reach accordingly. When payload increases, the horizontal reach is automatically reduced to maintain stability; when payload decreases, the reach can be extended. This dynamic adjustment resolves the contradiction between productivity (reach) and stability.
Solution Approach 2:
The system employs feedback mechanisms where sensors detect payload magnitude and provide this information to the control device. The control device then adjusts the horizontal reach limitation based on this feedback. This closed-loop control ensures that the log handler operates within stable parameters while maximizing productivity, as the reach is continuously optimized based on actual loading conditions.
2Productivity
If the payload is increased to handle more wood material, then productivity improves, but the risk of tipping over increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically adjusts the operational parameters based on payload magnitude. When high payload is detected, the maximum horizontal reach is automatically reduced to maintain stability and prevent tipping. This allows the log handler to safely operate with high payloads when necessary while maintaining reliability, resolving the contradiction between productivity and safety.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes operational parameters (horizontal reach limitation) based on the payload parameter. The control device modifies the reach parameter according to the detected payload magnitude, ensuring that the product of payload and reach (moment) remains within safe limits. This parameter adaptation allows high payload operation while maintaining tipping safety.
3Reliability
If a fixed maximum horizontal reach is set to ensure stability, then tipping safety is maintained, but the permissible reach is limited even when payload is low
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces fixed reach limitation with dynamic reach limitation that adapts to payload conditions. When payload is low, the system permits greater horizontal reach to maximize productivity. When payload increases, the reach is automatically reduced to maintain stability. This dynamic approach eliminates the need for conservative fixed limits, allowing the log handler to optimize both safety and productivity based on actual operating conditions.
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention relates to a log handler having a wheel loader base unit on which is located a working equipment which is movable relative to the base unit and which comprises a tool, in particular a wood grabbing device, wherein the log handler comprises first means which are configured to determine the payload, and the log handler comprises second means which are configured to determine, based on the payload determined by the first means and based on geometry data of the log handler, a parameter which is representative of the stability of the log handler.