Pipelayer Boom Angle Linkage for Debris-Protected Position Sensing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Accurately determining the angular position of a boom on a pipelayer is crucial for safe and efficient operation, but existing systems face challenges in precision and durability, particularly due to exposure to debris and potential damage.
Innovation Solution
A system comprising a linkage with an angle sensor positioned at a pivot joint to detect the pivot angle between arms coupled to the frame and boom, and a controller to calculate the boom's angular position using parameters like arm lengths and pivot angles, ensuring accurate and durable measurements.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If the angle sensor is positioned directly at the boom pivot joint to measure the angular position, then the measurement precision is improved, but the sensor is exposed to debris and potential damage
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a linkage mechanism with arms as an intermediary between the boom pivot joint and the angle sensor. The first arm is coupled to the frame, the second arm is coupled to the boom, and they are pivotally connected. This intermediary linkage transmits the angular motion to the sensor while positioning it away from the harmful environment at the main pivot joint, thus resolving the contradiction between measurement precision and sensor protection from debris.
2Device complexity
If a direct coupling between the boom and angle sensor is used, then the device complexity is reduced, but the reliability and durability decrease due to sensor exposure
Solution Approach 1:
The linkage with first and second arms serves as a mediator that maintains system reliability by protecting the angle sensor from debris and damage while still accurately transmitting the angular position information. The intermediary structure adds minimal complexity but significantly improves reliability by preventing sensor failure due to environmental exposure.
3Reliability
If the angle sensor is protected from debris through positioning, then the reliability is improved, but the measurement precision may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The patent demonstrates that the intermediary linkage mechanism does not compromise measurement precision. By properly designing the linkage with arms that pivotally connect the frame and boom, the system accurately transmits the angular motion to the sensor. The geometry of the linkage ensures that the angle sensor measures the correct angular position even while being positioned away from the main pivot joint, thus maintaining both reliability and precision.
Data Source
AI summary
A system for determining an angular position of a boom of a pipelayer is disclosed. The system includes a linkage, an angle sensor, and a controller. The linkage includes a first arm configured to be coupled to a frame of the pipelayer, a second arm configured to be coupled to the boom, and a pivot joint pivotally connecting the first arm to the second arm. The angle sensor is positioned at the pivot joint. The angle sensor is configured to detect a pivot angle between the first arm and the second arm. The controller is configured to determine, based on the pivot angle, the angular position of the boom relative to the frame of the pipelayer.