Hydraulic Pitch Control for GPS Laser Grading Conversion
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing earth moving grader systems face challenges in stabilizing small to medium-sized track-steer or skid-steer vehicles, particularly in converting between GPS and laser grade control systems, leading to instability and reduced precision due to the need for significant hydraulic movements and weight transfer, which affects the accuracy and efficiency of grading operations.
Innovation Solution
A device that allows for easy and rapid conversion between GPS and laser grading modes by securing the main arm's height during automatic grading, using the pitch axis hydraulics for GPS mode and the main arm for laser mode, without modifying the native hydraulic system, enabling precise control and stability of the dozer blade.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Extent of automation
If the main arm hydraulics are used to adjust blade height for GPS grading, then automatic grade control is achieved, but the system consumes significant power and creates instability due to continuous large-scale hydraulic movements
Solution Approach 1:
The blade height control function is segmented from the main arm hydraulics and assigned to dedicated pitch axis hydraulics. This separation allows the main arm to remain stable while the pitch axis independently adjusts blade height, reducing unnecessary hydraulic movements and power consumption during GPS grading operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically switches between different control modes: for GPS grading, the pitch axis hydraulics are activated while main arm movements are minimized; for laser grading, the system reverts to using main arm hydraulics. This dynamic adaptation optimizes power usage based on the active grading system.
2Manufacturing precision
If the main arm hydraulics continuously move the blade assembly for automatic grading, then grade height adjustment is achieved, but the system imparts stress on the vehicle structure and reduces movement speed
Solution Approach 1:
By segmenting the height control function to the pitch axis hydraulics, the system eliminates the need for the main arm to continuously move heavy blade assemblies. The pitch axis hydraulics, being more responsive and lighter, achieve faster blade height adjustments without stressing the vehicle structure.
3Stability of the object's composition
If the main arm is lowered to stabilize the dozer blade for GPS grading, then blade stability is improved, but the system cannot rapidly convert back to laser grading control mode
Solution Approach 1:
The system implements dynamic mode switching capability where the control system can rapidly transition between GPS and laser grading modes. In GPS mode, the pitch axis hydraulics control blade height while the main arm remains lowered for stability. When switching to laser mode, the system automatically reverts to using main arm hydraulics, enabling rapid adaptability without permanent configuration changes.
Solution Approach 2:
The hydraulic system is designed with multi-functionality to support both GPS and laser grading modes. The pitch axis hydraulics serve GPS grading operations, while the main arm hydraulics remain available for laser grading, allowing the system to adapt to different grading systems without additional hydraulic components.
4Measurement precision
If GPS automatic grading control is implemented without a laser mast, then system accuracy is maintained through satellite positioning, but the blade platform becomes unstable without the stabilizing effect of the main arm in position
Solution Approach 1:
The system segments the stability function from the height control function. The main arm is lowered and stabilized to provide a stable platform, while the pitch axis hydraulics independently handle blade height adjustments for GPS grading. This segmentation allows the blade platform to remain stable even without the laser mast, as the lowered main arm provides the necessary stability while the pitch axis manages precise height control.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This solution provides a stable platform for precise control of the dozer blade, allowing for accurate grading across various soil types and site conditions, while maintaining the ability to maneuver in restricted spaces and adapting to different grading systems without additional hydraulic components or material modifications, thus enhancing the functionality and maintainability of small to medium skid-steer vehicles.
Implementation Method 1
moving the pitch axis of the dozer blade attachment by controlling the pitch axis hydraulics
Implementation Method 2
controlling the height of the dozer blade by raising and lowering the main arm of the vehicle
Data Source
AI summary
A hydraulic control system for an earth-moving vehicle with an automatic grade control system that hydraulically powers the height of the blade through the hydraulic accessory port. When using a laser based system the main arms are controlled through the accessory port and a pitch movement of the blade is limited. When using a GPS based system the accessory hydraulic is disconnected from the main arm and reconnected to the pitch hydraulic to affect the height of the blade.