Refuse Vehicle Mode Control for Route-Adaptive Hydraulics
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Solution Overview
Problem
Refuse vehicles require efficient operational modes to adapt to various tasks such as different waste types and route types, but existing systems lack the ability to automatically adjust performance parameters to optimize tasks, leading to inefficiencies and potential operator errors.
Innovation Solution
A refuse vehicle with a processing unit that communicates with the motor and hydraulic system, allowing for the selection and execution of preset operational modes based on route types, waste types, and environmental conditions, using a human-machine interface to adjust performance parameters such as compactor rates and hydraulic system settings.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If the refuse vehicle uses fixed operational parameters for all tasks, then the system complexity is reduced, but the adaptability to different route types and waste types deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic operational modes that automatically adjust motor and hydraulic system parameters based on detected route types and environmental conditions. The system transitions from static fixed parameters to dynamic adaptive parameters, allowing the refuse vehicle to optimize performance for different tasks such as residential versus commercial routes, while the processing unit manages the complexity through automated decision-making algorithms.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes operational parameters including motor speed, hydraulic pump flow rate, and compactor activation based on detected conditions. The processing unit modifies these parameters dynamically according to the operational mode selected, enabling the system to adapt to different route types without requiring complex manual intervention from the operator.
2Productivity
If the refuse vehicle manually adjusts operational parameters, then the ease of operation is improved, but the productivity and task completion efficiency deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a self-adjusting system where the processing unit automatically detects operational conditions and modifies motor and hydraulic parameters without operator intervention. The system serves itself by using sensors to detect route type and environmental conditions, then autonomously selects appropriate operational modes, freeing the operator from manual parameter adjustment while maintaining high productivity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses feedback from sensors that detect route type, environmental conditions, and vehicle performance to continuously adjust operational parameters. The processing unit receives feedback data and modifies motor speed, hydraulic flow, and compactor operation accordingly, creating a closed-loop control system that optimizes task completion efficiency while simplifying operator workload.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the refuse vehicle uses simplified operational modes, then the ease of operation is improved, but the adaptability to specific task conditions deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent pre-configures multiple operational modes with optimized parameter sets for different task conditions such as residential routes, commercial routes, and various waste types. The processing unit selects from these pre-programmed modes based on detected conditions, providing adaptability to specific task requirements while maintaining ease of operation through automated mode selection rather than requiring the operator to manually tune complex parameters.
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
The system enables the refuse vehicle to optimize performance for specific tasks, reducing manual interaction, minimizing errors, and enhancing efficiency by automatically adjusting settings based on selected operational modes, thereby improving task completion and reducing operator workload.
Implementation Method 1
The lifting system is movable between a first position and a second position vertically offset from the first position using a hydraulic system
Data Source
AI summary
A refuse vehicle has a chassis supporting a plurality of wheels, as well as a motor. A vehicle body is also supported by the chassis and defines a receptacle for storing refuse. A lifting system is coupled to the vehicle body and is movable between a first position and a second position vertically offset from the first position using a hydraulic system. The refuse vehicle also has a processing unit in communication with the lifting system and the motor. The processing unit is configured to access and execute a plurality of preset operational modes stored within a memory to adjust performance parameters of the refuse vehicle. The operational modes include at least two different operational modes corresponding to different route types.