Remote Work Machine Start Using Lock Checks and Fluid Pressure
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for starting work machines are delayed due to the need to warm the machine and are prone to errors from fluid level sensors, which can be misleading due to changes in slope, and require unnecessary idling, causing stress on the machine.
Innovation Solution
A remote start system comprising a communication device, an engine starter subsystem, fluid pressure sensors, and a controller that receives a remote start signal, confirms the lock status of safety locks, monitors fluid pressure, and initiates or stops the engine start based on predetermined thresholds and timeframes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the work machine is started and run on idle for several minutes to warm it up, then the machine is properly warmed and ready for operation, but this causes unnecessary stresses on the work machine if there are leaks, insufficient fluid levels, or improper couplings
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary checks of fluid levels and coupling status before starting the engine, using sensors to detect potential issues. This allows the system to identify problems such as leaks, insufficient fluid levels, or improper couplings before the engine runs, preventing unnecessary stress while ensuring the machine is properly prepared for operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The work machine uses its own integrated sensors and control systems to automatically monitor fluid levels, detect leaks, and verify coupling status. This self-diagnosis capability eliminates the need for manual pre-start checks and allows the machine to autonomously determine whether it is ready for operation without causing harmful stress.
2Measurement precision
If fluid level sensors are used to monitor fluid levels, then fluid levels can be detected, but the readings can be misleading due to changes in slope
Solution Approach 1:
The system replaces traditional mechanical float-based fluid level sensors with electronic pressure sensors that measure fluid pressure directly. This substitution eliminates the susceptibility to slope changes, as pressure sensors provide accurate readings regardless of the machine's orientation or terrain, thereby improving both measurement precision and reliability.
3Reliability
If the engine is started and run on idle for several minutes before confirming readiness, then the machine is warmed up properly, but this results in delays in work machine readiness
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs all necessary checks including fluid levels, coupling status, and other critical parameters before starting the engine. By completing these preliminary assessments while the machine is still off, the system eliminates the need for extended idle running to verify readiness, thereby reducing time loss while ensuring proper warming when the engine does start.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses real-time feedback from multiple sensors to continuously monitor the machine's status. This feedback mechanism allows the control system to make informed decisions about when the machine is ready for operation without requiring fixed idle time periods, optimizing the balance between proper warming and minimizing delays.
Data Source
AI summary
A remote start system and method for a work machine wherein the system comprises a communication device, an engine starter subsystem, a fluid pressure sensor, and a controller. In a first step, controller receives a wake signal from the communication device, The controller then confirms the lock status of a safety lock on the work machine and outputs an engine start signal to the engine starter subsystem upon confirming the lock status. The controller then receives a fluid pressure signal from the fluid pressure sensor, and outputs an engine stop signal if the fluid pressure signal is below a predetermined threshold after a specified timeframe.