Retrofit Interface for Manual Machine Automatic Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Retrofitting manually controlled machines for automatic control is time-consuming and cumbersome, as existing methods require reworking hydraulic lines to integrate automatic control systems.
Innovation Solution
An electrical interface with optical isolation circuits and a microprocessor is introduced between the joystick control and machine control, allowing for seamless integration of automatic control outputs, enabling the machine to be controlled by either joystick or automatic signals, and facilitating a smooth transition between manual and automatic modes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If hydraulic lines are reworked to integrate automatic control systems, then automatic control functionality is achieved, but retrofitting time and complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
An electrical interface unit is introduced as an intermediary device between the existing manual control system and the automatic control system. This interface unit receives control signals from either the joystick (manual) or external automatic control source, processes them, and outputs signals to the hydraulic valves. By adding this intermediary electrical interface rather than modifying hydraulic lines, the patent achieves automatic control functionality while significantly reducing retrofitting time and complexity.
2Adaptability or versatility
If hydraulic lines are reworked to integrate automatic control systems, then automatic control functionality is achieved, but retrofitting complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces mechanical/hydraulic modifications with an electrical solution. Instead of reworking hydraulic lines (mechanical system), an electrical interface unit is used to mediate between control systems. This substitution of electrical components for mechanical modifications reduces retrofitting complexity while maintaining the ability to integrate automatic control functionality.
3Reliability
If optical isolation circuits are added to isolate electrical signals, then signal isolation and reliability are improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
Optical isolation circuits are incorporated within the electrical interface unit as intermediary components. These circuits use optical signals to transmit electrical control commands while providing galvanic isolation between different electrical systems. This prevents ground loops and electrical interference, improving signal reliability and protecting against voltage spikes without requiring complex external isolation equipment.
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 reduces the complexity and time required for retrofitting, allowing for efficient conversion of machines to automatic control, with the interface ensuring reliable and smooth operation by isolating and processing electrical signals from both joystick and automatic control sources.
Implementation Method 1
at least one optical isolation circuit for isolating the electrical joystick output, and providing an isolated electrical joystick output to the microprocessor, and at least one optical isolation circuit for isolating an electrical automatic control output from an external source
Data Source
AI summary
An operator controllable machine is retrofitted to be operator controlled or to be automatically controlled. An electrical joystick output is provided by a manually actuated joystick control, including a joystick, to a machine control in the manually controlled machine. An interface is added between the joystick control and the machine control to permit an external source, such as a GPS receiver or a laser receiver, to apply an electrical automatic control output to the machine control, as well. The interface includes a number of optical isolation circuits and a microprocessor. The isolated microprocessor output is supplied to the machine control, which produces valve control signals to control the hydraulic valves of the machine. The application of hydraulic fluid to the hydraulic cylinders of the machine is then controlled by either the joystick control output or the automatic control output. In an intermediate range of joystick movement, the hydraulic cylinders of the machine are controlled by both outputs, resulting in a smooth transition between manual and automatic operation.