Tandem Pump System for Work Vehicle Service Pack
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing work vehicles with integrated auxiliary resources, such as hydraulic systems, rely on large and fuel-inefficient main vehicle engines, leading to unnecessary engine idling, reduced engine and drivetrain life, and inefficient power consumption, as the main engine is often oversized for the auxiliary resources.
Innovation Solution
A service pack system comprising a smaller engine and a tandem pump system, controlled by a load sense mechanism, which selectively engages one or more pumps to match the power output with the load requirements, allowing the main vehicle engine to be shut off during auxiliary operations, thereby optimizing fuel efficiency and reducing power consumption.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Power
If the main vehicle engine is used to drive integrated auxiliary resources, then the auxiliary resources can operate, but the engine is oversized and fuel inefficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the auxiliary power system into separate modular units (generators, compressors, hydraulic pumps) that can operate independently from the main vehicle engine. Each auxiliary resource has its own dedicated power source, allowing the main engine to be shut off when only auxiliary resources are needed, thereby improving fuel efficiency while maintaining sufficient power output for each individual auxiliary function.
2Ease of operation
If the main vehicle engine is kept running to maintain auxiliary resource availability, then the auxiliary resources remain accessible, but engine life and drivetrain life are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements segmented power sources where each auxiliary resource (electrical, pneumatic, hydraulic) has its own dedicated engine or motor. This allows the main vehicle engine to be completely shut off when auxiliary resources are not needed, eliminating unnecessary idle operation and extending engine life, while auxiliary resources remain independently accessible when required.
Solution Approach 2:
The auxiliary power units are designed to be self-contained and self-starting, with their own engines or motors that can be independently activated. This self-service capability allows auxiliary resources to be available on-demand without requiring the main engine to remain running, thereby reducing wear and extending the life of the main engine and drivetrain.
3Device complexity
If the main vehicle engine runs at normal condition without change, then the engine operates simply, but wasted power occurs due to equal or more power than needed
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs dynamic control of auxiliary power units based on actual load requirements. The system includes sensors and controllers that monitor the operational status and power demands of auxiliary resources, automatically adjusting the operation of dedicated engines or motors. This allows power output to dynamically match actual needs, eliminating wasted power while maintaining simple operation through automated control.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes operational parameters (on/off states, speed, power output) of auxiliary power units based on real-time monitoring of load requirements. When auxiliary resources are not needed, the dedicated engines or motors are shut off or reduced to idle, matching power output precisely to demand and eliminating wasted energy, while maintaining simple operation through parameter-based control.
Data Source
AI summary
In certain embodiments, a service pack includes an engine, a tandem pump system coupled to the engine, and a controller. The tandem pump system may include a first pump and a second pump in tandem with one another. The controller may be configured to enable the first pump at a first load condition associated with the engine, the second pump at a second load condition associated with the engine, and both the first and second pumps at a third load condition associated with the engine. The load conditions may correspond to engine loads, hydraulic loads, or other loads associated with the engine. For example, at a low hydraulic pressure, the controller may selectively operate both the first and second pumps, whereas the controller may selectively operate only the first pump or the second pump at high and medium hydraulic pressures, respectively. In this manner, the system can provide suitable flow without overloading the engine.