Tractor Attachment Control via Point of Action Positioning
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for controlling attachments coupled to tractors via powerlift systems lack efficiency and simplicity, leading to suboptimal working operations, increased fuel consumption, and reduced productivity.
Innovation Solution
A method that determines and adjusts the position of a point of action, such as a pull point or pole point, using geometric calculations and sensor data, allowing for automatic optimization based on setpoint settings, thereby improving the operational efficiency and reducing driver workload.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If manual control of attachment operation is used, then driver workload is high and working efficiency is low, but system complexity is low
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual mechanical control with an automated control system that uses sensors to detect the position of attachment components and a control unit to automatically adjust them. This substitution of manual operation with an automated system resolves the contradiction by improving productivity through automation while managing complexity through electronic control rather than mechanical linkages.
Solution Approach 2:
The control system enables the attachment to self-adjust its own position and operation parameters based on sensor feedback. The system monitors its own state and automatically makes corrections without external intervention, allowing the attachment to serve itself and improving working efficiency while reducing the need for complex manual control mechanisms.
2Use of energy by moving object
If automated control system is implemented, then working efficiency improves and fuel consumption reduces, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a feedback control system where sensors continuously monitor the position of attachment components and provide real-time data to the control unit. The control unit compares actual positions with desired positions and automatically adjusts components to minimize deviations. This feedback mechanism optimizes energy efficiency and reduces fuel consumption by ensuring precise, timely adjustments without requiring overly complex control architecture.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces complex mechanical control linkages with electronic sensing and control systems. By using sensors to detect position and electronic actuators to make adjustments, the system achieves precise control with lower energy consumption than mechanical systems would require, while managing complexity through standardized electronic components rather than custom mechanical mechanisms.
3Manufacturing precision
If point of action position is optimized, then quality of work improves and working time is reduced, but measurement and adjustment complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual visual estimation and physical measurement of attachment positions with electronic sensors that automatically detect the position of components. The sensors provide precise digital measurements of the point of action position, eliminating the need for manual measurement tools and methods. This substitution improves measurement accuracy and work quality while reducing the difficulty of position detection through automated electronic sensing.
Solution Approach 2:
The control system creates a digital representation or model of the attachment's physical position and configuration. Sensors capture the actual position data, and the control unit processes this information to determine optimal settings. This digital copying and processing of position information enables precise control and measurement without requiring complex physical measurement apparatus, improving both measurement ease and work quality.
Data Source
AI summary
A method is provided for controlling the operation of an attachment that is coupled to a tractor via a top link and two bottom links of a powerlift. The method includes selecting a point of action from at least one of a pull point as a geometric intersection of imaginary extensions of both bottom links and a pole point as a geometric intersection of imaginary extensions of the top link and a bottom link. The method also includes determining a position of the selected point of action, and signaling the determined position of the point of action by a display unit or adjusting the determined position depending on a comparison with a setpoint setting.