Automatic Transmission Control for Load Anticipation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Inexperienced or inattentive operators of machines like wheel loaders often fail to downshift or prepare the powertrain appropriately when encountering loads, leading to increased machine component wear and reduced efficiency, particularly in terms of fuel economy.
Innovation Solution
A transmission control system that anticipates load changes based on machine operating parameters, such as work implement positions, and automatically adjusts the speed ratio of the transmission to protect components and maintain efficiency, thereby reducing the need for operator intervention.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If automatic transmission control is implemented, then machine component wear is reduced and operating efficiency is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The control system performs preliminary actions by monitoring machine operating parameters (bucket position, arm angle, ground speed) and automatically adjusting transmission speed ratio before the operator needs to intervene. This anticipatory control prevents excessive transmission load and engine underspeed conditions, thereby reducing component wear while maintaining system reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The transmission control system serves itself by using onboard sensors and controllers to monitor its own operating conditions and automatically adjust parameters. The system self-regulates the speed ratio based on real-time feedback from machine parameters, eliminating the need for constant operator intervention and reducing mechanical wear through consistent optimal control.
2Reliability
If operator training and attentiveness are relied upon, then proper machine operation is achieved, but productivity is reduced due to human error
Solution Approach 1:
The control system continuously monitors machine operating parameters including bucket position, arm angle, and ground speed, using this feedback to automatically determine when transmission downshifting is required. This closed-loop control ensures proper machine operation regardless of operator experience level, eliminating human error while maintaining high productivity through consistent optimal performance.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical system of operator judgment and manual control with an electronic control system that automatically monitors parameters and adjusts transmission settings. This substitution eliminates reliance on operator training and attentiveness, ensuring reliable proper operation while maximizing productivity through error-free automated control.
3Power
If manual downshifting is required, then sufficient torque is available for load handling, but ease of operation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The control system performs preliminary downshifting actions automatically based on monitored parameters such as bucket position near the ground and low ground speed. This ensures sufficient torque is available before the operator needs to manually intervene, making the machine easier to operate while maintaining adequate power for load handling tasks.
Solution Approach 2:
The transmission control system automatically manages torque availability by monitoring operating conditions and adjusting speed ratio as needed. This self-service capability ensures sufficient power for load handling without requiring operator intervention, significantly improving ease of operation while maintaining the necessary torque for effective work performance.
Data Source
AI summary
A machine powertrain having a transmission includes a control device responsive to selectively vary the transmission ratio in response to a shift signal. A lift sensor associated with a machine implement monitors an implement position and provides a lift signal. A ground speed sensor monitors the ground speed and provides a ground speed signal. A controller monitors the lift and ground speed signals, compares the lift signal to a predetermined position range, compares the ground speed signal to a predetermined ground speed range and, when the ground speed signal is within the predetermined ground speed range and the lift signal is within the predetermined position range, provides the shift signal causing the selectively variable ratio of the transmission to change.