Track Trencher Propulsion Feedback Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing track trenchers face challenges in efficiently managing propulsion and steering across various operational modes, particularly in maintaining optimal engine output and adapting to different soil conditions, which affects productivity and ease of operation.
Innovation Solution
A multi-mode propulsion and steering control system that adjusts track drive speeds, engine speed, and attachment drive pressures based on feedback from sensors, allowing operators to select between high trench, low trench, and transport modes, with adjustable settings to optimize performance.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Power
If the operator manually adjusts propel control and engine throttle to maintain optimal engine output, then engine performance can be optimized, but the complexity of operation increases and productivity decreases due to frequent manual adjustments
Solution Approach 1:
The control system continuously monitors engine output parameters and automatically adjusts propel control and engine throttle settings to maintain optimal engine performance. This closed-loop feedback mechanism eliminates the need for frequent manual adjustments while keeping the engine operating at peak efficiency across varying soil conditions and operational modes.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs self-adjustment of propulsion and steering parameters without operator intervention. The control algorithm automatically adapts to changing operational conditions, adjusting track drive speeds and engine power output to maintain optimal performance, thereby freeing the operator from continuous manual control tasks.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the system provides multiple operational modes and adjustable settings for different soil conditions, then adaptability improves, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The control system dynamically adapts its parameters based on detected soil conditions and operational requirements. Rather than requiring manual selection of fixed modes, the system continuously adjusts propulsion and steering parameters in real-time, providing adaptability through dynamic response rather than static mode selection, thereby reducing the perceived complexity for the operator.
Solution Approach 2:
The system achieves adaptability by automatically modifying control parameters such as track drive speed, engine power output, and steering response based on sensor feedback regarding soil conditions. This parameter-based adaptation allows the system to handle diverse soil types without requiring complex mechanical reconfiguration or multiple discrete operational modes.
3Productivity
If feedback control is implemented to maintain constant engine output, then productivity improves, but the measurement and control precision requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system implements feedback control by continuously monitoring engine output parameters through sensors and automatically adjusting propulsion control to maintain constant engine operation. This feedback mechanism enables the system to compensate for variations in soil resistance and operational conditions, sustaining optimal productivity without requiring extremely high measurement precision, as the control algorithm can tolerate reasonable sensor tolerances while maintaining effective control.
Data Source
AI summary
A system and process for controlling propulsion and steering of a track trencher excavation machine powered by an engine includes a multiple mode propulsion and steering control system that performs a plurality of functions depending on a selection of one of a plurality of operational modes. A controller generates a vehicle propulsion hydrostatic drive signal optionally using a track drive hydraulic pressure or a track drive speed as a variable for modifying the propulsion drive signal. The controller optionally uses a hydraulic attachment drive pressure as a variable for further modifying the propulsion drive signal.