Universal Hydraulic Control Scheme for Mobile Equipment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Construction equipment, such as backhoes, require complex hydraulic systems to switch between various functions like bucket operation, shear cutting, and hammering, leading to increased operational complexity and learning curves for operators due to different control valve configurations from manufacturers, limiting versatility and flexibility.
Innovation Solution
A universal control scheme that utilizes a system of hydraulic line pairs and diverter valves to manage fluid flow, allowing a single controller to operate multiple functions by reassigning joystick and button inputs, and incorporating pressure reducer modules to adjust fluid flow for different accessories, enabling seamless switching between tools without adding new hydraulic lines or modifying controllers.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple separate hydraulic circuits are added to support different attachments (shears, grapple, hammer), then the machine's functional versatility is improved, but the device complexity and operational difficulty increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a universal hydraulic control system where existing hydraulic line pairs can be dynamically reassigned to control different attachments. A controller selectively activates specific hydraulic circuits based on the attached tool type, allowing the same hydraulic infrastructure to support multiple functions (bucket operation, shear cutting, grapple handling, hammering) without requiring separate dedicated circuits for each attachment.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges multiple attachment control functions into existing hydraulic circuits by using selective activation. Instead of adding completely separate hydraulic systems for each attachment, the system combines control capabilities for multiple attachments within the same hydraulic infrastructure, using a controller to direct fluid flow to the appropriate attachment based on operational needs.
2Reliability
If manufacturer-specific control valve configurations are used for different attachments, then each attachment can be precisely controlled, but the ease of operation deteriorates due to different learning curves
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic reconfiguration of hydraulic circuit assignments based on the detected attachment type. The controller automatically adjusts which hydraulic line pairs are activated and how they are mapped to control inputs, allowing the system to adapt its control scheme to match the specific attachment being used. This provides attachment-specific control precision while maintaining a consistent operator interface.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses feedback from attachment type detection to automatically configure the appropriate hydraulic control scheme. The controller identifies which attachment is mounted and selectively activates the corresponding hydraulic circuits and control valve configurations, ensuring optimal control precision for each attachment while eliminating the need for operators to learn multiple manual configuration schemes.
3Adaptability or versatility
If hydraulic circuits are added for each new function, then the machine can perform more diverse tasks, but the loss of time for operator retraining and system reconfiguration increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements preliminary configuration capabilities where the system is pre-programmed with knowledge of different attachment types and their corresponding optimal hydraulic control schemes. When an attachment is mounted, the controller automatically detects it and activates the pre-configured control pattern, eliminating the need for operators to manually retrain or reconfigure the system for each new attachment type.
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 simplifies the operation of construction machines by allowing a single operator to learn a uniform control protocol across different machines and tools, enhancing versatility and reducing the need for multiple machines, while maintaining efficiency and safety.
Implementation Method 1
an engine 12 operates hydraulic pumps 14 which take hydraulic fluid from a hydraulic tank 16 and provide it to a plurality of control valves 18
Implementation Method 2
a boom 20 pivotally attached to the base platform is operated by a boom hydraulic cylinder 24 powered by fluid from the control valves 18
Implementation Method 3
The platform 22 may be pivoted about the base 30 utilizing a hydraulic swing motor 32, again powered by hydraulic fluid supplied through one of the control valves 18
Implementation Method 4
hydraulic pumps 14 which take hydraulic fluid from a hydraulic tank 16 and provide it to a plurality of control valves 18
Data Source
AI summary
A universal control scheme for mobile hydraulic equipment has switches to activate and/or control any number of different tools or accessories that may be used to configure the equipment. Additionally, a single controller command may be reassigned from one set to another set of hydraulic line pairs. Furthermore, at different times, two separate controller commands may be used to control the same hydraulic line pair. The control scheme also provides for consolidating hydraulic line pair functions to separate for dedicated use those line pairs associated with operating hydraulic cylinders to extend or retract a member and those line pairs used to provide hydraulic fluid for operating tools.