Variable Pulse Width Generator for Dozer Blade Tilt Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing systems for controlling the position of a bulldozer blade in x, y, and z directions are expensive and difficult to implement, requiring continuous manual adjustments to maintain a constant angled surface, especially when the bulldozer shifts on uneven terrain.
Innovation Solution
A low-cost, energy-efficient servo control system using electronic tilt sensors, pulse width modulation, and hydraulic controls to automatically maintain the desired tilt angle of the bulldozer blade, with adjustable hydraulic flow and limit switches to prevent over-tilting, allowing for stable operation with minimal power dissipation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Extent of automation
If prior art systems are used to automatically control blade position, then automation is improved, but cost and device complexity increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces complex mechanical control systems with electronic pulse width modulation (PWM) circuitry. The tilt sensor output directly controls PWM duty cycle through electronic components (op-amps, monostable multivibrators, PWM generators) rather than mechanical linkages, reducing overall system complexity while maintaining automation.
Solution Approach 2:
The system controls blade position by changing the duty cycle parameter of PWM signals rather than using complex mechanical positioners. The electronic circuit varies the pulse width parameter to control hydraulic valve actuation, simplifying the control mechanism while achieving precise automated position control.
2Measurement precision
If continuous manual adjustments are made to maintain blade position, then control precision is maintained, but operator fatigue increases and productivity decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses the tilt sensor to automatically detect blade angle and the electronic control circuitry to self-correct position without operator intervention. The closed-loop system continuously monitors and adjusts blade position autonomously, eliminating manual adjustments while maintaining precision and improving productivity.
Solution Approach 2:
The tilt sensor provides continuous feedback about actual blade position to the electronic control system. This feedback loop enables automatic correction of position deviations, maintaining control precision without requiring continuous manual monitoring and adjustment, thereby improving operational efficiency.
3Extent of automation
If expensive prior art systems are implemented, then automated control is achieved, but cost increases beyond acceptable limits
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs inexpensive electronic components (standard op-amps, 555 timers, PWM generators, discrete transistors) rather than expensive proprietary control systems. These conventional, readily available components achieve automated control functionality at a fraction of the cost of specialized automotive control systems.
Solution Approach 2:
By replacing expensive mechanical control linkages and hydraulic control valves with solid-state electronic PWM control circuitry, the system achieves automation at lower cost. The electronic components consume less energy and require less maintenance than their mechanical counterparts.
4Speed
If hydraulic flow is increased to improve response speed, then blade positioning speed increases, but energy consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses periodic PWM signals to control hydraulic valve actuation rather than continuous hydraulic flow. The pulse-width modulated signals open and close hydraulic valves in controlled cycles, providing rapid blade positioning when needed while allowing energy recovery during deceleration and idle periods, reducing overall power consumption.
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
The system provides stable, energy-efficient control of the bulldozer blade, maintaining precise tilt angles with low power consumption and preventing over-tilting, enabling efficient operation on uneven terrain without the need for continuous manual adjustments.
Implementation Method 1
an electronic tilt sensor mounted to the dozer blade... producing a variable pulse width in response to a change in gravitational force
Data Source
AI summary
In one embodiment a dozer blade controller, which may comprise two-way, four-way, or six-way dozer blade position control such as, for example, a two-way control only for blade tilt. In one embodiment, a pulse width control is provided for use in a blade tilt electronic controller, which controls blade tilt independently of movement of the body of the bull dozer. And in another embodiment, a pulse width controller is operable to multiply and/or divide the width of a variable pulse by a preset multiplier factor or divider factor, e.g. by 100 or dividing by 100.