Vehicle Drive Control System for Uneven Terrain Tracking
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Compact construction vehicles face inefficiencies in controlling drive systems, particularly due to hydraulic pump and motor inefficiencies, which affect straight-line movement and responsiveness, especially when operating on uneven terrain or with differential wheel speeds.
Innovation Solution
A method and system that allow operators to adjust drive parameters through an input device, using a controller with a processor and memory to limit and incrementally increase drive output, allowing for smoother responses and improved tracking by varying the output of hydraulic pumps and motors, including the use of dual variable displacement hydraulic pumps with swash plates for precise fluid flow control.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If variable displacement pumps are used to vary hydraulic fluid flow to hydraulic motors, then the responsiveness and adaptability of the drive system is improved, but hydraulic pump and motor inefficiencies cause energy loss and reduce overall system efficiency
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically adjusts the displacement parameter of variable displacement pumps to optimize hydraulic fluid flow. By changing the pump displacement parameter in real-time based on actual drive conditions, the system achieves better responsiveness while minimizing hydraulic inefficiencies and energy losses through more efficient fluid delivery.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the drive system operates independently with first and second drives, then the adaptability to different terrain conditions is improved, but maintaining straight-line movement becomes difficult due to differential wheel speeds
Solution Approach 1:
The controller receives input from the operator and uses feedback mechanisms to monitor and adjust the operation of independent first and second drives. By continuously monitoring drive conditions and providing feedback control, the system can maintain straight-line movement while adapting to different terrain conditions through coordinated adjustment of differential wheel speeds.
Solution Approach 2:
The controller is designed to perform multiple functions: it manages the independent operation of first and second drives for terrain adaptability, while simultaneously coordinating their operation to maintain straight-line movement. This multi-functional control approach allows the system to handle both adaptability and stability requirements through a single integrated control unit.
3Manufacturing precision
If the drive output is limited to an initial output limit, then the control precision and safety are improved, but the productivity and responsiveness are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The system employs dynamic output limiting where the initial output limit is not fixed but can be adjusted in real-time. The controller dynamically modifies the drive output limit based on operating conditions, operator input, and system state, allowing the system to maintain control precision when needed while maximizing productivity when conditions permit.
Solution Approach 2:
The system establishes an initial output limit as a preliminary control measure to ensure safety and precision. This preliminary limitation is then progressively increased or adjusted as the system operates, allowing the drive output to grow from a controlled starting point to higher productivity levels while maintaining oversight and control throughout the operation.
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
Enhances the vehicle's ability to maintain straight-line movement and improve responsiveness by allowing operators to adjust drive parameters, reducing hydraulic motor lurching and improving control over the vehicle's trajectory on uneven terrain.
Implementation Method 1
dual variable displacement hydraulic pumps with swash plates for precise fluid flow control
Data Source
AI summary
A method of altering a drive parameter of a machine having a drive system that is configured to operate a left side of the machine independently of the right side of the machine. The method includes entering, by a user, a drive parameter alteration mode by actuating a first input, and actuating a second input to alter one or more parameters associated with a controller of the machine.