Work Vehicle Mode Control Using Boom Position and Hydraulic Pressure
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing work vehicles require manual selection of operating modes by operators, leading to increased workload and potential suboptimal mode choices, affecting usability, performance, and operator comfort.
Innovation Solution
A control method that automatically selects operating modes based on hydrostatic transmission pressure and boom position, dynamically adjusting the aggressiveness of boom and implement movements to match working conditions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If manual selection of operating modes is implemented, then the operator has control over vehicle operation, but the operator workload increases and mode selection may be suboptimal
Solution Approach 1:
The control system automatically monitors working conditions (load, terrain, implement position) and selects operating modes without operator intervention. The system serves itself by making intelligent decisions based on sensor data, eliminating the need for manual mode selection while optimizing vehicle performance for current conditions
Solution Approach 2:
The system continuously monitors working conditions through sensors and uses this feedback to automatically adjust operating modes. The control unit receives real-time data about load, terrain, and implement position, then selects appropriate modes dynamically, creating a closed-loop control system that adapts to changing conditions
2Productivity
If operating modes are manually selected, then the vehicle can be operated, but performance and efficiency are reduced due to suboptimal mode choices
Solution Approach 1:
The operating modes are dynamically adjusted based on real-time working conditions rather than remaining static. The control system continuously adapts the vehicle's operational characteristics (power distribution, hydraulic flow, drive train engagement) to match current load and terrain conditions, maximizing performance throughout the work cycle
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes key operational parameters (power allocation to wheels vs. hydraulics, hydraulic pump engagement, final drive coupling) automatically based on detected working conditions. These parameter adjustments optimize vehicle performance for each specific operating scenario without requiring operator knowledge or intervention
3Extent of automation
If automated mode selection is implemented, then operator workload is reduced, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
A single control unit performs multiple functions: monitoring sensor inputs, determining working conditions, selecting operating modes, and coordinating multiple vehicle systems (powertrain, hydraulics, drive train). This multi-functional approach consolidates complexity into one intelligent controller rather than requiring separate systems for each function
Solution Approach 2:
The patent combines the monitoring, decision-making, and control functions into an integrated system. Sensors, control logic, and actuation systems are merged into a unified control architecture that manages power distribution, hydraulic engagement, and drive train coupling simultaneously, reducing overall system complexity through integration
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 usability, performance, and operator comfort by reducing workload through automated mode selection that optimizes vehicle operation.
Implementation Method 1
a hydraulic pump Pu connected to a fluid reservoir T and driven by an internal combustion engine or an electrical motor M
Implementation Method 2
The hydraulic flow rate of the working fluid required to operate the boom and the implement is produced by a hydraulic pump
Implementation Method 3
each hydraulic actuator comprises an hydraulic cylinder operatively connected respectively to the boom and the implement, that uses hydraulic power of a working fluid to facilitate mechanical operation
Implementation Method 4
a hydraulic actuator can exert a large force. The rate of actuation of the boom and implement is controlled by the opening degree of the respective directional solenoid valve
Implementation Method 5
controlled by an electronic control unit 16 through respective solenoid valves 18, 20 according to the position of the joystick 7 controlled by the operator
Implementation Method 6
a hydrostatic transmission comprising a first hydraulic pump HP, a hydraulic motor HM, a forward line FL arranged to hydraulically connect an outlet of the hydraulic pump to an inlet of the hydraulic motor
Data Source
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AI summary
A control method for automatically selecting an operating mode of a work vehicle is disclosed, wherein the control method comprises the steps of: a) determining a current position of a boom along a travel path of the boom over time; b) determining a current travel speed of the work vehicle over time; c) determining the value of pressure of a first working fluid within a forward line over time; d) determining the value of pressure of the first working fluid within a reverse line over time; e) selecting one operating mode of the work vehicle from the plurality of selectable operating modes, based on the detected current position of the boom along a travel path of the boom, the detected current travel speed of the work vehicle, the detected value of pressure of the first working fluid within the forward line, and the detected value of pressure of the first working fluid within the reverse line; f) setting the work vehicle in the selected operating mode. In addition, a control system for a work - 2 - vehicle and a work vehicle are disclosed.