Work Machine Economy Mode Control via Drivetrain Load
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Solution Overview
Problem
Construction machines face inefficiencies in fuel consumption when not performing work functions, as conventional operating modes do not prioritize fuel efficiency.
Innovation Solution
A method for controlling work machines to switch between performance and economy operating modes by adjusting throttle positions and transmission ratios based on drivetrain load and ground speed, using sensors and a control system to maintain optimal operating conditions for improved fuel efficiency.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If conventional operating mode is used with engine load varying engine speed, then work function performance is maintained, but fuel efficiency deteriorates during non-work functions
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically switches between conventional operating mode and economy operating mode based on whether a work function is being performed. The throttle position and transmission ratio are adjusted in real-time according to the operational state, allowing the machine to optimize fuel efficiency during non-work functions while maintaining performance during work functions.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention changes the operating parameters (throttle position and transmission ratio) based on the operational mode. In economy mode, the throttle position is reduced and transmission ratio is increased compared to conventional mode, thereby improving fuel efficiency during non-work functions while maintaining ground speed.
2Use of energy by moving object
If throttle position is decreased to improve fuel efficiency, then fuel consumption is reduced, but machine ground speed may deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The invention combines the adjustment of two parameters - throttle position and transmission ratio - to achieve fuel efficiency improvement without sacrificing ground speed. The transmission ratio is increased to compensate for the reduced throttle position, ensuring that ground speed is maintained while fuel consumption is reduced.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes multiple operating parameters simultaneously - reducing throttle position to decrease fuel consumption while increasing transmission ratio to maintain ground speed. This coordinated parameter change resolves the contradiction between fuel efficiency and speed maintenance.
3Speed
If transmission ratio is increased to maintain ground speed in economy mode, then ground speed is preserved, but drivetrain load characteristics change
Solution Approach 1:
The control system continuously monitors ground speed and drivetrain load, and adjusts the transmission ratio and throttle position accordingly. This feedback mechanism ensures that ground speed is maintained while optimizing the drivetrain load characteristics for fuel efficiency in economy mode.
Data Source
AI summary
A method of selecting an economy operating mode of a work machine includes detecting a current throttle position of a throttle control and a current track speed with a speed sensor, and determining a current drivetrain load of the machine as a function of motor torque, a drivetrain ratio, a drivetrain mechanical efficiency, a final drive windage factor, and a rolling radius. The method includes decreasing the current throttle command if a ratio of the current drivetrain load to an available drivetrain load is less than a load threshold. A transmission ratio of the transmission is increased by the controller to an increased transmission ratio if the ratio of the current drivetrain load to the available drivetrain load is less than the load threshold.