Work Machine Powertrain Control Strategy for Varying Terrain
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for controlling work machines during repeated work cycles are inefficient in terms of fuel consumption and productivity, particularly in varying terrain and load conditions, and do not adequately account for environmental factors.
Innovation Solution
A method that establishes a control strategy based on varying conditions during the work cycle, including operational parameters like weight, inclination, and direction, using detected and predicted data to optimize powertrain operations and reduce wear, by automatically adjusting gear modes and differential gear lock mechanisms.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Use of energy by moving object
If a fixed gear mode is used throughout the work cycle, then the control system is simple, but fuel consumption increases and productivity decreases due to inability to adapt to varying terrain and load conditions
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by making the gear mode variable rather than fixed. The control system dynamically adjusts the gear mode based on detected operational parameters (speed, load, inclination) and the current phase of the work cycle. This allows the transmission system to adapt its characteristics to match the varying demands of different terrain conditions and work phases, optimizing fuel consumption without requiring overly complex control logic.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the parameter of gear mode based on detected operational conditions. The control system monitors parameters such as vehicle speed, load conditions, and ground inclination, then selects appropriate gear modes from available options. This parameter-based adaptation enables the system to respond to varying terrain and work conditions, reducing fuel consumption while maintaining manageable control system complexity through structured decision-making.
2Use of energy by moving object
If gear mode is frequently changed to optimize performance, then fuel consumption decreases, but component wear increases
Solution Approach 1:
The control system performs preliminary action by predicting upcoming changes in work conditions based on the known work cycle pattern and terrain profile. Before the actual change in load or speed demand occurs, the system proactively adjusts the gear mode to be prepared for the anticipated conditions. This prevents sudden, frequent gear changes that would increase component wear, while still achieving fuel optimization through timely gear selection.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses feedback from detected operational parameters (speed, load, inclination) to monitor actual performance and adjust gear mode selections. By continuously comparing expected versus actual operating conditions, the control system can smooth out unnecessary gear changes and only switch gears when genuinely beneficial, thereby reducing component wear while maintaining fuel efficiency.
3Productivity
If the control system adapts to varying work conditions, then productivity increases, but the complexity of detecting and measuring operational parameters increases
Solution Approach 1:
The control system applies universality by using a single integrated control unit that performs multiple functions: detecting operational parameters, determining work cycle phase, selecting gear modes, and controlling differential lock mechanisms. This multi-functional approach enables the system to adapt to varying work conditions and optimize productivity without requiring separate complex detection systems for each parameter, as one control unit handles all sensing and decision-making tasks.
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to a method A method for controlling a work machine during operation in a repeated work cycle comprising the steps of establishing a control strategy on the basis of at least one condition that varies in the course of the work cycle, and controlling at least one device in a work machine power transmission system in response to the established control strategy during.