Work Tool Float Management via Speed-Based Inhibit
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Solution Overview
Problem
There is a need to better manage the ability of a surface-engaging work tool, such as a blade on a motor grader, to float with respect to the surface on which the mobile construction equipment is operating, as existing systems struggle to prevent unintended floating or maintain control during high-speed operations.
Innovation Solution
A mobile construction equipment system comprising a work tool that can move between float and non-float positions, a machine speed sensor, and a controller with a float mode and inhibit mode. The controller receives machine speed data and enables or disables the float mode based on a predetermined activation limit, providing an indication to the operator if the speed exceeds the limit.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the work tool is allowed to float during high-speed operations, then the operator has greater control flexibility, but the risk of veering off course due to contact with impediments increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system changes the operational parameter (float mode availability) based on the machine speed parameter. When speed exceeds the predetermined limit, the float mode is disabled, preventing the work tool from floating during high-speed operations. This resolves the contradiction by dynamically adjusting operational parameters to maintain safety while preserving control flexibility when conditions are safe.
Solution Approach 2:
The controller continuously monitors machine speed and provides feedback to the float control system. When the speed exceeds the predetermined limit, the system receives feedback and automatically disables float mode, providing an indication to the operator. This feedback mechanism ensures safety during high-speed operations while maintaining operational control when appropriate.
2Reliability
If the float mode is completely disabled during high-speed operations, then safety is improved, but the operator loses the ability to respond to specific working conditions
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses parameter changes (machine speed threshold) to determine when float mode should be available. By setting a predetermined speed limit rather than completely disabling float mode, the system maintains adaptability for low-speed operations while ensuring safety during high-speed operations. Experienced operators can still utilize float mode when conditions warrant it, provided the speed limit is not exceeded.
Solution Approach 2:
The float control system is made dynamic rather than static. The availability of float mode changes dynamically based on the current machine speed relative to the predetermined limit. This allows the system to adapt to different working conditions automatically, enabling float mode when safe and disabling it when unsafe, thereby maintaining both safety and versatility.
3Reliability
If the controller automatically disables float mode based on speed, then safety is enhanced, but the system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The controller monitors a single critical parameter (machine speed) and compares it against a predetermined threshold to control float mode availability. This simple parameter-based control approach enhances safety without requiring complex control algorithms or multiple sensors, thereby minimizing the increase in system complexity while achieving effective safety control.
Data Source
AI summary
A mobile construction equipment for operation on a surface includes: a work tool that is movable between at least one float position, in which the work tool floats with respect to the surface, and at least one non-float position, in which the work tool does not float with respect to the surface; a machine speed sensor for providing a machine speed of the mobile construction equipment; and a controller having a work tool float mode, in which the work tool is movable to the at least one float position, the controller, in a work tool float inhibit mode, in which the work tool is not movable to the at least one float position, receiving the machine speed, and, if the machine speed exceeds a float activation limit: disabling the work tool float mode so as to prevent the work tool from moving to the at least one float position.