GB2590950A

GB2590950A - Machine and operation of machine in tow mode

Info

Publication number: GB2590950A
Application number: GB2000256.4A
Authority: GB
Inventors: Lee Hogan Michael; James Argenziano Nicholas; Adam Enot Ryan
Original assignee: Caterpillar Paving Products Inc
Current assignee: Caterpillar Paving Products Inc
Priority date: 2020-01-09
Filing date: 2020-01-09
Publication date: 2021-07-14
Also published as: GB202000256D0

Abstract

A machine, for example a milling machine, has a plurality of tracks 130, 132, 134, 136 and drive motors 138, 140, 142, 144 corresponding to the tracks. Each drive motor is operable in a low displacement mode, allowing its corresponding track to move, or a high displacement mode which resists movement of the corresponding track. A control module is provided to detect an activation of a tow mode and to receive an input for operating the drive motors in the low displacement mode, and transmits an output for operating the motors in the low displacement mode allowing towing of the machine. The input may be manual, from an operator or other personnel in charge of the machine, and/or may be from a pressure sensor. In one arrangement, the tow mode may only be activated when the speed of an engine 105 is zero.

Description

MACHINE AND OPERATION OF MACHINE IN TOW MODE

Technical Field

100011 The present disclosure relates to a machine. More particularly, the present disclosure relates to a machine operable in a tow mode feature for allowing towing of the machine.

Background

100021 A machine, such as a milling machine, typically includes a number of ground engaging members that are embodied as tracks. Each track includes a corresponding drive motor that causes rotation of the tracks when the machine is in operation. Further, when the machine is in a stationary state, the drive motors are set to a default maximum displacement to add an increased resistance to an undercarriage system of the machine. This increased resistance is applied to restrict any undesired movement of the machine, such as on slopes.

100031 Conventional machines include a tow mode feature, that allows the machine to be towed by another vehicle in case of machine breakdown, such as engine failure or hydraulic failure. When another vehicle is towing the machine, the vehicle typically experiences increased resistance due to high displacement feedback from the drive motors of the machine being towed. Thus, the towing vehicle needs to overcome the resistance of the drive motors, which may in turn affect the towing process of the machine.

100041 U.S. Published Application Number 2017/0274947 describes power machines, power sources for power machines, and methods which provide a hydraulic signal from a hydraulic system, through the swivel joint or swivel, to control a tensioning cylinder coupled to the undercarriage without requiring a modification to the swivel. In exemplary embodiments, the same hydraulic signal provided to at least one other hydraulic component on the undercarriage to control another machine function is also provided to control one or more tensioning cylinders. For example, exemplary disclosed embodiments provide the same hydraulic signal to tension a tensioning cylinder as is provided to shift one or more two-speed drive motors. This prevents or reduces the likelihood of de-tracking without requiring a change or redesign of the swivel.

Summary of the Disclosure

100051 In an aspect of the present disclosure, a machine is provided. The machine includes a plurality of tracks adapted to move the machine on a ground surface. The machine also includes a plurality of drive motors corresponding to the plurality of tracks, each drive motor being adapted to move a corresponding track of the plurality of tracks. Further, each drive motor is adapted to operate in at least one of a low displacement mode to allow a movement of the corresponding track of the plurality of tracks and a high displacement mode to resist the movement of the corresponding track of the plurality of tracks. The machine further includes a control module communicably coupled with each of the plurality of drive motors. The control module is configured to detect an activation of a tow mode of the machine. The control module is also configured to receive an input signal for operating the plurality of drive motors in the low displacement mode. The control module is further configured to transmit an output signal to the plurality of drive motors for operating the plurality of drive motors in the low displacement mode in order to allow towing of the machine when the machine is in the tow mode.

[0006] Other features and aspects of this disclosure will be apparent from the following description and the accompanying drawings.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0007] FIG. 1 is a side view of a machine, according to an embodiment of the

present disclosure;

100081 FIG. 2 is a schematic view illustrating a number of drive motors associated with the machine of FIG. 1; [0009] FIG. 3 is a block diagram illustrating a control module, a first input device, drive motors, and a second input device associated with the machine of FIG. 1, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure; 100101 FIGS. 4, 5, and 6 illustrate various messages displayed by an exemplary first input device associated with the machine of FIG. 1; and 100111 FIG. 7 is a block diagram illustrating the control module, the first input device, drive motors, and a pressure sensing device associated with the machine of FIG. 1, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

Detailed Description

100121 Reference numerals appearing in more than one figure indicate the same or corresponding parts in each of them. References to elements in the singular may also be construed to relate to the plural and vice-versa without limiting the scope of the disclosure to the exact number or type of such elements unless set forth explicitly in the appended claims.

100131 FIG. 1 is a side view of an exemplary machine 100. In the illustrated embodiment, the machine 100 is embodied as a cold planer. In alternative embodiments, the machine 100 may include another type of milling machine, such as an asphalt paver. Further, the machine 100 may also embody machines, such as excavators, loaders, shovels, trucks, bull dozers, tractors, and the like. The machine 100 may perform one or more than one type of operations associated with an industry, such as mining, construction, farming, transportation, or any other industry known in the art.

100141 The machine 100 operates on a ground surface 102 for performing a milling operation on the ground surface 102. The machine 100 includes a frame 104 and an engine enclosure 106 attached to the frame 104. The engine enclosure 106 houses an engine 105 (shown in FIG. 2). The engine 105 is generally an internal combustion engine that provides propulsion power to the machine 100 and also powers various components of the machine 100.

100151 The machine 100 has an operator platform 108. When the machine 100 is embodied as a manual or semi-autonomous machine, a personnel in charge of the machine 100 may sit or stand at the operator platform 108. The personnel may include an operator of the machine 100 or servicing/maintenance personnel. The operator platform 108 may include one or more input devices, such as a first input device 110 (shown in FIGS. 3 to 6) and a second input device 112 (shown in FIG. 3). The first input device 110 is embodied as a user interface that allows the personnel to provide inputs for performing one or more machine tasks. The first input device 110 may allow the personnel to realize machine related functions, such as for example, activation of a tow mode feature, in order to allow towing of the machine 100 in case of machine breakdown. Further, the first input device 110 may also provide various notifications to the personnel that may assist the personnel in improved handling of the machine 100.

100161 Moreover, the second input device 112 may be embodied as a propel interlock button. For example, the button may include a push button or a press and hold button. Alternatively, the second input device 112 may embody a joystick, a lever, or a knob. In some embodiments, the first input device 110 may itself include functionalities of the second input device 112. In such examples, the machine 100 may omit the second input device 112.

100171 The machine 100 defines a front end 114 and a rear end 116. Further, the machine 100 includes a rotor chamber 118 defined between the front and rear ends 114, 116. The rotor chamber 118 is an enclosed space and a rotor 120 that is rotatably coupled to the frame 104 lies within the rotor chamber 118. The rotor 120 includes a generally cylindrical member 122 and a number of cutting assemblies 124 disposed on the cylindrical member 122. A portion of the cutting assemblies 124 contact the ground surface 102 for removing material therefrom. Further, the machine 100 includes a conveyor system 126 to transport material away from the rotor chamber 118 and into a receptacle (not shown).

[0018] As illustrated herein, the machine 100 includes an undercarriage system 128. The machine 100 includes a number of tracks 130, 132, 134, 136 to move the machine 100 on the ground surface 102. More particularly, the undercarriage system 128 includes a pair of front tracks 130, 136 (the track 136 is shown in FIG. 2) defined proximate to the front end 114 of the machine 100. Moreover, the undercarriage system 128 includes a pair of rear tracks 132, 134 (the track 134 is shown in FIG. 2) defined proximate to the rear end 116 of the machine 100.

[0019] As shown in FIG. 2, the machine 100 also includes a plurality of drive motors 138, 140, 142, 144 corresponding to the plurality of tracks 130, H2, 134, 136. Each drive motor 138, 140, 142, 144 moves the corresponding track 130, 132, 134, 136 of the plurality of tracks 130, 132, 134, 136. The drive motors 138, 140, 142, 144 are mechanically connected to the respective track 130, 132, 134, 136.

More particularly, each of the drive motors 138, 140, 142, 144 are connected to the corresponding track 130, 132, 134, 136 by a gear arrangement 146, 148, 150, 152. A movement of the drive motors 138, 140, 142, 144 causes the tracks 130, 132, 134, 136 to rotate thereby propelling the machine 100.

100201 The drive motors 138, 140, 142, 144 are embodied as variable displacement motors. When the engine 105 is operating, the drive motors 138, 140, 142, 144 are operated based on hydraulic pressure. More particularly, the machine 100 includes a first pump 154 and a second pump 156. The first and second pumps 154, 156 are driven by the engine 105. Further, the first pump 154 operates to pressurize and direct hydraulic fluid pressure towards the drive motors 138, 142 which in turn allows operation of the drive motors 138, 142 thereby causing rotation of the tracks 130, 134. Further, the second pump 156 operates to pressurize and direct hydraulic fluid towards the drive motors 140, 144 which in turn allows operation of the drive motors 140, 144 thereby causing rotation of the tracks 132, 136.

100211 Further, each drive motor 138, 140, 142, 144 operates in a low displacement mode to allow a movement of the corresponding track 130, 132, 134, 136 of the plurality of tracks 130, 132, 134, 136 or a high displacement mode to resist the movement of the corresponding track 130, 132, 134, 136 of the plurality of tracks 130, 132, 134, 136. More particularly, when the machine 100 is moving on the ground surface 102, the drive motors 138, 140, 142, 144 operate in the low displacement mode so that the machine 100 can operate at high speed ranges. Further, when the machine 100 is in a stationary state, the drive motors 138, 140, 142, 144 operate in the high displacement mode to provide increased resistance to the undercarriage system 128 in order to eliminate any undesired movement of the machine 100. Moreover, the drive motors 138, 140, 142, 144 operate in the high displacement mode during machine breakdown, such as during engine failure or hydraulic system failure.

100221 Further, the machine 100 includes service brakes (not shown) and park brakes (not shown). The service and park brakes may include components and perform functions that are generally known in the art, i.e. braking of the machine 100. Further, the machine 100 includes the tow mode feature that allows towing of the machine 100 in case of machine breakdown. The tow mode feature allows towing of the machine 100 by another towing vehicle. The tow mode can be activated by the operator or the personnel in charge of the machine 100. The tow mode may be activated based on inputs provided through the first input device 110.

100231 The present disclosure relates to a technique that allows operation of the drive motors 138, 140, 142, 144 in the low displacement mode when the machine IOU is in the tow mode. Accordingly, as shown in FIG. 3, the machine 100 includes a control module 158. The control module 158 is communicably coupled with each of the plurality of drive motors 138, 140, 142, 144. The control module 158 is also communicably coupled with the first input device 110 and the second input device 112. Further, the control module 158 detects an activation of the tow mode of the machine 100.

100241 As shown in FIG. 4, when the personnel selects the tow mode, the control module 158 (see FIG. 3) checks if a speed of the engine 105 is zero. If the speed of the engine 105 is non-zero, the control module 158 sends a signal to the first input device 110 to display a message 160 on the first input device 110. The message 160 notifies the personnel that the tow mode may be activated only when the speed of the engine 105 is zero. As shown in FIG. 5, when the control module 158 (see FIG. 3) detects that the speed of the engine 105 is zero, the first input device 110 shows a first button 162 and a second button 164. It should be noted that when the speed of the engine 105 is not zero, the first and second buttons 162, 164 do not appear on the first input device 110 100251 Further, the first button 162 on the first input device 110 may be used to release the park brakes. When the first button 162 is switched to an on state, the park brakes of the machine 100 are released. It should be noted that in the tow mode, the park brakes are released by a separate hydraulic assembly (not shown) that is activated only when the machine 100 is in the tow mode. Moreover, the second button 164 corresponds to an activation of an auxiliary hydraulic pump (not shown).

100261 As shown in FIG. 6, when the control module 158 (see FIG. 3) detects that the park brakes have been released, the control module 158 sends a signal to the first input device 110 to display a message 166 on the first input device 110.

The message 166 notifies the personnel to operate the second input device 112 i.e. the propel interlock button. Referring now to FIG. 3, the operation of the second input device 112 provides an input signal to the control module 158 for operating the plurality of drive motors 138, 140, 142, 144 in the low displacement mode. In this embodiment, the input signal is provided by the personnel associated with the machine 100. It should be noted that when the second input device 112 is embodied as a press and hold type of button, the personnel may press and hold the button to provide the input signal.

100271 Further, the control module 158 receives the input signal for operating the plurality of drive motors 138, 140, 142, 144 in the low displacement mode. Moreover, the control module 158 transmits an output signal to the plurality of drive motors 138, 140, 142, 144 for operating the drive motors 138, 140, 142, 144 in the low displacement mode in order to allow towing of the machine 100 in the tow mode. More particularly, the operation of the second input device 112 in the tow mode causes the drive motors 138, 140, 142, 144 to operate in the low displacement mode. It should be noted that the control module 158 may be communicably coupled with solenoids (not shown) associated with the respective drive motors 138, 140, 142, 144. The output signal from the control module 158 is provided to the solenoids in order to operate the drive motors 138, 140, 142, 144 in the low displacement mode. The output signal may command the solenoids of the respective drive motors 138, 140, 142, 144 to a maximum current so that the drive motors 138, 140, 142, 144 operate in the low displacement mode.

100281 FIG. 7 illustrates another embodiment of the present disclosure. When the machine 100 is in the tow mode, the control module 158 receives an input signal for operating the drive motors 138, 140, 142, 144 in the low displacement mode. In the illustrated example, the input signal is indicative of the pressure being applied on the machine 100. The input signal is provided by one or more pressure sensing devices 768 associated with the machine 100. The pressure sensing devices 768 may be already present on the machine 100. In the illustrated example, the machine 100 includes four pressure sensing devices 768. The pressure sensing devices 768 are disposed in fluid lines that connect the first pump 154 with the drive motors 138, 142 (see FIG. 2). Further, the pressure sensing devices 768 are disposed in fluid lines that connect the first pump 154 with the drive motors 140, 144 (see FIG. 2).

[0029] The pressure sensing devices 768 are communicably coupled with the control module 158. The pressure sensing devices 768 are used to generate an input signal that is indicative of the pressure being applied on the machine 100 by the towing vehicle. The pressure sensing devices 768 may include pressure sensors/transducers generally known in the art that generate the input signal indicative of the pressure being applied on the machine 100.

[0030] When the control module 158 receives the input signal, the control module 158 determines if the pressure being applied on the machine 100 is greater than a predetermined pressure threshold. It should be noted that the control module 158 transmits an output signal to the drive motors 138, 140, 142, 144 for operating the drive motors 138, 140, 142, 144 in the low displacement mode only when the pressure applied on the machine 100 is above the predetermined threshold. Further, based on receipt of the input signal from the respective pressure sensing devices 768 in the tow mode, the control module 158 also detects if the park brakes are in a released position. If the park brakes are not released, the first input device 110 shows a message to notify the personnel to release the park brakes.

[0031] When the park brakes are released and if the input signal indicates that the pressure is greater than the predetermined pressure threshold, the control module 158 transmits the output signal to the drive motors 138, 140, 142, 144. The control module 158 transmits the output signal to the drive motors 138, 140, 142, 144 for operating the drive motors 138, 140, 142, 144 in the low displacement mode in order to allow towing of the machine 100. The output signal from the control module 158 is provided to the solenoids of the respective the drive motors 138, 140, 142, 144 in order to operate the drive motors 138, 140, 142, 144 in the low displacement mode. The output signal may command the solenoids of the respective drive motors 138, 140, 142, 144 to the maximum current so that the drive motors 138, 140, 142, 144 operate in the low displacement mode.

[0032] The control module 158 may embody a single microprocessor or multiple microprocessors for receiving signals from various components of the machine 100. Numerous commercially available microprocessors may be configured to perform the functions of the control module 158 It should be appreciated that the control module 158 may embody a machine microprocessor capable of controlling numerous machine functions. A person of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate that the control module 158 may additionally include other components and may also perform other functions not described herein

Industrial Applicability

10033] The present disclosure relates to the technique of operating the drive motors 138, 140, 142, 144 in the low displacement mode when the tow mode of the machine 100 is active. The operation of the drive motors 138, 140, 142, 144 in the low displacement mode may allow easy movement of the machine 100 for towing purposes. More particularly, the machine 100 may be easily pulled or pushed in the tow mode due to decrease in resistance exerted by the drive motors 138, 140, 142, 144. Further, the operation of the drive motors 138, 140, 142, 144 in the low displacement mode also reduce efforts applied by the towing vehicle for towing the machine 100.

10034] The present disclosure provides a simple technique for machine movement in the tow mode based on operation of the drive motors 138, 140, 142, 144 in the low displacement mode. Moreover, the first input device 110 shows various messages thereon, thereby assisting the personnel during a process of towing the machine 100. Further, the technique described herein can be easily applied on existing machines without modifying hardware associated with such machines. Furthermore, the technique described herein may be incorporated in any machine 100 having variable displacement drive motors.

Claims

Claims What is claimed is: 1 A machine comprising: a plurality of tracks adapted to move the machine on a ground surface; a plurality of drive motors corresponding to the plurality of tracks, each drive motor being adapted to move a corresponding track of the plurality of tracks, wherein each drive motor is adapted to operate in at least one of a low displacement mode to allow a movement of the corresponding track of the plurality of tracks and a high displacement mode to resist the movement of the corresponding track of the plurality of tracks; and a control module communicably coupled with each of the plurality of drive motors, wherein the control module is configured to: detect an activation of a tow mode of the machine; receive an input signal for operating the plurality of drive motors in the low displacement mode; and transmit an output signal to the plurality of drive motors for operating the plurality of drive motors in the low displacement mode in order to allow towing of the machine when the machine is in the tow mode.
2 The machine of claim 1, wherein the input signal is provided by at least one of a personnel and at least one pressure sensing device associated with the machine