Abstract: A machine having a work implement includes a sensor connected to the work implement, the sensor providing a signal indicative of a change in acceleration of the work implement. A cycle controller associated with the sensor, the cycle controller disposed to receive the signal and operating to monitor the signal. The cycle controller is programmed and operates to analyze the signal to determine at least a presence and a duration of a change in acceleration of the work implement of the machine with respect to time, compile an actual time trace of the change in acceleration of the work implement, compare the actual time trace with a predefined time trace that represents a work cycle segment, and catalog presence and duration of a work cycle segment when the actual time trace is consistent with the predefined time trace.

Abstract: A machine having a work implement includes a sensor connected to the work implement, the sensor providing a signal indicative of a change in acceleration of the work implement. A cycle controller associated with the sensor, the cycle controller disposed to receive the signal and operating to monitor the signal. The cycle controller is programmed and operates to analyze the signal to determine at least a presence and a duration of a change in acceleration of the work implement of the machine with respect to time, compile an actual time trace of the change in acceleration of the work implement, compare the actual time trace with a predefined time trace that represents a work cycle segment, and catalog presence and duration of a work cycle segment when the actual time trace is consistent with the predefined time trace.

Abstract: A feedback system for a machine operation that includes a first quantitatively measurable task and a second quantitatively measurable task. A controller stores a first threshold for the first quantitatively measurable task, stores a second threshold for the second quantitatively measurable task, determines the first operating characteristic of a first linkage member, compares the first operating characteristic to the first threshold, and generates and displays a first rating for the first quantitatively measurable task. The controller also determines the second operating characteristic of a work implement operatively connected to the first linkage member, compares the second operating characteristic to the second threshold, and generates and displays a second rating for the second quantitatively measurable task based upon the second operating characteristic and the second threshold.

Abstract: A hydraulic system for a machine is provided including a first cylinder, a pump and an operator input device for entering a commanded rate of flow of hydraulic fluid to the first cylinder. A control valve operatively is connected between the pump and the first cylinder. A sensor is configured and arranged to provide signals relating to a first operating characteristic of the machine. A controller is in communication with the operator input device, the control valve and the sensor. The controller is configured to determine a skill level of an operator of the machine based on a comparison of the first operating characteristic of the machine and a first threshold and to direct the control valve to provide hydraulic fluid to the first cylinder at an adjusted hydraulic fluid flow rate if the skill level of the operator is below a predetermined level.

Abstract: A hydraulic system for a machine is provided including a first cylinder, a pump and an operator input device for entering a commanded rate of flow of hydraulic fluid to the first cylinder. A control valve operatively is connected between the pump and the first cylinder. A sensor is configured and arranged to provide signals relating to a first operating characteristic of the machine. A controller is in communication with the operator input device, the control valve and the sensor. The controller is configured to determine a skill level of an operator of the machine based on a comparison of the first operating characteristic of the machine and a first threshold and to direct the control valve to provide hydraulic fluid to the first cylinder at an adjusted hydraulic fluid flow rate if the skill level of the operator is below a predetermined level.

Abstract: A feedback system for a machine operation that includes a first quantitatively measurable task and a second quantitatively measurable task. A controller stores a first threshold for the first quantitatively measurable task, stores a second threshold for the second quantitatively measurable task, determines the first operating characteristic of a first linkage member, compares the first operating characteristic to the first threshold, and generates and displays a first rating for the first quantitatively measurable task. The controller also determines the second operating characteristic of a work implement operatively connected to the first linkage member, compares the second operating characteristic to the second threshold, and generates and displays a second rating for the second quantitatively measurable task based upon the second operating characteristic and the second threshold.

Abstract: A method is provided for coaching an operator of an earthmoving machine having a controller. The method may include the controller presenting a list of coaching points to the operator. The controller receives input to execute a coaching point selected by the operator. The controller accesses memory to retrieve a predetermined method for execution of the coaching point. The controller manipulates the machine to execute the coaching point according to the predetermined method.