Abstract: Machines, such as large tractors used in earthmoving, operate in a cycle of pushing forward and reversing to a starting point. The net performance of the machine is a function of the speed at which the reverse segment is performed. Generally, using the highest gear for reverse accomplishes the goal of the fastest return. However, some high slope grade conditions may result in higher speeds using lower gears. A combination of slope, track speed vs. drawbar pull, and track slip may be used to recommend a gear and track speed with the greatest ground speed for reverse operation.

Abstract: A method of estimating soil conditions of a work surface during operation of a track-type tractor measures current operating conditions and current operating state to develop adjustments to a nominal pull-slip curve. The adjusted pull-slip curve is used to calculate optimum performance in terms of an input variable such as track speed. Two factors are developed to reflect soil conditions, coefficient of traction and a shear modulus adjustment that affect different portions of the nominal pull slip curve.

Abstract: Real time determination of current vs. optimum performance in a track-type tractor is complex and requires information about both a state of the tractor and the operating environment, such as soil conditions. Presenting such data to an operator creates a problem of conveying sufficient information without undue complexity. A three part display for an operator shows a full range of performance, a subset range of performance associated with peak performance that is overlaid on the full range of performance, and a current performance indicator also overlaid on the full range of performance, such that peak performance is achieved when the current performance indicator is centered on the subset range of performance. The subset range of performance may move over the full range of performance to indicate operating conditions favoring a particular condition, e.g., low slip. An operator may then effect a change by adjusting, for example, speed or load.

Abstract: A system for determining a hydraulic seal coefficient of friction of a hydraulic cylinder includes a force sensor to provide a force signal indicative of a force of the cylinder. A controller is configured to receive a plurality of first force signals at a first load and determine a first friction force and receive a plurality of second force signals at a second load and determine a second friction force. A hydraulic seal coefficient of friction is determined based at least in part upon the first friction force and the second friction force. A method is also disclosed.

Abstract: A payload control system includes a tool position sensor, a boom lift sensor, and a boom swing sensor. A controller is configured to determine a segment of a work cycle based upon the tool position, the boom lift, and the boom swing signal, and determine a payload moved by the tool during the segment of the work cycle.

Abstract: A payload control system includes a sensor system and a force sensor system. A controller determines a calibration machine state, a calibration linkage force, and machine calibration parameters based at least in part upon the calibration machine state and the calibration linkage force. The controller also determines a loaded implement machine state, a loaded implement linkage force, and a mass of the payload based at least in part upon the machine calibration parameters, the loaded implement machine state, and the loaded implement linkage force.

Abstract: A control system and method operate to store target signals indicative of end of travel positions of components of a machine. The positions and velocities of the components of a machine are determined at least in part based upon signals received from sensors and command signals are generated to control movement of the components based upon input from an operator, proximate to the end of travel positions and the velocities of the components. Command signals are transmitted to control movement of the components. Multiple end of travel positions may also be defined.

Abstract: A control system and method operate to store target signals indicative of end of travel positions of components of a machine. The positions and velocities of the components of a machine are determined at least in part based upon signals received from sensors and command signals are generated to control movement of the components based upon input from an operator, proximate to the end of travel positions and the velocities of the components. Command signals are transmitted to control movement of the components. Multiple end of travel positions may also be defined.