Oklahoma Patent of the Month – March 2024
The forestry industry has seen a change from handheld chainsaws and full size bulldozers to compact tractors and skid loaders with attachments to take care of tree and bush cutting. These compact devices are more easily maneuvered and offer a range of modular tool attachments. Dougherty Forestry Manufacturing, Ltd. Co. (DFM) has been a leading contributor to this change as the company has repeatedly brought new innovations to the industry. Recently, the company was granted a patent for their variable displacement motor control system for use in these variable tool tractors.
The motor provides pressurized hydraulic fluid to the attached tool. At the heart of this invention lies a sophisticated control system that optimizes the performance of the hydraulic motor. Equipped with a speed sensor, the system can dynamically adjust its displacement volume based on real-time feedback. When the rotational speed of the operative element decreases below the desired threshold, the controller initiates a shift command, fine-tuning the displacement volume to maintain optimal performance.
What sets this innovation apart is its ability to operate across a range of displacement volumes, ensuring smooth and responsive functionality. Unlike conventional systems that offer only two-speed modes, DFM’s implementation provides a continuum of adjustment options, allowing for precise control tailored to the specific demands of the task at hand.
The implementation of a computer-implemented shift control profile further enhances efficiency and adaptability. This profile intelligently determines the optimal shift command signal voltage, taking into account various factors such as load conditions and desired operating speed. As a result, the implement can seamlessly transition between different displacement volumes, maximizing productivity while minimizing energy consumption.
By leveraging cutting-edge technology and innovative design, this invention empowers operators to tackle vegetation control tasks with unparalleled efficiency and effectiveness. Whether it’s clearing brush, mulching, or tree cutting, this implementation sets a new standard for performance and versatility in the industry.
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