Automatic leveling and predictive balancing system for tractors
OwnerDaniel R. Ver Woertinventor
Life of this patent
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Abstract
An automatic leveling and predictive balancing system for a tractor includes a laterally translatable counterweight assembly mounted to a standard hitch. The system dynamically repositions the counterweight in response to tilt sensor data or, in advanced embodiments, in anticipation of unlevel terrain based on speed, heading, and stored terrain data. The system comprises a weight compartment, a drive mechanism, and a controller operably coupled to a sensor array. The controller actuates the counterweight automatically to improve stability and traction. A predictive mode evaluates operational parameters to initiate weight shifting prior to encountering terrain changes. Manual override controls May also be included.
Claims24
An automatic leveling system for a tractor, the system comprising:
- a counterweight assembly configured to translate laterally relative to a longitudinal axis of the tractor;
- a weight compartment contained within the counterweight assembly and configured to receive one or more ballast weights selected based on a size of the tractor, a weight of an operator, and a grade on which the tractor operates;
- a sensor array configured to detect a tilt angle or grade of the tractor;
- a drive mechanism coupled to the counterweight assembly and configured to move the counterweight assembly laterally in response to data from the sensor array, so as to automatically adjust a lateral distribution of weight to counteract tilting of the tractor;
- and
- a manual override control configured to allow an operator to override the automatic control of the counterweight assembly.
An automatic predictive leveling system for a tractor, the system comprising:
- a counterweight assembly configured to translate laterally relative to a longitudinal axis of the tractor;
- a weight compartment contained within the counterweight assembly and configured to receive one or more ballast weights selected based on a size of the tractor, a weight of an operator, and anticipated terrain conditions;
- a sensor system configured to detect (1) terrain or tilt response data and (2) operating parameters of the tractor including speed and directional heading;
- a non-volatile memory in data communication with said sensor system and for storing said terrain or tilt-response data;
- and
- a controller in data communication with the memory and operably coupled to the sensor system and to a drive mechanism, the drive mechanism being operably configured coupled to the counterweight assembly,
- wherein the controller is configured to:
- (a) evaluate the operating parameters of the tractor;
- (b) predict an upcoming tilt condition or change in grade based on the operating parameters and data stored in the memory;
- and
- (c) initiate movement of the counterweight assembly laterally in advance of the tractor experiencing the tilt or grade condition, thereby automatically adjusting a lateral distribution of weight to preemptively counteract an anticipated tilt.
Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.