Traction control method in machine using lockable differential

A method for controlling differential locking in a machine comprising:

• monitoring at least one operating parameter of the machine other than wheel slip, including receiving signals indicative of a machine operating mode;
• controlling locking of at least one differential of the machine responsive to the at least one operating parameter where the machine is in an operating mode where wheel slip is relatively more likely;
• and
• controlling unlocking of the at least one differential responsive to the at least one operating parameter where the machine is in an operating mode where wheel slip is relatively less likely;
• wherein controlling locking further comprises generating a differential locking control signal when the at least one operating parameter is in a first portion of a range of possible parameter values;
• and
• wherein controlling unlocking further comprises generating a differential unlocking control signal when the at least one operating parameter is in a second portion of the range of possible parameter values that is not contiguous with the first portion;
• the method further comprising determining the machine is in a material interaction mode based at least in part on the received signals, wherein controlling locking further comprises locking the at least one differential responsive to determining the machine is in a material interaction mode.

A method for controlling differential locking in a machine comprising:

• monitoring at least one operating parameter of the machine other than wheel slip, including receiving signals indicative of a machine operating mode;
• controlling locking of at least one differential of the machine responsive to the at least one operating parameter where the machine is in an operating mode where wheel slip is relatively more likely;
• and
• controlling unlocking of the at least one differential responsive to the at least one operating parameter where the machine is in an operating mode where wheel slip is relatively less likely;
• wherein the machine comprises an articulated wheel loader having a hydraulically actuated implement linkage and front and back lockable differentials each having a clutch and a hydraulic clutch actuator biased toward an unlocked position, and wherein controlling locking further comprises outputting differential locking control signals where wheels of the machine are not slipping;
• and
• wherein monitoring the at least one operating parameter other than wheel slip further comprises receiving signals corresponding to a ground speed, a linkage position, an articulation angle and a brake pedal position of the machine, the method further comprising disabling locking of the differentials responsive to at least one of ground speed, articulation angle, linkage position and brake pedal position.