DESC:FIELD OF INVENTION

The present invention relates to the drivability mode for tractor having common-rail system. In particular, the present invention relates to the multi- drivability mode (MDM) for tractors. More particularly, the present invention relates to the multi-drivability mode for tractors which can be suitably configured for different applications based on required loads therefor.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Drivability means the degree of smoothness and steadiness of acceleration of an automotive vehicle, e.g. a tractor. At present, the tractors are provided with only one drivability mode, which is used for all applications irrespective of the change in demand for varying loads for different applications. For example, during operations in low-load demand mode, the power supply is reduced with the help of hand or foot operated throttle to vary the load as per demand. In many applications or events in which higher speed is demanded but have low-load demand, the presently available single drivability mode is of no help, therefore additional fuel is required to be spent in such an operation.

DISADVANTAGES WITH THE PRIOR ART

The major disadvantages with the presently available single drivability mode in the tractors are given below:

• Single drivability mode is used for high, medium and low loads or applications.

• Possibility of higher fuel consumption in low and medium load applications.

For example, ploughing / puddling are heavy loads; harrow, cultivator, haulage are medium loads; and empty trolley, seed drill are light loads. So, even in low and medium-load applications, the fuel consumption remains the same, which makes these operations expensive.
OBJECTS OF THE INVENTION

Some of the objects of the present invention - satisfied by at least one embodiment of the present invention - are as follows:

An object of the present invention is to provide a tractor with multi-drivability mode for reducing fuel consumption.

Another object of the present invention is to provide a tractor with multi-drivability mode for enhancing operator comfort during changed usage patterns.

Still another object of the present invention is to provide a tractor with multi-drivability mode for facilitating the operator to adjust PTO output as per the load demand for different on/off field applications.

Yet another object of the present invention is to provide tractor with multi-drivability mode, which is easy to operate/maintain and enhances productivity.

A further object of the present invention is to provide tractor with multi-drivability mode, which can be used in multi-drivability mode as well as in standard mode.

These and other objects and advantages of the present invention will become more apparent from the following description when read with the accompanying figures of drawing, which are, however, not intended to limit the scope of the present invention in any way.

DESCRIPTION OF THE PRESENT INVENTION

With the ever-increasing customer demand, the changed habits in usage patterns has lead the present inventors to conceptualize and configure a tractor having multi-drivability mode to provide load/power variations as per the demands posed thereon while working on different on/off field applications.

This in turn leads to substantial advantages and comfort to the customer and/or tractor operator. This also significantly reduces the fuel consumption for low and medium load applications, which becomes more cost-effective.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

In accordance with the present invention, there is provided a multi-drivability mode (MDM) for common rail system in tractor engines having single power mode, wherein the multi-drivability mode comprises a multi-drivability mode switch for selecting a respective mode out of a plurality of operational modes provided for operating under predetermined load conditions depending on the power requirement of different on/off field applications.

Typically, apart from a standard power mode, at least three additional modes are provided for operating different on/off field applications without requiring any gear change.

Typically, the additional modes comprise economy or efficiency mode, boost mode and de-choking mode for low/part/medium/higher load conditions.

Typically, the economy or efficiency mode facilitates a substantially reduced fuel consumption while operating under intermediate load (low and medium load) or part load conditions.

Typically, the boost mode facilitates operations under high load conditions.

Typically, the de-chocking mode facilitates the tractor operator to manually operate the PTO driven rotary applications even while seated on the tractor.

Typically, the multi-drivability mode switch is provided on tractor dashboard for selecting required drivability mode operation.

Typically, the multi-drivability mode switch comprises a plurality of circuits, preferably two circuits - mode activation circuit and backlight illumination circuit for de-choking mode; more preferably three circuits – LED status circuit, mode activation circuit and backlight illumination circuit for multi-drivability mode operation.

Typically, the mode activation circuit is powered by the positive and negative power supplies from the ECU and by pressing the switch, the voltage biasing in switch circuit sends a different voltage than when it is not pressed, recognizing these voltages as activation and deactivation by the ECU and activates or de-activates the respective boost or normal or economy mode.

Typically, the de-choking mode is activated by using a momentary input activated by the ECU on pressing the push-button type switch and deactivated by releasing the push-button type switch.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE ACCOMPANYING DRAWINGS

The present invention will be briefly described with respect to the accompanying drawings, which include:

Figure 1 shows a graphical representation of the PTO Torque and Power versus Engine RPM for a tractor with a conventional single drivability mode.

Figure 2 shows a schematic arrangement of the tractor with a multi-drivability mode configured in accordance with the present invention.

Figure 3 shows a graphical representation of the PTO Torque and Power versus Engine RPM for a tractor with multi-drivability mode shown in Fig. 2.

Figure 4a shows a circuit diagram for the multi-drivability mode of Fig. 2, i.e. for boost, normal and economy mode operations.

Figure 4b shows a circuit diagram for the multi-drivability mode of Fig. 2, particularly for de-choking mode operation.
Figure 5 shows a typical dashboard layout for accommodating the mode selection switch in a tractor with a multi-drivability mode.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE ACCOMPANYING DRAWINGS

In the following, different embodiments of the present invention will be described in more details with respect to the accompanying drawings without limiting the scope and ambit of the present invention in any way.

Figure 1 shows a graphical representation of the PTO Torque and Power versus Engine RPM for a tractor having a conventional single drivability mode. Here, extra fuel is to be burnt for applications requiring lower speeds with low loads, and there is no possibility to increase load if application demands because there is no possibility of any change in drivability mode.

Figure 2 shows a schematic arrangement of the tractor having multi-drivability mode configured in accordance with the present invention. Here, four drivability modes are provided, i.e. a power mode (D) is the conventional mode available in existing tractors, an additional efficiency mode (E), a boost mode (B) and a de-choking mode (DE). Out of these four modes, the latter three additional modes are configured in accordance with the present invention. These modes are:

1) Power mode (D) is the conventional standard mode already available in existing tractors.

2) Efficiency or economy mode (E) is introduced for the first time in tractor manufacture for achieving better fuel consumption. As and when Tractor is required to run on low load or part load condition, the efficiency mode is selected by pressing button provided on mode selection switch of the dashboard to gain fuel economy.

3) Boost mode (B) is provided for overcoming sudden jerks and during high load operation such as ploughing and puddling. This is selected while driving uphill at full load with fully open throttle or at lower speeds requiring higher load, e…g. during ploughing application. So, an extra boost in torque is provided to overcome the obstacles which are very critical for changing gears. Boost mode input is configured latchable (i.e. when the switch is pressed, it moves downward and returns upward on pressing a second time, therefore it is called latchable push button type/Rotary Switch).

4) De-choking mode (DE) is provided for eliminating functional hassles in operating various implements and it’s momentary (non-latchable) type input. For example, in the conventional single drivability mode tractor when the implement such as Rotavator gets choked during field operation, the operator must stop the tractor and alight from his seat for manually removing the hassles causing this choking. However, with this novel De-chocking mode, the operator must simply push the De-choking mode button after lifting/raising the implement from the ground and to select the PTO rpm at high idle, whereby due to centrifugal forces, all chocking material is thrown out of the implement. This saves lot of operator time with ease and comfort and significantly leads to enhanced productivity.

Figure 3 shows a graphical representation of the PTO Torque and Power versus Engine RPM for a tractor having multi-drivability mode of Figure 2. According to the present invention, this multi-drivabilty mode involves four drivability modes, i.e. the conventional standard power mode (D) as well as three additional modes, which are efficiency or economy mode (E), boost mode (B) and de-choking mode (DE). The respective power and torque curve for additional modes are represented in this graph. Each mode is protected with different maps in the ECU to be selected as per the load/ engine rpm demand. Any one mode can be selected to avoid confusion and the selected mode is indicated on the mode selection switch by a respective LED. Any overriding of two or more modes is protected in this configuration. In case of any flaw in the mode selection switch or any operational mode, only the standard power mode (D) remains active.

Figure 4a shows a circuit diagram for the multi-drivability mode of Fig. 2. The above circuit-diagram is configured for Boost, Normal & Economy modes and all mode activation switches (Rotary switch) have continuous inputs. In the first circuit (01), i.e. status LED circuit 10 is powered by a positive power supply 12 from the vehicle Ignition and the ground signal is controlled by the ECU which activates the LED 14 after internal confirmation 16 of the mode activation. The second (02) circuit, i.e. the mode activation circuit 20 is powered by ECU, both positive 22 and negative 26 power supplies. On pressing the switch, the voltage biasing 24 in the switch circuit sends a different voltage than when it is not pressed. This voltage is recognized as activation and deactivation in the internal software of ECU and the respective mode is activated or de-activated accordingly. The third (03) circuit, I.e. the input for backlight illumination circuit 30 is from the parking-lamp input (positive power supply) 32 ground of the vehicle and the ground signal is from the parking-lamp (negative power supply) 36. This is activated the LED 34 when the user activates the vehicle parking lamp during a night drive for an overall illumination of all electrical components.

Figure 4b shows a circuit diagram for the multi-drivability mode of Fig. 2, particularly for de-choking mode operation. This circuit is for configured for activating the De-choking mode 40 and is a momentary input 44 similar to the horn switch, i.e. this mode is activated by the ECU when switch is pressed and deactivated once the user stops pressing the switch. Here, the first (01) circuit is the mode activation circuit 20 powered by the ECU both with positive 22 and negative 26 power supply. On pressing this switch, the voltage biasing in the switch circuit sends a different voltage than when it is not pressed. This voltage is recognized as activation and deactivation in the internal software of the ECU and the mode is activated or de-activated accordingly. In the second circuit (02), i.e. the backlight illumination circuit 30 is from the parking lamp input (positive power supply) 32 of the vehicle and the ground signal is from the parking lamp (negative power supply) ground 36. This is activated when the user activates the vehicle parking lamp 34 during a night drive for an overall illumination of all electrical components.

Figure 5 shows a typical dashboard layout for accommodating the mode selection switch in a tractor with a multi-drivability mode. Normal mode is available, if the switch remains at the central or middle position. Boost mode gets selected, if the switch rotates in an anti-clockwise direction and ECO is selected on rotating in a clockwise direction. If the switch is kept continuously pressed downward without load, the de-choking mode gets activated. It includes a normal mode selection switch 52 when kept in center or middle, a boost mode 54 when it is turned to left, an economy mode 56 when it is turned to right and a de-choking mode 58 by it is pressed downwards.

WORKING OF THE INVENTION

1) NOR mode is engaged once by the user and the ECU initiates, thereby NOR mode and respective status LED glows. Similar logic is applicable for the other two modes ECO and PWR.

2) De-choking mode involves a push and hold button to engage input type, i.e. the user must push and hold the respective switch to enable the feature and ECU initiates the de-choking mechanism until there is continuous input from the switch. As soon as the switch input is stopped, the ECU disengages the De-choking mechanism.

3) Care had been taken in logic that Boost & ECO mode would be selected individually. It won’t take any input if selected simultaneously.

TECHNICAL ADVANTAGES AND ECONOMIC SIGNIFICANCE

The multi-drivability mode for a tractor configured in accordance with the present invention has the following advantages:
• Efficiency mode (e) provides substantial advantages in terms of fuel saving during intermediate (low and medium load) demands.

• Boost mode (B) improves drivability over conventional single-mode system.

• Boost mode (B) can be used for higher-load/power operations without requiring any gear change.

• De-chocking mode is quite unique for PTO driven rotary applications, because the operator can work even while sitting on the seat, i.e. without alighting from the tractor and can do this manually.

• Higher customer satisfaction with better mileage.

• Higher operator safety and comfort.

• In the event of any MDM switch failure/issue, the Standard mode activates automatically.

• Finger touch mode selection switch available on the dashboard is very easy to operate.

• Can be made tamper-proof by appropriate software embedded in ECU.

• Better utilization of power with higher fuel efficiency and operator’s comfort.

• Substantially improves the tractor’s pulling power.

In the previously detailed description, different features have been summarized for improving the conclusiveness of the representation in one or more examples. However, it should be understood that the above description is merely illustrative, but not limiting under any circumstances. It helps in covering all alternatives, modifications and equivalents of the different features and exemplary embodiments.

The foregoing description of the specific embodiments will so fully reveal the general nature of the embodiments herein that others can, by applying current knowledge, readily modify and/or adapt for various applications such specific embodiments without departing from the generic concept. Many other examples are directly and immediately clear to the skilled person because of his/her professional knowledge in view of the above description.

These innumerable changes, variations, modifications, alterations may be made and/or integrations in terms of materials and method used may be devised to configure, manufacture and assemble various constituents, components, subassemblies and assemblies according to their size, shapes, orientations and interrelationships. Therefore, such adaptations and modifications should and are intended to be comprehended within the meaning and range of equivalents of the disclosed embodiments.

The exemplary embodiments described in this specification are intended merely to provide an understanding of various manners in which this embodiment may be used and to further enable the skilled person in the relevant art to practice this invention. The description provided herein is purely by way of example and illustration.

Throughout this specification the word “comprise”, or variations such as “comprises” or “comprising”, shall be understood to implies including a described element, integer or method step, or group of elements, integers or method steps, however, does not imply excluding any other element, integer or step, or group of elements, integers or method steps. In the claims and the description, the terms “containing” and “having” are used as linguistically neutral terminologies for the corresponding terms “comprising”.

The use of the expression “a”, “at least” or “at least one” shall imply using one or more elements or ingredients or quantities, as used in the embodiment of the disclosure in order to achieve one or more of the intended objects or results of the present invention. Furthermore, the use of the term “one” shall not exclude the plurality of such features and components described.

The numerical values given of various physical parameters, dimensions and quantities are only approximate values and it is envisaged that the values higher or lower than the numerical value assigned to the physical parameters, dimensions and quantities fall within the scope of the disclosure unless there is a statement in the specification to the contrary.

Also, any reference herein to the terms ‘left’ or ‘right, ‘up’ or ‘down, or ‘top’ or ‘bottom’ are used as a matter of mere convenience, and are determined by standing at the rear of the machine facing in its normal direction of travel.

The various features and advantageous details are explained with reference to the non-limiting embodiment/s in the above description in accordance with the present invention.

The descriptions of well-known components and manufacturing and processing techniques are consciously omitted in this specification, so as not to unnecessarily obscure the specification.

Furthermore, the various components shown or described herein for any specific application of this invention can be widely known or used in the art by persons skilled in the art and each will likewise not therefore be discussed in significant detail. When referring to the figures, like parts are numbered the same in all of the figures. ,CLAIMS:We claim:

1. A multi-drivability mode (MDM) for common rail system in tractor engines having single power mode, wherein said multi-drivability mode comprises a multi-drivability mode switch for selecting a respective mode out of a plurality of operational modes provided for operating under predetermined load conditions depending on the power requirement of different on/off field applications.

2. Multi-drivability mode (MDM) as claimed in claim 1, wherein apart from a standard power mode, at least three additional modes are provided for operating different on/off field applications, without requiring any gear change.

3. Multi-drivability mode (MDM) as claimed in claim 2, wherein the additional modes comprise economy or efficiency mode, boost mode and de-choking mode for low/part/medium/higher load conditions.

4. Multi-drivability mode (MDM) as claimed in claim 3, wherein said economy or efficiency mode facilitates a substantially reduced fuel consumption while operating under intermediate load (low and medium load) or part load conditions.

5. Multi-drivability mode (MDM) as claimed in claim 3, wherein said boost mode facilitates operations under high load conditions.

6. Multi-drivability mode (MDM) as claimed in claim 1, wherein said de-chocking mode facilitates the tractor operator to manually operate the PTO driven rotary applications even while seated on the tractor.

7. Multi-drivability mode (MDM) as claimed in claim 1, wherein said multi-drivability mode switch is provided on tractor dashboard for selecting required drivability mode operation.

8. Multi-drivability mode (MDM) as claimed in claim 1, wherein said multi-drivability mode switch comprises a plurality of circuits, preferably two circuits - mode activation circuit and backlight illumination circuit for de-choking mode; more preferably three circuits – LED status circuit, mode activation circuit and backlight illumination circuit for multi-drivability mode operation.

9. Multi-drivability mode (MDM) as claimed in claim 8, wherein said mode activation circuit is powered by the positive and negative power supplies from the ECU and by pressing the switch, the voltage biasing in switch circuit sends a different voltage than when it is not pressed, recognizing these voltages as activation and deactivation by the ECU and activates or de-activates the respective boost or normal or economy mode.

10. Multi-drivability mode (MDM) as claimed in claim 8, wherein said de-choking mode is activated by using a momentary input activated by the ECU on pressing the push-button type switch and deactivated by releasing said push-button type switch.

Dated: this 29th day of December 2016. SANJAY KESHARWANI
APPLICANT’S PATENT AGENT