Recently I’ve been trying to retool my strengths, focusing my studies on TensorFlow as I believe AI & ML will be a powerful problem solving tool. However, instead of talking about that today, I thought I would discuss how I try and tackle a problem.
If you haven’t met me, let me tell you I love a good problem. I love sinking my teeth into an interesting question and finding a solution. I can pick just about anything and have a fantastic time finding a solution.
So let me start out with my problem of the week. I’ve been spending a lot of time working with a big green AG tractor, and wow are parts not only expensive, but radically different from what I’ve worked with before. As there are only 2 remotes already on the tractor, and its a struggle to change them, I’ve wanted add additional remotes to it. Remotes are a way to access hydraulic flow around the tractor. The main issue is that there is practically no OEM documentation for how to do this, and the 3rd party forms appears to have very little information.
So how do I tackle this?
Well, lets first start with what I know:
There are 4 ports already on the tractor. Two sets of two pairs of ports. When a handle is pushed hydraulic fluid flows from port a to port b. When the same handle is pulled, the system operates in reverse, flowing from port b to port a. This is simple and simple is good!
From prior experience with pneumatics, I know there are a billion different kinds of solenoids, the main issue is finding one that is within budget and spec. Also most of my prior experience with solenoids is that they simply turn on or off, there is no middle ground.
So what exactly do I want to add or more accurately, what’s my problem
Well, there is a mower deck and a dumping attachment that should be simply turn a remote on and off. But ideally I would love the ability to have one additional remote that can feather (or change the flow).
I like to think of this like a claw machine: The mower deck and dumping attachment are like dropping the claw, that is to say only up or down. On the other hand, the spare remote is more like changing the X,Y position of the claw, where sometimes you want it to move fast, and other times slowly home in on a position.
So what do I need to figure out:
- Where to tie into the hydraulics?
- What kind of solenoid do I need for simple on/off control?
- What kind of solenoid do I need for the feathering control?
- What kind of connectors do I need?
- What can I fabricate myself?
- What will I need to farm out?
- How can I make this last with future plans?
- What are my goals & associated budget?
- What is the time frame?
- Will this interfere with other plans?
Stay Tuned next week to see my Step 2: Problem solving: Filling in the answers