Embedded Microcontroller and Sensors Based Front End Loader Control System

This paper present the design of a system that can be used to monitor and control the operation of a tractor´s front end loader. The system allows the loader to perform additional functions such as intelligent digging and leveling operations, and it will also automate some common functions. It consists of a microcontroller based control circuit which monitors the various sensors placed on the loader, and controls the hydraulic valves for the loader rams. The system has been designed to operate in the same way as the existing manual control linkage, with the automatic parts integrated into the hand controller; this is to ensure that the operators will be able to use this system easily. The loader´s sensors include pressure transducers on the hydraulic rams to measure load and rotary encoders on the loader arms to measure the angle. There is also a solid state gyro in the control box to facilitate the use of a self leveling function. An ultrasonic distance sensor has been used to assist in the digging and leveling functions. One of the benefits of this system is its ability to detect and alert the operator when the tractor is in danger of rolling over, thus increasing the safety of not only the loader, but of the tractor itself.