DETAILED ACTION
Notice of Pre-AIA or AIA Status
The present application, filed on or after March 16, 2013, is being examined under the first inventor to file provisions of the AIA .
Continued Examination Under 37 CFR 1.114
A request for continued examination under 37 CFR 1.114, including the fee set forth in 37 CFR 1.17(e), was filed in this application after final rejection. Since this application is eligible for continued examination under 37 CFR 1.114, and the fee set forth in 37 CFR 1.17(e) has been timely paid, the finality of the previous Office action has been withdrawn pursuant to 37 CFR 1.114. Applicant's submission filed on October 21, 2025, has been entered.
Status of Claims
This Office action is in response to the amendments filed on October 21, 2025. Claims 6 and 17-21, and 23-36 are currently pending, with Claims 6, 23, 25, 27, 32, and 35 being amended, Claim 22 being canceled, and Claim 36 being newly added.
Response to Amendments
In response to Applicant’s amendments, filed October 21, 2025, the Examiner withdraws the previous 35 U.S.C. 103 rejections.
Response to Arguments
Applicant’s arguments, filed October 21, 2025, with respect to the rejections of Claims 6 and 17-35 under Brinkman, in view of Hoaby, have been fully considered and are persuasive. Therefore, the rejection has been withdrawn. However, upon further consideration, a new grounds of rejection of Claims 6, 17-21, and 23-36 is made in view of Brinkman, in view of Hoaby.
Claim Rejections - 35 USC § 103
In the event the determination of the status of the application as subject to AIA 35 U.S.C. 102 and 103 (or as subject to pre-AIA 35 U.S.C. 102 and 103) is incorrect, any correction of the statutory basis (i.e., changing from AIA to pre-AIA ) for the rejection will not be considered a new ground of rejection if the prior art relied upon, and the rationale supporting the rejection, would be the same under either status.
The following is a quotation of 35 U.S.C. 103 which forms the basis for all obviousness rejections set forth in this Office action:
A patent for a claimed invention may not be obtained, notwithstanding that the claimed invention is not identically disclosed as set forth in section 102, if the differences between the claimed invention and the prior art are such that the claimed invention as a whole would have been obvious before the effective filing date of the claimed invention to a person having ordinary skill in the art to which the claimed invention pertains. Patentability shall not be negated by the manner in which the invention was made.
The factual inquiries for establishing a background for determining obviousness under 35 U.S.C. 103 are summarized as follows:
1. Determining the scope and contents of the prior art.
2. Ascertaining the differences between the prior art and the claims at issue.
3. Resolving the level of ordinary skill in the pertinent art.
4. Considering objective evidence present in the application indicating obviousness or nonobviousness.
Claims 6, 17-21, and 23-36 are rejected under 35 U.S.C. 103 as being unpatentable over U.S. Patent No. 7,726,125 B2, to Brinkman, et al (hereinafter referred to as Brinkman; previously of record), in view of U.S. Patent Publication No. 2022/0412050 A1, to Hoaby, et al (hereinafter referred to as Hoaby; previously of record).
As per Claim 6, Brinkman discloses the features of a method of operating a power machine (e.g. Col. 2 lines 51-64; Figure 1; where a machine (10) may include an implement system (12) configured to move a work tool (14), a power source 16 that drives implement system (12), and an operator station (36) for operator control of machine (10)), the method comprising:
providing, with a control device, one or more electronic control signals (e.g. Col. 3 lines 60-66; Col. 6 lines 27-34 and lines 53-65; where the control system (102) may monitor and adjust the performance of the machine (10) and its components, and may include signal conditioning circuity, signal output circuitry, etc.; and be in communication with a controller (104), and EP control (50) may receive an electronic signal indicative of the desired displacement of the pump from the controller (104)) to
one or more electrical actuators (e.g. Col. 3 lines 27-30 and 60-66; Col. 8 lines 1-19; where the EP control (50) may receive an electronic signal and subsequently adjust (i.e. actuate) the angle of the switch plate; and where power source (16) may produce an electrical power output that may be converted to hydraulic power for moving the actuators) to
cause an orientation of an implement of the power machine to automatically fluctuate over a plurality of cycles (e.g. Col. 1 lines 24-28; Col. 3 lines 37-48; where the shaking can be accomplished by a controller that automatically and rapidly cycles a valve or actuators associated with the bucket; and where the operator interface device (38) is movable between a neutral position and a maximum displaced position to move and/ or orient the machine (10) at a desired work tool velocity or position),
with each cycle of the plurality of cycles including a first movement of the implement in a first direction away from a reference position and a second movement of the implement in a second direction away from the reference position (e.g. Col. 3 lines 37-48; Col. 6 lines 7-19; Col. 7 lines 33-49; where the operator interface device (38) may be movable between a neutral (i.e. reference position) and a maximum displaced position to move and/or orient the tool (14); and where the control valve (64) my regulate the motion of the work took actuator (28) in an extend position (66) and a retract position (70); and the control value (64) is biased to return to the neutral position and may be moved between the extended and retracted positions; and the controller (104) may enter shake out mode based on the inputs from the operator based on movements of the operator interface device (38), i.e. based on a number of times (cycles) the operator interface device (28) is moved across a neutral position within a certain period), ‘…’ wherein providing the one or more electronic control signals is based on
receiving, with the control device, an operator input that initiates the fluctuation over the plurality of cycles but does not directly command the first and second movements of the plurality of cycles (e.g. Col. 3 lines 37-48; Col. 7 lines 33-49; Col. 8 lines 3-13; Claim 2; where, as the operator interface device (38) is moved between neutral and maximum displacement positions, a corresponding position signal generated and sent to send signals to the controller (104) to enter a shakeout mode; and upon receiving a signal form the operator interface device (38) the controller (104) may send a signal to control the increase of the output of the pump to provide the flow necessary to move the work tool (14) in a desired manner; and where the operator input device transmits a mode signal to the controller indicative of a desire for the operation in the shake out mode); and
detecting, with the control device, an operational condition of the power machine (e.g. Col. 6 lines 40-52; where the sensor (106) may provide information to the controller (104) that may be used to monitor and adjust the performance of the machine and its components, where sensor (106) may embody an actuator position, an operator input sensor associated with the operator interface device (38), and/ or any other sensor associated with the performance, operation, and or productivity of machine (10)) ‘…’.
Brinkman fails to disclose every feature of each electrical actuator of the one or more electrical actuators being configured as a drive motor of an electrical extender; and automatically determining characteristics of the plurality of cycles based on detecting the operational condition.
Hoaby, in a similar field of endeavor, teaches the features of each electrical actuator of the one or more electrical actuators being configured as a drive motor of an electrical extender. Hoaby teaches a method for controlling a power machine, where a slew motor receives a power signal from the control system (260) to rotate the house (211) with respect to the undercarriage (212), and provides hydraulic fluid to one or more work elements, such as lift arm (33) (i.e. an extender); and where each of the actuators can be a linear actuator, to result in a movement (e.g., extension, retraction, etc., of one or more actuators) (e.g., that extends and retracts) (e.g. Paragraphs [0102], [0123]-[0124], [0167]).
It would have been obvious to a person of ordinary skill in the art before the effective filing date of the Applicant’s invention, with a reasonable expectation for success, to modify the method for rapid bucket shakeout in the system of Brinkman, with the feature of using an actuator to supply hydraulic fluid to extend an element in the system of Hoaby, in order to provide improved performance of the work machine (see at least Paragraph [0168] of Hoaby).
Hoaby further teaches the features of automatically determining characteristics of the plurality of cycles based on detecting the operational condition. Hoaby teaches a method for controlling a power machine, where the power machine may automatically implement a default control mode based on current operating conditions; and where the control module can automatically determine a response curve based on an operational profile, operational mode, target tamping speed, etc. of the power machine for different operations, such as to provide a stronger tamping force, via a heavier float operation, for harder dirt or to drive a post into the ground; and where the system automatically determines whether or not to execute an action, such as vibrating the bucket, based on determining if the bucket has stalled, or is having difficulty moving through the dirt (i.e. the controller automatically determines the characteristics and operational condition) (e.g. Paragraphs [0159], [0189], [0227], [0284-[0285]).
It would have been obvious to a person of ordinary skill in the art before the effective filing date of the Applicant’s invention, with a reasonable expectation for success, to modify the method for rapid bucket shakeout in the system of Brinkman, with the feature of automatically determining the characteristics of the cycles in the system of Hoaby, in order to provide improved performance of the work machine (see at least Paragraph [0168] of Hoaby).
As per Claim 17, Brinkman, in view of Hoaby, teaches the features of Claim 6, and Brinkman further discloses the features of wherein the one or more electronic control signals are provided based on receiving the operator input as a first operator input that initiates the fluctuation (e.g. Claim 2; where the operator input device transmits a mode signal to the controller indicative of a desire for the operation in the shake out mode).
As per Claim 18, Brinkman, in view of Hoaby, teaches the features of Claim 17, and Brinkman further discloses the features of wherein the one or more electronic control signals are provided to cause the fluctuation for a predetermined time or for a predetermined number of the cycles, based on receiving the first operator input (e.g. Col. 7 lines 33-44; where the controller (104) may enter shake out mode based on the inputs from the operator based on movements of the operator interface device (38), i.e. based on a number of times (cycles) the operator interface device (28) is moved across a neutral position within a certain period).
As per Claim 19, Brinkman, in view of Hoaby, teaches the features of Claim 18, and Hoaby further teaches the features of wherein the predetermined time or the predetermined number of cycles are determined based on a second operator input, separate from the first operator input.
Hoaby teaches a method for controlling a power machine, where the control device can be configured to command movement of a first power machine operation based on a first type of operator input received and command a second power machine operation based on a second type of operator input received; and where a first operator device (first joystick, 502) controls the arm and the second operator device (second joystick, 504) controls the boom and bucket (e.g. Paragraphs [0016], [0048]; Figure 5).
It would have been obvious to a person of ordinary skill in the art before the effective filing date of the Applicant’s invention, with a reasonable expectation for success, to modify the method for rapid bucket shakeout in the system of Brinkman, with the feature of utilizing two separate operator inputs in the system of Hoaby, in order to command or stop different actuators of the vehicle (see at least Paragraphs [0043] and [0052] of Hoaby).
As per Claim 20, Brinkman, in view of Hoaby, teaches the features of Claim 17, and Hoaby further teaches the features of wherein the one or more electronic control signals cause the fluctuation to stop based upon one or more of: cessation of the first operator input, or receipt of a second operator input.
Hoaby teaches a method for controlling a power machine, where other devices can be used to stop operations and where an operation can continue for a specific duration of time, and once the time threshold is exceeded, a computing device can stop the operation for the work group, or the operation only continues while an operator input device is activated; and where the computing device can stop operation based on operator input; and where a first operator device (first joystick, 502) controls the arm and the second operator device (second joystick, 504) controls the boom and bucket (e.g. Paragraphs [0149], [0212], [0302]; Figure 5).
It would have been obvious to a person of ordinary skill in the art before the effective filing date of the Applicant’s invention, with a reasonable expectation for success, to modify the method for rapid bucket shakeout in the system of Brinkman, with the feature of stopping the fluctuation based on operator input the system of Hoaby, in order to prevent the implement from moving outside of the designated boundary zones (see at least Paragraph [0236] of Hoaby).
As per Claim 21, Brinkman, in view of Hoaby, teaches the features of Claim 17, and Hoaby further teaches the features of wherein the one or more electronic control signals are provided to cause the fluctuation based also on a second operator input, different from the first operator input, the second operator input indicating one or more of an amplitude for the fluctuation or a frequency for the fluctuation.
Hoaby teaches a method for controlling a power machine, where a first operator device (first joystick, 502) controls the arm and the second operator device (second joystick, 504) controls the boom and bucket; where each joystick (502, 504) can include a respective orientation sensor that sense the orientation of the corresponding joystick; and where the computing device can receive an operator input from each joystick (e.g., from an actuatable button on a joystick) indicative of a desired increase in amplitude or frequency for vibration of a bucket, or based on receipt of sensor signals associated with the status of the implement; and where the computing device receives operator input enabling vibration mode, and when operator input is not continuously received, the computing device stops the vibrating at that frequency (i.e. second operator input is no input) (e.g. Paragraphs [0128], [0272], [0286]; Figure 5).
It would have been obvious to a person of ordinary skill in the art before the effective filing date of the Applicant’s invention, with a reasonable expectation for success, to modify the method for rapid bucket shakeout in the system of Brinkman, with the feature of utilizing two separate operator inputs in the system of Hoaby, in order to command or stop different actuators of the vehicle (see at least Paragraphs [0043] and [0052] of Hoaby).
As per Claim 23, Brinkman, in view of Hoaby, teaches the features of Claim 6, and Hoaby further teaches the features of wherein the operational condition includes a loading of the power machine, wherein the loading of the power machine relates to a material supported by the implement.
Hoaby teaches a method for controlling a power machine, where the position, orientation, and weight characteristics (e.g., unloaded weight) can be used to estimate the relevant load that may be applied by the weight of the lift arm to determine appropriate hydraulic pressure to apply to the base of the boom; and where the material sensor can monitor an amount of material (e.g., dirt) that is on or in a bucket or other implement, or an amount of material that is moving into (or out of) a bucket or other implement (e.g. Paragraphs [0207]-[0208], [0325]).
It would have been obvious to a person of ordinary skill in the art before the effective filing date of the Applicant’s invention, with a reasonable expectation for success, to modify the method for rapid bucket shakeout in the system of Brinkman, with the feature of determining the loading of the machine in the system of Hoaby, in order to control the implement appropriately for relevant operations (see at least Paragraphs [0208], [0325] of Hoaby).
As per Claim 24, Brinkman, in view of Hoaby, teaches the features of Claim 23, and Hoaby further teaches the features of wherein the operational condition includes a change in the loading of the power machine.
Hoaby teaches a method for controlling a power machine, where the position, orientation, and weight characteristics (e.g., unloaded weight) can be used to estimate the relevant load that may be applied by the weight of the lift arm to determine appropriate hydraulic pressure to apply to the base of the boom; and where the flow rate of the hydraulic fluid can be controlled by the valve assembly (804), and the controller can dictate the hydraulic pressure fluid at the based end (816) of the cylinder (812) so that a particular pressure drop can be applied based on the pressure measurements; and the floating movement of the lift arm may be dictated by the difference in force betwee4n the loading from the weigh to the work group (e.g. a lift arm) and the resistive loading provided by active control of the hydraulic pressure at the base of the boom actuator (e.g. Paragraphs [0199], [0206]-[0208]).
It would have been obvious to a person of ordinary skill in the art before the effective filing date of the Applicant’s invention, with a reasonable expectation for success, to modify the method for rapid bucket shakeout in the system of Brinkman, with the feature of determining the loading of the machine in the system of Hoaby, in order to determine the appropriate hydraulic pressure to apply to the base to stabilize the working implement (see at least Paragraph [0208] of Hoaby).
As per Claim 25, Brinkman, in view of Hoaby, teaches the features of Claim 6, and Brinkman further discloses the features of wherein the operational condition includes an operational mode of the power machine (e.g. Col. 7 lines 4-14 and 30-49; where the controller (104) may select different modes of operation, including normal, shake out, or neutral modes).
As per Claim 26, Brinkman, in view of Hoaby, teaches the features of Claim 22, and Brinkman further discloses the features of wherein the operational condition includes an orientation of a lift arm of the power machine (e.g. Col. 3 lines 40-48; where the operator interface device (38) is movable between a neutral position and a maximum displaced position to move and/ or orient the machine (10) at a desired work tool velocity or position).
As per Claim 27, Brinkman, in view of Hoaby, teaches the features of Claim 6, and Hoaby further teaches the features of wherein the characteristics of the plurality of cycles include one or more of a number of cycles, an oscillation amplitude, or an oscillation frequency.
Hoaby teaches a method for controlling a power machine, where the system can determine multiple orientation ranges, with different operation properties associated with each (e.g., each range associated with different vibration frequency, amplitude, etc.); and where the computing device can change the frequency or amplitude at which one or more actuators extend or retract, as appropriate (e.g. Paragraphs [0266], [0272]).
It would have been obvious to a person of ordinary skill in the art before the effective filing date of the Applicant’s invention, with a reasonable expectation for success, to modify the method for rapid bucket shakeout in the system of Brinkman, with the feature of determining the number of cycles, amplitude, or frequency in the system of Hoaby, in order to increase or decrease the responsiveness of the machine to an operator input (see at least Paragraph [0130] of Hoaby).
As per Claim 28, Brinkman, in view of Hoaby, teaches the features of Claim 27, and Hoaby further teaches the features of wherein the one or more of the number of cycles in the plurality of cycles, the oscillation amplitude, or the oscillation frequency are, respectively, one or more of a predetermined number of cycles, a predetermined oscillation amplitude, or a predetermined oscillation frequency.
Hoaby teaches a method for controlling a power machine, where the system can determine multiple orientation ranges, with different operation properties associated with each (e.g., each range associated with different vibration frequency, amplitude, etc.); and where the computing device can change the frequency or amplitude at which one or more actuators extend or retract, as appropriate (e.g. Paragraphs [0266], [0272]).
It would have been obvious to a person of ordinary skill in the art before the effective filing date of the Applicant’s invention, with a reasonable expectation for success, to modify the method for rapid bucket shakeout in the system of Brinkman, with the feature of determining the number of cycles, amplitude, or frequency in the system of Hoaby, in order to increase or decrease the responsiveness of the machine to an operator input (see at least Paragraph [0130] of Hoaby).
As per Claim 29, Brinkman, in view of Hoaby, teaches the features of Claim 6, and Brinkman further discloses the features of wherein the fluctuation causes an attitude of the implement to oscillate relative to the reference position (e.g. Col. 3 lines 40-48; Col. 7 lines 34-42; where the operator interface device (38) may be movable between a neutral (i.e. reference position) and a maximum displaced position to move and/or orient the tool (14); and where the control valve (64) my regulate the motion of the work took actuator (28) in an extend position (66) and a retract position (70); and the control value (64) is biased to return to the neutral position and may be moved between the extended and retracted positions; and the controller (104) may enter shake out mode based on the inputs from the operator based on movements of the operator interface device (38), i.e. based on a number of times (cycles) the operator interface device (28) is moved across a neutral position within a certain period).
As per Claim 30, Brinkman, in view of Hoaby, teaches the features of Claim 29, and Brinkman further discloses the features of wherein the oscillation is centered on the reference position (e.g. Col. 3 lines 40-48; Col. 7 lines 34-42; where the controller (104) may enter shake out mode based on the inputs from the operator based on movements of the operator interface device (38), i.e. based on a number of times (cycles) the operator interface device (28) is moved across a neutral position within a certain period; and where the operator may rapidly move the operator interface device (38) across the neutral position (i.e. is centered across the neutral setting) three times in one second).
As per Claim 31, Brinkman, in view of Hoaby, teaches the features of Claim 30, and Hoaby further teaches the features of wherein the reference position is a starting position of the implement for the oscillation.
Hoaby teaches a method for controlling a power machine, where the system can determine multiple orientation ranges, where the processes can include a computing device receiving a location indicating where to begin the tamping sequence, (e.g. Paragraphs [0223], [0292]).
It would have been obvious to a person of ordinary skill in the art before the effective filing date of the Applicant’s invention, with a reasonable expectation for success, to modify the method for rapid bucket shakeout in the system of Brinkman, with the feature of determining a start location or position of the work implement in the system of Hoaby, in order to ensure the working implement is operating in a safe range (see at least Paragraph [0231] of Hoaby).
As per Claim 32, Brinkman discloses the features of a method of operating a power machine (e.g. Col. 2 lines 51-64; Figure 1; where a machine (10) may include an implement system (12) configured to move a work tool (14), a power source 16 that drives implement system (12), and an operator station (36) for operator control of machine (10)), the method comprising:
providing, with a control device, one or more electronic control signals (e.g. Col. 3 lines 60-66; Col. 6 lines 27-34 and lines 53-65; where the control system (102) may monitor and adjust the performance of the machine (10) and its components, and may include signal conditioning circuity, signal output circuitry, etc.; and be in communication with a controller (104), and EP control (50) may receive an electronic signal indicative of the desired displacement of the pump from the controller (104)) to
one or more electrical actuators (e.g. Col. 3 lines 27-30 and 60-66; Col. 8 lines 1-19; where the EP control (50) may receive an electronic signal and subsequently adjust (i.e. actuate) the angle of the switch plate; and where power source (16) may produce an electrical power output that may be converted to hydraulic power for moving the actuators) to
cause an attitude of an implement of the power machine to automatically oscillate over a plurality of cycles (e.g. Col. 1 lines 24-28; Col. 3 lines 37-48; where the shaking can be accomplished by a controller that automatically and rapidly cycles a valve or actuators associated with the bucket; and where the operator interface device (38) is movable between a neutral position and a maximum displaced position to move and/ or orient the machine (10) at a desired work tool velocity or position),
with each cycle of the plurality of cycles including a first movement of the implement in a first direction relative to a starting position and a second movement of the implement in a second direction relative to the starting position (e.g. Col. 3 lines 37-48; Col. 6 lines 7-19; Col. 7 lines 33-49; where the operator interface device (38) may be movable between a neutral (i.e. reference position) and a maximum displaced position to move and/or orient the tool (14); and where the control valve (64) my regulate the motion of the work took actuator (28) in an extend position (66) and a retract position (70); and the control value (64) is biased to return to the neutral position and may be moved between the extended and retracted positions; and the controller (104) may enter shake out mode based on the inputs from the operator based on movements of the operator interface device (38), i.e. based on a number of times (cycles) the operator interface device (28) is moved across a neutral position within a certain period); ‘…’
wherein providing the one or more electronic control signals is based on receiving, with the control device, an operator input that initiates the oscillation over the plurality of cycles but does not directly command the first and second movements of the plurality of cycles (e.g. Col. 3 lines 37-48; Col. 7 lines 33-49; Col. 8 lines 3-13; Claim 2; where, as the operator interface device (38) is moved between neutral and maximum displacement positions, a corresponding position signal generated and sent to send signals to the controller (104) to enter a shakeout mode; and upon receiving a signal form the operator interface device (38) the controller (104) may send a signal to control the increase of the output of the pump to provide the flow necessary to move the work tool (14) in a desired manner; and where the operator input device transmits a mode signal to the controller indicative of a desire for the operation in the shake out mode); and
wherein the one or more electronic control signals cause the oscillation for a predetermined time or for a predetermined number of the cycles, based on receiving the operator input (e.g. Col. 6 lines 40-52; where the sensor (106) may provide information to the controller (104) that may be used to monitor and adjust the performance of the machine and its components, where sensor (106) may embody an actuator position, an operator input sensor associated with the operator interface device (38), and/ or any other sensor associated with the performance, operation, and or productivity of machine (10)) ‘…’.
Brinkman fails to disclose every feature of each electrical actuator of the one or more electrical actuators being configured as a drive motor of an electrical extender; and wherein one or more characteristics of the oscillation are automatically determined based on a sensed operational condition of the power machine
Hoaby, in a similar field of endeavor, teaches the features of each electrical actuator of the one or more electrical actuators being configured as a drive motor of an electrical extender. Hoaby teaches a method for controlling a power machine, where a slew motor receives a power signal from the control system (260) to rotate the house (211) with respect to the undercarriage (212), and provides hydraulic fluid to one or more work elements, such as lift arm (33) (i.e. an extender); and where each of the actuators can be a linear actuator, to result in a movement (e.g., extension, retraction, etc., of one or more actuators) (e.g., that extends and retracts) (e.g. Paragraphs [0102], [0123]-[0124], [0167]).
It would have been obvious to a person of ordinary skill in the art before the effective filing date of the Applicant’s invention, with a reasonable expectation for success, to modify the method for rapid bucket shakeout in the system of Brinkman, with the feature of using an actuator to supply hydraulic fluid to extend an element in the system of Hoaby, in order to provide improved performance of the work machine (see at least Paragraph [0168] of Hoaby).
Hoaby further teaches the features of wherein one or more characteristics of the oscillation are automatically determined based on a sensed operational condition of the power machine. Hoaby teaches a method for controlling a power machine, where the power machine may automatically implement a default control mode based on current operating conditions; and where the control module can automatically determine a response curve based on an operational profile, operational mode, target tamping speed, etc. of the power machine for different operations, such as to provide a stronger tamping force, via a heavier float operation, for harder dirt or to drive a post into the ground; and where the system automatically determines whether or not to execute an action, such as vibrating the bucket, based on determining if the bucket has stalled, or is having difficulty moving through the dirt (i.e. the controller automatically determines the characteristics and operational condition) (e.g. Paragraphs [0159], [0189], [0227], [0284-[0285]).
It would have been obvious to a person of ordinary skill in the art before the effective filing date of the Applicant’s invention, with a reasonable expectation for success, to modify the method for rapid bucket shakeout in the system of Brinkman, with the feature of automatically determining the characteristics of the cycles in the system of Hoaby, in order to provide improved performance of the work machine (see at least Paragraph [0168] of Hoaby).
As per Claim 33, Brinkman, in view of Hoaby, teaches the features of Claim 32, and Hoaby further teaches the features of wherein the one or more electronic control signals are provided to cause the oscillation based also on a second operator input that indicates one or more of an amplitude for the oscillation or a frequency for the oscillation.
Hoaby teaches a method for controlling a power machine, where the system can determine multiple orientation ranges, with different operation properties associated with each (e.g., each range associated with different vibration frequency, amplitude, etc.); and where the computing device can change the frequency or amplitude at which one or more actuators extend or retract, as appropriate; and where a computing device can receive an operator input indicative of a desired increased in amplitude or frequency for the vibration of a bucket (e.g. Paragraphs [0266], [0272]).
It would have been obvious to a person of ordinary skill in the art before the effective filing date of the Applicant’s invention, with a reasonable expectation for success, to modify the method for rapid bucket shakeout in the system of Brinkman, with the feature of determining the amplitude in the system of Hoaby, in order to increase or decrease the responsiveness of the machine to an operator input (see at least Paragraph [0130] of Hoaby).
As per Claim 34, Brinkman, in view of Hoaby, teaches the features of Claim 32, and Hoaby further teaches the features of wherein the one or more electronic control signals are provided to cause the oscillation based also on a second operator input that indicates the predetermined time or number of cycles.
Hoaby teaches a method for controlling a power machine, where the control device can be configured to command movement of a first power machine operation based on a first type of operator input received and command a second power machine operation based on a second type of operator input received; and where a first operator device (first joystick, 502) controls the arm and the second operator device (second joystick, 504) controls the boom and bucket (e.g. Paragraphs [0016], [0048]; Figure 5).
It would have been obvious to a person of ordinary skill in the art before the effective filing date of the Applicant’s invention, with a reasonable expectation for success, to modify the method for rapid bucket shakeout in the system of Brinkman, with the feature of determining the number of cycles in the system of Hoaby, in order to increase or decrease the responsiveness of the machine to an operator input (see at least Paragraph [0130] of Hoaby).
As per Claim 35, Brinkman discloses the features of a method of operating a power machine (e.g. Col. 2 lines 51-64; Figure 1; where a machine (10) may include an implement system (12) configured to move a work tool (14), a power source 16 that drives implement system (12), and an operator station (36) for operator control of machine (10)), the method comprising:
receiving, with the control device, an operator input that initiates the oscillation over the plurality of cycles but does not directly command the first and second movements of the plurality of cycles (e.g. Col. 3 lines 37-48; Col. 7 lines 33-49; Col. 8 lines 3-13; Claim 2; where, as the operator interface device (38) is moved between neutral and maximum displacement positions, a corresponding position signal generated and sent to send signals to the controller (104) to enter a shakeout mode; and upon receiving a signal form the operator interface device (38) the controller (104) may send a signal to control the increase of the output of the pump to provide the flow necessary to move the work tool (14) in a desired manner; and where the operator input device transmits a mode signal to the controller indicative of a desire for the operation in the shake out mode);
providing, with the control device, one or more electronic control signals (e.g. Col. 3 lines 60-66; Col. 6 lines 27-34 and lines 53-65; where the control system (102) may monitor and adjust the performance of the machine (10) and its components, and may include signal conditioning circuity, signal output circuitry, etc.; and be in communication with a controller (104), and EP control (50) may receive an electronic signal indicative of the desired displacement of the pump from the controller (104)) to
one or more electrical actuators (e.g. Col. 3 lines 27-30 and 60-66; Col. 8 lines 1-19; where the EP control (50) may receive an electronic signal and subsequently adjust (i.e. actuate) the angle of the switch plate; and where power source (16) may produce an electrical power output that may be converted to hydraulic power for moving the actuators) to
cause an orientation of an implement of the power machine to automatically fluctuate over the plurality of cycles (e.g. Col. 1 lines 24-28; Col. 3 lines 37-48; where the shaking can be accomplished by a controller that automatically and rapidly cycles a valve or actuators associated with the bucket; and where the operator interface device (38) is movable between a neutral position and a maximum displaced position to move and/ or orient the machine (10) at a desired work tool velocity or position),
with each cycle of the plurality of cycles including a first movement of the implement in a first direction away from a reference position and a second movement of the implement in a second direction away from the reference position (e.g. Col. 3 lines 37-48; Col. 6 lines 7-19; Col. 7 lines 33-49; where the operator interface device (38) may be movable between a neutral (i.e. reference position) and a maximum displaced position to move and/or orient the tool (14); and where the control valve (64) my regulate the motion of the work took actuator (28) in an extend position (66) and a retract position (70); and the control value (64) is biased to return to the neutral position and may be moved between the extended and retracted positions; and the controller (104) may enter shake out mode based on the inputs from the operator based on movements of the operator interface device (38), i.e. based on a number of times (cycles) the operator interface device (28) is moved across a neutral position within a certain period); ‘…’
wherein providing the one or more electronic control signals is based on detecting, with the control device, an operational condition of the power machine (e.g. Col. 3 lines 37-48; Col. 7 lines 33-49; Col. 8 lines 3-13; Claim 2; where, as the operator interface device (38) is moved between neutral and maximum displacement positions, a corresponding position signal generated and sent to send signals to the controller (104) to enter a shakeout mode; and upon receiving a signal form the operator interface device (38) the controller (104) may send a signal to control the increase of the output of the pump to provide the flow necessary to move the work tool (14) in a desired manner; and where the operator input device transmits a mode signal to the controller indicative of a desire for the operation in the shake out mode); and
wherein the one or more electronic control signals cause the oscillation for a predetermined time or for a predetermined number of the cycles, based on receiving the operator input (e.g. Col. 6 lines 40-52; where the sensor (106) may provide information to the controller (104) that may be used to monitor and adjust the performance of the machine and its components, where sensor (106) may embody an actuator position, an operator input sensor associated with the operator interface device (38), and/ or any other sensor associated with the performance, operation, and or productivity of machine (10)) ‘…’.
Brinkman fails to disclose every feature of each electrical actuator of the one or more electrical actuators being configured as a drive motor of an electrical extender; an operational condition of the power machine that includes one or more of: a loading of the power machine, a change in the loading of the power machine, or an orientation of a lift arm of the power machine; and automatically adjusting, with the control device, one or more characteristics of the plurality of cycles based on the operational condition of the power machine.
Hoaby, in a similar field of endeavor, teaches the features of each electrical actuator of the one or more electrical actuators being configured as a drive motor of an electrical extender. Hoaby teaches a method for controlling a power machine, where a slew motor receives a power signal from the control system (260) to rotate the house (211) with respect to the undercarriage (212), and provides hydraulic fluid to one or more work elements, such as lift arm (33) (i.e. an extender); and where each of the actuators can be a linear actuator, to result in a movement (e.g., extension, retraction, etc., of one or more actuators) (e.g., that extends and retracts) (e.g. Paragraphs [0102], [0123]-[0124], [0167]).
It would have been obvious to a person of ordinary skill in the art before the effective filing date of the Applicant’s invention, with a reasonable expectation for success, to modify the method for rapid bucket shakeout in the system of Brinkman, with the feature of using an actuator to supply hydraulic fluid to extend an element in the system of Hoaby, in order to provide improved performance of the work machine (see at least Paragraph [0168] of Hoaby).
Hoaby further teaches the features of an operational condition of the power machine that includes one or more of: a loading of the power machine, a change in the loading of the power machine, or an orientation of a lift arm of the power machine. Hoaby teaches a method for controlling a power machine, where the position, orientation, and weight characteristics (e.g., unloaded weight) can be used to estimate the relevant load that may be applied by the weight of the lift arm to determine appropriate hydraulic pressure to apply to the base of the boom; and where the flow rate of the hydraulic fluid can be controlled by the valve assembly (804), and the controller can dictate the hydraulic pressure fluid at the based end (816) of the cylinder (812) so that a particular pressure drop can be applied based on the pressure measurements; and the floating movement of the lift arm may be dictated by the difference in force betwee4n the loading from the weigh to the work group (e.g. a lift arm) and the resistive loading provided by active control of the hydraulic pressure at the base of the boom actuator (e.g. Paragraphs [0199], [0206]-[0208]).
It would have been obvious to a person of ordinary skill in the art before the effective filing date of the Applicant’s invention, with a reasonable expectation for success, to modify the method for rapid bucket shakeout in the system of Brinkman, with the feature of determining the loading of the machine in the system of Hoaby, in order to determine the appropriate hydraulic pressure to apply to the base to stabilize the working implement (see at least Paragraph [0208] of Hoaby).
Hoaby further teaches the features of automatically adjusting, with the control device, one or more characteristics of the plurality of cycles based on the operational condition of the power machine. Hoaby teaches a method for controlling a power machine, where the power machine may automatically implement a default control mode based on current operating conditions; and where the control module can automatically determine a response curve based on an operational profile, operational mode, target tamping speed, etc. of the power machine for different operations, such as to provide a stronger tamping force, via a heavier float operation, for harder dirt or to drive a post into the ground; and where the system automatically determines whether or not to execute an action, such as vibrating the bucket, based on determining if the bucket has stalled, or is having difficulty moving through the dirt (i.e. the controller automatically determines the characteristics and operational condition) (e.g. Paragraphs [0159], [0189], [0227], [0284-[0285]).
It would have been obvious to a person of ordinary skill in the art before the effective filing date of the Applicant’s invention, with a reasonable expectation for success, to modify the method for rapid bucket shakeout in the system of Brinkman, with the feature of automatically determining the characteristics of the cycles in the system of Hoaby, in order to provide improved performance of the work machine (see at least Paragraph [0168] of Hoaby).
As per Claim 36, Brinkman, in view of Hoaby, teaches the features of Claim 6, and Hoaby further teaches the features of wherein the operational condition includes at least one of an orientation of the implement, a commanded movement of a lift arm of the power machine, a commanded movement of the implement, or a present power capacity of an electrical power source of the power machine.
Hoaby teaches a method for controlling a power machine, where the position, orientation, and weight characteristics (e.g., operational condition) can be used to estimate the relevant load that may be applied by the weight of the lift arm to determine appropriate hydraulic pressure to apply to the base of the boom; and where the digging sequence can be defined by the control device, including specifying one or more of an initial lift arm orientation, movement of the lift arm, (e.g. Paragraphs [0029], [0031], [0199], [0206]-[0208]).
It would have been obvious to a person of ordinary skill in the art before the effective filing date of the Applicant’s invention, with a reasonable expectation for success, to modify the method for rapid bucket shakeout in the system of Brinkman, with the feature of determining the loading of the machine in the system of Hoaby, in order to determine the appropriate hydraulic pressure to apply to the base to stabilize the working implement (see at least Paragraph [0208] of Hoaby).
Conclusion
The prior art made of record and not relied upon is considered pertinent to applicant's disclosure:
Hori, et al (U.S. 2018/0051445 A1), which teaches a method for automatically accumulating information relating to a wheel loader.
Liet (U.S. 2020/0114997 A1), which teaches a transport vehicle, which detects the weight of the load, and determines how much pressure to compensate and correct for the lift implement
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/MERRITT E LEVY/Examiner, Art Unit 3666
/TIFFANY P YOUNG/Primary Examiner, Art Unit 3666