Working machine having an electrical energy storage unit

Abstract

A working machine including a machine body having an operator cab, a ground engaging propulsion structure to permit movement of the machine over the ground, a load handling apparatus coupled to the machine body and moveable by a movement actuator with respect to the machine body, and an electric energy storage unit for providing power to the working machine. The working machine includes a longitudinal axis, wherein the operator cab is positioned towards a first side of the working machine with respect to the longitudinal axis, and the electric energy storage unit is positioned towards a second side of the working machine with respect to the longitudinal axis, wherein the first and second sides are located opposite each other.

Claims

1. A working machine comprising: a machine body having an operator cab, a ground engaging propulsion structure to permit movement of the machine over the ground, a load handling apparatus coupled to the machine body and moveable by a movement actuator with respect to the machine body, and an electric energy storage unit for providing power to the working machine, wherein the working machine comprises a longitudinal axis, wherein the operator cab is positioned towards a first side of the working machine with respect to the longitudinal axis, and the electric energy storage unit is positioned towards a second side of the working machine with respect to the longitudinal axis, wherein the first and second sides are located opposite each other, wherein the electric energy storage unit comprises at least one electric energy storage module; wherein the working machine comprises a mount for at least a first electric energy storage module and a second electric energy storage module, the machine being operable with at least one of the first and second electric energy storage modules present, wherein the mount is configured to receive a ballast module in place of the first or second electric energy storage module.

2. The working machine according to claim 1, wherein the electric energy storage unit is positioned at a location on the working machine to provide a counterweight to operator cab, relative to the longitudinal axis.

3. The working machine according to claim 1, wherein the ground engaging propulsion structure comprises a front axle and a rear axle supporting the machine body.

4. The working machine according to claim 3, wherein the electric energy storage unit is positioned between the front and rear axles, such that the electric energy storage unit does not extend beyond at least one or both of the front and rear axles in a direction parallel to the longitudinal axis.

5. The working machine according to claim 3, wherein the operator cab has a fixed angular orientation with respect to at least one or both of the front and rear axles.

6. The working machine according to claim 1, wherein the machine body comprises a base and the electric energy storage unit is located at or above the base, when the working machine is situated on flat ground.

7. The working machine according to claim 1, wherein the working machine comprises an electric drive motor configured to drive a driveshaft of the working machine, wherein the drive motor is located such that a longitudinal axis of a transmission of the motor is provided parallel to the driveshaft.

8. The working machine according to claim 7, wherein the drive motor is positioned between the electric energy storage unit and the operator cab.

9. The working machine according to claim 1, wherein the working machine comprises a hydraulic motor configured to actuate the load handling apparatus.

10. The working machine according to claim 1, wherein at least one or both of the first and second electric energy storage modules are configured to be removable from the mount and are replaceable, such that the at least one or both of the first and second electric energy storage modules are interchangeable; and wherein at least one or both of the first and second electric energy storage modules comprise a connector to connect the respective electric energy storage module to the working machine.

11. The working machine according to claim 1, wherein the ballast module comprises a connector to connect the ballast module to the working machine.

12. The working machine according to claim 1, wherein the electric energy storage unit is selected based on an intended use of the working machine.

13. A working machine comprising: a machine body having an operator cab; a ground engaging propulsion structure to permit movement of the machine over the ground; a load handling apparatus coupled to the machine body and moveable by a movement actuator with respect to the machine body; and an electric energy storage unit for providing power to the working machine; wherein the working machine comprises a longitudinal axis, wherein the operator cab is positioned towards a first side of the working machine with respect to the longitudinal axis, and the electric energy storage unit is positioned towards a second side of the working machine with respect to the longitudinal axis, wherein the first and second sides are located opposite each other; and further wherein the working machine comprises a controller configured to: receive or acquire information representative of an attribute of said electric energy storage unit; determine operations selected from a group comprising permitted operations and prohibited operations of the working machine, based on the received or acquired information; and issue an operations signal for use by at least one element of the working machine corresponding to the determined operations.

14. The working machine according to claim 13, wherein the controller is configured to receive or acquire information representative of at least one or both of a weight and a position of the electric energy storage unit.

15. The working machine according to claim 13, wherein the working machine includes a sensor configured to determine information representative of an attribute of the electric energy storage module and transmit this information to the controller.

16. The working machine according to claim 13, wherein the controller is configured to acquire information indicative of the attribute of the at least one electric energy storage module directly from the at least one electric energy storage module.

17. The working machine according to claim 13, wherein the controller includes a machine stabilization decision logic, configured to maintain stability of the working machine, wherein information representative of at least one or both of a weight and a position of the at least one electric energy storage module is an input to the stabilization decision logic, and wherein at least one or both of the determined operations are determined based on the stabilization decision logic.

18. The working machine according to claim 17, wherein the stabilization decision logic is configured such that at least one of a permitted load of the load handling apparatus and a permitted lift height of the load handling apparatus is dependent on at least one or both of the weight and the position of said electric energy storage unit.

19. The working machine according to claim 18, wherein at least one or both of the permitted load of the load handling apparatus and the permitted lift height of the load handling apparatus is lower for a lower weight of the electric energy storage unit present, and is higher for a higher weight of electric energy storage unit present.

20. The working machine according to claim 3, wherein the operator cab is positioned between the front and rear axles.

21. The working machine according to claim 15, wherein the sensor is a load sensor and the information is representative of at least one or both of the weight and the position of the at least one electric energy storage module.

Description

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

(1) Embodiments disclosed herein will now be described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

(2) FIG. 1 is a side view of a working machine on horizontal ground;

(3) FIG. 2 is a perspective view of the machine body of the working machine of FIG. 1;

(4) FIG. 3 is a cutaway perspective view of a section of the working machine of FIG. 1;

(5) FIG. 4 is a top down cutaway view of the machine body of the working machine of FIG. 1;

(6) FIG. 5 is a perspective cutaway view illustrating the motors, driveshaft and axles of the working machine of FIG. 1;

(7) FIG. 6 is a side view of the working machine of FIG. 1 on an inclined surface;

(8) FIG. 7 is a schematic of a control system;

(9) FIGS. 8, 9 and 10 are charts illustrating relationships between load handling apparatus orientation and threshold value;

(10) FIG. 11 is a diagram illustrating the relationship of orientation of a load handling apparatus to a threshold value for the chart of FIG. 8; and

(11) FIG. 12 is a schematic of an indicator.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

(12) With reference to FIG. 1, an embodiment of the teachings includes a machine 1 which may be a load handling machine. In this embodiment the load handling machine is a telescopic handler. In other embodiments the load handling machine may be a skid-steer loader, a compact track loader, a wheel loader, or a telescopic wheel loader, for example. Such machines may be denoted as off-highway working machines. The machine 1 includes a machine body 2 which may include, for example, an operator's cab 3 from which an operator can operate the machine 1.

(13) In an embodiment, the machine 1 has a ground engaging propulsion structure comprising a first axle A.sub.1 and a second axle A.sub.2, each axle being coupled to a pair of wheels (two wheels 4, 5 are shown in FIG. 1 with one wheel 4 connected to the first axle A.sub.1 and one wheel 5 connected to the second axle A.sub.2). The first axle A.sub.1 may be a front axle and the second axle A.sub.2 may be a rear axle. One or both of the axles A.sub.1, A.sub.2 may be coupled to a motor M (see FIGS. 3 and 4 discussed below) which is configured to drive movement of one or both pairs of wheels 4, 5. Thus, the wheels may contact a ground surface H and rotation of the wheels 4, 5 may cause movement of the machine with respect to the ground surface. In other embodiments the ground engaging propulsion structure comprises tracks.

(14) In an embodiment, at least one of the first and second axles A.sub.1, A.sub.2 is coupled to the machine body 2 by a pivot joint (not shown) located at substantially the center of the axle such that the axle can rock about a longitudinal axis of the machine 1—thus, improving stability of the machine 1 when moving across uneven ground. It will be appreciated that this effect can be achieved in other known manners.

(15) A load handling apparatus 6, 7 is coupled to the machine body 2. The load handling apparatus 6, 7 may be mounted by a mount 9 to the machine body 2. In an embodiment, the load handling apparatus 6, 7 includes a lifting arm 6, 7.

(16) The lifting arm 6, 7 may be a telescopic arm having a first section 6 connected to the mount 9 and a second section 7 which is telescopically fitted to the first section 6. In this embodiment, the second section 7 of the lifting arm 6, 7 is telescopically moveable with respect to the first section 6 such that the lifting arm 6, 7 can be extended and retracted. Movement of the first section 6 with respect to the second section 7 of the lifting arm 6, 7 may be achieved by use of an extension actuator 8 which may be a double acting hydraulic linear actuator. In some embodiments, movement of the first section 6 with respect to the second section 7 may be achieved by use of an electric linear actuator, a telescopic extension ram, multiple extension rams, and/or a chain and pulley system. One end of the extension actuator 8 is coupled to the first section 6 of the lifting arm 6, 7 and another end of the extension actuator 8 is coupled to the second section 7 of the lifting arm 6, 7 such that extension of the extension actuator 8 causes extension of the lifting arm 6, 7 and retraction of the extension actuator 8 causes retraction of the lifting arm 6, 7. As will be appreciated, the lifting arm 6, 7 may include a plurality of sections: for example, the lifting arm 6, 7 may comprise two, three, four or more sections. Each arm section may be telescopically fitted to at least one other section.

(17) The lifting arm 6, 7 can be moved with respect to the machine body 2 and the movement is preferably, at least in part, rotational movement about the mount 9 (about pivot B of the lifting arm 6, 7). The rotational movement is about a substantially transverse axis of the machine 1, the pivot B being transversely arranged.

(18) Rotational movement of the lifting arm 6, 7 with respect to the machine body 2 is, in an embodiment, achieved by use of at least one lifting actuator 10 coupled, at one end, to the first section 6 of the lifting arm 6, 7 and, at a second end, to the machine body 2. The lifting actuator 10 is a double acting hydraulic linear actuator, but may alternatively be single acting. In some embodiments, the lifting actuator is an electric linear actuator.

(19) FIG. 1 shows the lifting arm 6, 7 positioned at three positions, namely X, Y and Z, with positions X and Y shown in dashed lines in simplified form. When positioned at position X the angle between the lifting arm and a ground level is 55 degrees. This angle is measured with respect to the longitudinal major portion of the lifting arm 6, 7, i.e. the part that extends and retracts if the arm is telescopic. In other embodiments, a different measure of the angle may be used, for example an angle defined using a notional line between the pivot B and the pivot D for the load handling implement (see below). When positioned at position Y the angle is 27 degrees. When positioned at position Z the angle is −5 degrees. 55 degrees and −5 degrees represent the upper and lower limits of angular movement for the machine 1 with stabilizers retracted. The upper limit may be permitted to be increased to, say, 70 degrees when the stabilizers are deployed to contact the ground (see below). Clearly, the lifting arm can be positioned at any angle between these limits. Other machines may have different upper and lower angular limits dependent upon the operational requirements of the machine (maximum and minimum lift height and forward reach etc.) and the geometry of the machine and load handling apparatus (e.g. position of pivot B, dimensions of cranked portion at the distal end of the second section 7 of the lifting arm 6, 7). As will be appreciated, when the lifting arm is positioned relatively close to the ground it is at a relatively small angle and when it is positioned relatively remotely from the ground it is at a relatively large or high angle.

(20) A load handling implement 11 may be located at a distal end of the lifting arm 6, 7. The load handling implement 11 may include a fork-type implement which may be rotatable with respect to the lifting arm 6, 7 about a pivot D, this pivot also being transversely arranged. Other implements may be fitted such as shovels, grabs etc. Movement of the load handling implement 11 may be achieved by use of a double acting linear hydraulic actuator (not shown) coupled to the load handling implement 11 and the distal end of the section 7 of the lifting arm 6, 7.

(21) Off-highway machines 1 of the teachings are configured to transport loads L over uneven ground, i.e. with a load held by the load handling implement 11, an operator controls the propulsion structure to move the entire machine with the load from one location to another.

(22) This may be contrasted with machines such as mobile cranes and roto-telehandlers in which a boom is pivotable about both a lateral and an upright axis—i.e. the boom can slew relative to a machine body on a turret or turntable—as well as pivot upwards about the lateral axis. Such machines may be driven to a particular location and are immobilized on four or more stabilizer legs to lift the wheels or other propulsion means entirely off the ground, and to ensure the upright slew axis is absolutely vertically aligned. From that fixed location the machine will move a load from one location to another location using a movements of the boom about the lateral and upright axes. As such, different stability considerations apply to machines in which a boom can also move about an upright axis. Therefore, different safety legislation, and consequently different safety systems, are employed on such machines.

(23) In the illustrated embodiment, the operator cab 3 has a fixed angular orientation with respect to the front and/or rear axles A.sub.1 and A.sub.2.

(24) With reference to the embodiment of FIGS. 2 to 4, the working machine 1 is an electric working machine having an electric energy storage unit 20 for providing electrical power to the working machine 1.

(25) As shown in FIGS. 2 and 3, the working machine 1 has a longitudinal axis A.sub.3. The operator cab 3 is located towards a first side S.sub.1 of the working machine 1 with respect to the longitudinal axis A.sub.3. The electric energy storage unit 20 is located towards a second side S.sub.2 of the working machine 1, with respect to the longitudinal axis. The first and second sides S.sub.1, S.sub.2 are located opposite each other.

(26) As referred to herein, the term “side” is used to mean a surface of the working machine that is not the top or bottom with respect to the normal orientation of the machine, and is not the front or back with respect to the direction of travel of the machine over ground.

(27) The electric energy storage unit 20 acts as a ballast weight for the working machine 1. This is particularly advantageous when the working machine 1 is operated on uneven or inclined surfaces, and also when the lifting arm 6, 7 is extended.

(28) The electric energy storage unit 20 is located so that it provides a counterweight or counter balance to the operator cab 3, with respect to the longitudinal axis A.sub.3. In this way, the load on the working machine 1 is more evenly distributed.

(29) In the exemplary embodiment of FIG. 2, the electric energy storage unit 20 and the operator cab 3 are positioned so that they are axially aligned with respect to the longitudinal axis A.sub.3. In other words, the operator cab 3 and the electric energy storage unit 20 are positioned opposite each other with respect to the longitudinal axis A.sub.3.

(30) In some embodiments, electric energy storage unit 20 and the operator cab 3 are positioned so that they axially overlap with respect to the longitudinal axis A.sub.3.

(31) As can be seen most clearly from FIG. 4, the electric energy storage unit 20 is positioned between the front and rear axles A.sub.1 and A.sub.2 of the working machine 1. In the illustrated embodiment, the electric energy storage unit 20 does not extend beyond the position of the front and rear axles A.sub.1 and A.sub.2 in a direction parallel to the longitudinal axis A.sub.3. Further, both the operator cab 3 and electric energy storage unit 20 are easily accessible in this location.

(32) The operator cab 3 is also positioned between the front and rear axles A.sub.1 and A.sub.2. In the illustrated embodiment, the operator cab 3 does not extend beyond the position of the front and rear axles A.sub.1 and A.sub.2 in a direction parallel to the longitudinal axis A.sub.3. In this way, the electric energy storage unit 20 and the operator cab 3 are positioned opposite each other with respect to the longitudinal axis A.sub.3.

(33) With reference to FIG. 2, the machine body 2 has a front 22, a rear 24, a first side S.sub.1 and a second side S.sub.2. The body 2 also includes a base 26 which, in normal use of the machine, faces the ground. The base 26 may extend, partially or entirely, between the front 22, rear 24, and/or sides S.sub.1, S.sub.2 of the machine 1. The electric energy storage unit 20 is located at or above the height of the base 26 with respect to the ground, when the working machine 1 is situated on flat ground. In other words, the electric energy storage unit 20 is positioned such that it is further from the ground than the base 26 of the machine 1, when the machine is situated on flat ground.

(34) In the illustrated embodiment, the machine body 2 of the working machine 1 includes an enclosure 32 for housing the electric storage unit 20. In some embodiments, the enclosure 32 comprises a lid (not shown) for access to the electric energy storage unit 32.

(35) In some embodiments, the enclosure does not have a lid. Access to the electric storage unit 20 may only be required by trained technicians, in which case, the electric storage unit 20 can be accessed without requiring the enclosure to have a lid.

(36) As previously described, the working machine 1 includes an electric drive motor M configured to drive movement of one or both pairs of wheels 4, 5. With reference to FIG. 5, the motor M is coupled to a driveshaft 28 to drive movement of the wheels 4, 5. The working machine 1 also includes a separate hydraulic motor 30 configured to actuate the load handling apparatus 6, 7, e.g. to actuate the actuators 8, 10. The hydraulic motor 30 is positioned proximal the mount 9 of the load handling apparatus 6, 7.

(37) Since two separate motors M, 30 are used to drive the driveshaft 28 and actuate the load handling apparatus 6, 7 respectively, the drive motor M can be much smaller than a diesel engine used on an equivalent diesel powered working machine. Consequently, the motor M can be positioned closer to the drive shaft 28, as compared to an equivalent diesel powered machine. Accordingly, a simpler coupling between the driveshaft 28 and motor M can be used.

(38) In the illustrated embodiment, the drive motor M is positioned towards a side S.sub.2 of the machine, with respect to the longitudinal axis. In the illustrated embodiment this is towards side on which the electric energy storage unit 20 is located.

(39) In the illustrated embodiment, the drive motor M is positioned between the electric energy storage unit 20 and the operator cab 3. Further, the drive motor M is positioned between the operator cab 3 and the drive shaft 28. The drive motor M is also positioned such that a longitudinal axis of a transmission of the motor M is provided parallel to the driveshaft 28. This enables the use of a simpler coupling between the motor M and the driveshaft 28 than can be achieved when the motor is positioned perpendicular to the driveshaft 28.

(40) In the illustrated embodiment, the longitudinal axis of the transmission of the drive motor M is provided above the horizontal plane of the axis of the drive shaft 28, when the machine is on a horizontal surface. The motor M is also offset from the vertical plane of the driveshaft 28, when the machine is on a horizontal surface, rather than being positioned directly above or below. In this way, a more compact arrangement is provided.

(41) Further, in the illustrated embodiment, the drive motor M is positioned towards the front axle of the machine. In other words, the motor M is positioned off-center with respect to the center of the drive shaft 28, in a direction towards the front axle A.sub.1.

(42) In the illustrated embodiment, the hydraulic motor 30 is positioned towards a side S.sub.1 of the machine, with respect to the longitudinal axis. In the illustrated embodiment this is towards side on which the operator cab 3 is located, i.e. the opposite side to the drive motor M. This may improve the balance of the machine.

(43) In the illustrated embodiment, the hydraulic motor 30 is provided above the drive shaft 28, with respect to the normal orientation of the machine. This may protect the hydraulic motor 30 from damage or reduce the likelihood of damage.

(44) The layout of the electric energy storage unit 20, the operator cab 3, the motor M and/or the hydraulic motor 30 enables the load distribution across the machine 1 to be optimized. This reduces the risk of the working machine tipping over, in particular when used on uneven or inclined surfaces and when the lifting arm 6, 7 is extended.

(45) An equivalent diesel powered working machine includes a diesel engine, which is typically positioned as a counterweight to the operator cab. For example, such diesel machines often have an enclosure, corresponding to the enclosure 32 of the illustrated embodiment. In such a diesel machine, the diesel engine is located in the enclosure and provides a counterweight to the operator cab.

(46) In an electric working machine 1, there is no diesel engine to provide ballast, and so the load distribution across the working machine 1 is impacted. By providing the electric energy storage unit 20 as a counterweight to the operator cab 3, the balance of load across the machine 1 is improved. For example, by placing the electric energy storage unit 20 in the enclosure 32 (i.e. where the diesel engine would typically be positioned in an equivalent diesel machine), the electric energy storage unit 20 acts as the counterweight to the operator cab 3, that would otherwise be provided by the diesel engine, and therefore improves the load distribution across the machine 1.

(47) Providing the electric energy storage unit 20 in the enclosure 32 has the benefit of protecting the electric energy storage unit 20 against damage. If the battery were to be provided without an enclosure (e.g. mounted under the base of the machine body or at the rear of the machine), the electric energy storage unit 20 would be at greater risk of damage, for example by impact. In some embodiments, the electric energy storage unit 20 includes lithium ion batteries. Such batteries are prone to catching fire if damaged or subjected to heat. Due to chemical reactions in the battery, this can cause a self-sustaining fire as oxygen is produced in the reaction. Further, if a single electric energy storage module, comprising a lithium ion battery, is damaged, the heat can cause all the electric energy storage modules to ignite. Accordingly, providing protection for the electric energy storage unit 20 is advantageous for at least these reasons.

(48) The electric energy storage unit 20 of the working machine 1 may include at least one electric energy storage module 34a, 34b. In FIG. 2, a working machine body 2 having one electric energy storage module 34a, 34b is illustrated. In FIG. 3, a section of a working machine body 2 having two electric energy storage modules 34a, 34b is illustrated.

(49) It will be appreciated that working machines disclosed herein may include any number of electric energy storage modules 34a, for example 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, or more electric energy storage modules 34a, 34b.

(50) Each electric energy storage module 34a, 34b may be between 100 kg and 500 kg in weight, for example about 300 kg. It will be appreciated that each electric energy storage module 34a, 34b may be any suitable weight. The electric energy storage modules 34a, 34b may have different weights. The electric energy storage modules 34a, 34b make up the electric energy storage unit 20 of the machine 1.

(51) Each electric energy storage module 34a, 34b may include a battery, or other suitable electric energy storage device, such as a capacitor or combination of battery and capacitor.

(52) Each electric energy storage module 34a, 34b may have a predetermined power capacity. For example, each electric energy storage module 34a, 34b may have a power capacity in the range of 10 to 50 kWh, for example, 20 to 40 kWh, for example 24 kWh. Each electric energy storage module 34a, 34b may have the same or a different power capacity.

(53) For example, where each electric energy storage module 34a, 34b has a power capacity of 24 kWh, the working machine 1 could be fitted with an electric energy storage unit 20 having either a 24 kWh or 48 kWh power capacity, depending on whether one or two electric energy storage modules 34a, 34b are fitted to the machine 1.

(54) The working machine 1 comprises a mount 36 for mounting the one or more electric energy storage modules 34. For example, the mount 36 may be arranged for mounting at least a first electric energy storage module 34a and a second electric energy storage module 34b to the working machine 1. For example, the mount may be provided by the enclosure 32. The working machine is operable with at least one of the first and second electric energy storage modules 34a, 34b present.

(55) In some embodiments, the first and/or second electric energy storage modules 34a, 34b are configured to be removable from the mount 36 and replaceable, such that the first and/or second electric energy storage modules 34a, 34b are interchangeable. In other words, the first and/or second electric energy storage module 34a, 34b may be removed from the working machine 1 and replaced with a new replacement electric energy storage module.

(56) For example, where one of the first and/or second electric energy storage modules 34a, 34b runs out of charge, it can be removed and replaced with a fully charged electric energy storage module.

(57) In some embodiments, the first and/or second electric energy storage modules are configured to be fixed to the machine, e.g. irremovably attached to the machine. In this way, swapping of the electric energy storage modules/electric storage unit is prevented.

(58) In the illustrated embodiment, the electric energy storage modules 34a, 34b are mounted one on top of the other. It will be appreciated that any other suitable mounting arrangement may be used, for example the electric energy storage modules 34a, 34b may be mounted side by side.

(59) The first and second electric energy storage modules 34a, 34b comprise a connector 38, e.g. a quick release connector, to connect the respective electric energy storage module 34a, 34b to the working machine 1, when the respective electric energy storage modules 34a, 34b are positioned on the mount 36.

(60) The working machine e.g. the mount 36, comprises corresponding connectors 40, e.g. quick release connectors, for connection to the connectors 38 of the first and second electric energy storage modules 34a, 34b.

(61) In some embodiments, no such connectors 38, 40 are provided and the first and second electric energy storage modules 34a, 34b are wired directly to the machine 1.

(62) It will be appreciated that any suitable mechanism for coupling the first and second electric energy storage modules 34a, 34b to the working machine 1 may be used.

(63) In some embodiments, the mount 36 is configured to receive a ballast module (not shown) in place of the first or second electric storage module 34a, 34b. For example, where only a single electric energy storage module 34a is fitted to the working machine 1, a ballast module may also be mounted on the working machine 1 to provide additional ballast weight to the machine. In this way, it is only necessary to provide an electric energy storage module 34a suitable for an intended use of the machine. Additional ballast weight can be provided by a separate ballast module, to improve the load distribution across the machine 1.

(64) In some embodiments, the ballast module includes a connector, e.g. a quick release connector, to connect to the corresponding connectors 40 of the working machine. This acts to maintain the ballast module in position.

(65) Since the working machine 1 can be fitted with one or more electric energy storage modules 34a, 34b, which may provide different power capacities, the electric energy storage unit 20 (i.e. the electric energy storage modules) can be selected and mounted on the machine 1 based on an intended use of the working machine 1. Consequently, where the intended use of the machine involves only low power requirements, a corresponding low capacity electric energy storage unit 20 can be provided. Conversely, where the intended use of the machine involves high power requirements, a corresponding high capacity electric energy storage unit 20 can be provided. This improves the cost effectiveness of the working machine 1.

(66) The working machine 1 includes a control system illustrated in FIG. 7. The control system includes a controller 12 configured to receive or acquire information representative of an attribute of the or each electric energy storage module 34a, 34b mounted on the machine 1. For example, the attribute may be the weight of the or each electric energy storage module 34a, 34b, a total weight of the electric energy storage modules 34a, 34b present, the power capacity of the or each electric energy storage module 34a, 34b, and/or a total power capacity of the electric energy storage modules 34a, 34b present. The attribute of the or each electric energy storage module 34a, 34b may be the position of the or each electric energy storage module 34a, 34b in the working machine, e.g. mount. The attribute may be an amount of charge in the or each electric energy storage module 34a, 34b.

(67) In some embodiments, the controller is configured to receive or acquire information representative of one or more attributes of the or each electric energy storage module 34a, 34b present.

(68) As will be explained in further detail below, the controller is configured to determine permitted and/or prohibited operations of the working machine based on the received or acquired attribute information. The controller is further configured to issue an operations signal for use by at least one element of the working machine 1 corresponding to the determined permitted and/or prohibited operations.

(69) In the illustrated embodiment, the controller 12 is configured to read information from the or each electric energy storage module 34a, 34b indicative of attributes (e.g. weight) of the respective module 34a, 34b, when the electric energy storage module 34a, 34b is connected to the machine 1. This may be achieved via any suitable connection arrangement, as will be understood by those skilled in the art, e.g. via connectors 38, 40. In exemplary embodiments, the controller is configured to determine the power capacity of the electric energy storage module 34a, 34b and from this determine its weight.

(70) In some embodiments the control system includes an RFID sensing arrangement 42, e.g. an RFID detector. The or each ballast module may also have an RFID transmitting arrangement configured to transmit a signal representative of one of more attributes of the or each ballast module, e.g. weight and/or position of the ballast module. The RFID sensing arrangement 42 of the control system is configured to receive such signals.

(71) The RFID sensing arrangement 42 is configured to issue a signal to a controller 12 such that the or each attribute of the or each ballast module can be determined by the controller.

(72) Additionally or alternatively, the working machine may include a load sensor configured sense a parameter which is representative of a weight distribution of the machine, e.g. a lateral weight distribution of the machine. The controller may be configured to determine the weight and/or position of the at least one electric energy storage module and/or ballast module, based on information received from the load sensor.

(73) Additionally or alternatively, the working machine may include a load sensor configured to sense a parameter which is representative of a weight mounted on the working machine mount 36. The controller may be configured to determine the weight and/or position of the at least one electric energy storage module and/or ballast module, based on information received from the load sensor.

(74) In some embodiments, the machine 1 includes an inclinometer, e.g. on the load handling apparatus 6, 7. Based information received from the inclinometer, the controller can determine the weight distributed across the machine, irrespective whether the machine is positioned on a flat or inclined surface.

(75) In use, the controller is configured to receive or acquire information representative of one or more attributes of the or each electric energy storage module 34a, 34b present, and one or more attributes of a ballast module if present, for example, upon start-up of the machine.

(76) As will be described in further detail below, the controller includes a machine stabilization decision logic, configured to maintain stability of the working machine 1. The information representative of the weight and/or position of the at least one electric energy storage module 34a, 34b, and ballast module if present, is an input to the stabilization decision logic. The determined permitted and/or prohibited operations of the working machine are determined based on the stabilization decision logic.

(77) The stabilization decision logic is configured such that the permitted load of the load handling apparatus and/or the permitted lift height of the load handling apparatus is dependent on the attribute of said electric energy storage unit, and ballast module if present. For example, the permitted load of the load handling apparatus and/or the permitted lift height of the load handling apparatus is lower for a lower weight of electric energy storage unit and ballast module present, and is higher for a higher weight of electric energy storage unit and ballast module present.

(78) When the machine 1 lifts a load L supported by the load handling implement 11, the load L (and implement 11) will produce a moment about an axis of the machine 1 which causes the machine to tend to tilt about that axis. The moment is, therefore, referred to herein as a moment of tilt. In the depicted example, this axis of the machine 1 about which the machine 1 is likely to tilt is axis C—i.e. about the first (or front) axle A.sub.1.

(79) A tilt sensing arrangement 13 (see FIG. 7) is provided and is configured to sense a parameter which is representative of a moment of tilt of the machine 1 about an axis.

(80) The tilt sensing arrangement 13 is further configured to issue a signal to a controller 12 such that a moment of tilt of the machine about an axis can be determined. In an embodiment, the tilt sensing arrangement 13 includes a strain gauge coupled to an axle A.sub.1, A.sub.2 of the machine 1. In an embodiment, the tilt sensing arrangement 13 includes a load cell located between the machine body 2 and an axle and configured to sense the load (or weight) on the axle. The tilt sensing arrangement 13 may be coupled to or otherwise associated with the second (or rear) axle A.sub.2.

(81) The tilt sensing arrangement 13 may, in an embodiment, include several sensors which sense different parameters and use these parameters to generate a signal such that a moment of tilt of the machine 1 can be determined.

(82) The tilt sensing arrangement 13 may take other forms, as will be appreciated.

(83) An orientation sensor arrangement 14 (see FIGS. 1, 6 and 7) is also provided and is configured to sense a parameter representative of a position of at least a portion of the load handling apparatus 6, 7 with respect to a reference orientation. For example, this reference orientation may be horizontal ground H (a horizontal reference datum), the direction of the force due to gravity G (a vertical reference datum and hereinafter referred to as “gravity”). In other words, the orientation sensor arrangement senses the absolute orientation of the load handling apparatus 6, 7 in space, rather than its position relative to another body, such as the machine body 2. For example, this may be an angle of the load handling apparatus 6, 7 with respect to gravity G (an absolute vertical orientation) or an angle with respect to horizontal ground H (an absolute horizontal orientation) irrespective of the inclination of the machine body 2.

(84) In some embodiments, the orientation sensor arrangement 14 (see FIGS. 1, 6 and 7) is configured to sense a parameter representative of a position of at least a portion of the load handling apparatus 6, 7 with respect to the machine body 2 itself, i.e. the reference orientation is the orientation of the machine body 2.

(85) The orientation sensor arrangement 14 is further configured to issue a signal to the controller 12 representative of an orientation of at least a portion of the load handling apparatus 6, 7 with respect to the reference orientation.

(86) The orientation sensor arrangement 14 may be an accelerometer or gyroscope 14 mounted to or otherwise associated with the load handling apparatus 6, 7 and configured to change its output signal by movement of the load handling apparatus 6, 7 with respect to the machine body 2 and by a change in inclination of the machine body 2 with respect to the reference orientation H, G. In practical terms the accelerometer 14 is a solid state electronic sensor that senses its orientation with respect to gravity G. However, since horizontal ground H can be assumed to be normal to gravity G, the controller 12 or accelerometer 14 is able to convert an orientation with respect to gravity G into an orientation with respect to horizontal ground H. For ease of understanding, the present teachings are described taking the reference orientation as being horizontal ground H.

(87) In alternative embodiments, the orientation sensor arrangement 14 may include an accelerometer mounted to the machine body 2 to sense the inclination of the machine body 2 with respect to the reference orientation H and a sensor configured to measure the position of the load handling apparatus 6, 7 with respect to the machine body 2. Alternatively, the orientation sensor arrangement 14 may include a sensor configured to measure the position of the load handling apparatus 6, 7 with respect to the machine body 2. The sensor configured to measure the position of the load handling apparatus 6, 7 with respect to the machine body 2 may be a potentiometer mounted proximate to the pivot B with one portion fixed to the machine body 2 and a separate moveable portion fixed to the load handling apparatus 6, 7. As the load handling apparatus 6, 7 moves and its position changes with respect to the machine body 2, the resistance of the potentiometer changes to provide a signal that can be related to the position—e.g. the resistance may be proportional to the angle of the load handling apparatus 6, 7 with respect to the machine body 2.

(88) Alternatively, the position sensor may be a series of markings on a part of the lifting actuator 10 and a reader configured to detect the or each marking. The lifting actuator 10 may be arranged such that extension of the lifting actuator 10 causes one or more of the series of markings to be exposed for detection by the reader. If the position of the markings on the actuator 10 is known, then the extension of the lifting actuator 10 can be determined. The absolute orientation of the load handling apparatus 6, 7 may then be derived by summing the absolute orientation of the machine body 2 with respect to the reference orientation H, G and the relative position of the load handling apparatus 6, 7 with respect to the machine body 2.

(89) It will be appreciated that other orientation sensor arrangements are possible, for example a string potentiometer.

(90) In an embodiment, the orientation sensor arrangement 14 is configured to issue a signal representative of an angle of a lifting arm 6, 7 of the load handling apparatus 6, 7 with respect to the reference orientation H, G. In an embodiment, this signal may be the absolute angle of the lifting arm 6, 7 with respect to the reference orientation H, G.

(91) A controller 12 (see FIGS. 1, 6 and 7) is provided which is configured to receive a signal from the tilt sensing arrangement 13 and the orientation sensor arrangement 14—these signals being representative of a moment of tilt of the machine 1 and an absolute orientation of the load handling apparatus 6, 7. The controller 12 is also configured to read information representative of one or more attributes of (e.g. weight and/or position) of the electric energy storage unit 20 directly from the electric energy storage modules 34a, 34b. The controller 12 may also be configured to receive a signal from the RFID sensing arrangement 42 indicative of one or more attributes of a respective ballast module if present. The controller 12 may be any suitable microprocessor type controller and the signals may be transmitted by any suitable wired or wireless communication system or protocol, such as via a CAN bus of the machine 1.

(92) In some embodiments, the controller 12 is configured to receive a signal from the tilt sensing arrangement 13 and to read information representative of one or more attributes of the electric energy storage modules 34a, 34b directly from the respective module when connected to the machine—these signals being representative of a moment of tilt of the machine 1 and an attribute (e.g. weight and/or position) of the electric energy storage unit 20, respectively. The controller 12 may also be configured to receive a signal from the RFID sensing arrangement 42 indicative of one or more attributes of a respective ballast module if present. In such embodiments, an orientation sensor arrangement 14 is not required.

(93) The controller 12 is coupled to at least one actuator 8, 10 which controls at least one movement of the load handling apparatus 6, 7 with respect to the machine body 2. The controller 12 is configured to issue a signal to stop or restrict (e.g. slow to a velocity lower than the desired velocity that is input by a machine operator) a movement of the load handling apparatus 6, 7 when a condition or conditions are met—as described below.

(94) The controller 12 may also or alternatively be coupled to an operator display unit (not shown), configured to display information indicative of permitted and/or prohibited operations of the working machine 1.

(95) In some embodiments, the controller is configured to determine the operational limits of the working machine 1 in terms of lateral tilt limits. From this, prohibited and/or permitted operations for a given load and/or for a given electric energy storage unit 20 weight and/or position (and a given ballast module weight and/or position, if present), can be determined by the controller.

(96) In some embodiments, the permitted and/or prohibited operations, in terms of longitudinal and/or lateral tilt limits are determined by the controller and a corresponding signal sent to the operator display unit, which visually indicates the permitted and/or prohibited operations to a user. For example, such visualization may be in the form of a load chart and/or corresponding visual indications (pendulum indicators) for a machine operator that indicate the orientation of the load handling apparatus and thus related permissible loads for the machine with respect to an absolute orientation, typically level ground.

(97) When a load L is supported by the load handling implement 11, the weight of the load L is counterbalanced by the weight of the machine 1. However, if the moment of tilt increases, the machine 1 may become unstable as the weight on the second axle decreases—i.e. the machine 1 may tip about axis C.

(98) The extent to which the load L is counterbalanced by the weight of the machine 1 will clearly depend on the weight of the machine 1. In particular, the extent to which the load L is counterbalanced depends on the weight and/or position of the electric energy storage unit 20 (i.e. the electric energy storage modules present) and the weight and/or position of any ballast modules present.

(99) The controller 12 of the machine 1 is configured to receive a signal indicative of the moment of tilt—which may, for example, be the load (or weight) on the second (or rear) axle A.sub.2. In addition, the controller 12 is configured to receive a signal indicative of an orientation of the load handling apparatus—for example the angle of the lifting arm 6, 7 with respect to the reference orientation H, G—e.g. horizontal ground H. Also, the controller 12 is configured to receive or acquire information indicative of the weight and/or position of the electric energy storage unit 20 (i.e. the electric energy storage modules 34a, 34b present) and the weight and/or position of any ballast modules present.

(100) With reference to FIG. 1 the vectors depicting the path of the load at positions X, Y and Z are shown by arrows V.sub.x, V.sub.y, and V.sub.z. The x and y components of these vectors are denoted by the dotted lines forming a right angle triangle with each arrow with the x component being parallel to horizontal ground H and the y component being parallel to gravity G. Thus it can be seen that at position X of the load handling apparatus 6, 7 the negative x component of the vector is greater for a given negative y component, than at position Y, and at position Z there is a small positive x component for a given negative y component. Therefore, at position X, for a given angular velocity of the load handling apparatus, there is a greater negative linear velocity of the load L in axis x. In this embodiment in practical terms this means that the load moves forward faster when lowering the load handling apparatus from larger angles than smaller angles. In turn this means that the tipping moment relative to the axis C is increasing at a faster rate and consequently the longitudinal or forward inertia that would be generated in the load L and load handling apparatus 6, 7 if there is an abrupt cessation of movement (i.e. the operator suddenly stops lowering the load L) is greater in position X than in positions Y and Z.

(101) Thus, to counteract this issue, one measure is to require a greater threshold load on the second axle A.sub.2 to provide a suitable safety margin in all operating conditions. The threshold load required to provide a suitable safety margin will depend on the weight and/or position of the electric energy storage unit 20 and ballast modules mounted on the machine 1. Accordingly, the controller 12 is configured to determine a suitable threshold based on the information received or acquired indicative of the weight and/or position of the electric energy storage unit 20 and ballast modules mounted on the machine 1.

(102) For example, the controller 12 may include a first threshold value or set of threshold values for when the determined weight is in a first range, and a second threshold value or set of threshold values for when the determined weight is in a second range. The sets of threshold values used when the weight is determined to be in the first or second range may generally follow the same principles as discussed below. The threshold value(s) used when the determined weight is in a first range may be higher than the threshold value(s) used when the determined weight is in a second range, wherein the first range is higher than the second range.

(103) The controller 12 may issue a signal or command to restrict or substantially prevent a movement of the load handling apparatus 6, 7 if, for example, the signal representative of the moment of tilt is close to or is approaching the threshold value. In this case, the orientation sensor arrangement 14 may be not required.

(104) Such a safety margin may be excessive in positions Y and Z (as shown on FIG. 1), and so the machine 1 may be prevented from carrying out operations that are safe in these positions if such a threshold is present. As such the productivity of the machine for carrying out certain operations may be reduced.

(105) In an embodiment (see FIG. 8 for example), the controller 12 includes a first and a second stored threshold value TV.sub.1 and TV.sub.2—the first and second threshold values being different. Both the first and a second stored threshold value TV.sub.1 and TV.sub.2 are determined based on the attribute information received or acquired, which is indicative of the weight and/or position of the electric energy storage unit 20 and ballast modules mounted on the machine 1.

(106) When the signal representative of an orientation of the load handling apparatus 6, 7 indicates that the load handling apparatus 6, 7 is in a first orientation with respect to the horizontal ground H, the controller compares the signal representative of the moment of tilting with the first threshold value TV.sub.1. The controller 12 may then issue a signal or command to restrict or substantially prevent a movement of the load handling apparatus 6, 7 if, for example, the signal representative of the moment of tilting is close to or is approaching the first threshold value TV.sub.1.

(107) When the signal representative of an orientation of the load handling apparatus 6, 7 indicates that the load handling apparatus 6, 7 is in a second orientation with respect to horizontal ground H, the controller compares the signal representative of the moment of tilting with the second threshold value TV.sub.2. The controller 12 may then issue a signal or command to restrict or substantially prevent a movement of the load handling apparatus 6, 7 if, for example, the signal representative of the moment of tilting is close to or is approaching the second threshold value TV.sub.2.

(108) Restricting or substantially preventing a movement of the load handling apparatus 6, 7 may include, for example, restricting or stopping the flow of hydraulic fluid into and out of a movement actuator such as the lifting actuator 10. In an embodiment, restricting or substantially preventing a movement of the load handling apparatus 6, 7 includes restricting or substantially preventing a movement of the load handling apparatus 6, 7 in one or more directions. In an embodiment in which the load handling apparatus 6, 7 includes a lifting arm 6, 7, restricting or substantially preventing a movement of the lifting arm 6, 7 may prevent lowering of the arm 6, 7 but may allow raising and/or retraction of the lifting arm 7. In a further embodiment, restricting movement of the load handling apparatus may further include restricting the forward or reverse motion of the machine 1 as a whole.

(109) Thus, the threshold value which is used for the comparison by the controller 12 is dependent on the orientation of the load handling apparatus 6, 7. This dependency may take many different forms—see below.

(110) Restricting or substantially preventing a movement of the load handling apparatus 6, 7 is intended to seek to reduce the risk of the machine tipping by preventing or restricting a movement which would otherwise tip—or risk tipping—the machine 1. The use of a threshold value TV.sub.1 TV.sub.2 which is dependent on an orientation of the load handling apparatus 6, 7 is intended to seek to avoid restricting movement of the load handling apparatus 6, 7 needlessly when there is little or no risk of tipping the machine 1 or moving out of safety limits.

(111) The restriction or substantial prevention of a movement of the load handling apparatus 6, 7 may include, for example, the progressive slowing of a movement of at least a part of the load handling apparatus 6, 7—for example, slowing the speed of movement of a lifting arm 6, 7 to a stop.

(112) In an embodiment, the first and second threshold values TV.sub.1 and TV.sub.2 are selected dependent on the orientation of the load handling apparatus 6, 7. A single threshold value may apply to several different orientations of the load handling apparatus 6, 7 with respect to horizontal ground H. The threshold values may be proportional to or substantially proportional to an orientation of the load handling apparatus 6, 7 with respect to horizontal ground H—for example, an angular orientation of a lifting arm 6, 7 of the load handling apparatus 6, 7 with respect to horizontal ground H (see FIGS. 5 and 6). The proportional or substantially proportional dependency of the threshold value on the orientation of the load handling apparatus 6, 7 may be limited to a range of orientations of the load handling apparatus 6, 7 (see FIG. 6) or may be over the entire range of permitted or possible orientations of the load handling apparatus 6, 7 (see FIG. 5).

(113) For example, the machine 1 may have a load handling apparatus 6, 7 which includes a lifting arm 6, 7 and orientation sensor arrangement 14 may include a sensor configured to sense the angle of the lifting arm 6, 7 with respect to horizontal ground H (or a parameter representative of the angle of the lifting arm 6, 7). The threshold value used by the controller 12 may be selected dependent on the angle of the lifting arm 6, 7 with respect to horizontal ground H. A first threshold value TV.sub.1 may be used for angles below a lower limit and a second threshold value TV.sub.2 may be used for angles above an upper limit. If the lower and upper limits are at different angles, then a variable threshold value may be used between the upper and lower limits (the variable threshold value may be proportional to the orientation of the lifting arm 6, 7). The first threshold value TV.sub.1 is preferably lower than the second threshold value TV.sub.2.

(114) In an embodiment, there is a plurality of threshold values each with a respective load handling apparatus orientation associated therewith. The threshold values and associated load handling apparatus orientations may be stored in a lookup table which can be accessed by the controller 12.

(115) In an embodiment, the tilt sensing arrangement 13 senses a parameter which is representative of the weight on the second (or rear) axle A.sub.2 of the machine 1. In exemplary embodiments, the tilt sensing arrangement 13 comprises a strain gauge configured to measure an amount of flex in the second axle, which can then be correlated to an amount of load on the second axle e.g. by comparison with a database.

(116) The weight on the second axle depends on the total weight of the machine. In exemplary embodiments, the machine may weigh between 4000 kg and 11000 kg, for example between 5000 kg and 8000 kg, for example 5500 kg. In the case where the machine is 5500 kg, a typical load on the second axle of the machine 1 is in the range of 2000 kg to 3000 kg when the machine is unladen and when two electric energy storage modules 34a, 34b are mounted on the machine. When only a single electric energy storage module 34a is mounted on the machine, the load on the second axle may be less, for example 100-500 kg less.

(117) When two electric energy storage modules 34a, 34b are mounted on the machine, in exemplary embodiments, a first threshold value for the controller 12 is selected to be about 250-1000 kg, e.g. 500 kg, for lifting arm angles with respect to the horizontal (with the machine in an typical orientation) of less than about 30° (or less than about 20° -25° in another example), a second threshold value is selected to be higher than the first threshold value, for example about 1500-5000 kg, e.g. 3500 kg, for lifting arm angles with respect to the horizontal of greater than about 45° (or greater than about 40° in another example). The threshold value for any angles between these angles (e.g. between 30° and 45° in one example) may be proportional or substantially proportional to the angle such that there is a substantially linear progression of the threshold value for a given angle from the first to the second threshold value between the specified angles (e.g. between 30° and 45° in one example).

(118) The threshold values used for a particular machine will be dependent on the machine characteristics. For example, the threshold values may be dependent on the geometry of the machine, the mass or weight of the machine, the geometry and mass of the load handling apparatus 6, 7 and the layout of the machine. Further, for machines in which the load handling apparatus 6, 7 is telescopically extendible, a given angular velocity will result in a differing x and y component of linear velocity dependent upon the extension of the load handling apparatus. As such an extension sensor arrangement (not shown) may also signal the controller and the controller may adjust the threshold value according to the extension. The threshold values are selected in an attempt to prevent tipping of the machine during operation.

(119) It will be appreciated that the selection of a threshold value for the moment of tilt dependent on the orientation of the load handling apparatus 6, 7 allows the machine 1 to operate safely within a full range of movement.

(120) FIGS. 8 to 10 show a selection of examples of possible threshold values for different load handling apparatus orientations. In FIG. 9, the threshold value is proportional to the orientation of the load handling apparatus 6, 7. In FIG. 10, a first threshold value TV.sub.1 is used for a first range of orientations of the load handling apparatus 6, 7, a second threshold value TV.sub.2 is used for a second range of orientations of the load handling apparatus 6, 7, and the threshold value used for a given orientation of the load handling apparatus 6, 7 between the first and second ranges varies in proportion to the orientation of the load handling apparatus 6, 7. The proportional relationship may be directly proportional or proportional in accordance with a trigonometric function (such as a tangential function) or other mathematical relationship for example. In FIG. 8, a first threshold value TV.sub.1 is used for a first range of orientations of the load handling apparatus 6, 7, a second threshold value TV.sub.2 is used for a second range of orientations of the load handling apparatus 6, 7. FIG. 11 is another representation of the relationship shown in FIG. 8 in the specific example of a load handling apparatus 6, 7 comprising a lifting arm 6, 7 which can move (about pivot B) with respect to the machine body 2 over a range of possible angles—with a first threshold value TV.sub.1 being used over a first range of angular movement and a second threshold value TV.sub.2 being used over a second range of angular movement.

(121) As depicted in FIG. 1 it is apparent that the actual ground upon which the machine is supported is level or horizontal (i.e. normal to gravity G). The operating instructions of machines 1 of the type described in these teachings typically indicate that lifting and lowering operations of the type described should be undertaken on horizontal ground only.

(122) However, it is sometimes the case that operators are unaware of, or choose to disregard, such instructions and manipulate loads with the machine 1 stood on inclined surfaces. Such a risk is heightened for machines of the type described—i.e. off-highway working machines including telescopic handlers, skid-steer loaders, compact track loaders, wheel loaders, or telescopic wheel loaders—since such machines are typically capable of working off-road in construction, agricultural or military environments, As such they are typically equipped with one or more of the following features: deep treaded tires, tracks, high ground clearance to the machine body, steep approach and departure angles, limited slip differentials, locking differentials and drive to all wheels or tracks to improve their traction and ability to drive up and crest inclines.

(123) FIG. 6 depicts the machine 1 on an upwardly inclined surface I of approximately 10 degrees, and with the load handling apparatus 6, 7 inclined to the same position as depicted in FIG. 1 relative to the machine body 2, but at orientations of approximately 65 degrees, 37 degrees and 5 degrees with respect to horizontal ground H.

(124) By a comparison of FIGS. 1 and 6 it can be seen that the negative x component of the vectors V.sub.x and V.sub.y is now greater due to the incline of the machine. In the case of the component at position Y, the negative x component is approximately twice as large as in FIG. 1.

(125) The reverse is applicable if the machine 1 is operated on a downwardly inclined surface.

(126) As such, the benefit of sensing an absolute orientation of the load handling apparatus 6, 7 can be appreciated since it enables the threshold values to be based on an accurate measure of the forward component of the movement vector of the load L, irrespective of the inclination of the machine 1. To some extent variations in the tilt sensing arrangement 13 caused by an incline compensate for inaccuracies in threshold value calculations if they are based on the relative position of a load handling apparatus 6, 7 to a machine body 2. Nevertheless, sensing the absolute orientation of the load handling apparatus 6, 7 permit a more refined system overall, that allows for greater machine productivity.

(127) A further benefit of measuring an absolute orientation of the load handling apparatus 6, 7 is that accelerometers utilized for such measurements can have no moving parts and can be mounted in a variety of locations on the load handling apparatus that can be selected to be away from areas prone to damage. This is in contrast to potentiometers that are typically used for relative measurement of a load handling apparatus which inevitably comprise moving parts and must be mounted where the load handling apparatus 6, 7 is mounted to the machine body 2 where it may be more prone to damage.

(128) It will be appreciated that as a load L is lowered and moves forward with respect to the machine body 2, the proportion of that load transmitted to the ground at a rearward end of the machine 1 reduces and the proportion transmitted at the forward end increases. For example, for machines having two wheels 4 mounted on a front axle A.sub.1 and two wheels 5 mounted on a rear axle A.sub.2, progressively more weight will be transmitted via the two front wheels 4 and progressively less via the rear wheels 5 during lowering. In particular, but not exclusively, for wheels fitted with pneumatic tires, this load transfer will tend to cause the front tires to compress slightly and the rear tires to expand slightly. If the machine 1 is stood on a compressible surface such as earth, it may also cause the front wheels to sink into the surface to some degree. As a result, the machine body may tilt forwards as a result of the lowering. A further benefit of sensing absolute orientation is that such movements caused by this load transfer are also corrected for.

(129) A still further benefit of measuring absolute orientation is that this provides a closer correlation to manual load charts and corresponding visual indications (pendulum indicators) for a machine operator that are often mounted on to a load handling apparatus and indicate the orientation of the load handling apparatus and thus related permissible loads for the machine with respect to an absolute orientation, typically level ground.

(130) In an embodiment, the machine 1 includes one or more stabilizers S which may be extended (deployed) or retracted from the machine body 2. The or each stabilizer S preferably extends from a part of the machine body 2 which is towards the load handling implement 11 of the machine 1. There are preferably two stabilizers S and each stabilizer is preferably located adjacent to a wheel which is coupled to the first (or front) axle.

(131) The or each stabilizer S is configured to be extended such it makes contact with a ground surface (as depicted in broken lines in FIGS. 1 and 6) and restricts movement of the machine 1 about an axis (for example axis C) which may be induced by the moment of tilt caused by the load L. In other words, lowering the stabilizers S into contact with the ground moves the tipping axis forwards, so the machine 1 provides a greater counterbalancing moment and the tipping moment of the load L, load handling implement 11 and load handling apparatus 6, 7 is reduced, resulting in a greater forward stability for a given load weight and location.

(132) For machines 1 of the teachings it is typically not required for there to be further stabilizers adjacent to or rearward of the rear axle. This is because such stabilizers would not offer an appreciable increase in forward stability and there is typically no requirement for rearward stability since the load would not ordinarily placed in a position where it overhangs a rear of the machine.

(133) In other words, an optimal forward stability can be achieved by the front of the machine being supported on the stabilizer(s) S and the rear of the machine is supported on the wheels 5 mounted to axle A.sub.2.

(134) If the machine 1 includes one or more stabilizers S, then the controller 12 may be further configured to receive a signal from a stabilizer sensor arrangement 15 (see FIG. 7), the signal being representative of whether or not the or each stabilizer has been deployed. If the or each stabilizer S has been deployed, then the threshold values used by the controller 12 may be different from those which are used without the or each stabilizer S deployed. The controller 12 may include a first set of threshold values for when the or each stabilizer S is not deployed and a second set of threshold values for when the or each stabilizer S is deployed. The threshold values used when the or each stabilizer S is deployed may generally follow the same principles as discussed above for the case when the or each stabilizer S is either not present or not deployed. The description above relating to the threshold value applies equally to the threshold value when the or each stabilizer S is deployed. The threshold values used when the or each stabilizer S is deployed may be higher than the threshold values used for corresponding orientations of the load handling apparatus 6, 7 when the or each stabilizer S is not deployed.

(135) In an embodiment, an indicator 17 (see FIG. 12) is provided in the cab 3 for the operator. The indicator 17 may be a visual indicator or an audible indicator or both. The indicator 17 preferably includes a plurality of lights 18 (which may be lamps or light emitting diodes—for example). The number of lights 18 which are lit is generally dependent on the signal representative of the moment of tilt as received by the controller 12. Control of the lights 18 may be achieved by the controller 12. In an embodiment, the indicator 17 sounds an alarm and an aspect of the alarm (e.g. pitch or frequency) may vary in general dependence on the signal representative of the moment of tilt as received by the controller 12. In particular, the controller 12 may issue a signal to control the indicator 17. The signal may be the same signal as is issued by the controller 12 to restrict or substantially prevent a movement of the load handling apparatus 6, 7 or may be a further signal. In an embodiment, the indicator 17 receives the signal representative of the moment of tilt as is also received by the controller 12. The controller 12 may issue a signal to the indicator 17 which is used by the indicator 17 to determine the operation of the indicator 17. For example, the controller 12 may issue a scaling factor signal (see below) to the indicator 17 which the indicator 17 may apply to the signal representative of the moment of tilt; the resulting scaled signal may be used to operate the indicator 17.

(136) The lights are, in an embodiment, color coded—with one or more green lights being lit when that moment of tilt is below the relevant threshold value as determined by the controller 12 and one or more amber or red lights being lit (or flashed) when the relevant threshold value is close or is approaching. An alarm of the indicator 17 may be sounded, in an embodiment, when the relevant threshold is close or approaching. The alarm may be silent when the relevant threshold is not close or approaching.

(137) In accordance with an embodiment, a scaling factor which is dependent on the signal representative of the orientation of the load handling apparatus 6, 7 is applied to the signal representative of the moment of tilt in order to determine the number of lights 18 which are to be lit. This scaling factor may be inversely proportional to the signal representative of the orientation of the load handling apparatus 6, 7. This use of a scaling factor may occur in the controller 12 or in the indicator 17.

(138) Therefore, the moment of tilt which causes the indicator 17 to indicate that the machine 1 is at risk of tipping varies in dependence on the orientation of the load handling apparatus 6, 7.

(139) The dependence on the orientation of the load handling apparatus 6, 7, seeks to ensure that the operation of the indicator 17 can be easily understood by the operator. If the indicator 17 operated solely based on the signal representative of the moment of tilt of the machine 1 then, for example, the number of lights 18 lit when the machine 1 is at risk of tipping would vary. This would be confusing for the operator.

(140) The indicator 17 may take many different forms and need not be a plurality of lights 18 as described above but could be a numerical indicator which displays a numerical value representative of the stability of the machine 1. The indicator 17 also need not be in the cab 3 but may be provided elsewhere in a location in which it can be viewed and/or heard by an operator.

(141) In an embodiment, the indicator 17 includes a light which flashes and/or an alarm that sounds when the controller 12 issues a signal to restrict or substantially prevent a movement of the load handling apparatus 6, 7.

(142) In an embodiment, the indicator 17 is provided and the controller 12 is coupled to the indicator 17. A signal issued by the controller 12 to the indicator 17 controls operation of the indicator 17 and the controller 12 may or may not also be operable to restrict or substantially prevent movement of the load handling apparatus 6, 7.

(143) It will be appreciated that a signal issued by the controller 12 is for use by an element 16 (see FIG. 7) of a machine 1 to control an aspect of an operation of the machine 1 and that two examples of that operation are: restricting or substantially preventing a movement of the load handling apparatus 6, 7; and displaying and/or sounding a warning. Control of other operations is also possible. To this end, the controller 12 may be coupled to an element 16 of the machine which includes, for example, an indicator 17 or a device which restricts or substantially prevents a movement of the load handling apparatus 6, 7 (which might be a movement actuator, a part thereof, or a control element for a movement actuator).

(144) Although the teachings above have been discussed in relation to the lowering of a load from an elevated orientation, the teachings may also be applied in reverse. I.e. it is possible that in extreme conditions of lifting of a load whilst the machine is positioned on a steep upward incline, a sudden cessation of lifting could cause a rearward tipping of the machine about the rear axle A.sub.2. The tilt sensing arrangement 13 may be configured to monitor for a rearward moment of tilt 13. In an embodiment, the tilt sensing arrangement 13 includes a strain gauge coupled to an axle A.sub.1 of the machine 1 to monitor for rearward tilt. In an embodiment, the tilt sensing arrangement 13 includes a load cell located between the machine body 2 and an axle and configured to sense the load (or weight) on the axle. The tilt sensing arrangement 13 may be coupled to or otherwise associated with the first (or front) axle A.sub.1.

(145) In certain embodiments, a relative position of the load handling apparatus with respect to the machine body may also be sensed. This may be achieved by placing a further absolute orientation sensor (e.g. an accelerometer) on the machine body 2 and comparing the values of the two absolute orientation sensors to obtain a relative position. Alternatively, a potentiometer or actuator extension sensor may be used as described above.

(146) The relative position may be utilized to control certain machine interlocks that may be confusing to an operator if they are determined from absolute orientation values. Examples of such interlocks may be for stabilizer isolation, sway isolation of a pivoting axle, and the maximum lift angle of the load handling apparatus before the stabilizer must be deployed. In other embodiments these interlocks may nevertheless be determined by a relative orientation value.

(147) In some embodiments, the controller is additionally or alternatively configured to determine a power capacity of the or each electric energy storage module 34a, 34b.

(148) In such embodiments, the controller is configured to read information indicative of the power capacity of the respective electric energy storage module 34a, 34b when the electric energy storage module 34a, 34b is connected to the machine 1. This may be achieved via any suitable connection arrangement, as will be understood by those skilled in the art. The controller is configured to determine the limits on the operations which the machine is capable of carrying out in view of the available power capacity. Movement of the load handling apparatus 6, 7 can be controlled in a similar manner as detailed above based on these determined limitations. Similarly, the operator display unit can display information relating to these determined limits.

(149) In some embodiments, the controller is additionally or alternatively configured to read information indicative of an amount of charge from the or each electric energy storage module 34a, 34b, when the electric energy storage module 34a, 34b is connected to the machine 1. This may be achieved via any suitable connection arrangement, as will be understood by those skilled in the art. The controller is configured to operate the machine in a first mode, when the amount of charge is above a predetermined amount. The controller is also configured to operate the machine in a second mode, when the amount of charge is below a predetermined amount. For example, the first mode may be normal operation. For example, the second mode may be a low-power mode in which operation of the load handling apparatus is limited.

(150) The features disclosed in the foregoing description, or the following claims, or the accompanying drawings, expressed in their specific forms or in terms of a means for performing the disclosed function, or a method or process for attaining the disclosed result, as appropriate, may, separately, or in any combination of such features, be utilized for realizing the teachings in diverse forms thereof. It will be appreciated that numerous changes may be made within the scope of the present teachings.