Case Study: Development of CAN-Based Control System for Miniloader

Enhancing Machine Maneuverability and Safety with Electronic Controls

Norcar AB, a leading Finnish manufacturer of compact loaders, embarked on a project to enhance the functionality and efficiency of its popular Miniloader a7700 series. As part of this initiative, Norcar sought to replace the existing analog wired control system with a modern CAN-based control system. This new system would leverage the capabilities of a CAN-controlled diesel engine from Kubota, ensuring improved maneuverability, safety, and ease of operation.

The transition from traditional mechanical linkages to electronic controls significantly enhances the machine’s precision, particularly in demanding operational environments. With easily operated electronic controls, the operator can maneuver the machine with greater accuracy, reducing errors and improving overall efficiency. Moreover, the advanced control logic embedded in the system enables the detection of failures, allowing for automatic safety interventions that can disable control input when necessary.

The Advantages of a CAN-Based Control System

The use of a CAN-based control system in the new Miniloader offered several key benefits:

Reduced Wiring Complexity: Unlike traditional control signaling that relies on extensive wiring, a CAN system simplifies connectivity, reducing installation time and potential points of failure.
Enhanced Flexibility: With software-driven control logic, system updates and functionality modifications can be implemented swiftly by simply updating the control software, eliminating the need for extensive hardware changes.
Advanced Logic Implementation: The integration of a controller in place of traditional relays and switches allows for the development of more sophisticated logic, leading to greater efficiency and adaptability in machine operations.
Efficient Communication: CAN networks facilitate seamless communication between microcontrollers and intelligent devices, enhancing the system’s responsiveness and reliability.

1 2

TKE’s Role in System Development

TKE played a crucial role in the development of Norcar’s new control system, bringing its expertise in CAN-based solutions to the project. The team at TKE was responsible for programming the Kubota ECU and ensuring that the control system operated seamlessly with the engine.

To facilitate the software update process, the system was designed to utilize CAN-bus for communication. Updating the vehicle ECU software required a computer and a CAN-to-USB interface, while CANtrace was employed to simulate the CAN traffic generated by the Kubota ECU. This allowed for precise scaling of read values, which were then transmitted over CAN (J1939) to the engine control unit for engine speed regulation. This meticulous approach ensured that the control system was robust, scalable, and aligned with Norcar’s operational goals.

Structural Engineering: Designing the system architecture to support the new CAN-based controls.
Software Modularization: Dividing software into modules with defined interfaces and functionalities.
Application Design and Integration: Developing and integrating applications to ensure seamless operation.
System Integration: Connecting applications to the overall system, ensuring cohesive functionality.

Testing and Implementation Success

A detailed specification was developed outlining the expected behavior of the control system, component connections, hardware setup for testing, and on-site support. TKE’s expertise ensured a smooth integration process, culminating in the successful testing of the new control system on Norcar’s a7750 series Miniloader.

With the successful implementation of this project, Norcar has positioned itself at the forefront of innovation in compact loader technology. By leveraging TKE’s advanced CAN-based solutions and area expertise, Norcar achieved significant improvements in safety, maneuverability, and operational efficiency of its Miniloaders, paving the way for future developments in the off-highway vehicle industry.