System for controlling lift path of machine work tool

Abstract

A skid steer loader including a linkage actuation system and a control system for controlling a lift path of a work tool is disclosed. The linkage actuation system includes a first arm, a second arm, and the work tool to contact a work surface. The control system includes a first actuator between a frame and the first arm, a second actuator between the first arm and the second arm, and a third actuator between the second arm and the work tool, for moving the first arm, the second arm, and the work tool about a first pivotal axis, a second pivotal axis, and a third pivotal axis, respectively. The controller controls the actuation of two of the first actuator, the second actuator, and the third actuator for moving the work tool along a lift path, from a plurality of lift paths, based on an operator's selection.

What is claimed is: 
     
         1 . A skid steer loader comprising:
 a frame;   a linkage actuation system having a first arm connected to the frame, a second arm coupled to the first arm, and a work tool coupled to the second arm, the work tool adapted to contact with a work surface to perform an earth moving operation;   and   a control system for controlling a lift path of the work tool of the linkage actuation system, the control system comprising:
 a first actuator coupled between the frame and the first arm, the first actuator adapted to move the first arm about a first pivotal axis; 
 a second actuator coupled between the first arm and the second arm, the second actuator adapted to move the second arm about a second pivotal axis; 
 a third actuator coupled between the second arm and the work tool, the third actuator adapted to move the work tool about a third pivotal axis; and 
 a controller in communication with the first actuator, the second actuator, and the third actuator, the controller adapted to receive an input from an operator, the input being indicative of a selection of the lift path, from a plurality of predefined lift paths, wherein the controller is adapted to control the actuation of two of the first actuator, the second actuator, and the third actuator for moving the work tool along the selected lift path.