Wireless communication device for controlling support functions of a machine

Abstract

A wireless communication device includes a communication component configured to wirelessly communicate with a machine, one or more input components, and one or more processors. The one or more processors determine that the wireless communication device is paired with the machine and, based on determining that the wireless communication device is paired with the machine, identify a first layout configuration associated with the machine. The first layout configuration identifies a correspondence between a particular input component of the one or more input components and a particular supported function in the machine. The one or more processors cause the first layout configuration to be applied to the one or more input components.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention generally relates to a wireless communication device, for example, to a wireless communication device for supporting functions of controlling a machine. Background Technology

[0002] A team of operators controls the machine's primary and support functions to enable it to perform operations at the work site. For example, when the machine is a paver, the first operator may be located at the operator station on the machine and control its primary functions (e.g., via the operator station), such as those related to driving the machine along the path to be paved and enabling other machine components to lay the asphalt pad as the machine travels along the path. A second operator may be deployed on the ground to monitor the asphalt pad laying and may accompany the machine along the path. At certain times, the second operator controls the machine's support functions (e.g., via a control panel on the side of the machine), such as those related to fine-tuning the asphalt pad's thickness, size, uniformity, crown profile, and cross slope. Due to constantly changing environmental conditions at the work site, such as weather, terrain, and other factors, the second operator is typically not near the control panel when it is necessary to control the machine's support functions (e.g., fine-tuning support function parameters). This can affect the machine's performance during operations (e.g., paving), thereby reducing the quality of the results of the operations performed by the machine (e.g., the asphalt pad).

[0003] U.S. Patent No. 8,428,791 (“'791 Patent”) discloses a control system for remotely controlling a work machine equipped with tracks for movement. The control system includes a remote control intended to be carried by an operator located beside the machine. The remote control is wirelessly connected via Bluetooth or connected via cable to an electronic unit within the machine and has at least two joysticks or levers, as well as multiple buttons and / or knobs for operating different movement and work functions of the machine. However, the control system of the '791 Patent is intended for use with a demolition robot, which is a remotely controlled work machine designed for various demolition operations.

[0004] The wireless communication device of the present invention solves one or more of the above-mentioned problems and / or other problems in the art. Summary of the Invention

[0005] In some implementations, a wireless communication device includes: a communication component configured to wirelessly communicate with a machine; one or more input components; and one or more processors configured to: determine that the wireless communication device is paired with the machine; based on the determination that the wireless communication device is paired with the machine, identify a first layout configuration associated with the machine, wherein the first layout configuration identifies a correspondence between a specific input component among the one or more input components and a specific supported function in the machine; and apply the first layout configuration to the one or more input components.

[0006] In some implementations, a system for wirelessly controlling support functions of a machine includes a wireless communication device configured to: determine that the wireless communication device is paired with a machine; based on the determination that the wireless communication device is paired with the machine, identify a first layout configuration associated with the machine, wherein the first layout configuration identifies a correspondence between a specific input component of one or more input components in the wireless communication device and a specific support function in the machine; and apply the first layout configuration to one or more input components in the wireless communication device.

[0007] In some implementations, one method includes: determining, via a wireless communication device, that the wireless communication device is paired with a machine; identifying, via the wireless communication device and based on the determination that the wireless communication device is paired with the machine, a first layout configuration associated with the machine, wherein the first layout configuration is associated with at least one specific supporting function of the machine; and applying the first layout configuration to one or more input components in the wireless communication device. Attached Figure Description

[0008] Figure 1A-1B This is a schematic diagram of an example wireless communication device.

[0009] Figure 2 This is a side view of the example machine.

[0010] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of the example system described in this article.

[0011] Figures 4A-4B This is a schematic diagram of the example measurement scenario described in this article.

[0012] Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram of an example component of a device associated with a wireless communication device for supporting functions used to control a machine. Detailed Implementation

[0013] This invention relates to a wireless communication device, such as a support function for controlling a machine. Support functions are auxiliary functions that enhance the performance of a machine but do not directly relate to its primary functions, such as energy control functions (e.g., starting the machine's power source, accelerating the machine, braking the machine) or the main operation of a implement. In other words, support functions include functions that enhance or optimize primary functions, such as making the primary functions more efficient, effective, or accurate. For example, support functions include fine-tuning the position, configuration, and / or operation of machine or implement components to improve machine performance. In many cases, support functions are monitored by the machine's deployment operator (e.g., a person on the ground or a person not at the machine's operator station) and the results of the operations performed by the machine can be checked.

[0014] Therefore, wireless communication devices are suitable for any machine that needs to perform operational support functions, such as vehicles, road rollers, pavers, cold milling machines, road repair machines, graders, backhoe loaders, wheel loaders, harvesters, excavators, graders, skid steer loaders, tractors, bulldozers or other ground equipment, underground equipment, aerial equipment or marine equipment.

[0015] Figure 1A-1B This is a schematic diagram of an example wireless communication device 100. The wireless communication device 100 can be configured to control (e.g., wirelessly control) the supported functions of a machine (e.g., machine 200 described herein), such as when the wireless communication device 100 is paired with the machine. Figure 1A An oblique front view of the wireless communication device 100 is shown. Figure 1B An oblique rear view of the wireless communication device 100 is shown.

[0016] like Figure 1A-1B As shown, the wireless communication device 100 may include a communication component 102, one or more input components 104, one or more output components 106, a measurement component 108, one or more processors 110 and / or a battery 112.

[0017] Communication component 102 can be configured to communicate wirelessly with a machine (such as machine 200 described herein). Communication component 102 may include a transceiver, separate transmitter and receiver, and / or antenna, among other examples. Communication component 102 may include, for example, at least one of radio frequency (RF) components, Bluetooth components, Zigbee components, WiFi components, Z-wave components, Matter components, or cellular components. Communication component 102 can be configured to communicate with the machine via a network including one or more wired and / or wireless networks.

[0018] One or more input components 104 may be configured to allow an operator of the wireless communication device 100 to input control information (e.g., for controlling support functions of the machine), such as by the operator interacting with multiple input components 104 to input control information. One or more input components 104 may include buttons, dials, knobs, sliders, joysticks, cameras, optical scanners (e.g., barcode scanners or quick-response (QR) code scanners), gesture sensors, microphones, and / or touch-sensitive components (e.g., touchscreens, touchpads, or capacitive sensors), and other examples of input components. One or more input components 104 (e.g., when enabled by an operator of the wireless communication device 100) may be configured to generate one or more commands (e.g., for controlling support functions of the machine) and / or other information that can be wirelessly communicated via the wireless communication device 100 (e.g., via communication component 102).

[0019] As further described herein, the respective functions of one or more input components 104 can be determined based on a layout configuration applied to the one or more input components 104. For example, the layout configuration can identify a correspondence between a particular input component 104 and a particular function (e.g., a specific support function in a machine). Therefore, when an operator of the wireless communication device 100 interacts with a particular input component 104, the wireless communication device 100 can generate one or more commands and / or other information that can be wirelessly communicated via the wireless communication device 100 to update one or more parameters associated with the particular function. Different layout configurations can be applied to one or more input components 104 at different times. Thus, when a first layout configuration is applied, an input component 104 may have a first correspondence with a first function; when a second layout configuration is applied, an input component 104 may have a second correspondence with a second function (e.g., a function different from the first function).

[0020] One or more output components 106 may be configured to present information to an operator, such as a wireless communication device 100. One or more output components 106 may include indicator lights (e.g., light-emitting diode (LED) indicators), audio components (e.g., speakers or buzzers), displays and / or haptic feedback components, and other examples of output components. One or more output components 106 may be configured to present notifications, alarms, and / or other information (e.g., information associated with support functions for controlling the machine) that is communicated to the wireless communication device 100 (e.g., via communication component 102).

[0021] The measuring component 108 can be configured to measure the results of operations performed by the machine. For example, when the machine is a paver and the result of the operation is an asphalt pad, the measuring component 108 can be configured to measure one or more characteristics of the asphalt pad, such as its thickness, size, uniformity, crown profile, and / or cross slope. Similarly, when the machine is a milling machine and the result of the operation is milling an asphalt pad, the measuring component 108 can be configured to measure one or more characteristics of the milled asphalt pad, such as the surface texture, milling depth, and / or milling width. The measuring component may include rulers (e.g., digital rulers), sonar sensors, ultrasonic sensors, cameras, inertial measurement units (IMUs) (e.g., including accelerometers and / or gyroscopes), time-of-flight (ToF) sensors, laser sensors, light detection and ranging (LIDAR) sensors, radio detection and ranging (RADAR) sensors, and / or other types of sensors for sensing the environment of the machine 200.

[0022] One or more processors 110 may be configured to control the wireless communication device 100. As further described herein, for example, one or more processors 110 may be configured to generate one or more commands to control the communication component 102, one or more input components 104, one or more output components 106, the measurement component 108, and / or the battery 112.

[0023] Battery 112 can be configured to provide power to wireless communication device 100 (e.g., to power wireless communication device 100 when it is in operation). Additionally, as further described herein, battery 112 can be configured to receive power from the machine's charging components (e.g., to charge battery 112).

[0024] As indicated above, provide Figure 1A-1B As an example. Other examples can be related to... Figure 1A-1B The differences mentioned.

[0025] Figure 2 This is a side view of the example machine 200. Figure 2 The example shown is a paver. However, as mentioned above, machine 200 can be any machine utilizing the supported functions.

[0026] Machine 200 includes a frame 202 having a set of ground engagement elements 204, such as tracks or wheels, coupled to the frame 202. The ground engagement elements 204 may be driven by a powertrain system 206. Additionally or alternatively, the powertrain system 206 may include a power source (e.g., an internal combustion engine, an electric motor, or a hybrid power system) to drive or power another component or system of machine 200, such as one or more pumps (e.g., one or more pumps of a hydraulic power system of machine 200) and / or other components described herein. A slab plate 208 may be positioned at the rear end of machine 200 to spread and compact paving material into an asphalt mat 210 having the desired thickness, dimensions, uniformity, crown profile, and cross slope. Machine 200 also includes an operator station 212 having a seat and a console including a control panel 214 for guiding the operation of machine 200. A controller 216 is provided for electrically controlling various aspects of machine 200. For example, controller 216 can send and receive signals from various components of machine 200 during operation of machine 200.

[0027] Machine 200 further includes a hopper 218 for storing paving material, and a conveyor system including one or more conveyor belts 220 configured to move the paving material from the hopper 218 to a slab 208 at the rear of machine 200. One or more auger conveyors 222 are arranged near the front end of the slab 208 to receive the paving material supplied by the conveyor belts 220 and spread the material evenly under the slab 208. The slab 208 can be pivotally connected to the rear of machine 200 via one or more traction arms 224 extending between the paver frame 202 and the slab 208. Alternatively, the slab 208 can be pivotally connected to the rear of machine 200 via a pair of traction arms 224 extending between a traction point on the frame 202 of machine 200 and the slab 208.

[0028] The traction arm 224 can also use a positioning cylinder 226 to raise and lower the traction point on the machine 200. As the positioning cylinder 226 moves up and down, it moves the traction point of the traction arm 224 and changes the angle of attack of the slab 208. Furthermore, as part of the paving process, one or more cylinders 228 on the slab 208 can raise or lower portions of the slab 208. For example, to change the height or paving angle of the main slab 230, the machine 200 can use one or more extended slabs 232. The slab 208 may include a slab frame 234 to which the main slab 230 is attached. The main slab 230 is configured to float on the paving material of the asphalt mat 210 laid on the prepared paving bed and to “smooth” or level and compact the paving material on the base surface (e.g., road or subgrade). The slab 208 may further include one or more extended slabs 232 extending beyond the main slab 230 to extend the paving width of the slab 208.

[0029] The slab leveling plate 208 may include a screed assembly 236 positioned in front of the main slab leveling plate 230 and extending transversely to the travel direction of the machine 200. The screed assembly 236 may include a screed 238. The screed assembly 236 may be coupled to the slab leveling plate frame 234 of the slab leveling plate 208 and configured to reciprocate in upward and downward directions substantially perpendicular to the asphalt pad 210 and substantially perpendicular to the travel direction of the machine 200. As the machine 200 moves forward, the screed assembly 236 precompacts the paving material, and the slab leveling plate 208 smooths the paving material to remove air pockets and other voids, thereby creating a relatively flat paved surface.

[0030] Machine 200 further includes a communication component 240 configured to wirelessly communicate with one or more devices, such as the wireless communication device 100 described herein. Communication component 240 may include a transceiver, separate transmitter and receiver, and / or antenna, among other examples. Communication component 240 may include, for example, at least one of an RF component, a Bluetooth component, a Zigbee component, a WiFi component, or a cellular component. Communication component 240 may be configured to communicate with one or more devices via a network including one or more wired and / or wireless networks. Communication component 240 may be configured to wirelessly communicate with wireless communication device 100 to pair wireless communication device 100 with machine 200 (thereby enabling wireless communication device 100 to control supported functions of machine 200, as further described herein).

[0031] The machine 200 may further include a charging component 242 configured to charge a battery, such as the battery 112 of the wireless communication device 100 (e.g., as part of a battery charging operation). The charging component 242 may include a base, bracket, or other structural component for receiving and securing the battery to facilitate charging. Thus, when the battery is in a charging position relative to the charging component, the charging component 242 can charge the battery via direct current (DC), alternating current (AC), or inductive charging (e.g., as part of a battery charging operation).

[0032] Machine 200 may further include one or more sensing sensors 244 configured to capture sensing data that can be used (e.g., by controller 216) to determine the location of a target (e.g., indicating distance and azimuth, and other examples), such as its position relative to machine 200. The one or more sensing sensors 244 may include sonar sensors, cameras, LiDAR sensors, RADAR sensors, and / or another type of sensor that senses the environment of machine 200.

[0033] As indicated above, Figure 2 Provided as an example. Other examples may be provided with reference to [the relevant information]. Figure 2 The differences mentioned.

[0034] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of the example system 300 described herein. System 300 facilitates wireless control of machines (e.g., machine support functions) such as machine 200. Figure 3 As shown, system 300 may include one or more wireless communication devices 100, each wireless communication device may include a communication component 102, one or more input components 104, one or more output components 106, a measurement component 108, one or more processors 110 and / or a battery 112, as described herein. Figure 1A-1B As stated above. Additionally, as... Figure 3 As shown, system 300 may further include controller 216, communication component 240, charging component 242, and / or one or more sensing sensors 244, which are configured to be included in machine 200, as described herein. Figure 2 As stated above.

[0035] Each of the one or more wireless communication devices 100 can be paired (or be paired with) the machine 200. To this end, the wireless communication device 100 (e.g., using one or more processors 110 of the wireless communication device 100) can acquire (e.g., from at least one of the one or more input components 104, or the communication component 102 of the wireless communication device 100) information identifying the machine 200. For example, input component 104 can scan a barcode, QR code, or alphanumeric string (e.g., located at a specific location on the machine 200) to capture information identifying the machine 200, and input component 104 can transmit the information identifying the machine to one or more processors 110. Similarly, communication component 102 can discover and communicate with the communication component 240 of the machine 200 (e.g., as part of a pairing initialization operation) to receive information identifying the machine 200, and communication component 102 can transmit the information identifying the machine 200 to one or more processors 110.

[0036] Therefore, one or more processors 110 can (e.g., based on information acquired to identify machine 200) cause communication component 102 to wirelessly send a wireless pairing request to machine 200 (e.g., to communication component 240 of machine 200). For example, one or more processors 110 can generate a wireless pairing request (e.g., including at least some information for identifying machine 200 and / or including information for identifying wireless communication device 100) and can send the wireless pairing request to communication component 102, so that communication component 102 wirelessly transmits the pairing request to machine 200. Therefore, one or more processors 110 can wirelessly obtain (e.g., after sending the wireless pairing request) a pairing confirmation from machine 200 via communication component 102. For example, machine 200 (e.g., using controller 216) can generate (e.g., in response to the wireless pairing request) a pairing confirmation and can send the pairing confirmation to communication component 240 of machine 200, so that communication component 240 wirelessly transmits the pairing confirmation to wireless communication device 100. Communication component 102 of wireless communication device 100 can thus receive the pairing confirmation and can send the pairing confirmation to one or more processors 110. In this way, the wireless communication device 100 can be paired with the machine 200.

[0037] Therefore, one or more wireless communication devices 100 can determine that the wireless communication device 100 is paired with the machine 200. The wireless communication device 100 can then identify (e.g., using one or more processors 110) the layout configuration associated with the machine 200. The layout configuration can identify the correspondence between one or more input components 104 and the supported functions of the machine 200. For example, when the machine 200 is a paver, such as... Figure 2As shown, the layout configuration can identify the correspondence between the input component 104 group and the support functions associated with the asphalt pad 210 having the required thickness, size, uniformity, crown profile, and / or cross slope. Therefore, the wireless communication device 100 (e.g., using one or more processors 110) can make the layout configuration apply to one or more input components 104 of the wireless communication device 100.

[0038] Therefore, in order to control the supporting functions of machine 200, wireless communication device 100 (e.g., using one or more processors 110) can identify (e.g., based on applying layout configuration to one or more input components 104) whether a particular input component 104 is enabled (e.g., based on the interaction between the operator of wireless communication device 100 and the particular input component 104). Based on the identification that a particular input component 104 is enabled, wireless communication device 100 (e.g., using communication component 102) can wirelessly transmit control information associated with a specific supporting function of machine 200 corresponding to the specific input component 104 (e.g., indicated by the layout configuration). Therefore, controller 216 of machine 200 can (e.g., wirelessly via communication component 240 of machine 200) acquire the control information and can thus control one or more components of machine 200 (e.g., the component associated with the specific supporting function) according to the control information.

[0039] The layout configuration can be associated with the mode of machine 200. For example, machine 200 may have an operating mode (e.g., for performing work operations), a diagnostic mode (e.g., for assessing the health and function of machine 200 and / or its components), a maintenance mode (e.g., for cleaning, updating, repairing, and / or replacing components of machine 200), or other types of modes. Therefore, when machine 200 operates in a specific mode, wireless communication device 100 can identify and apply a specific layout configuration associated with that specific mode of machine 200.

[0040] For example, a first layout configuration may be associated with a first mode of machine 200, and a second layout configuration may be associated with a second mode of machine 200. The first layout configuration may identify a correspondence between a specific input component 104 of the wireless communication device 100 and a specific supported function of the machine 200, while the second layout configuration may identify a correspondence between a specific input component 104 and another specific supported function of the machine 200 (e.g., a supported function different from the specific supported function of the machine 200). Machine 200 may operate in the first mode, thus the wireless communication device 100 (e.g., using one or more processors 110) may identify and apply the first layout configuration to one or more input components 104 of the wireless communication device 100.

[0041] Subsequently, the controller 216 of machine 200 can determine that machine 200 is transitioning from a first mode of operation to a second mode of operation (e.g., based on monitoring of machine 200 operating parameters), and thus cause the communication component 240 of machine 200 to wirelessly transmit mode information associated with machine 200 to the wireless communication device 100. For example, the mode information may indicate that the mode of machine 200 has changed, and / or that machine 200 has transitioned to the second mode. Therefore, the wireless communication device 100 (e.g., using one or more processors 110) can determine that machine 200 is transitioning from the first mode of operation to the second mode of operation (e.g., based on the received mode information). The wireless communication device 100 (e.g., using one or more processors 110) can then identify a second layout configuration associated with the second mode of machine 200, and can apply the second layout configuration to one or more input components 104 of the wireless communication device 100. In this way, the wireless communication device 100 can be updated to control other specific supporting functions of machine 200 (e.g., functions associated with the second mode).

[0042] In some implementations, the controller 216 of machine 200 can determine information indicating the position of wireless communication device 100 relative to machine 200 (e.g., based on information acquired from communication component 240 of machine 200 or at least one of one or more sensing sensors 244). For example, one or more sensing sensors 244 can capture sensing data indicating the position of wireless communication device 100 relative to machine 200 and can transmit the sensing data to controller 216. Thereafter, controller 216 can cause communication component 240 to wirelessly transmit information indicating the position of wireless communication device 100 relative to machine 200 to wireless communication device 100. Therefore, wireless communication device 100 (e.g., using one or more processors 110) can acquire information indicating the position of wireless communication device 100 relative to machine 200 via communication component 102 and thus selectively (e.g., based on the information indicating the position of wireless communication device 100 relative to machine 200) enable or disable one or more sets of input components 104 of wireless communication device 100 respectively. In other words, the wireless communication device 100 can enable at least one of a first group of one or more input components 104, or disable a second group of one or more input components 104. For example, when information indicates that the wireless communication device 100 is located on a first side of the machine 200, the wireless communication device 100 can enable a first group of one or more input components 104 associated with support functions on the first side, and / or disable a second group of one or more input components 104 associated with support functions on the second side.

[0043] Additionally or alternatively, the wireless communication device 100 (e.g., using one or more processors 110) may cause one or more output components 106 of the wireless communication device 100 to present at least some of the information indicated in the information indicating the position of the wireless communication device 100 relative to the machine 200. For example, when the information indicates that the wireless communication device 100 is positioned too far from the machine 200 (e.g., to disable communication between the wireless communication device 100 and the machine 200) or too close to the machine 200 (e.g., within the operating area of ​​the machine 200), the wireless communication device 100 may cause one or more output components 106 to provide a visual, audible, and / or tactile alarm or message indicating that the wireless communication device 100 is not within a preferred range of the machine 200. As another example, when the information indicates that the wireless communication device 100 is located on a first side of the machine 200, the wireless communication device 100 may cause one or more output components 106 to provide a presentation indicating that the wireless communication device 100 is located on the first side, as well as information associated with a second side of the machine (e.g., information acquired from one or more sensing sensors 244, such as sensing data including video feeds associated with the second side of the machine 200).

[0044] In some implementations, multiple wireless communication devices 100 may be paired (or be paired with) the machine 200. Thus, each wireless communication device 100 can identify a layout configuration and apply it to one or more input components 104 of the wireless communication device 100. For example, a first wireless communication device 100 may be associated with (and / or located on) a first side of the machine 200, and thus can identify and associate a first layout configuration with the support functions of the first side of the machine 200; and a second wireless communication device 100 may be associated with (and / or located on) a second side of the machine 200 (e.g., different from the first side), and thus can identify and associate a second layout configuration with the support functions of the second side of the machine 200. In this way, a first operator can interact with the first wireless communication device 100 to control the support functions of the first side of the machine 200; and a second operator can interact with the second wireless communication device 100 to control the support functions of the second side of the machine 200.

[0045] In some implementations, one or more wireless communication devices 100 can be used to measure the results of a work operation performed by machine 200, such as the result of asphalt mat 210 laid by machine 200 when machine 200 is a paver. The operator of wireless communication device 100 can interact with one or more input components 104 of wireless communication device 100 to allow measuring component 108 to capture measurement information associated with the results of the work operation performed by machine 200. For example, the operator of wireless communication device 100 can measure the results of the work operation (e.g., as described herein). Figures 4A-4B (Furthermore,) the positioning wireless communication device 100 enables the measuring unit 108 to capture measurement information associated with the result of a job operation when an operator interacts with one or more input units 104. Therefore, one or more processors 110 of the wireless communication device 100 can acquire the measurement information (e.g., from the measuring unit 108). One or more processors 110 can cause one or more output units 106 of the wireless communication device 100 to provide a presentation indicating at least some of the measurement information (e.g., providing operable information to the operator of the wireless communication device 100 to control at least one support function of the machine 200), and / or can cause the communication unit 102 to wirelessly transmit the measurement information to the machine 200 (e.g., to facilitate control of at least one support function of the machine 200).

[0046] The charging component 242 of machine 200 can charge the battery 112 of wireless communication device 100. For example, the operator of wireless communication device 100 can position wireless communication device 100 such that the battery 112 of wireless communication device 100 is placed in the base, bracket, or other structural component of charging component 242, which is configured to receive and hold the battery 112 of wireless communication device 100. Then, charging component 242 can recognize that the battery 112 of wireless communication device 100 is in a charging position relative to charging component 242 (e.g., to facilitate DC, AC, or inductive charging), and thus (e.g., based on recognizing that the battery 112 is in a charging position) initiate a battery charging operation (e.g., to charge the battery 112).

[0047] As indicated above, Figure 3 Provided as an example. Other examples may be provided with reference to [the relevant information]. Figure 3 The differences mentioned.

[0048] Figures 4A-4B This is a schematic diagram of the example measurement scenarios 400 and 450 described in this article.

[0049] like Figure 4AAs shown, a first example measurement scenario 400 includes a wireless communication device 100 and a milled asphalt pad 402, which may be the result of a work operation performed by a machine 200 (e.g., when the machine 200 is a milling machine). An operator of the wireless communication device 100 can position the wireless communication device 100 relative to the milled asphalt pad 402, enabling a measuring component 108 of the wireless communication device 100 to capture a first distance 404 from the wireless communication device 100 to an unmilled portion (or un-milled part) of the milled asphalt pad 402 and a second distance 406 from the wireless communication device 100 to a milled portion of the milled asphalt pad 402. The measuring component 108 can transmit the first distance 404 and the second distance 406 as measurement information to one or more processors 110 of the wireless communication device 100. Therefore, one or more processors 110 can determine the milling depth 408 associated with the milled asphalt pad 402 (e.g., based on determining the difference between the first distance 404 and the second distance 406).

[0050] like Figure 4B As shown, the second example measurement scenario 450 includes a wireless communication device 100 and an asphalt mat 452, which may be the result of an operation performed by a machine 200 (e.g., when the machine 200 is a paver). The operator of the wireless communication device 100 can position the wireless communication device 100 at a first location on the asphalt mat 452 (e.g., a first “side” of the asphalt mat 452), enabling the measuring component 108 of the wireless communication device 100 to capture a first slope angle 454 of the asphalt mat 452 associated with the first location (e.g., compared to a horizontal portion of the asphalt mat 452, which may be associated with the peak of the asphalt mat 452), and then position the wireless communication device 100 at a second location on the asphalt mat 452 (e.g., a second “side” of the asphalt mat 452), enabling the measuring component 108 to capture a second slope angle 456 of the asphalt mat 452 associated with the second location (e.g., compared to a horizontal portion of the asphalt mat 452). The measuring component 108 can transmit the first slope angle 454 and the second slope angle 456 as measurement information to one or more processors 110 of the wireless communication device 100. Thus, the one or more processors 110 can determine the crown profile and / or cross slope associated with the asphalt pad 452 (e.g., based on the first slope angle 454 and the second slope angle 456).

[0051] As indicated above, Figures 4A-4B Provided as an example. Other examples may be provided with reference to [the relevant information]. Figures 4A-4B The differences mentioned.

[0052] Figure 5This is a schematic diagram of example components of a device 500 associated with a wireless communication device for controlling machine support functions. Device 500 may correspond to wireless communication device 100, machine 200, system 300, and / or components thereof. In some implementations, wireless communication device 100, machine 200, system 300, and / or components thereof may include one or more devices 500 and / or one or more components of device 500. For example... Figure 5 As shown, the device 500 may include a bus 510, a processor 520, a memory 530, an input unit 540, an output unit 550, and / or a communication unit 560.

[0053] Bus 510 may include one or more components for wired and / or wireless communication between parts of the starting device 500. Bus 510 may connect components such as via operative connections, communication connections, electronic connections, and / or electrical connections. Figure 5 Two or more components are connected together. For example, bus 510 may include electrical connections (e.g., wires, traces, and / or leads) and / or wireless buses. Processor 520 may include a central processing unit, graphics processing unit, microprocessor, controller, microcontroller, digital signal processor, field-programmable gate array, application-specific integrated circuit, and / or another type of processing unit. Processor 520 may be implemented in hardware, firmware, or a combination of hardware and software. In some implementations, processor 520 may include one or more processors capable of being programmed to perform one or more operations or processes described elsewhere herein.

[0054] Memory 530 may include volatile memory and / or non-volatile memory. For example, memory 530 may include random access memory (RAM), read-only memory (ROM), hard disk drive, and / or another type of memory (e.g., flash memory, magnetic storage, and / or optical storage). Memory 530 may include internal memory (e.g., RAM, ROM, or hard disk drive) and / or removable memory (e.g., removable via a universal serial bus connection). Memory 530 may be a non-transitory computer-readable medium. Memory 530 may store information related to the operation of device 500, one or more instructions, and / or software (e.g., one or more software applications). In some implementations, memory 530 may include one or more memories, such as those coupled (e.g., communicatively coupled) to one or more processors (e.g., processor 520) via bus 510. The communicative connection between processor 520 and memory 530 enables processor 520 to read and / or process information stored in memory 530 and / or store information in memory 530.

[0055] Input component 540 enables device 500 to receive input, such as user input and / or sensed input. For example, input component 540 may include a touchscreen, keyboard, keypad, mouse, button, microphone, switch, sensor, GPS sensor, GNSS sensor, accelerometer, gyroscope, and / or actuator. Output component 550 enables device 500 to provide output, such as via a display, speaker, and / or light-emitting diode. Communication component 560 enables device 500 to communicate with other devices via wired and / or wireless connections. For example, communication component 560 may include a receiver, transmitter, transceiver, modem, network interface card, and / or antenna.

[0056] Apparatus 500 may perform one or more of the operations or procedures described herein. For example, a non-transitory computer-readable medium (e.g., memory 530) may store a set of instructions (e.g., one or more instructions or code) for execution by processor 520. Processor 520 may execute the set of instructions to perform one or more of the operations or procedures described herein. In some implementations, the set of instructions is executed by one or more processors 520, causing one or more processors 520 and / or apparatus 500 to perform one or more of the operations or procedures described herein. In some implementations, hardwired circuitry may be used in place of or in combination with instructions to perform one or more of the operations or procedures described herein. Additionally or alternatively, processor 520 may be configured to perform one or more of the operations or procedures described herein. Therefore, the implementations described herein are not limited to any particular combination of hardware circuitry and software.

[0057] Figure 5 The number and arrangement of components shown are provided as an example. Device 500 may include components related to... Figure 5 The components shown are compared to additional components, fewer components, different components, or components arranged in a different manner. Additionally or alternatively, the group of components of device 500 (e.g., one or more components) can perform one or more functions described as being performed by another group of components of device 500.

[0058] Industrial applicability The wireless communication device described herein can be used to control the support functions of any machine utilizing support functions, such as pavers, milling machines, or other types of machines. Generally, a challenge in controlling the support functions of such machines is that the operator responsible for the support functions is deployed on the ground at the work site to monitor the results of the machine's operations and can only control the support functions by approaching and interacting with the machine's control panel while the machine is in motion. Due to constantly changing environmental conditions at the work site, such as weather, terrain, and other factors, the operator is often not near the control panel and cannot control the support functions even when needed. This affects the machine's performance during operations, thereby reducing the quality of the results of the machine's operations.

[0059] When the wireless communication device is near the machine, it can pair with the machine (e.g., wirelessly), allowing the layout configuration to be applied to one or more input components within the wireless communication device to control the machine's support functions. In this way, the wireless communication device provides support function control capabilities not available through other wireless methods. Furthermore, while the machine is in motion, the operator responsible for the machine's support functions can use the wireless communication device to control these functions without needing to approach and interact with the machine's control panel. Regardless of the environmental conditions at the work site or the operator's position relative to the machine's control panel, the operator can control the machine's support functions when needed, increasing the likelihood of operator control over these functions. This improves the machine's performance during operation, thereby enhancing the quality of the results achieved by the machine in performing the operation.

[0060] The wireless communication device can also support multiple layout configurations. For example, multiple layout configurations can be associated with multiple modes of the machine (e.g., operating mode, diagnostic mode, or maintenance mode, and other examples), thus allowing the wireless communication device to apply the layout configurations to modes corresponding to machine operation. As another example, multiple layout configurations can be associated with the location of the wireless communication device relative to the machine (e.g., the device is located on the front, right, left, rear, top, or bottom side of the machine, and other examples), thus allowing the wireless communication device to apply the layout configurations to locations corresponding to the wireless communication device (e.g., when the wireless communication device is located in a position associated with a specific side of the machine, enabling the wireless communication device to control support functions on that specific side). In this way, the wireless communication device provides interoperability to allow for customized control of the machine's support functions.

[0061] The wireless communication device can also enable its output components to present information indicating the location of the wireless communication device relative to the machine, such as alarms or messages indicating that the wireless communication device is not within the preferred range of the machine. In this way, the wireless communication device can provide relevant information to its operator, thereby improving control over the machine's support functions.

[0062] The wireless communication device may also include a measuring component to acquire measurement information associated with the results of operations performed by the machine. This measurement information can then be used to control at least one support function of the machine and reduce the need to deploy other measuring devices (e.g., devices for acquiring similar measurement information) at the work site.

[0063] Wireless communication devices can be integrated into a system that allows for wireless communication between the wireless communication device and machine components. Additionally, the system may include one or more other wireless communication devices, allowing multiple wireless communication devices to control the system's support functions. For example, an operator associated with the left side of the machine can use a first wireless communication device to control the support functions on the left side, while an operator associated with the right side of the machine can use a second wireless communication device to control the support functions on the right side. This type of functionality facilitates customized control of the machine's support functions and adapts to different types of operational tasks.

Claims

1. A wireless communication device, comprising: Communication components, configured to communicate wirelessly with the machine; One or more input components; as well as One or more processors, configured as follows: Determine that the wireless communication device is paired with the machine; Based on determining that the wireless communication device is paired with the machine, a first layout configuration associated with the machine is identified. The first layout configuration identifies the correspondence between a specific input component among the one or more input components and a specific supported function in the machine; and Apply the first layout configuration to the one or more input components.

2. The wireless communication device of claim 1, wherein the one or more processors are configured to determine that the wireless communication device is paired with the machine. Information identifying the machine is obtained from the input component of the one or more input components or from the communication component; Based on the information obtained to identify the machine, the communication component wirelessly sends a wireless pairing request to the machine. as well as After sending the wireless pairing request, pairing confirmation is wirelessly obtained from the machine via the communication component.

3. The wireless communication device according to any one of claims 1-2, wherein the first layout configuration is associated with a first mode of the machine. The one or more processors are further configured as follows: After applying the first layout configuration to the one or more input components, it is determined that the machine transitions from the first mode operation to the second mode operation; Identify the second layout configuration associated with the second mode of the machine. The second layout configuration identifies the correspondence between the specific input component and another specific supported function of the machine; and Apply the second layout configuration to the one or more input components.

4. The wireless communication device according to any one of claims 1-3, wherein the one or more processors are further configured as follows: After the layout configuration is applied to the one or more input components, information indicating the position of the wireless communication device relative to the machine is wirelessly acquired via the communication component; Based on the information indicating the position of the wireless communication device relative to the machine, at least one of the following is made: The first group of one or more input components of the one or more input components is enabled, or The second group of one or more input components is disabled.

5. The wireless communication device according to any one of claims 1-4, further comprising: Output components The one or more processors are further configured as follows: After the layout configuration is applied to the one or more input components, information associated with the position of the wireless communication device relative to the machine is wirelessly acquired via the communication component; as well as The output component provides a presentation of at least some of the information indicating the location of the wireless communication device relative to the machine.

6. The wireless communication device according to any one of claims 1-5, further comprising: Measuring components The one or more processors are further configured as follows: Obtain measurement information associated with the results of the operation performed by the machine from the measuring component; and The communication component wirelessly transmits the measurement information to the machine.

7. A system for wirelessly controlling the support functions of a machine, comprising: Wireless communication device, configured as follows: Determine that the wireless communication device is paired with the machine; Based on determining that the wireless communication device is paired with the machine, a first layout configuration associated with the machine is identified. The first layout configuration identifies the correspondence between a specific input component in one or more input components of the wireless communication device and a specific supported function in the machine; as well as The first layout configuration is applied to the one or more input components in the wireless communication device.

8. The system of claim 7, further comprising a charging component configured to be included in the machine. The charging component is further configured as follows: The battery of the wireless communication device is identified as being in a charging position relative to the charging component; Based on the recognition that the battery of the wireless communication device is in the charging position, the battery charging operation is initiated.

9. The system according to any one of claims 7-8, further comprising a controller and communication components configured to be included in said machine. The communication component is further configured to communicate wirelessly with the wireless communication device; The controller is further configured as follows: After the wireless communication device applies the first layout configuration to the one or more input components, it is determined that the machine is transitioning from a first mode of operation to a second mode of operation, and Based on determining that the machine is transitioning from the first mode of operation to the second mode of operation, the communication component wirelessly transmits mode information associated with the machine to the wireless communication device; and The wireless communication device is further configured as follows: Based on the pattern information associated with the machine, a second layout configuration associated with the second mode of the machine is identified. The second layout configuration identifies the correspondence between the specific input component and another specific supported function of the machine; and Apply the second layout configuration to the one or more input components.

10. The system according to any one of claims 7-9, further comprising another wireless communication device, The other wireless communication device is configured such that the second layout configuration is applied to one or more input components of the other wireless communication device. The first layout configuration is associated with a first side of the machine, and the second layout configuration is associated with a second side of the machine that is different from the first side.

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