3D Scanner Emulation for 2D Mining Vehicle Positioning
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Solution Overview
Problem
Mining vehicles equipped with 3D scanners face compatibility issues when operating with systems that rely on 2D worksite models, necessitating improved integration for accurate positioning and navigation.
Innovation Solution
An apparatus and method that convert 3D scanner data into emulated 2D scanner data by defining a 2D plane aligned with the horizontal plane of the vehicle, selecting measurements within defined areas, and providing 2D scanner data for positioning, enabling compatibility with 2D-based navigation systems.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If 3D scanner data is used for positioning, then positioning accuracy and navigation capability are improved, but compatibility with 2D-based systems deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a virtual copy of 2D scanner data from actual 3D scanner measurements. By selecting specific measurements from 3D data that correspond to what a 2D scanner would detect, the system generates emulated 2D scanner data that is compatible with existing 2D-based positioning systems while utilizing the enhanced capabilities of 3D scanning hardware.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transforms the data parameters by converting 3D spatial coordinates into 2D measurements. This involves changing the dimensional parameters from three-dimensional (x, y, z) to two-dimensional (x, y) coordinates, and transforming measurement types such as converting distance and elevation data into format compatible with 2D scanner expectations.
2Productivity
If 3D scanner data is processed directly, then navigation capability is improved, but integration complexity with existing 2D systems increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediary data transformation layer that converts 3D scanner output into emulated 2D scanner data format. This intermediary process acts as a bridge between the 3D scanning hardware and existing 2D-based positioning software, allowing both systems to work together without requiring complete system replacement or complex custom integration.
3Adaptability or versatility
If emulated 2D scanner data is provided from 3D scanner, then compatibility across different systems is improved, but information loss in vertical dimension occurs
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts only the necessary measurements from the 3D scanner data that are relevant for 2D positioning operations. By selectively taking out the horizontal position and distance measurements while excluding vertical position information, the system provides compatible data for 2D-based systems without attempting to transmit unnecessary vertical dimension data that would complicate the interface.
Data Source
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AI summary
According to an example aspect of the present invention, there is provided a method, comprising: receiving 3D scanner data and information of orientation of the scanner in relation to a horizontal plane of a mining vehicle, defining 2D plane aligned with the horizontal plane of the mining vehicle on the basis of the information of the orientation, defining a set of measurement areas having a distance in a vertical direction from the 2D plane, selecting, for each of the measurement areas, a measurement on the basis of the 3D scanner data and within a measurement area of the set, and providing 2D scanner data comprising the selected measurements to position the mining vehicle or another mining vehicle on the basis of 2D reference data.