Attachment Device Localization via Control Unit Status Monitoring
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing systems for locating misplaced attachment devices on construction equipment are time-consuming and inefficient, particularly in large construction sites, as they rely on manual searching and lack reliable localization methods that are not prone to damage or power requirements.
Innovation Solution
A system comprising a sensor configuration and a control unit that monitors the attachment status of the attachment device, stores location data upon de-attachment, and uses GPS or local coordinates to facilitate easy localization of the device, eliminating the need for a locator on the attachment device.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a locator such as GPS module is arranged on the attachment device, then the attachment device can be localized, but the locator may be damaged and/or may require electricity to function
Solution Approach 1:
The patent removes the GPS module and locator from the attachment device itself, extracting the localization function from the movable component. Instead, the working machine's control unit stores location data when the attachment device is de-attached, eliminating the need for a locator on the attachment device that could be damaged or require power.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary system consisting of the control unit and sensor configuration. This intermediary monitors the attachment status and stores location data, acting as a mediator between the attachment device and the localization function. The control unit serves as the intermediary that records where the attachment device was de-attached, enabling localization without requiring a locator on the attachment device itself.
2Device complexity
If manual searching is used to locate misplaced attachment devices, then no additional equipment is needed, but the search process is time-consuming and inefficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by having the control unit continuously monitor the attachment status of the attachment device and automatically store the location data at the moment of de-attachment. This preliminary recording of location information eliminates the need for manual searching later, as the location data is already prepared and stored when the attachment device is removed.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements feedback through the sensor configuration that continuously monitors the attachment status and provides real-time information to the control unit. When the attachment device is de-attached, the sensor configuration triggers the control unit to store the location data, creating a feedback loop that automatically updates the system with the current status and location without requiring manual intervention.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the attachment device is de-attached and left behind in the working site, then the working machine can perform other tasks, but the attachment device becomes difficult to locate and retrieve
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by automatically recording the location data at the moment of de-attachment. This ensures that when the attachment device needs to be retrieved, the location information is already stored and ready, enabling quick recovery without time-consuming searches while allowing the working machine to perform other tasks in the meantime.
Data Source
AI summary
A working machine includes an attachment device, and an attachment device carrying equipment enabling detachment and attachment of the attachment device. The working machine further includes a system for monitoring attachment status of the attachment device, the system including: a sensor configuration arranged and configured to indicate the attachment status of the attachment device, and a control unit configured to monitor the sensor configuration to establish the attachment status of the attachment device, and configured to store location data of the attachment device based on the attachment status of the attachment device. An indication that the attachment device is de-attached from the attachment device carrying equipment determines that the location data of the attachment device is stored.