Cold Planer Positioning Using Topographic Plane Guidance
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for guiding road construction machines along desired paths are labor-intensive, require skilled operators, and are prone to errors due to reliance on human observation, especially in conditions like night or curved sections, and are not effective for machines without consistent reference points like seams between paved and unpaved sections.
Innovation Solution
A road construction system that includes sensors to collect topographical data and a computer system to process it, generating plane equations for accurate positioning and orientation of working apparatuses, allowing for automatic adjustment and reduced operator skill requirements, even in the absence of consistent reference points.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If visual observation methods are used to guide road construction machines, then operator control is maintained, but positioning accuracy deteriorates due to human error and environmental conditions
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical/visual observation system with an automated sensor-based positioning system. Sensors mounted on the road construction machine automatically detect and track reference points (seams) without requiring operator visual observation, thereby improving positioning accuracy while reducing operator skill requirements.
Solution Approach 2:
The system enables the road construction machine to automatically position itself by detecting reference points and self-correcting its path. The machine performs its own guidance function through onboard sensors and control systems, eliminating the need for external visual monitoring and manual intervention.
2Measurement precision
If automated sensor systems are implemented, then positioning precision is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a universal reference point (seam) that serves multiple functions: it provides positioning reference, defines travel path, and enables depth control. This single reference structure supports the entire automated positioning system, reducing the need for multiple specialized components and simplifying the overall system architecture.
Solution Approach 2:
The seam acts as an intermediary element between the road construction machine and the control system. Instead of requiring complex direct measurement of machine position, the system uses the seam as a mediating reference that simplifies detection and positioning calculations.
3Manufacturing precision
If multiple passes are required for road construction, then coverage is improved, but productivity decreases due to repeated operations
Solution Approach 1:
The automated positioning system provides continuous feedback to the road construction machine, enabling real-time path correction and precise depth control during each pass. This feedback mechanism ensures that multiple passes maintain consistent quality while minimizing unnecessary rework, thereby improving overall productivity.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs preliminary positioning and path planning before the road construction machine begins its work. By pre-establishing the optimal travel path and depth parameters based on detected reference points, the system prepares the machine in advance, reducing the need for corrective adjustments during operation and improving construction speed.
Data Source
AI summary
A system for positioning a working apparatus of a road construction machine, where first and second areas are located forward and rearward, respectively, of the working apparatus. A positioning system includes a controller for changing a position or orientation of the working apparatus. A computer system receives and processes topographical data collected by sensors for points of interest in the first area to generate a first plane equation for a first plane containing at least three of the points of interest. By comparing the first plane equation with an initial position, the computer system determines a second position where the working apparatus can change the road surface from a first state to a second state. The computer system generates instructions for changing a position or orientation of the working apparatus from the initial position to the second position, and the controller executes those instructions.