3D Control System for Construction Machines Using Rotating Mobile Unit
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional 3D control systems for construction equipment, particularly paving and curbing machines, face inaccuracies in determining the location, direction, and orientation of machines, leading to inefficiencies and errors in maintaining precise three-dimensional forms during construction, as they rely on single-point positional data and require external references like string lines.
Innovation Solution
A 3D control system utilizing a rotating mobile unit assembly with a location-determination device that operates in conjunction with a fixed base station to provide geodetic information, including location, direction, and orientation of the construction machine, allowing for accurate control of operational functions without the need for external references like string lines.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If a single-point positional data system is used to control construction machines, then the device complexity is reduced, but the measurement precision and manufacturing precision deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the control system into multiple independent measurement units (first mobile unit and second mobile unit) that can determine position and orientation separately. Each mobile unit functions as an independent measurement component, allowing the system to achieve high precision without requiring a single complex centralized system.
Solution Approach 2:
The mobile units are designed to perform multiple functions: determining horizontal position, vertical position, and orientation simultaneously. This multi-functional capability allows the system to maintain high measurement precision across multiple parameters while using standardized, relatively simple mobile unit components.
2Measurement precision
If external references like string lines are used, then the measurement precision improves, but the ease of operation and productivity deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces mechanical reference systems (string lines, stakes, and markers) with mobile units equipped with location-determination devices that use electronic and optical technologies. This substitution eliminates the need for physical external references, maintaining high location accuracy while significantly improving ease of operation and construction productivity.
Solution Approach 2:
The mobile units are self-contained systems that carry their own location-determination devices and processing capabilities. They independently determine position and orientation without requiring external reference structures, enabling continuous operation and eliminating the need for frequent reestablishment of construction locations.
3Device complexity
If conventional 3D control systems are used, then the device complexity is reduced, but the reliability and measurement precision worsen due to inaccuracies in determining location, direction, and orientation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs different types of mobile units (first and second mobile units) with specialized location-determination devices suited for specific measurement needs. Each mobile unit is optimized for its particular function, with the first unit potentially focusing on horizontal position and the second on vertical position and orientation, thereby achieving high reliability through specialized local optimization rather than a generic system.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from two-dimensional positional control to three-dimensional control by adding vertical position determination capability alongside horizontal position and orientation. This dimensional expansion allows the system to accurately control and monitor the spatial coordinates of construction equipment in all three dimensions, significantly improving reliability for three-dimensional construction tasks.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This solution enables precise control of construction machines, improving accuracy and reducing operator errors by continuously determining and adjusting the machine's position and orientation, thus enhancing the reliability and efficiency of construction processes.
Implementation Method 1
the base station is a robotic laser-based tracking station, sometimes called a 'total station,' and the mobile unit is a prism, wherein the robotic tracking station produces one or more lasers and directs them toward the construction equipment, and more particularly, toward the prism
Data Source
AI summary
A construction system utilizing 3D control includes a fixed base station of known location; a self-propelled construction machine located in the general vicinity of the fixed base station; and a rotating mobile unit assembly mounted on the self-propelled construction machine and having a location-determination device arranged to rotate around an axis. The location-determination device is adapted to operate in conjunction with the fixed base station to determine geodetic information about the self-propelled construction machine.