Construction Machine Control Mode Priority for Conflict-Free Transitions
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Solution Overview
Problem
Transitioning between manned and autonomous control modes in construction vehicles is not adequately coordinated, leading to conflicts and undesirable effects on the vehicle's operation.
Innovation Solution
A method where a machine is configured to operate in multiple modes with priority assignments, allowing it to selectively deny or enable actions based on the current and requested modes of operation, ensuring that the higher-priority mode takes precedence.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If the construction vehicle allows transition between manned and autonomous modes without coordination, then the vehicle can operate in multiple control modes, but conflicts arise during mode transitions causing undesirable effects on operation
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary actions by detecting operator presence before allowing mode transitions to occur. The controller checks whether the operator is present in the cabin before permitting transition from autonomous to manned mode, and verifies operator absence before allowing transition from manned to autonomous mode. This preliminary detection prevents conflicting transitions and ensures reliable mode switching.
2Extent of automation
If the vehicle transitions to autonomous mode while operator is present in cabin, then autonomous operation can be initiated, but conflict occurs between manned and autonomous control
Solution Approach 1:
The system applies preliminary anti-action by detecting operator presence in the cabin and preventing the autonomous mode transition from occurring. The controller actively blocks the transition command when the operator is detected to be present, thereby preventing the harmful control conflict before it can arise. This ensures that autonomous mode only activates when the cabin is clear of operators.
3Ease of operation
If the vehicle transitions from manned to autonomous mode without coordination, then operational flexibility is maintained, but unexpected effects occur on vehicle operation
Solution Approach 1:
The system implements feedback by continuously monitoring operator presence status and using this information to control mode transitions. The controller receives feedback about whether the operator is present in the cabin and adjusts its decision-making accordingly, allowing transitions only when feedback indicates appropriate conditions. This feedback mechanism ensures predictable and reliable mode switching while maintaining operational flexibility.
Data Source
AI summary
A controller may configure the machine to operate in a plurality of modes including a manned control mode, a remote control mode, and an autonomous control mode. The controller may receive a request to cause the machine to perform an action; and determine a requested mode of operation of the machine associated with the request. The requested mode of operation may be one of the plurality of modes. The controller may selectively deny the request or enable the machine to perform the action based on a priority assigned to a current mode of operation of the machine and a priority assigned to the requested mode of operation.