Differential Milling and Paving Depth Control Using GNSS Data
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing construction projects require manual determination of milling or paving depths, which are inefficient and lack real-time automation, particularly in determining the actual elevation of the milling drum during operations.
Innovation Solution
A system where a working depth data set is created separately and loaded onto a construction machine's controller, using GPS or GNSS to determine the machine's location and adjust milling or paving depths based on pre-defined design surface data sets, eliminating the need for real-time elevation determination.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If manual determination of milling or paving depths is used, then the process is simple to operate, but the productivity is low and the manufacturing precision is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The system pre-calculates and stores the required milling or paving depth at various GPS coordinates before the actual operation. The working depth data set is created in advance by comparing design surface data with existing ground surface data, eliminating the need for real-time manual depth determination during operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The system continuously receives GPS location data during operation, automatically queries the pre-calculated working depth data set based on current position, and adjusts the working implement depth in real-time through automated feedback control, replacing manual observation and adjustment.
2Measurement precision
If real-time elevation determination of the milling drum is implemented, then the measurement precision is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of directly measuring the milling drum elevation with complex sensors, the system uses GPS location as an intermediary to indirectly determine the required working depth by querying pre-calculated data. This intermediate approach simplifies the measurement system while maintaining precision.
Solution Approach 2:
The system creates a digital copy of the terrain and design surface data in the form of a working depth data set, which can be quickly queried based on GPS position. This eliminates the need for complex real-time physical measurements by using pre-computed digital representations.
3Manufacturing precision
If manual depth adjustment by the operator is used, then the ease of operation is maintained, but the manufacturing precision of the milling or paving surface deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs automated depth control by itself based on GPS location and pre-stored working depth data, eliminating reliance on manual operator judgment and adjustment. The machine autonomously maintains the correct working depth through automated feedback control.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces manual mechanical depth adjustment with an automated electronic control system that uses GPS positioning and pre-calculated data to automatically control the working implement depth, improving precision while maintaining operational simplicity.
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
Automates the depth control process, ensuring precise milling or paving operations without manual adjustments, enhancing efficiency and accuracy by using pre-defined data sets and sensor inputs.
Implementation Method 1
determining a current geographic position of the construction machine using a global navigation satellite system receiver
Data Source
AI summary
A system of differential working is provided wherein a controller of a construction machine is provided with a working depth data set and with a design surface data set. A location of the construction machine within a reference system external to the construction machine is determined, for example using a global navigation satellite system. The controller may determine the desired working depth at the current locations of the ends of the working implement from the working depth data set. The controller may determine the desired cross-slope at the current location of the working implement from the design surface data set. The desired working depths and the desired cross-slope may be communicated to a grade control system of the controller.