Earthmoving Machine Control Interface for Detachable Remote Operation

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Solution Overview

Problem

Earthmoving machines often require multiple controllers and displaying means for operators, which can be cumbersome and limit flexibility in operation, especially when working in different environments or with varying skill levels.

Innovation Solution

A control system that allows operation with one to four controllers, which can be attached or detached, and uses wireless communication to control earthmoving machines, adapting operation modes based on controller location, distance, and user skill level, providing customizable feedback through graphical, augmented, virtual, audiovisual, visual illumination, and haptic signals.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If multiple controllers and displaying means are used for operating earthmoving machines, then control functionality is comprehensive, but operator flexibility and ease of operation deteriorate

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecontrol functionalityVSAvoidoperator flexibility
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements a universal controller that can perform multiple functions depending on its location. The same controller can be used inside the cabin for full control or outside the cabin with simplified control, eliminating the need for separate controllers for different operating scenarios. This multi-functional approach maintains comprehensive control capabilities while simplifying the operator interface.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The controller's functionality dynamically adapts based on its detected location relative to the earthmoving machine. When detected outside the cabin, the controller automatically adjusts its operation mode to provide simplified controls suitable for remote operation, while inside the cabin it provides full control functionality. This dynamic adaptation resolves the contradiction by providing appropriate control complexity for each context.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

2Measurement precision

If fixed control interfaces inside the cabin are used, then control precision is maintained, but adaptability to different work environments deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecontrol precisionVSAvoidwork environment adaptability
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The control system dynamically changes its interface and functionality based on the controller's location. Inside the cabin, the full control interface with precise controls is available. When the controller is detected outside the cabin, the system automatically provides a simplified interface adapted for external operation, maintaining appropriate control precision for each environment.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The system changes operational parameters such as control sensitivity, available functions, and feedback mechanisms based on the detected working environment. This allows the control precision to be optimized for each specific context - full precision inside the cabin and adapted precision outside, resolving the contradiction between fixed precision and environmental adaptability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

3Adaptability or versatility

If multiple controllers are required for different operations, then control coverage is complete, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecontrol coverageVSAvoidnumber of controllers
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent employs a single universal controller that can handle all control operations regardless of location. This controller adapts its functionality based on whether it is inside or outside the cabin, providing complete control coverage with just one device rather than requiring multiple specialized controllers for different scenarios.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent merges the functionality of multiple potential controllers into a single multi-functional controller. By combining indoor and outdoor control capabilities into one device that automatically adapts to its location, the system reduces the total number of controllers needed while maintaining complete control coverage across all operating environments.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Data Source

PatentUS11486117B2Controlling earthmoving machines
Publication Date: 2022.11.01 NOVATRON
  • US11486117B2 patent drawing
  • US11486117B2 patent drawing

AI summary

The invention is based on controlling operations of an earthmoving machine controllable by the operator by using only one to four controllers and at least one displaying means for displaying controls selectable and controllable by the one to four controllers. The selections and controls of the operations for controlling the earthmoving machine may be transmitted to the control unit both by wire and wirelessly. Thus, the one to four controllers are operable both attached and detached. Further, the control system is arranged to determine the location of the one to four controllers with respect to the earthmoving machine.