Excavation Control System for Productivity Optimization
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing automated machine control systems for excavation are limited in their ability to optimize productivity across different machine configurations and work sites, as they rely on predefined curves that are specific to a single machine and work tool configuration, making them inapplicable to machines with varying capacities or configurations.
Innovation Solution
A control system that includes sensors to determine current travel speed and material removal, calculating a productivity value, and adjusting the amount of material excavated to maximize productivity, allowing for real-time optimization of machine operation regardless of machine or work tool configuration.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Extent of automation
If a predefined productivity curve is used for control, then machine operation can be automated, but the system becomes inapplicable to machines with different configurations or capacities
Solution Approach 1:
The system changes the control parameter from a fixed predefined curve to a dynamically calculated productivity value that adapts to different machine configurations, capacities, and operating conditions. The controller continuously determines current productivity based on actual machine parameters rather than relying on a static curve, enabling automation across diverse machine types.
2Ease of operation
If manual control is used, then the operator can adjust to different conditions, but productivity optimization becomes complex and labor intensive
Solution Approach 1:
The system implements feedback by continuously monitoring actual machine operation and comparing it to optimal productivity targets. The controller receives input from sensors about current operating conditions and automatically adjusts control signals to maintain optimal productivity, eliminating the need for manual optimization while preserving adaptability.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs self-service by automatically determining optimal excavation parameters and controlling the machine without operator intervention. The controller calculates productivity values and adjusts operating conditions autonomously, freeing the operator from complex optimization tasks while maintaining high productivity.
3Productivity
If the machine operates at maximum material removal, then productivity increases, but travel speed decreases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The system applies dynamics by continuously adjusting the balance between material removal and travel speed based on real-time operating conditions. Rather than maintaining a fixed relationship, the controller dynamically optimizes the trade-off between excavation depth and travel speed to maximize overall productivity, adapting to changing terrain and machine states.
Data Source
AI summary
A control system for a mobile excavation machine is disclosed. The control system may have a ground engaging work tool, a sensor, and a controller. The sensor may be configured to sense a parameter indicative of a current travel speed of the mobile excavation machine and generate a speed signal in response thereto. The controller may be in communication with the ground engaging work tool and the sensor, and configured to receive the signal. The controller may also be configured to determine an amount of material currently being moved by the work tool and calculate a current productivity value associated with removal of the material based on the speed signal and the determined amount of material currently being moved. The controller may be further configured to control the ground engaging work tool to vary the amount of material currently being moved in response to the current productivity value.