Excavation Volume Calculation Using Sensor Trajectories
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for calculating excavation volumes on construction sites are inefficient and prone to inaccuracies, particularly in determining the extent of excavation work, which affects remuneration and billing, as they require manual measurements that can be time-consuming and costly.
Innovation Solution
A method using sensors such as inertial measuring units, angle sensors, and linear sensors to track the movement trajectory of a tool's end effector, classifying the trajectory into excavation and non-excavation segments based on machine load data and machine learning algorithms, allowing for automated calculation of excavated volumes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If manual measurements are used to calculate excavation volumes, then the calculation can be performed, but the process is time-consuming and prone to inaccuracies
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual mechanical measurement systems with an automated sensor-based measurement system. Sensors mounted on the construction machine automatically track the movement trajectory of the tool, eliminating the need for manual measurements and providing continuous, accurate data for excavation volume calculation.
Solution Approach 2:
The construction machine performs self-measurement by using its own sensors to automatically track its tool's movement trajectory. The system calculates excavation volumes autonomously without requiring external manual intervention, enabling real-time monitoring and documentation of construction progress.
2Extent of automation
If sensors are installed on each link of the tool arm to track movement trajectory, then automated excavation volume calculation is enabled, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses universal sensors that can be mounted on different links of the tool arm to perform multiple measurement functions. The same sensor technology (accelerometers, gyroscopes, magnetometers) serves to track position, orientation, and movement trajectory, reducing the need for specialized components and simplifying the overall system.
Solution Approach 2:
The measurement system is segmented into modular sensor units that can be independently installed on specific links of the tool arm. This segmentation allows flexible configuration where sensors are placed only where needed, reducing overall system complexity while maintaining automated measurement capability.
3Measurement precision
If machine load data is used to classify movement trajectory into excavation and non-excavation segments, then accurate excavation volume calculation is achieved, but the difficulty of detecting and measuring increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses machine load data as feedback to continuously classify movement trajectory segments. By monitoring load conditions during tool movement, the system automatically identifies excavation versus non-excavation phases, enabling precise excavation volume calculation through real-time data feedback loops.
Solution Approach 2:
Machine load data serves as an intermediary parameter that bridges the gap between raw movement trajectory data and meaningful excavation volume information. The load data mediates the classification process, translating complex trajectory information into distinguishable excavation and non-excavation segments without requiring direct complex analysis of movement patterns alone.
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to a method for calculating an excavation volume (AV) that was excavated by a construction machine (1) by means of a tool (2). A motion trajectory (BT) of the tool (2) over time is determined by means of one or more of the following sensors: inertial measurement unit, angle sensors, linear sensors. Then at least part of the motion trajectory (BT) is classified by means of machine load data as an excavation trajectory (AT) during which excavation occurs. The excavation volume (AV) is subsequently calculated using the excavation trajectory (AT) and the dimensions (MW) of the tool (2).