Excavator Depth Control via Integrated Angular Sensors
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing excavator depth control systems are bulky, difficult to use, and require a dedicated operator due to the separation of the laser sensor from the monitoring device and the need for specialized equipment.
Innovation Solution
Integration of angular sensors with the excavator's arms and bucket, connected to a central unit and display, allowing for independent detection of the zero excavation level and instantaneous depth without the need for external laser sensors, using inertial measurement units and wireless communication for simplified installation and operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a separate laser sensor is used to detect zero excavation level, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity and ease of operation deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the laser sensor functionality with the existing angular sensors and control unit to form an integrated monitoring device. The laser sensor is no longer separate but incorporated into the monitoring system, eliminating the need for external laser equipment and dedicated operators while maintaining accurate zero level detection.
Solution Approach 2:
The monitoring device performs multiple functions: it detects angular variations of arms and bucket, determines zero excavation level, calculates excavation depth, and provides visual feedback. This multi-functional approach eliminates the need for separate dedicated equipment for each function.
2Measurement precision
If external laser sensor is used, then measurement precision is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates due to dedicated operator requirement
Solution Approach 1:
The monitoring device automatically performs zero level detection and excavation depth calculation without requiring a dedicated operator. The system self-calibrates by detecting when the bucket is at zero depth position and automatically records this as the reference level, eliminating manual intervention.
Solution Approach 2:
The system continuously monitors angular positions of arms and bucket, automatically calculates excavation depth in real-time, and provides visual feedback on the display. This closed-loop feedback eliminates the need for manual measurement and operator intervention.
3Measurement precision
If separate laser sensor is used, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent integrates the laser sensor functionality into the existing monitoring device structure, combining multiple sensor types (angular sensors and laser sensor) into a single unified system. This integration reduces overall system complexity and eliminates the need for separate external laser equipment.
Solution Approach 2:
The monitoring device is divided into functional modules: angular sensor units attached to arms and bucket, a control unit for processing data, and a display for output. This modular segmentation allows for easier installation and maintenance while maintaining measurement precision.
4Measurement precision
If traditional monitoring device is used, then measurement precision is maintained, but ease of manufacture and installation deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The monitoring device is divided into separate modular components: angular sensors that can be independently attached to arms and bucket, a control unit, and display. This segmentation enables flexible installation at different stages of excavator assembly and simplifies maintenance.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs preliminary calibration by automatically detecting the zero depth position and recording it as reference data before actual excavation work begins. This preliminary action ensures accurate measurements from the start without requiring complex setup procedures.
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
Enables easy installation, reduced sensor costs, and the use of common display and processing means, allowing operators to accurately control excavation depth with reduced complexity and increased adaptability.
Implementation Method 1
These sensors, first 6 and second 7, represent a solution of maximum flexibility, as they provide the orientation of each sensor 6, 7 with respect to a terrestrial inertial reference system.
Data Source
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AI summary
A control device for excavation depth (P) of an excavator (2), having a first arm (3), a second arm (4) and a bucket (5) mutually constrained, is provided with a first angular sensor (6) associated with first arm (3), a second angular sensor (7) associated with second arm (4), a central unit (8), to which are connected the first (6) and second (7) sensors and a display (9) connected to the central unit (8). The central unit (8) acquires main data of excavator (2) and initial values from first (6) and second (7) sensors, corresponding to angular dispositions of first arm (3) and second arm (4) respectively, on the basis of which the excavator determines a zero excavation quota (Q). The central unit (8) acquires continuous values from the sensors, corresponding to an excavation condition (S) to calculate the excavation depth (P) that is also visible on display (9).