Excavator Object Detection Status Display for Impaired Camera Sensing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing shovels with person detecting functions may fail to detect individuals due to camera lens contamination or environmental conditions, leading operators to mistakenly believe there are no people present.
Innovation Solution
Incorporating an object detecting unit, such as cameras or sensors, to identify objects within a predetermined range, and a display system to indicate the operating condition of the detection function, allowing operators to recognize when detection is impaired.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a camera-based person detecting function is implemented, then the ability to detect persons around the shovel is improved, but the reliability of detection is worsened when the lens is dirty or environmental conditions are poor
Solution Approach 1:
The system provides feedback to the operator about the operating condition of the detection function through the display device. When detection reliability is compromised (e.g., dirty lens), the display shows that the detection function cannot properly detect objects, preventing false assumptions about the absence of persons.
Solution Approach 2:
The display device acts as an intermediary between the object detecting unit and the operator. It translates the operational status and reliability of the detection system into visible information, allowing the operator to understand when detection may be compromised without directly observing the lens or environmental conditions.
2Extent of automation
If the shovel relies on camera detection output, then automated person detection is improved, but the ease of operation is worsened when the operator cannot verify detection status
Solution Approach 1:
The display device provides continuous feedback about the detection system's operational status, enabling the operator to verify whether the automated detection function is working properly. This maintains ease of operation by allowing quick visual verification without requiring the operator to manually check detection conditions.
Data Source
Figure 1A
Figure 1B
Figure 1C
AI summary
A shovel according to an embodiment of the present invention includes a lower traveling body (1), an upper turning body (3) turnably mounted on the lower traveling body (1), a camera (20) attached to the upper turning body (3), a display device (14), and an object detecting unit configured to detect a predetermined object within a predetermined detection range set around the shovel. The operating condition of an object detecting function using the object detecting unit is displayed on the display device (14).