Excavating Fleet Coordination via Machine-to-Machine Communication
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing excavating systems face productivity issues due to uncontrolled contact between machines, leading to potential damage and increased operator fatigue, as well as inefficiencies in coordinating multiple machines in excavating operations.
Innovation Solution
A machine-to-machine communication system is established to enable controlled contact between machines, utilizing cameras and sensors for precise positioning and communication, allowing for coordinated operation and reduced risk of damage during push/pull and hauling phases.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If multiple machines operate in contact mode (push/pull) to enhance productivity, then loading efficiency is improved, but machine damage risk and operator stress increase
Solution Approach 1:
A communication system acts as an intermediary between machines, enabling coordinated control during contact operations. The system transmits signals between operators of different machines, allowing them to synchronize their actions and control the degree of contact, thereby preventing damage while maintaining productivity benefits
Solution Approach 2:
The communication system provides real-time feedback between machines operating in contact mode. Operators can continuously exchange information about machine status, contact force, and operational conditions, enabling dynamic adjustment to prevent damage while maintaining efficient loading operations
2Productivity
If multiple machines operate in contact mode to enhance productivity, then loading efficiency is improved, but operator stress increases
Solution Approach 1:
The communication system serves as an intermediary that facilitates coordinated operation between multiple operators. By providing a direct communication channel, it reduces the mental burden of coordinating contact operations, allowing operators to work together more smoothly with less stress while maintaining high productivity
3Ease of operation
If machines operate in series without coordination to simplify operation, then individual machine operation is simplified, but downtime increases due to bunching
Solution Approach 1:
The communication system merges the operational control of multiple machines into a coordinated system. By enabling real-time communication between operators, it allows them to synchronize their operations and avoid bunching, thereby reducing downtime while maintaining operational simplicity
Solution Approach 2:
The communication system enables continuous coordination between machines operating in series, ensuring that each machine is ready for its next operation as soon as the previous one completes. This eliminates idle waiting time and maintains continuous productive action across the entire fleet
Data Source
AI summary
A method for enhancing productivity for an excavating operation is disclosed. The method includes establishing a machine-to-machine communication system for a fleet of machines, including at least two machines. The method also includes removing material during the excavating operation with at least a first machine of the fleet of machines. The method additionally includes operating a second machine of the fleet of machines in a mode involving contact between at least the first machine and the second machine. The method further includes employing the machine-to-machine communication system to effect controlled contact between at least the first machine and the second machine.