Excavator Remote Mode Switching Delay for Safe Operator Evacuation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Hydraulic excavators can inadvertently start moving remotely before the operator has sufficiently distanced themselves from the machine when switching from onboard to remote control mode with the engine running.
Innovation Solution
A work machine with a controller that delays enabling remote operation until the engine is stopped, the lock valve is switched, and safety alarms are activated, ensuring the operator has enough time to evacuate before allowing remote control.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Speed
If the mode selecting operation part is operated while the prime mover is running, then the operation mode can be switched quickly from onboard operation mode to remote control mode, but the work machine may start moving remotely before the operator has sufficiently distanced themselves from the body
Solution Approach 1:
The controller automatically stops the prime mover before enabling remote control operation. This preliminary action ensures that the engine is halted prior to mode transition, preventing accidental remote movement and giving the operator time to evacuate safely while maintaining a smooth and automated switching process
2Loss of time
If the controller enables remote operation immediately after mode switching, then the operation response is fast, but the operator does not have enough time to evacuate from the machine
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary engine stopping and activates alarm notifications before enabling remote control. This sequence provides the operator with adequate warning and evacuation time while maintaining efficient overall switching time through automated coordination of these preliminary actions
Data Source
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AI summary
The work machine includes a controller that controls the operation of the work device according to the operation of the indoor operation device when the operation mode is switched to the onboard operation mode, and controls the operation of the work device according to the operation of the remote control device when the operation mode is switched to the remote control mode. And, when the first mode selecting operation is performed to switch from the onboard operation mode to the remote control mode by the mode selecting operation part, the time until the controller enables the operation of the work device by the remote control device is longer in the second time when the first mode selecting operation is performed during the operation of the prime mover than in the first time when the first mode selecting operation is performed during the non-operation of the prime mover.