Excavator Repositioning Distance Calculation for Trench Efficiency
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing excavating machines, such as backhoe loaders and hydraulic excavators, face inefficiencies in repositioning between excavating phases due to reliance on operator judgment, leading to increased operational time and fatigue, as they often require multiple repositionings to complete a trench, with current technologies not providing a method for calculating and recommending an optimal repositioning distance.
Innovation Solution
A system and method that calculates and recommends an efficient permissible distance for machine repositioning based on the machine's maximum reach and trench geometry, using a control module that considers factors like machine geometry, soil type, and trench depth, to minimize repositioning distance and maximize productivity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If the machine repositions frequently to complete a trench, then the trench can be completed, but the operational time increases and productivity decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The control module calculates and determines the optimal repositioning distance before the operator executes the repositioning maneuver. By pre-calculating the maximum distance the machine can move while still reaching the bottom of the previously dug trench, the system prepares the optimal path in advance, minimizing unnecessary repositioning operations and reducing total repositioning time throughout the excavation process.
2Measurement precision
If the operator manually determines repositioning distance, then the machine can be repositioned, but operator fatigue increases and precision decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The control module automatically calculates the optimal repositioning distance based on machine geometry, trench depth, and soil type without requiring manual computation by the operator. The system uses stored geometric parameters and sensor data to self-determine the maximum permissible repositioning distance, eliminating the mental and physical burden on the operator while providing precise, consistent measurements.
Solution Approach 2:
The system continuously monitors the machine's position, trench depth, and operational parameters, using this feedback to dynamically calculate and adjust the optimal repositioning distance. The control module processes real-time data from sensors and GPS to provide accurate, situation-specific repositioning recommendations, ensuring precision while reducing operator cognitive load.
3Productivity
If the machine moves maximum distance during repositioning, then productivity increases, but the risk of unable to reach trench bottom increases
Solution Approach 1:
The control module dynamically adjusts the repositioning distance parameter based on changing conditions such as trench depth, soil type, and machine configuration. By calculating the maximum distance that maintains the ability to reach the trench bottom while accommodating varying operational parameters, the system optimizes repositioning efficiency without compromising the reliability of reaching the excavation target.
Data Source
AI summary
A system and method of assisting an operator of an excavating machine includes recommending a hop distance to move the machine based on the maximum distance that the machine can move and still be able to reach the bottom of the excavation that has already been dug by the machine during an excavating operation.