Construction Vehicle Commissioning Using GNSS Implement Geometry

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing commissioning processes for construction vehicles require numerous physical measurements to determine geometries and attributes, which are time-consuming and costly.

Innovation Solution

A method using a GNSS unit coupled to a construction vehicle's rigid member, such as a stick or arm, to measure a known point on a surface while the implement's working edge contacts the point in two orientations, determining geometric parameters based on GNSS positions, tilt/heading data, and angular rotation data.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If traditional commissioning processes use numerous physical measurements to determine geometries and attributes, then measurement precision can be maintained, but the process becomes time-consuming and costly

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemeasurement precisionVSAvoidcommissioning time
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces traditional mechanical measurement systems (tape measures, laser distance meters, angle meters, and complex measurement devices) with a GNSS-based positioning system. The GNSS receiver determines the position of the implement's working edge by receiving satellite signals and calculating coordinates, eliminating the need for physical contact measurements and complex mechanical measurement apparatus while maintaining sufficient precision for commissioning purposes

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent introduces a GNSS receiver as an intermediary device that indirectly determines the position of the implement's working edge. Instead of directly measuring distances and angles with physical tools, the system uses the GNSS receiver to capture position data, which is then processed to calculate the working edge coordinates. This intermediary approach simplifies the measurement process and reduces commissioning time

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Measurement precision

If traditional commissioning processes use numerous physical measurements and complex devices, then geometric parameters can be accurately determined, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvegeometric parameter accuracyVSAvoidmeasurement device complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces complex mechanical measurement devices (multiple sensors, angle meters, laser devices) with a single GNSS receiver that integrates positioning functionality. The GNSS receiver captures position data and, through computational processing, determines all necessary geometric parameters (coordinates of pivot points, working edge positions) without requiring complex mechanical measurement apparatus

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The GNSS receiver serves multiple functions in the commissioning process: it determines the position of the implement's working edge, calculates coordinates of pivot points, and provides data for computing geometric parameters. This multi-functional device replaces numerous specialized measurement tools, reducing overall system complexity while maintaining measurement accuracy

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

3Measurement precision

If traditional commissioning processes require numerous physical measurements, then complete geometric data can be collected, but the commissioning cost increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvegeometric data completenessVSAvoidcommissioning cost
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces expensive mechanical measurement systems with a GNSS-based solution that uses satellite positioning to determine geometric parameters. The GNSS receiver, combined with computational algorithms, collects complete geometric data (positions, coordinates, dimensions) at a fraction of the cost of traditional measurement equipment, making commissioning more economically viable

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The system enables self-service commissioning by allowing operators to collect geometric data using the GNSS receiver without requiring specialized measurement equipment or expert operators. The automated positioning and calculation processes reduce the need for professional surveyors or measurement specialists, thereby reducing commissioning costs

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

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

Simplifies the commissioning process by reducing the number of measurements required and significantly reducing the time needed, thereby saving time and costs.

Implementation Method 1

a GNSS unit configured to receive GNSS signals for position

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectGNSS signal reception:

Implementation Method 2

receive sensor outputs for determining tilt and heading

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectSensor output processing:

Implementation Method 3

An angular rotation of the bucket between the first rotational position and the second rotational position is determined using outputs from an IMU coupled to the bucket

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectIMU sensor output:

Data Source

PatentEP4145179B1Commissioning a construction vehicle for machine control
Publication Date: 2026.03.11 TRIMBLE INC
  • EP4145179B1 patent drawingFigure 1A~1C
  • EP4145179B1 patent drawingFigure 2
  • EP4145179B1 patent drawingFigure 3

AI summary

Methods for commissioning a construction vehicle for machine control operations are provided. A GNSS receiver configured for determining position information, tilt information, and heading information is coupled to a rigid member of the construction vehicle. The commissioning process provides parameters that can be used for tracking and controlling movement of an implement coupled to the construction vehicle during the machine control operations.