GPS-Guided Road Marking AGV for Single-Operator Accuracy
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current road marking systems are time-consuming, complicated, and prone to human errors due to the need for multiple operators to measure, apply masking tape, and spray markings, resulting in inaccuracies.
Innovation Solution
An automatic road marking system comprising a pilot vehicle and an autonomous guided vehicle (AGV) that uses GPS modules, cameras, and sensors to autonomously map and apply road markings, reducing the need for multiple operators and enhancing precision.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If multiple operators are used to measure, apply masking tape and spray markings, then the road marking process can be completed, but the process becomes time-consuming and complicated
Solution Approach 1:
The system enables self-service operation where the road marking machine automatically performs measurement, positioning, and marking operations without requiring multiple operators. The machine uses its own sensors, GPS, and control systems to complete all tasks autonomously, reducing the workforce from multiple operators to a single operator who only needs to drive the vehicle.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces manual mechanical operations with automated electronic and optical systems. Instead of operators manually measuring with tapes, positioning with masking tape, and operating spray mechanisms, the system uses GPS for positioning, optical sensors for detection, and automated control systems for spray operation, thereby reducing human involvement and increasing efficiency.
2Reliability
If multiple operators manually measure and mark the road, then the process can be completed, but human errors increase reducing accuracy and reliability
Solution Approach 1:
The system incorporates continuous feedback loops where optical sensors detect the road surface and marking quality in real-time, GPS provides continuous position data, and the control system adjusts spray operations based on this feedback. This closed-loop control ensures high accuracy and consistency without relying on human judgment, eliminating errors associated with manual measurement and positioning.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces error-prone manual operations with automated electronic measurement and control systems. GPS provides precise positioning data, optical sensors enable accurate road surface detection, and computer-controlled spray mechanisms ensure consistent marking application, all of which eliminate human errors in measurement, positioning, and execution.
3Productivity
If traditional road marking systems are used with multiple operators, then markings can be applied, but the process requires masking tape and multiple steps increasing time consumption
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary actions automatically through its sensors and positioning systems before marking begins. The optical sensors pre-scan the road surface to detect edges and features, GPS pre-calculates the marking path and positions, and the control system pre-positions the spray mechanism, eliminating the need for manual masking tape application and preliminary measurements by operators.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent enables continuous operation where the machine continuously measures, positions, and marks the road surface in a single uninterrupted pass. The automated systems allow the spray mechanism to operate continuously without stopping for masking tape application or manual repositioning, maintaining continuous useful action throughout the marking process and significantly reducing total time required.
Data Source
Figure 1
AI summary
An automatic road marking system (1), comprising a pilot vehicle (2) provided with a first GPS module (23), cameras (24a, 24b), a tank (25) and a control unit (6) with wireless transmitter and an automatic guided vehicle (AGV) (3) comprising: a motor and a steering system, a second GPS module (33), spray nozzles (34a, 34b), a hydraulic circuit (40), and an electronic control unit (ECU) (7) with a receiver (70) coupled with the transmitter (60) of the control unit of the pilot vehicle; the system also comprises a third GPS module (8) suitable for being disposed in a fixed position in the proximity of the carriageway or on the carriage way where the road markings are to be made.