Earthmoving Implement Controller Operator-Autonomous Mode Switching
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing autonomous systems for controlling earthmoving machine implements lack a mode where the operator is the primary controller, and there is no effective limiting function for operator commands, making it difficult to achieve precise surface contour or grade adjustments.
Innovation Solution
An implement control system with a controller that receives signals from both an input device indicative of the operator's desired movement and an automatically generated signal, determining whether to move the implement based on the operator's input or automatic adjustments, with the ability to generate control signals to move the implement when a portion is above a desired cutting plane.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If autonomous control is implemented to simplify operator control, then ease of operation is improved, but operator control capability deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The control system dynamically switches between autonomous control mode and operator control mode based on real-time conditions. When the implement portion is above the desired cutting plane, the system operates in autonomous mode to simplify control. When it is at or below the plane, operator control takes over, providing adaptability for different operational phases and conditions.
2Ease of operation
If operator control is allowed without limiting functions, then ease of operation is improved, but manufacturing precision deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The controller acts as an intermediary between the operator and the implement. It receives signals from both the operator input device and the automatic control system, processes them according to the implement position relative to the desired cutting plane, and generates appropriate control signals. This intermediary function ensures that operator control freedom is maintained while precision is preserved through automatic intervention when needed.
3Manufacturing precision
If automatic control is used for precise positioning, then manufacturing precision is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the precision positioning function from the overall control system and implements it as a separate automatic control module that operates independently based on implement position feedback. This modular approach allows precise positioning to be achieved without proportionally increasing the complexity of the entire control system, as the automatic control functions are isolated and can be managed separately from operator control functions.
Data Source
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AI summary
The disclosure describes, in one aspect, an implement control system that includes a controller operatively connected to an implement. The controller is adapted to receive a signal from an input device indicative of a desired implement movement by an operator and to receive an automatically generated signal indicative of an automatically determined implement movement. The controller is further adapted to determine whether to move the implement based on the input device signal or the automatically generated signal. The controller is adapted to generate a control signal to move the implement based on the input device signal when a portion of the implement is above a desired cutting plane.