Work Machine Implement Shape Determination via Reference Point
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing systems lack an efficient method to determine the shape of non-load receiving portions of implements used in construction machines, such as excavators, due to the absence of a standard for communicating complex shape data between implement manufacturers and work machine operators.
Innovation Solution
A control unit for work machines that determines the shape of an implement by using a position determining assembly to move the implement until it contacts a reference surface, determining the position of a reference point, and calculating the position of points on the implement's periphery relative to the reference point, generating implement delimiting planes for various orientations, and superposing these planes to form an aggregate representation of the implement's shape.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of information
If implement shape data is communicated using non-standard methods, then shape information can be transmitted, but the complexity of data distribution increases and reliability decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transforms complex 3D implement shape data into a simplified parameter set consisting of a reference point position and multiple peripheral point positions relative to the reference point. This parameter transformation enables reliable data transmission while maintaining complete shape information, resolving the contradiction between information completeness and communication reliability.
2Measurement precision
If complex shape data with varying radii of curvature is distributed, then accurate shape information is provided, but the device complexity for processing and storing this data increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the implement shape into discrete measurement points: one reference point and multiple peripheral points. Each point is defined by simple coordinates relative to the reference point, avoiding the need to store and process complex continuous geometry data. This segmentation maintains measurement precision while significantly reducing control unit complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the data representation from complex geometric parameters (varying radii of curvature, continuous surfaces) to simple positional parameters (coordinates of discrete points). This parameter transformation enables accurate shape representation with minimal data storage and processing requirements, resolving the contradiction between precision and device complexity.
3Ease of operation
If a standard method for communicating implement shape data is established, then ease of operation improves, but adaptability to different implement manufacturers and machine types decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a universal data communication method that can be applied across different implement manufacturers and work machine types. The standardized approach of using reference points and peripheral points is manufacturer-agnostic and machine-type-agnostic, enabling ease of operation while maintaining broad adaptability. The method works for any implement shape without requiring manufacturer-specific or machine-specific modifications.
Data Source
Figure 1
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Figure 3A~3C
AI summary
The present disclosure relates to a control unit (30) for a work machine (10). The work machine (10) comprises an implement (14) and an arrangement (32) for determining the position and orientation of the implement (14). The control unit (30) is adapted to, for at least two different orientations of the implement (14), perform the steps of: - determining that the implement (14) contacts a reference surface (38), - determining the position of a reference point (40) for the implement (14) when the implement (14) and the reference surface (38) are in contact with each other, and - determining the position of a point on the periphery of the implement (14) relative to said reference point (40) by using said reference point position (44).