Laser Reference Tracking for Work Machine Grade Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional two-dimensional grade control systems for work machines struggle to maintain a common height reference during movement, requiring a common touch point or a laser plane, and lack the ability to orient internal slope commands relative to the laser plane's height.
Innovation Solution
A novel grade control system and method that tracks a laser reference and calculates control headings within the work machine's coordinate system, allowing for automatic determination of slope, direction, and height, and enabling operation without GNSS or inertial navigation systems.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a conventional laser receiver is used to sense the laser plane, then the depth of cut can be corrected for vertical reference changes, but the system cannot determine the slope and direction of the laser plane relative to the work machine
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from two-dimensional grade control (depth and slope in one direction) to three-dimensional grade control by adding lateral positioning capabilities through GNSS antenna and inertial navigation system, enabling the work machine to determine its position and orientation in three dimensions relative to the laser plane
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an inertial navigation system as an intermediary between the laser receiver and the control system, providing orientation data that allows the system to interpret laser plane measurements in the context of the work machine's current attitude and heading
2Manufacturing precision
If the work machine is oriented parallel or perpendicular to the laser plane slope, then the grade control system can cut the desired slope, but the system requires precise orientation knowledge that it lacks
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements feedback control by continuously monitoring the work machine's position and orientation through GNSS and inertial navigation sensors, comparing the actual orientation to the desired orientation relative to the laser plane, and automatically adjusting the ground engaging units to maintain the correct cutting angle
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical requirement for precise manual orientation of the work machine with an automated electronic control system that uses sensors and actuators to maintain the correct orientation automatically, eliminating the need for operator skill in aligning the machine
3Device complexity
If two-dimensional grade control is used, then the system can control depth and slope in one direction, but it cannot maintain a common height reference when the ground engaging units are moved
Solution Approach 1:
The patent makes the grade control system universal by integrating multiple reference systems (laser plane, GNSS, inertial navigation) that can work together to provide both two-dimensional and three-dimensional control capabilities, allowing the system to maintain common height references whether the machine is stationary or moving
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
Enables the operator to focus on height offset, with the machine automatically matching laser settings, improving precision and reducing operator complexity in maintaining accurate grade control during two-dimensional grading operations.
Implementation Method 1
receiving via the laser receiver a laser reference transmitted from a laser source
Data Source
AI summary
A system and method are provided for operating a work machine comprising a laser receiver and an implement for working a terrain. Responsive to movement of the laser receiver, a laser reference is received at a plurality of positions relative to a transmitting laser source, wherein the laser reference corresponds in slope and direction at a defined elevation offset with respect to a target surface profile of the terrain being worked. A plane of the laser reference is determined from data points corresponding to the plurality of positions at which the laser reference is received, and movement of at least the implement is controlled with respect to at least the determined plane of the laser reference and the defined elevation offset.