Loader Bucket Fill Parameter Determination via Scanning
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing loaders lack an efficient and accurate method for determining the fill rate of their buckets, relying heavily on human judgment which can be subjective and inefficient.
Innovation Solution
Implementing a system that uses scanning devices, such as cameras or lidar sensors, to capture a representation of the bucket and determine its fill parameter value based on its profile and position relative to the scanning device, enabling automated control.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If human operators manually monitor loading to determine bucket fill rate, then the system requires no additional equipment, but the determination process becomes subjective and inefficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the manual visual assessment mechanism with an automated optical scanning system. The scanning device captures images of the bucket, and image processing algorithms automatically determine the fill rate, eliminating subjective human judgment and improving both accuracy and efficiency.
Solution Approach 2:
The system enables the loader to self-monitor its own bucket fill rate using integrated scanning devices and processing capabilities. The loader independently determines when the bucket is sufficiently filled without requiring external human observation, improving operational efficiency.
2Productivity
If automated scanning systems are implemented to determine bucket fill rate, then measurement accuracy and operational efficiency improve, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The scanning device is integrated into the existing loader control system, serving multiple functions including bucket fill rate determination, material type identification, and operational control. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate dedicated systems, thereby limiting the increase in device complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an image processing algorithm as an intermediary between the scanning device and the control system. This intermediary layer simplifies the overall system architecture by handling the complex image analysis tasks independently and providing standardized output to the control system.
3Speed
If manual monitoring of bucket loading is used, then equipment cost is minimized, but time consumption and operational speed decrease
Solution Approach 1:
The scanning device continuously or frequently scans the bucket during the loading process, allowing for real-time determination of fill rate. This continuous monitoring eliminates the time loss associated with periodic manual checks and enables faster operational decision-making.
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
This system enhances the accuracy and speed of determining the bucket fill rate, allowing for improved operational efficiency and automation of loader operations.
Implementation Method 1
receive, from a scanning device coupled to the loader, scanning data comprising a representation of the bucket
Data Source
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AI summary
Example embodiments related to controlling of a loader. An apparatus may comprise: at least one processor; and at least one memory including computer program code, the at least one memory and the computer program code configured to, with the at least one processor, cause the apparatus at least to: obtain information on a profile of a bucket of the loader; receive, from a scanning device coupled to the loader, scanning data comprising a representation of the bucket; determine a position of the bucket relative to the scanning device; determine a bucket fill parameter value based on the profile of the bucket, the representation of the bucket, and the position of the bucket relative to the scanning device; and provide an output based on the bucket fill parameter value.