Augmented Loader Control for Obstruction Mapping and Repeat Tasks
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Solution Overview
Problem
Power machines, such as compact loaders, face challenges in efficiently performing repetitive tasks due to the need for continuous operator intervention, which can lead to inefficiencies and increased time required for completing tasks.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of an augmented control system that allows power machines to learn and autonomously perform repetitive tasks by initiating a learning mode, setting a home position, and recording operations, enabling the machine to automatically repeat the task cycle as specified.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If continuous operator intervention is used to control power machines for repetitive tasks, then the machine can perform tasks with human judgment and adaptability, but the task completion time increases and operator fatigue increases
Solution Approach 1:
The power machine performs repetitive tasks autonomously without continuous operator intervention. The control system executes recorded task cycles automatically, allowing the machine to serve itself by repeating operations without human input, thereby reducing operator fatigue and increasing productivity
Solution Approach 2:
The system records a task cycle during a learning phase and creates a digital copy of the operator's control inputs. This copied data is then replayed automatically to reproduce the task repeatedly, eliminating the need for continuous human intervention while maintaining consistent task execution
2Productivity
If an augmented control system is implemented to enable autonomous operation, then productivity and efficiency are enhanced, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary action by recording the task cycle during a learning phase before autonomous execution. This pre-recording of control inputs and machine states enables the system to automatically reproduce tasks without requiring complex real-time decision-making algorithms during execution
Solution Approach 2:
The control system uses feedback from position sensors and machine state monitoring to verify that the power machine is correctly executing the recorded task cycle. This feedback mechanism ensures accurate reproduction of tasks while maintaining relatively simple control logic compared to full autonomous systems
3Extent of automation
If a learning mode is implemented to record task cycles, then the machine can autonomously perform repetitive tasks, but the initial setup time and system complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The learning mode performs preliminary action by recording the task cycle during an initial setup phase. This one-time recording process captures all necessary control inputs and machine states, allowing the system to execute tasks autonomously thereafter without requiring additional setup time for each task repetition
Data Source
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AI summary
The present invention discloses a method of mapping obstruction zones of a work area on a workplace map and providing augmented control of a power machine, the method comprising: identifying an obstruction zone for an obstruction in the work area using a first portable positioning device to tag a position of the obstruction; identifying a position of a power machine at a first location in the work area using the first portable positioning device; identifying a position of the power machine at the first location in the work area using a second positioning device; identifying position information of the power machine at a second location in the work area using the first portable positioning device; identifying a position of the power machine at the second location in the work area using the second positioning device; generating an error correction factor based upon the positions of the power machine at the first location in the work area identified using the portable positioning device and the second positioning device, and based upon the positions of the power machine at the second location in the work area identified using the portable positioning device and the second positioning device; recalculating the identified obstruction zone in the work area using the error correction factor to obtain a recalculated obstruction zone; and using a controller configured with the recalculated obstruction zone to control travel of the power machine in the work area to avoid contact with the obstruction.