Machine Detection System with Tailored Boundary Mapping
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing detection systems for machines at worksites, such as mine sites, suffer from blind spots due to the size and configuration of the machines, leading to inadequate operator visibility and sensitivity issues with universal software filters that fail to accurately detect objects near the machine or work tools.
Innovation Solution
A method involving sensors to map the outer boundaries of machines and work tools, generating electronic maps that closely match the specific configuration of each machine, allowing for precise detection of objects within the machine's range of motion and reducing false alarms by creating tailored maps during calibration.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a universal software-based filter is used for machine detection systems, then false alarms from machine components are avoided, but detection sensitivity is reduced due to overly broad filter regions
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by creating machine-specific filter regions that are precisely tailored to each machine's actual configuration rather than using universal filters. The filter regions are locally adapted to match the specific location and configuration of ladders, railings, chains, and other machine components, allowing high detection sensitivity in areas where objects should be detected while maintaining reliability by excluding only the specific components present on each machine.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes parameters by dynamically adjusting filter regions based on machine configuration data. During calibration, the system collects data about the specific machine's components and modifies the filter parameters accordingly. This allows the detection system to adapt its sensitivity and filter boundaries to match the actual machine setup, resolving the contradiction between being too sensitive (causing false alarms) and not sensitive enough (missing real objects).
2Ease of operation
If the scanning apparatus is positioned on top of the operator station, then operator visibility is maximized, but blind spots are created near the front end, rear end, and sides of the machine
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies segmentation by dividing the detection task into multiple scanning apparatuses positioned at different locations on the machine. Instead of relying on a single scanner that creates blind spots, the system uses multiple scanners strategically placed to cover different areas, including front, rear, and side regions that would otherwise be invisible to the operator.
Solution Approach 2:
The system addresses blind spots by adding spatial dimensions to the detection coverage. Multiple scanning apparatuses are positioned at various heights and locations (front, rear, sides) to create three-dimensional coverage of the machine's surroundings. This multi-dimensional approach ensures that objects in previously blind areas are detected without compromising operator visibility from the cab.
Data Source
AI summary
A method of mapping a machine having a work tool includes sensing an outer boundary of the machine and generating a first set of information indicative of the outer boundary of the machine, moving the work tool relative to the machine through substantially an entire range of motion of the work tool, and sensing an outer boundary of the work tool during movement of the work tool through substantially the entire range of motion. The method also includes generating a second set of information indicative of a location of the outer boundary of the work tool through substantially the entire range of motion, determining information indicative of a position of an object disposed proximate the machine, and determining whether the information indicative of the position of the object is included in either the first or second sets of information.