Autonomous Machine Performance Monitoring and Alert System
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Solution Overview
Problem
Monitoring systems for machines at work sites struggle to efficiently detect and alert operators about degraded performance or inefficiencies in autonomous or semi-autonomous operations, particularly in environments unsuitable for human operators or where repetitive tasks are performed.
Innovation Solution
A system comprising a prime mover, ground-engaging drive mechanism, and sensors connected to a controller that stores performance thresholds, generates propulsion commands, and receives signals to determine performance characteristics, triggering alert commands if these characteristics do not meet the set thresholds.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If autonomous or semi-autonomous machines operate without continuous human monitoring, then productivity and consistency are improved, but the ability to detect and respond to performance degradation is worsened
Solution Approach 1:
The system continuously monitors machine performance parameters (speed, location, engine RPM, implement position) and compares them against expected values from the work plan. When deviations exceed thresholds, alert commands are generated and transmitted to the operator, creating a closed-loop feedback system that maintains autonomous operation while enabling timely human intervention when performance degradation occurs.
Solution Approach 2:
The monitoring system acts as an intermediary between the autonomous machine and the human operator. It processes raw sensor data, evaluates performance against thresholds, and translates complex operational data into simplified alert commands, allowing the operator to remain informed without requiring constant attention or direct control of the machine.
2Adaptability or versatility
If an operator monitors multiple machines manually, then flexibility and adaptability are improved, but the time and attention required for effective monitoring increases
Solution Approach 1:
Each machine performs self-monitoring of its own performance parameters against pre-defined thresholds. The system automatically detects performance degradation and generates alerts without requiring continuous operator attention, allowing operators to manage multiple machines efficiently while maintaining adaptability through selective intervention when alerts are received.
3Measurement precision
If performance thresholds are set for monitoring machine operation, then detection accuracy is improved, but the complexity of the monitoring system increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system monitors key performance parameters (speed, location, engine RPM, implement position) and compares them against threshold values derived from the work plan. By focusing on critical parameters with defined thresholds rather than attempting to monitor all possible variables, the system achieves accurate performance detection while maintaining manageable complexity through selective parameter monitoring.
Data Source
AI summary
A system for monitoring a machine at a work site includes a prime mover, a ground-engaging drive mechanism to propel the machine, and a plurality of sensors. A controller generates propulsion commands to propel the machine about the work site in an autonomous or semi-autonomous manner and determines a plurality of performance characteristics of the machine. The controller further determines whether the plurality of performance characteristics meet a plurality of performance thresholds and generates an alert command if any of the plurality of performance characteristics do not meet the plurality of performance thresholds.