Machine Setting Prediction for Faster Operational State Transitions

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Solution Overview

Problem

Construction machinery, such as excavators and loaders, face inefficiencies due to the need for frequent adjustments of actuators and machine settings during transitions between operational states, which are not effectively anticipated by existing systems.

Innovation Solution

Implementing a system that uses machine learning mechanisms, specifically pattern detection AI and reinforcement learning AI, to identify the current operational state and predict subsequent states, allowing for pre-emptive adjustments to machine settings and actuators, thereby improving operational efficiency and speed.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If machine settings and actuators are adjusted manually during operational state transitions, then the machine can adapt to different operational states, but the transition speed and operational efficiency deteriorate due to delays in adjustment

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveadaptability to operational statesVSAvoidtransition time between states
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The system performs preliminary actions by predicting future operational states using machine learning models and proactively adjusting actuators and machine settings before the actual state transition occurs. This anticipatory adjustment eliminates waiting time during transitions while maintaining adaptability to different operational states.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The system continuously monitors current operational state, compares it with predicted future states, and uses this feedback loop to dynamically adjust settings. The reinforcement learning model learns from past transitions and refines predictions, enabling timely and accurate adjustments that reduce transition time while preserving adaptability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

2Productivity

If machine settings are adjusted frequently during operational transitions, then the machine responds better to different states, but the complexity of control systems increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveoperational efficiencyVSAvoidcontrol system complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The control system performs self-service by using machine learning models to automatically predict operational states and determine optimal actuator settings without requiring complex manual intervention or external control logic. The reinforcement learning model continuously improves its own performance by learning from operational data, reducing the need for increasingly complex control architectures while maintaining high productivity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The patent replaces traditional mechanical control systems with intelligence-based machine learning models. Instead of using complex mechanical switches, relays, or rule-based control logic to manage frequent adjustments, the system uses trained neural networks and reinforcement learning algorithms that can handle complex decision-making with simpler physical infrastructure, thereby improving productivity without proportionally increasing device complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

3Measurement precision

If data is continuously collected and models are frequently updated, then the prediction accuracy improves, but the computational resources and processing time increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveprediction accuracyVSAvoidcomputational energy consumption
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSUse of energy by moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The system employs periodic action by updating machine learning models at strategically determined intervals rather than continuously. Data is collected continuously, but model retraining and redeployment occur periodically when sufficient data has accumulated or when performance degradation is detected. This approach maintains high prediction accuracy while significantly reducing computational energy consumption compared to continuous model updates.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #19Periodic action

Solution Approach 2:

The system applies partial action by selectively updating models only when necessary - for example, when a threshold amount of new data is collected or when prediction accuracy drops below a certain level. Instead of continuously refining models with every new data point, the system performs targeted updates that maintain sufficient prediction accuracy while minimizing unnecessary computational energy expenditure.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #16Partial or excessive action

Data Source

PatentUS11697917B2Anticipatory modification of machine settings based on predicted operational state transition
Publication Date: 2023.07.11 DEERE & CO
  • US11697917B2 patent drawing
  • US11697917B2 patent drawing
  • US11697917B2 patent drawing

AI summary

Methods and systems for adjusting operating parameters of a machine in anticipation of a transition from a current operational state to a predicted subsequent operational state. An electronic controller receives a data stream indicative of actuator settings, sensor outputs, and/or operator control settings and applies a pattern detection AI that is configured to determine a current operational state of the machine based on patterns detected in the data stream. The controller then applies a reinforcement learning AI that is configured to produce as an output one or more target operating parameters based at least in part on a predicted subsequent operational state of the machine. The one or more target operating parameters are applied to the machine and at least one performance metric of the machine is monitored. The reinforcement learning Ai is retrained based at least in part on the monitored performance metric(s).