Mobile Work Machine Wear Detection via Topological Sensor Analysis
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Solution Overview
Problem
Mobile work machines face challenges in accurately detecting wear and deterioration of components, such as milling teeth, and suboptimal settings, which often require manual observation by trained operators, leading to inaccuracies.
Innovation Solution
A machine performance detection system using topological analysis of sensor signals to generate a topological representation, allowing for the identification of anomalies and determination of wear or incorrect settings, and generating control signals for corrective actions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If manual observation by trained operators is used to detect component wear, then human judgment and experience can be utilized, but detection accuracy is reduced and the process is inefficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual visual inspection by operators with an automated image processing system using cameras and computer vision algorithms. The system captures images of components (milling teeth, breaker bars) and automatically analyzes their condition through pixel-based image processing, eliminating human subjectivity and improving both accuracy and efficiency of wear detection
Solution Approach 2:
The system enables the machine to self-diagnose its own component condition through automated image capture and analysis. The imaging system continuously monitors components and automatically determines wear levels without requiring external operator intervention, allowing the machine to perform self-inspection and self-assessment of its mechanical health
2Reliability
If manual observation methods are used, then equipment can be monitored, but the detection process is time-consuming and labor-intensive
Solution Approach 1:
The imaging system operates continuously during machine operation, capturing images of components at regular intervals without interrupting work. The system maintains continuous monitoring of component condition, processing images in real-time to detect wear progression, thereby eliminating the need for periodic shutdowns for manual inspection and reducing detection time while maintaining reliable monitoring
3Measurement precision
If topological analysis of sensor signals is used, then automated detection accuracy is improved, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediary image processing layer between the physical component and the detection system. Instead of directly analyzing complex mechanical wear patterns, the system uses images as an intermediary representation that can be processed through standardized computer vision algorithms, simplifying the detection process while maintaining high accuracy through pixel-based topological analysis of component features
Data Source
AI summary
A mobile work machine includes a sensor configured to generate a sensor signal indicative of operation of the mobile work machine, a machine performance detection system configured to receive the sensor signal, generate a topological representation of the sensor signal, and determine a machine performance characteristic based on the topological representation relative to a reference model, and a control system configured to generate a control signal to control the mobile work machine based on the machine performance characteristic.