Motor Grader Rear Object Detection Path Width Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Motor graders face challenges in detecting objects in their path of travel, especially when traveling rearward with articulated wheels, which widens the detection zone and complicates the operator's ability to identify potential obstacles.
Innovation Solution
A vehicle control system that includes a ground image sensor and an electronic control unit (ECU) to process images of the ground and determine the location of surface irregularities relative to the path of travel, providing warnings to the operator only for objects within the path and adjusting vehicle speed or direction accordingly.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If the motor grader travels rearward with articulated wheels and blade in different configurations, then the effective width of travel and zone of detection area increase, but the operator's ability to detect objects in the path of travel deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical/visual detection system with an electronic sensor system. A sensor array detects objects in the path of travel and provides electronic signals to a control unit, which then provides tactile feedback through the operator's seat or visual feedback through displays. This substitution allows the operator to detect objects even when the widened path of travel exceeds visual detection capabilities.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary detection system between the operator and the objects in the path of travel. The sensor array acts as an intermediary that extends the operator's detection capability beyond direct visual observation, providing information about objects that are outside the operator's direct line of sight or visual detection range.
2Area of stationary object
If the zone of detection area is widened through articulated wheels and blade configuration, then the path of travel coverage increases, but the complexity of monitoring all areas for objects increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the detection task across multiple sensors positioned at different locations on the motor grader. Each sensor monitors a specific sector of the path of travel, and the control unit integrates information from all sensors to provide comprehensive object detection. This segmentation allows coverage of the widened zone without requiring a single complex detection system.
Solution Approach 2:
The sensor array and control unit serve multiple functions: detecting objects in different configurations of the path of travel, providing tactile feedback, providing visual feedback, and adapting to various blade and wheel positions. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate detection systems for different operating conditions.
Data Source
AI summary
Detecting a surface irregularity on a surface for a vehicle moving forwardly or rearwardly along the surface, the vehicle having a frame supported by wheels and an implement adjustably coupled to the frame. Two of front and rear steering positions and an implement position are used to determine a path of travel of the vehicle. Surface irregularities of the surface within the path of travel are determined which triggers a warning to the vehicle. The speed of the vehicle can be decreased automatically to stop the vehicle before the vehicle impacts the surface irregularity. A vehicle zone of operation is determined based on the path of travel and a corresponding pair of gridlines is displayed on user interface. The pair of gridlines vary in shape, color, position, and orientation as the path of travel changes. The surface irregularity is illuminated relative to the pair of gridlines on the operator display.