Object Detection Warning Widget for Machine Blind Spots
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Solution Overview
Problem
Operators of large machines at worksites face challenges in accurately navigating their surroundings due to blind spots and low visibility areas, which can lead to potential collisions with objects in their vicinity.
Innovation Solution
An object detection warning system is implemented on the machine, comprising object detection modules and cameras that detect objects within a predefined range, and a controller that activates threat level indicators on a display unit to alert the operator of potential hazards based on distance and position, providing a visual warning through a threat warning widget.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of information
If the operator directly views the machine surroundings, then the operator can see the visible portions, but the operator cannot see the blind spots and low visibility areas
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces cameras as intermediary devices positioned on the machine to capture images of blind spots and low visibility areas. These camera images are then transmitted to a display unit inside the operator cab, allowing the operator to see areas that would otherwise be invisible. This intermediary system bridges the gap between the operator's limited direct view and the need for comprehensive situational awareness.
2Loss of information
If multiple cameras and detection modules are installed to cover all blind spots, then the coverage of visible areas is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the machine's surrounding environment into multiple distinct blind spots and low visibility areas. Separate cameras are strategically positioned to cover each specific zone, allowing the system to address coverage needs without requiring a single complex all-encompassing camera system. This segmentation approach enables targeted monitoring of critical areas while managing system complexity.
3Loss of information
If real-time video feeds from all cameras are displayed, then the operator has complete information, but the information becomes overwhelming and difficult to process
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts and highlights only the most critical information from the multiple camera feeds. The system identifies objects or conditions in blind spots that pose safety risks and presents this extracted information prominently on the display unit, rather than showing all camera feeds equally. This allows the operator to focus on critical safety information without being overwhelmed by complete visual data.
Data Source
AI summary
A method of providing object detection warning to an operator of a machine is provided. The machine includes object detection modules, a display unit and a controller communicably coupled to the object detection modules and the display unit. The method detects at least one object being located within a predefined distance range from the machine and determines a distance and position of the detected at least one object relative to the machine. The method further displays a threat warning widget on the display unit. The widget includes a plurality of threat level indicators, each of the threat level indicators being representative of a warning level as a function of distance and position of the object relative to the machine. Furthermore, the method activates at least one threat level indicator based on the determined distance and position of the detected at least one object relative to the machine.