Operator Condition Monitoring Using Multi-Sensor ML Detection

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current systems fail to effectively monitor and respond to operator conditions such as fatigue, medical emergencies, and improper training, which can lead to safety risks and reduced productivity, as they rely on camera systems that are inadequate in varying lighting conditions and cannot detect conditions outside of fatigue or distress.

Innovation Solution

A system utilizing machine learning models trained with sensor data from both asset and operator sensors to determine operator conditions, enabling real-time monitoring and appropriate responses, including alerts and actions to ensure safety and optimize operations.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If camera systems are used to detect fatigue and operator issues, then fatigue detection capability is improved, but the system becomes problematic in different lighting conditions and cannot detect conditions outside of fatigue or distress

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvefatigue detection capabilityVSAvoiddetection capability across different conditions
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines multiple sensor types (cameras, microphones, accelerometers, biometric sensors) into an integrated monitoring system that collects data from multiple sources simultaneously, allowing the system to detect various operator conditions including fatigue, distress, and other states beyond what a single camera system could detect

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The monitoring system is designed to perform multiple detection functions beyond just fatigue detection, including detecting operator distress, medical conditions, and performance issues through various sensor modalities, making the system versatile across different operating conditions and detection needs

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Productivity

If Rumi's system uses machine learning to analyze sensor data for process optimization, then process efficiency is improved, but the system cannot detect operator conditions or behaviors

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveprocess efficiencyVSAvoidoperator condition information
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSLoss of information

Solution Approach 1:

The system segments the monitoring function from the process optimization function, with dedicated sensors and analysis pathways for detecting operator conditions (fatigue, distress, medical issues) separate from process efficiency metrics, allowing both types of information to be collected and analyzed independently

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent introduces operator monitoring as an intermediary layer between the operator and the process, using sensors and machine learning models to detect operator states and provide recommendations that can prevent operator failure before it impacts process efficiency

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Data Source

PatentUS11775909B2Monitoring operator condition using sensor data
Publication Date: 2023.10.03 CATERPILLAR INC
  • US11775909B2 patent drawing
  • US11775909B2 patent drawing
  • US11775909B2 patent drawing

AI summary

Systems and methods for monitoring an operator of an asset are described herein. The method includes receiving training data, the training data comprising training sensor data associated with one or more tasks performed by a plurality of operators of different skill levels and under different performance impairments. The method can also include training a machine learning model to recognize one or more operator conditions based on the received training data and receiving sensor data from a plurality of sensors associated with the asset or the operator. The method can further include determining an operator condition of the operator based on the received sensor data and the machine learning model and taking one or more actions in response to the determined operator condition.