Optical Guidance System for Paving Train Units
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current paving train systems require complex and time-consuming methods for controlling units, with high-precision pavers using position determination systems while other units rely on labor-intensive reference line methods, leading to inefficiencies in controlling the entire paving train.
Innovation Solution
An optical control system with a transmitting and receiving component is integrated into the paving train, emitting and receiving optical reference beams to derive control instructions for units, allowing for precise alignment and positioning without the need for a physical reference line, enabling better matching of units and reducing installation complexity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If a position determination system is used to control the paver with high precision, then the manufacturing precision of the pavement layer is improved, but the device complexity increases due to complex components and data processing methods
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the position determination system and optical control system into a single integrated control system that simultaneously controls both the paver and distributor. The control unit receives data from both GPS receivers and optical sensors (laser theodolites), processes this information together, and generates coordinated control commands for both machines, thereby reducing overall system complexity while maintaining high precision.
Solution Approach 2:
The control unit serves multiple functions: it processes GPS position data, processes optical measurement data from laser theodolites, coordinates the paver's movement and screed positioning, and coordinates the distributor's material distribution. This multi-functional approach eliminates the need for separate control systems for different machines, reducing device complexity while maintaining manufacturing precision.
2Device complexity
If the reference line method is used to control other units of the paving train, then the device complexity is reduced, but the loss of time increases due to labor-intensive preparation and measurement work
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical reference line method with an optical measurement system using laser theodolites and GPS technology. Instead of physically establishing reference lines through labor-intensive measurement and staking work, the system uses electromagnetic signals (laser beams and satellite signals) to determine positions and guide the paving train, dramatically reducing preparation time while maintaining control simplicity.
Solution Approach 2:
The system automatically determines positions and generates control commands without requiring manual measurement and staking work. The GPS receivers and optical sensors continuously track positions, and the control unit automatically processes this data to generate real-time control instructions, eliminating the need for continuous human intervention in the control process.
3Productivity
If an optical control system with transmitting and receiving components is used, then the productivity is improved by automating control, but the device complexity increases due to additional optical components
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a control unit as an intermediary that coordinates between the optical measurement system and the paving train machines. The control unit receives data from GPS receivers and laser theodolites, processes this information, and generates control commands for the paver and distributor. This intermediary approach automates the control process, improving productivity, while the modular structure of the control unit helps manage system complexity.
4Manufacturing precision
If multiple units are controlled with high precision, then the manufacturing precision of the pavement layer is improved, but the loss of time increases due to the need for separate control systems for different machines
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the control of the paver and distributor into a single integrated control system. The control unit receives position data from both machines' GPS receivers and optical measurements from laser theodolites, processes this information together, and generates coordinated control commands for both machines simultaneously. This eliminates the need for separate control operations, reducing time loss while maintaining high precision for both machines.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This solution simplifies the control of paving train units, improving efficiency by allowing automatic or manual control of units relative to each other, reducing labor-intensive preparations, and ensuring precise alignment and positioning along the specified path.
Implementation Method 1
The transmitting component emits optical reference beams or guide beams, which are received by the receiving component
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to an optical guidance system for a laying engine for producing a concrete or asphalt top layer along a given path (6), wherein the laying engine comprises a first unit (1), such as a distributor for distributing the material and a second unit (2), such as a finisher for smoothing the material. The first and second unit are driven independently of each other and may be driven in formation. According to the invention, the optical guidance system comprises at least one transmitter component (3), one receiver component (5) and one computer component (19) for providing control instructions, relating for example to the direction of travel of the first or second unit. The transmitter component (3) is to be provided on the second unit (2) ad designed to emit optical reference beams (4). The receiver component (5) is to be provided on the first unit (1) and comprises several photosensitive receiver regions for detecting the reference beams and is designed to determine at least one incidence point for the reference beams on the receiver components (5). The computer component (19) calculates control instructions for the first and/or second unit using the at last one incident point and provides the same, for example to an operator, by means of a display or direct to a control unit.