Optical Machine Localization for Precise Indoor Earthmoving Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing GPS systems for work machines lack precision and are costly, making them unsuitable for small construction sites and indoor environments, hindering accurate machine localization for precise earth-moving operations.
Innovation Solution
A spatial localization imaging system using an imaging device mounted on the machine to interact with targets, such as QR codes, to generate a real-time map and automate implement positioning, enhancing machine localization accuracy.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If GPS systems are used to monitor machine location, then machine positioning capability is provided, but precision is insufficient and cost is too high for small construction sites
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses visual targets (fiducial markers) placed on the construction site that the imaging device captures and processes into digital map data. This copying approach replaces expensive GPS hardware with simple visual markers that can be photographed and processed computationally to achieve high-precision localization suitable for small construction sites.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical/GPS-based positioning system with an optical imaging system. Instead of using satellite signals and GPS receivers, the system uses an imaging device to capture visual targets and process them through computer vision algorithms to determine machine position, achieving higher precision at lower cost.
2Adaptability or versatility
If GPS systems are deployed, then machine location monitoring is enabled, but the system fails in indoor environments and has excessive cost
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the satellite-based GPS system with an optical imaging system that uses visual targets. This substitution enables indoor operation because the imaging device captures images of visual targets that can be placed anywhere with line-of-sight access, eliminating dependence on satellite signals that cannot penetrate buildings.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces visual targets as intermediaries between the imaging device and the machine positioning system. These targets serve as mediators that the imaging device can detect and process to calculate machine position, enabling operation in indoor environments where GPS satellites are not visible.
3Manufacturing precision
If manual operation is used, then operator control is maintained, but precise blade positioning for optimum dirt movement is difficult to achieve
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a feedback system where the imaging device continuously captures images of visual targets, the controller processes these images to determine precise machine and blade position, and then provides automated control inputs to adjust blade positioning. This closed-loop feedback enables precise blade positioning while reducing the complexity of manual operator control.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent enables the machine to perform its own positioning and control functions through the imaging device and automated controller. The system captures its own position data through imaging, processes this data autonomously, and automatically adjusts implement positioning without requiring constant manual intervention, achieving precision while simplifying operation.
Data Source
AI summary
A spatial localization imaging system for a machine, including an imaging device mounted to a frame of the machine, a target configured to interact with the imaging device, and a controller operatively connected to an implement of the machine, the controller configured to receive target data from the imaging device, interpret the target data to calculate a map of a site the machine is operating on, provide a real-time estimate of a location of the machine within the site, and provide an automated input for the implement.