Pressure-Based Work Machine Localization for Elevation-Limited Lifts
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing systems for work equipment such as lifts and telehandlers lack effective methods for localization, tracking, and determining the relative elevation of machines and their implements at work sites, which is crucial for efficient operation and safety.
Innovation Solution
A machine localization system that includes a work machine equipped with a first pressure sensor and a second pressure sensor communicatively coupled to a computing system. The system determines a first relative elevation of the work machine by comparing pressure readings from the sensors, allowing for the calculation of the operational height of extendable implements and the determination of the machine's location within a building.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If pressure sensors are used to determine elevation of work machines, then localization accuracy is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The pressure sensor system is designed to serve multiple functions: determining elevation of the work machine chassis, calculating operational height of extendable implements, and establishing relative positioning between multiple machines. By making the pressure sensor system multi-functional, the patent improves measurement precision across multiple parameters without proportionally increasing device complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses the work machine's own pressure sensors to determine its elevation and positioning information autonomously, without requiring external reference systems or additional infrastructure. This self-service approach improves measurement accuracy while avoiding the complexity of external sensor networks
2Reliability
If multiple pressure sensors are installed on work machine and implements, then operational safety is improved, but manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The pressure sensing system is segmented into multiple independent sensors placed at different locations (chassis, extendable implements). Each sensor provides independent measurement data that contributes to overall system safety. This segmentation allows the system to achieve improved reliability through distributed sensing while keeping individual sensor units simple and cost-effective
Solution Approach 2:
The computing system acts as an intermediary that processes pressure readings from multiple sensors and translates them into meaningful elevation and positioning information. This intermediary approach allows simple pressure sensors to provide comprehensive safety information without requiring complex sensor assemblies
3Productivity
If real-time pressure readings are processed to determine elevation, then operational efficiency is improved, but energy consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system processes pressure readings at periodic intervals rather than continuously, determining elevation and positioning information at discrete moments during operation. This periodic processing approach maintains operational efficiency by providing timely localization data while reducing energy consumption compared to continuous real-time processing
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
The system enables accurate localization and elevation determination of work machines and their implements, enhancing operational efficiency and safety by ensuring proper height limits are maintained, preventing accidents, and optimizing task execution.
Implementation Method 1
The first pressure sensor and the second pressure sensor are configured to measure barometric pressure
Data Source
AI summary
A machine localization system includes a work machine including a chassis and an extendable implement, a first pressure sensor coupled to the work machine, a second pressure sensor located at a known elevation, and a computing system operably coupled to the work machine, the first pressure sensor, and the second pressure sensor. The computing system is configured to receive a first pressure reading from the first pressure sensor and a second pressure reading from the second pressure sensor, determine an elevation of the work machine based on at least the first pressure reading and the second pressure reading, determine a maximum operating height of the extendable implement based on at least the determined elevation, and configure the extendable implement to not exceed the maximum operating height.