Work Machine Proximity Start System

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Solution Overview

Problem

Work machines require a significant time to start up after an operator boards, as the control unit is initiated only after an ignition key operation, leading to delayed operation.

Innovation Solution

A work machine start-up system that includes a control unit, a proximity detection unit to identify the specific operator, and a start-up unit that initiates at least part of the control unit when the operator is in close proximity, allowing early operation.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If the control unit is started only after the operator operates the ignition key, then the security and control reliability are improved, but the start-up time and operational readiness are worsened

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecontrol reliabilityVSAvoidstart-up time
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The system performs preliminary actions by detecting the operator's proximity in advance and automatically starting the control unit before the operator actually boards or operates the ignition key. This preliminary activation reduces the start-up time while maintaining security through proximity-based authentication.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The work machine performs self-service by automatically detecting the operator's presence and initiating the control unit startup process without requiring manual ignition key operation. The system serves itself by autonomously determining when activation is appropriate based on proximity detection.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

2Productivity

If the control unit is started earlier by proximity detection, then the operational readiness is improved, but the security risk may be worsened

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveoperational readinessVSAvoidsecurity risk
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The proximity detection unit serves as an intermediary authentication mechanism between the operator and the control unit. Instead of direct ignition key operation, the system uses proximity detection as an intermediate step to verify the operator's presence and authorize early startup, maintaining security while enabling faster operation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Data Source

PatentUS20240125090A1Work machine start-up system and work machine start-up method
Publication Date: 2024.04.18 KOMATSU LTD
  • US20240125090A1 patent drawing
  • US20240125090A1 patent drawing
  • US20240125090A1 patent drawing

AI summary

A work machine start-up system includes a control unit configured to control a work machine, a proximity detection unit configured to detect that a specific operator is in close proximity to the work machine, and a start-up unit configured to start at least part of the control unit when it is detected that the specific operator is in close proximity to the work machine.