Concrete Screed Vision Monitoring for Precise Boom Positioning
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing concrete screeding machines face challenges in accurately positioning the screed head, especially in large areas with obstacles, due to limited visibility of the screed head's position, requiring manual guesswork and increased labor.
Innovation Solution
A concrete screed apparatus equipped with a control system and multiple cameras providing video feeds to an operator interface, allowing for real-time visualization of the screed head, boom, and surrounding areas, enabling precise positioning and obstacle avoidance.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If the screed head is extended far away on the boom for large area coverage, then the productivity is improved, but the operator's ability to see and accurately position the screed head deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses cameras to create visual copies (video feeds) of the screed head and surrounding area, transmitting these images to a monitor at the operator station. This allows the operator to see the actual position of the screed head remotely without needing to be physically close to it, resolving the contradiction between extended reach and visibility.
Solution Approach 2:
The video transmission system acts as an intermediary between the screed head and the operator. Instead of direct line-of-sight, the operator receives processed visual information through the camera and monitor system, enabling accurate positioning despite the physical distance created by boom extension.
2Measurement precision
If the operator stands in the poured concrete to manually position the screed head, then the positioning accuracy is improved, but the labor intensity and safety risks increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical approach of manual positioning (operator physically moving and adjusting the screed head) with an optical/electronic system. The camera provides real-time visual feedback that allows the operator to position the screed head accurately from a remote, safe location without standing in the concrete.
Solution Approach 2:
The video feed from the camera mounted on or near the screed head provides continuous visual feedback to the operator. This feedback loop allows the operator to see the screed head's position relative to the concrete surface and obstacles in real-time, enabling precise positioning without manual intervention in the hazardous area.
3Manufacturing precision
If multiple sensors and actuators are added to the screed head for automated leveling, then the manufacturing precision is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The camera system serves multiple functions: it provides visual feedback for positioning the screed head, monitors the concrete surface condition, and can detect obstacles. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate dedicated sensors for each function, thereby limiting the increase in device complexity while maintaining precision.
Data Source
AI summary
An apparatus for screeding concrete includes a frame, a plurality of drive wheels secured thereto, an extendable and retractable boom secured to the frame and a screed head secured to a distal end of the boom. The apparatus includes a control system operatively coupled to a plurality of cameras secured at points around the apparatus and an operator interface for displaying the view of each camera.