Site Management Vehicle Control for Autonomous Construction Implements
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Solution Overview
Problem
Modern roadway construction sites are hazardous and inefficient due to the lack of a centralized control system to automate and coordinate complex machinery operations, leading to a crowded and dangerous work environment.
Innovation Solution
A system comprising a site management vehicle that allows operators to input parameters and execute programmed construction activities, including design drawings, obstacle detection, and human override, while being adaptable to different modes of transportation, using a network to communicate with remote equipment and manage construction tasks.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If manual operation of construction machinery is used, then human control and flexibility are maintained, but the construction site becomes crowded and dangerous
Solution Approach 1:
The construction implements are equipped with autonomous navigation capabilities, sensors, and control systems that enable them to perform construction tasks independently without continuous human intervention. The system self-manages navigation, operation, and coordination while humans provide high-level oversight from a centralized control system.
Solution Approach 2:
Manual mechanical operation is replaced with automated electronic control systems. The centralized control system uses computer algorithms, communication networks, and automated control mechanisms to manage construction implements, substituting human physical presence and manual control with automated systems.
2Reliability
If centralized control system is implemented, then safety and coordination are improved, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The centralized control system is designed to handle multiple functions including navigation, operation control, coordination between different implements, monitoring, and communication. This multi-functional approach consolidates what could be separate complex systems into a unified platform, managing complexity through integration rather than multiplication.
Solution Approach 2:
The centralized control system acts as an intermediary layer between human operators and autonomous construction implements. It translates high-level human instructions into coordinated actions for multiple implements, managing the complexity of inter-vehicle communication and coordination through a standardized interface and protocol layer.
3Productivity
If automated construction tasks are executed, then productivity increases, but adaptability to different transportation modes is required
Solution Approach 1:
The control system is designed to dynamically adapt to different transportation modes and operational contexts. It can adjust navigation parameters, communication protocols, and control strategies based on the specific mode of transportation being used, whether rail-based, road-based, or other platforms, allowing automated construction tasks to maintain productivity across diverse environments.
Data Source
AI summary
Methods, systems, and apparatus are described herein for providing operational efficiency at a construction site through a connected system of on-board mobile computers.