Trencher Depth Indication Using Inclinometer-Based Measurement
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional trenching methods are time-consuming and limited to pre-set depths, making it difficult to achieve precise trenching depths required for safety and efficiency in underground installations.
Innovation Solution
A trencher with a depth indicator mounted on a boom, utilizing an inclinometer to measure the angle of the arm's inclination and calculate trench depth in real-time, displayed through a visual interface, allowing operators to adjust the trencher to achieve the desired depth.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a tape measure is used to set the depth of the trencher, then the correct trenching depth can be achieved, but the process is time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the manual mechanical measurement system (tape measure) with an electronic sensing and display system. An inclinometer sensor automatically measures the arm angle, and a display unit shows the corresponding depth, eliminating the need for manual tape measure operations while maintaining depth measurement accuracy.
Solution Approach 2:
The trencher system performs self-measurement of depth through the inclinometer sensor that automatically tracks the arm angle and calculates depth without external intervention. The system serves itself by providing real-time depth feedback to the operator through the display unit, eliminating the need for separate measurement tools.
2Measurement precision
If a foot with pre-set holes is used to adjust the trencher depth, then depth can be controlled, but the depth is limited to pre-set values and requires removing and re-fixing the foot
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transforms the static, discrete depth settings of the pre-holed foot into a dynamic, continuous depth indication system. The inclinometer sensor continuously measures the arm angle, and the display unit continuously shows the corresponding depth value, allowing smooth adjustment to any depth within the operational range rather than being constrained to fixed pre-set positions.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical foot adjustment system with fixed holes with an electronic sensing and display system. Instead of physically removing and re-fixing the foot to change depth settings, the operator can now adjust the arm angle freely while the electronic system provides real-time depth feedback, enabling continuous depth variation.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the foot is removed and re-fixed to adjust depth, then depth can be changed, but the process is time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the time-consuming mechanical foot removal and re-fixing process with an instant electronic depth indication system. The inclinometer sensor continuously tracks arm angle changes, and the display unit immediately updates to show the new depth, allowing operators to adjust depth in seconds rather than minutes.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent ensures continuous depth monitoring and feedback throughout the operation. The inclinometer sensor continuously measures the arm angle, and the display unit continuously updates the depth reading, allowing uninterrupted depth adjustment without the need to stop work for foot removal and re-fixing operations.
4Productivity
If conventional depth setting methods are used, then the trencher can operate, but operational time and costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a feedback system where the inclinometer sensor continuously provides depth information to the display unit, which shows real-time depth readings to the operator. This immediate feedback allows operators to maintain the desired depth more efficiently and make quick adjustments without stopping work, thereby increasing productivity and reducing operational time.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces conventional time-consuming depth setting methods with an automated electronic depth indication system, significantly reducing the time required for depth adjustments and improving overall trenching efficiency.
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
Enables precise and efficient trenching by providing real-time depth feedback, simplifying the process and ensuring trenches meet safety requirements regardless of the vehicle's geometry, reducing operational time and costs.
Implementation Method 1
utilizing an inclinometer to measure the angle of the arm's inclination and calculate trench depth in real-time
Data Source
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AI summary
A trencher with a depth indicator enables determination in real time of the depth of a trench being dug. The trencher comprises: an arm about which digging implements are moveable; a foot operably connected to the arm and being in contact with the ground when the trencher is in use excavating a trench, the foot comprising a ground contacting region; an inclinometer or orientation sensor operably connected to the arm to measure or determine an angle of inclination of the arm; a calculating element operably connected to the arm for calculating a depth of an end of the arm by using a determined angle of inclination of the arm; and an indicating element operably connected to the arm for indicating either a depth of the arm or a depth of the trench being excavated, or indicating whether the depth of the arm or the depth of the trench being excavated has deviated from a desired depth.