Virtual Worksite Height Map Updates for Multi-Machine Deformation Tracking

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current methods lack the ability to effectively visualize and determine real-time deformation of a virtual worksite environment caused by multiple construction machines operating simultaneously, which is crucial for performance testing and visualization of autonomous operations.

Innovation Solution

A system comprising simulated construction machine controllers that collect and compare data to generate an updated height map of the virtual worksite, with a central controller comparing this data to an initial model to create an updated data model, which is then transmitted for real-time visualization and deformation analysis.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Productivity

If multiple autonomous construction machines are simulated to operate at a virtually simulated worksite environment for testing autonomy software, then the testing capability and productivity are improved, but the challenge in visualizing real time condition and the complexity of handling large volumes of sensor data increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvetesting capabilityVSAvoiddata visualization complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent creates a virtual copy of the worksite environment and construction machines, allowing testing without physical deployment. The virtual representation mirrors the real system's behavior and sensor data, enabling comprehensive testing while simplifying visualization through digital modeling rather than physical instrumentation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #26Copying

Solution Approach 2:

The patent introduces a centralized processing system that acts as an intermediary between multiple construction machines and the visualization interface. This mediator aggregates, processes, and coordinates data from numerous sensors and machines, transforming raw data streams into coherent visual representations that reduce complexity for end users.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Reliability

If multiple autonomous construction machines operate simultaneously at the virtual worksite, then the realism and comprehensiveness of performance testing are improved, but the difficulty in determining and presenting real time deformation increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveperformance testing realismVSAvoiddeformation detection difficulty
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDifficulty of detecting and measuring

Solution Approach 1:

The patent divides the virtual worksite into discrete zones or grid cells, each tracked independently for deformation. By segmenting the environment, the system can manage and visualize deformation data from multiple machines simultaneously without overwhelming complexity, allowing precise localization and analysis of ground changes in each segment.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent implements continuous feedback loops where sensor data from construction machines is constantly processed and used to update the virtual representation in real time. This feedback mechanism enables the system to detect, measure, and present deformation as it occurs, maintaining testing realism while providing actionable visual information.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

Data Source

PatentUS11906981B2System and method for updating virtual worksite
Publication Date: 2024.02.20 CATERPILLAR INC
  • US11906981B2 patent drawing
  • US11906981B2 patent drawing
  • US11906981B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A system for updating a virtual worksite includes a plurality of simulated construction machine controllers associated with a corresponding construction machine. Each simulated construction machine controller collects data indicative of an updated height map of one or more portions of the virtual worksite on which the corresponding construction machine is operating. A central controller receives the data indicative of the updated height map of the one or more portions of the virtual worksite from the plurality of simulated construction machine controllers and compares the received data with an initial data model of the virtual worksite. The central controller generates an updated data model of the virtual worksite based on the comparison and transmits the updated data model of the virtual worksite to each of the plurality of simulated construction machine controllers and/or a user interface. The user interface displays a real time streaming of data of the virtual worksite thereon.