Wheel Loader Collision Avoidance via Sensor-Based Distance Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Operators of wheel loaders face challenges in simultaneously avoiding collisions between the front wheel and the lateral side of a dump truck while ensuring the work implement does not collide with the truck's side during loading operations, requiring them to monitor both upper and lower locations simultaneously.
Innovation Solution
A wheel loader equipped with a sensor to measure the distance between the front wheel and the loading target and a controller that initiates collision avoidance actions when the distance falls below a threshold, also considering the boom's angle to prevent collisions, thereby assisting the operator in safely loading excavated materials.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the operator monitors both the front wheel position and boom position simultaneously, then collision avoidance capability is improved, but the operational complexity and mental burden increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a sensor as an intermediary device that automatically detects the distance between the front wheel and the dump truck. This sensor acts as a mediator between the physical environment and the control system, providing objective data without requiring the operator's visual attention. The sensor data is processed by the control unit which then issues automated alerts or control signals, thus resolving the contradiction by automating the monitoring function while keeping the operator informed through simple alert mechanisms.
2Reliability
If the operator focuses attention on the boom position to prevent upper collision, then the ability to monitor lower wheel position deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The system employs self-service through automated sensor monitoring and control. The sensor continuously monitors the front wheel position independently, and the control unit automatically processes this information and issues alerts or control signals when necessary. This self-monitoring and self-alerting mechanism eliminates the need for the operator to visually monitor the wheel position, allowing them to focus attention on the boom position while the system handles wheel position monitoring autonomously.
3Reliability
If automated collision avoidance control is implemented, then safety is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The control system is segmented into distinct functional modules: a sensor module for distance detection, a control unit for data processing and decision-making, and an actuation interface for issuing control signals. This modular segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function independently, making the overall system more manageable and easier to implement while maintaining high safety standards. The segmentation also facilitates easier maintenance and troubleshooting.
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
The system effectively prevents collisions between the front wheel and the dump truck, even if the operator overlooks the wheel's position due to focusing on the boom's position, enhancing the safety and efficiency of the loading process by automatically controlling the wheel loader's actions.
Implementation Method 1
a sensor configured to measure a distance between the front wheel and the loading target
Data Source
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AI summary
A wheel loader (1) includes: an operator's cab (6); a front wheel (3a); a front frame (5a) configured to support front wheel (3a) such that front wheel (3a) is rotatable; a bucket (32); a boom (31) having a distal end connected to bucket (32), and a proximal end rotatably supported by front frame (5a); a sensor (40) configured to measure a distance between front wheel (3a) and a loading target; and a controller configured to control an action of wheel loader (1), The controller causes wheel loader (1) to perform a predetermined action for collision avoidance on condition that a distance to be measured by sensor (40) when wheel loader (1) travels takes a value less than or equal to a threshold value.