Work Lane Arrangement for Multi-Machine Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing remote control systems for work machines face complexity in managing and commanding multiple machines simultaneously during tasks like slot dosing, making it difficult to instruct them for automatic operation efficiently.
Innovation Solution
A system and method that include an input device, display, and processor to acquire terrain data, display site images, and determine the arrangement of work lanes based on operator input, allowing for easy automatic operation commands to be sent to work machines.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If multiple work machines are used simultaneously for work such as slot dosing, then work productivity is improved, but the complexity of managing and giving commands to each machine increases
Solution Approach 1:
The work area is divided into multiple work lanes, with each lane assigned to a specific work machine. This segmentation allows each machine to operate independently in its designated lane, simplifying command management while maintaining high productivity through parallel operations across multiple lanes
Solution Approach 2:
The system transitions from managing machines individually to managing them spatially through a top-down view interface. The work area is represented as a two-dimensional map showing multiple lanes, allowing operators to control multiple machines simultaneously by selecting lanes on the map rather than managing each machine separately
2Productivity
If automated operation is implemented for work machines, then operational efficiency is improved, but the complexity of instructing machines for automatic operation increases
Solution Approach 1:
Work lanes are pre-defined and displayed on the top-down view interface before operation begins. Operators can select and configure lanes in advance, and the system automatically generates the necessary operation commands based on the selected lane arrangement, eliminating the need for complex real-time instructions during automated operation
Solution Approach 2:
A top-down view interface acts as an intermediary between the operator and the work machines. This interface displays work lanes as selectable regions on a map, allowing operators to issue simple lane selection commands rather than complex machine-specific instructions, thereby simplifying the process of instructing automated operation
Data Source
AI summary
A system includes an input device, a display, and a processor that receives a signal indicative of operation of the input device and outputs a signal to display an image on the display. The processor acquires current terrain data and displays a site image indicative of at least a part of a work site on the display based on the current terrain data. The processor acquires area data including a position and size of a work area designated by the input device on the site image. The processor acquires work data indicative of a work direction in the work area. The processor determines an arrangement of a plurality of work lanes extending in the work direction in the work area based on the area data and the work data. The processor sends an automatic operation command to the work machine according to the arrangement of the work lanes.