Work Machine Controller Visual Guidance for Implement Height
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Solution Overview
Problem
Operators of work machines often face challenges in positioning work implements at optimal heights due to limited visual access, leading to reduced productivity and potential damage from unintentional lowering into the ground.
Innovation Solution
A controller and operator assistance system that uses an imaging device to capture images of the work implement, processes them to generate an output image with reference lines indicating the desired height, and displays this on a user interface to help the operator align the implement correctly.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the operator views the work implement from the operator cabin, then the operator can control the work implement, but the operator cannot see the work implement clearly due to limited visual access
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an imaging device as an intermediary between the work implement and the operator. The imaging device captures images of the work implement and transmits them to the operator cabin, allowing the operator to view the implement clearly without physical visual access. This mediator resolves the contradiction by enabling information transfer from the implement to the operator through a different medium (electronic image transmission instead of direct line-of-sight viewing).
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a visual copy of the work implement by capturing its image and displaying it in the operator cabin. Instead of requiring the operator to directly observe the implement, the system provides a replicated visual representation (image) that conveys the implement's position and state. This copying approach allows the operator to perceive the implement's status accurately despite physical separation and obstructions.
2Ease of operation
If the work implement is lowered without proper visual guidance, then the operator can reach the ground, but the implement may be unintentionally lowered into the ground causing damage
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a feedback mechanism where the imaging device continuously captures images of the work implement's position relative to the ground, and this visual information is fed back to the operator cabin in real-time. The operator receives immediate visual feedback about the implement's proximity to the ground, allowing for precise control and prevention of accidental contact. This closed-loop feedback system transforms the positioning operation from blind to informed, ensuring safety while maintaining ease of operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs preliminary visual assessment by capturing and displaying images of the work implement's position before the operator initiates lowering. The operator can pre-evaluate the safe operating zone based on the visual feedback, and adjust the lowering operation accordingly. This preliminary visual guidance prevents dangerous positioning attempts before they occur, rather than merely reacting to potential damage.
3Productivity
If the operator relies on estimation without visual reference, then the operator can quickly adjust the implement, but the positioning accuracy is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The imaging device serves as an intermediary that provides real-time visual reference information about the work implement's height and position. This visual mediator allows the operator to simultaneously maintain quick adjustment speed and achieve precise positioning, as the operator can directly observe the implement's location relative to the ground and make informed, rapid adjustments without relying on estimation or memory.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs visual indicators (such as colored overlays or annotations) on the displayed images to communicate positioning status to the operator. Different colors or visual markers indicate whether the implement is in the safe zone, approaching the ground, or positioned correctly. This visual coding system enables the operator to quickly assess positioning accuracy and make precise adjustments without slowing down the overall operation speed.
Data Source
AI summary
A controller includes one or more memories and one or more processors. The one or more processors are configured to receive an input image. The input image contains a first pictorial view that includes a work implement of a work machine. The one or more processors are also configured to generate an output image containing a second pictorial view and an indication element superimposed on the second pictorial view. The second pictorial view is at least in part derived from the first pictorial view and includes the work implement. The indication element includes at least one reference line. An alignment of one or more portions of the work implement with the at least one reference line indicates that the one or more portions of the work implement are positioned at a desired height from a ground surface.