Work Machine Data Incentives for Efficient Operational Collection

Resolve Bottlenecks,
Find Innovative Solutions
Generate Solutions

Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional techniques face challenges in efficiently collecting various kinds of information from work machines, often requiring approval from multiple stakeholders, which can hinder efficient data collection.

Innovation Solution

An information processing apparatus and method that acquire information from work machines during operation, with the option to provide incentives to users based on predetermined evaluation conditions, facilitating efficient data collection and user engagement.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Productivity

If information is collected from work machines without incentive mechanisms, then data collection process is simple, but data collection efficiency and quality are insufficient

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedata collection efficiencyVSAvoidsystem complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The system implements a feedback mechanism where users receive incentive information (points, rewards) in response to their information provision actions. The notification unit communicates evaluation results and incentive allocations back to users, creating a closed-loop system that motivates continued participation and improves data collection efficiency

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

Solution Approach 2:

The system changes the parameter of user motivation by introducing incentive parameters (points, rewards, evaluations) that transform the information provision process from a passive task to an actively engaged process. This parameter change directly addresses the contradiction by improving productivity through motivational mechanisms

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

2Reliability

If multiple stakeholders must approve information collection, then data accuracy and reliability improve, but collection time and process complexity increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedata reliabilityVSAvoidcollection time
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The system performs preliminary action by obtaining user consent and setting up incentive mechanisms before actual information collection begins. The evaluation condition determination and incentive allocation are prepared in advance, eliminating the need for time-consuming approvals during the data collection process itself

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The information processing apparatus acts as an intermediary that automates the approval and evaluation process. Instead of multiple stakeholders manually reviewing each data point, the system uses automated evaluation conditions and incentive algorithms to efficiently validate and process information while maintaining reliability

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

3Quantity of substance

If users are motivated with incentives, then information provision quality and quantity improve, but system complexity and cost increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveinformation quantityVSAvoidsystem complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Quantity of substanceVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The system implements self-service by allowing users to automatically receive incentive information and evaluations through the notification unit. Users don't need manual intervention to claim rewards or understand evaluation results - the system automatically processes and communicates incentive allocations, reducing operational complexity while maintaining high information provision levels

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Data Source

PatentUS12291851B2Information processing apparatus, information processing method, recording medium, and work machine
Publication Date: 2025.05.06 SUMITOMO CONSTRUCTION MACHINERY
  • US12291851B2 patent drawing
  • US12291851B2 patent drawing
  • US12291851B2 patent drawing

AI summary

An information processing apparatus includes an information acquiring unit configured to acquire, from a work machine including a work attachment, information relating to the work machine of when the work machine is in operation, the information being information for which a user who is predetermined and who is related to the work machine has indicated an intention to provide; and an incentive granting unit configured to perform a process of granting an incentive to the user, in response to determining that the information acquired by the information acquiring unit satisfies an evaluation condition that is predetermined.