Work Machine Earth-Insufficiency Detection by Height Difference
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing work machines face inefficiencies in detecting insufficient earth held by the work implement during earth removal tasks, leading to incomplete placement of earth on the actual topography.
Innovation Solution
A system and method for controlling a work machine that includes a positional sensor and controller to detect the position of the machine and its implement, determine a target design surface above the actual topography, and assess the height difference between this surface and a predetermined portion of the machine to accurately determine if there is enough earth on the implement.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If the work machine continues earth removal work without accurate detection, then work continuity is maintained, but earth placement completeness deteriorates due to insufficient earth detection
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual or mechanical estimation of earth quantity with an automated sensor-based detection system. The sensor mounted on the work implement continuously measures the actual topography and compares it with the target design surface, automatically determining when earth is insufficient without requiring mechanical intervention or visual estimation by operators.
Solution Approach 2:
The system establishes a closed-loop feedback mechanism where the sensor continuously monitors the height difference between the actual topography and target design surface, feeds this information back to the control system, which then determines earth sufficiency and signals the operator. This real-time feedback enables continuous work while maintaining accurate detection of earth quantity status.
2Measurement precision
If manual detection methods are used to check earth quantity, then system complexity is reduced, but measurement precision deteriorates due to inability to accurately detect insufficient earth
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a sensor as an intermediary device between the work implement and the operator. This sensor acts as a mediator that objectively measures the earth quantity status by detecting height differences, translating physical terrain variations into actionable information without requiring complex manual assessment procedures or multiple sophisticated subsystems.
Solution Approach 2:
The detection system is designed to be self-sufficient, with the sensor automatically performing measurements and the control system autonomously determining earth sufficiency based on pre-set criteria. The system serves itself by continuously monitoring its own operational status and providing self-diagnosis capabilities, eliminating the need for external detection equipment or complex manual verification procedures.
Data Source
AI summary
A controller acquires a target design surface, at least a portion of which is located above an actual topography. The controller acquires a position of a main body of a work machine. The controller acquires a position of a work implement. The controller causes the work machine to travel forward while controlling the work implement in accordance with the target design surface. The controller acquires a height difference between the target design surface and a predetermined portion of the main body. The controller determines whether there is any more earth held by the work implement based on the height difference.