Work Machine LAN Grouping for Automated Fleet Coordination
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Solution Overview
Problem
Managers and operators of work equipment such as lifts and telehandlers rely on discrete systems for tracking, tasking, monitoring, and servicing, which is inefficient and costly.
Innovation Solution
A system for automatic generation of work site equipment grouping that wirelessly networks work machines, allowing them to form local area networks, exchange machine-specific data, and integrate tracking, tasking, and monitoring functions on a common platform, with features like machine grouping, notification alerts, and access control.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If discrete systems are used for tracking and monitoring each piece of equipment separately, then individual equipment can be managed, but system complexity increases and efficiency decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple discrete equipment tracking and monitoring systems into a single integrated network system. Work machines are equipped with connectivity modules that enable them to communicate with each other and with a central system, merging previously separate management functions into one unified platform that reduces overall system complexity while improving management efficiency.
Solution Approach 2:
The network system performs multiple functions simultaneously - tracking location, monitoring operational status, managing tasks, and coordinating between machines - all through a single universal platform. This multi-functional approach eliminates the need for separate discrete systems for each function, thereby reducing complexity while enhancing productivity.
2Loss of information
If work machines operate independently without networking, then individual machine operation is simple, but fleet-wide coordination and data sharing are inefficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces connectivity modules as intermediaries that enable work machines to exchange data with each other and with a central system. These modules handle communication protocols and data formatting, allowing efficient information sharing without requiring complex direct connections between all machines, thus reducing networking complexity while improving data sharing efficiency.
3Loss of time
If manual tracking and monitoring methods are used, then equipment can be managed without automated systems, but time consumption and operational costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The work machines automatically track and report their own operational data, location, and status through embedded connectivity modules. This self-service capability eliminates the need for manual tracking methods, significantly reducing time consumption and operational costs. The automation is achieved through relatively simple onboard systems that continuously monitor and transmit data without requiring complex external intervention.
Data Source
AI summary
A system for automatic generation of a local area network includes a plurality of nodes including a first work machine and a second work machine. Each node is configured to wirelessly communicate with each of the other nodes. The first work machine is configured to detect a third node of the plurality of nodes within a wireless signal range of the first work machine, upon detecting the third node, automatically create a local area network via a direct wireless connection with the third node, detect the second work machine within a wireless signal range of the first work machine, and upon detecting the second work machine, send an invitation to join the local area network directly to the second work machine.