Work Machine Control System Using Non-Contact Sensor for Accurate Navigation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Work machines in mines may stop operating due to decreased accuracy of position detection using global navigation satellite systems, leading to decreased productivity.
Innovation Solution
A work machine control system that includes a position detection unit, a non-contact sensor, and a control unit to exclude moving object information from detected data, allowing the system to accurately navigate and avoid obstacles even with reduced GPS accuracy.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Area of stationary object
If the work machine uses global navigation satellite system for position detection, then the position detection coverage is extensive, but the position detection accuracy decreases when ionosphere abnormality occurs
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a non-contact sensor as an intermediary detection device to measure positions of objects around the work machine. When GPS accuracy deteriorates due to ionosphere abnormalities, the system switches to using non-contact sensor data combined with map information for position estimation, thereby maintaining operational accuracy without sacrificing the broad coverage advantage of GPS.
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically changes the detection parameters and data sources based on GPS reliability. When GPS accuracy is sufficient, it uses GPS coordinates directly. When accuracy deteriorates, it changes to using non-contact sensor measurements and map matching algorithms, thereby adapting to varying environmental conditions and maintaining consistent position detection quality.
2Measurement precision
If the work machine excludes moving object information from detection results, then the position detection accuracy is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary actions by pre-storing map information including positions of fixed objects (roads, banks, rips) before operation. During autonomous travel, it compares real-time non-contact sensor detection results with this pre-stored map data to identify and exclude moving objects. This preliminary preparation simplifies the real-time processing complexity while maintaining high position detection accuracy.
3Reliability
If the work machine uses non-contact sensor to detect objects, then the obstacle detection capability is improved, but the energy consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system employs periodic action by activating the non-contact sensor only when GPS position accuracy deteriorates or during specific phases of autonomous travel where obstacle detection is critical. Rather than continuous operation, the sensor is used periodically to detect objects and update position information, thereby improving obstacle detection capability while significantly reducing energy consumption compared to continuous sensing.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This solution prevents productivity decreases in mines by ensuring accurate navigation and operation of work machines, even when GPS accuracy is compromised.
Implementation Method 1
a non-contact sensor 24 configured to detect a position of an object around the work machine
Implementation Method 2
a non-contact sensor 24 configured to detect a position of an object around the work machine
Data Source
AI summary
A work machine control system is configured to control a work machine that travels in an operation region and includes a position detection unit, a non-contact sensor, and a control unit. The position detection unit detects a position of the work machine. The non-contact sensor detects a position of an object around the work machine. The control unit extracts information on an object to be detected from a detection result of the position detection unit and a detection result of the non-contact sensor, and excludes moving object information that is information on an object to be detected regarding a moving object that moves in the operation region.