Work Machine Operator Guidance System for Vibration Reduction

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Solution Overview

Problem

Operators of work machines face challenges in optimizing their operations during repeated work cycles due to factors like vibrations and energy consumption, particularly in varying terrain and ground conditions, which can lead to inefficient performance and operator discomfort.

Innovation Solution

A method that provides real-time, operator-specific instructions through visual and audio interfaces, using detected machine parameters and pre-available information to guide operators on optimal operation techniques, such as route adjustments, braking, and gear sequences, based on predicted effects of terrain characteristics on specific parameters like vibrations and fuel consumption.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Productivity

If the operator manually operates the work machine during repeated work cycles, then the operator can adapt to varying terrain and ground conditions, but the operator experiences increased fatigue and reduced operational efficiency due to vibrations and suboptimal operation techniques

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveoperational efficiencyVSAvoidvibrations affecting operator
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The system continuously monitors machine operating parameters (speed, acceleration, ground conditions) and provides real-time feedback to the operator through visual and audio interfaces. This feedback loop enables the operator to adjust operations dynamically, optimizing performance while reducing vibrations and fatigue during repeated work cycles

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

Solution Approach 2:

The system automatically analyzes work cycle characteristics and generates optimized operation instructions without requiring external intervention. The machine serves itself by processing its own operational data and providing guidance, reducing the cognitive load on the operator while maintaining high productivity

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

2Use of energy by moving object

If the operator manually operates the work machine without guidance, then the operation is simple and direct, but energy consumption increases due to non-optimal operating techniques

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvefuel consumptionVSAvoidinstruction system complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Use of energy by moving objectVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The system pre-processes work cycle data and predicts optimal operating parameters before the actual work cycle begins. By preparing optimized instructions in advance based on historical data and terrain characteristics, the system enables energy-efficient operation without adding complexity during the actual work execution

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The system dynamically adjusts operating parameters (speed, acceleration, route) based on real-time conditions and historical analysis. By optimizing these parameters through automated analysis, the system reduces fuel consumption without requiring complex manual intervention from the operator

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

3Ease of operation

If the system provides detailed real-time instructions to the operator, then operational efficiency and comfort improve, but the information processing and instruction delivery complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveoperator comfortVSAvoidinstruction system complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The instruction system divides complex operational guidance into segmented, context-specific instructions delivered at relevant moments during the work cycle. By breaking down comprehensive guidance into manageable segments based on machine state and terrain conditions, the system improves operator comfort without overwhelming complexity

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Data Source

PatentEP2183437B1A method for providing an operator of a work machine with operation instructions and a computer program for implementing the method
Publication Date: 2017.09.06 VOLVO CONSTRUCTION EQUIPMENT AB
  • EP2183437B1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP2183437B1 patent drawingFigure 2
  • EP2183437B1 patent drawingFigure 3

AI summary

The invention relates to a method for providing an operator of a work machine with operating instructions when the work machine is used in a repeated work cycle, comprising the step of automatically instructing the operator of the work machine how to operate the work machine in an optimum way with regard to a specific parameter on the basis of characteristics of the specific work cycle.