Work Machine Self-Protection System for Collision Avoidance
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Solution Overview
Problem
Modular work machines, such as excavators, face challenges when switching between attachments of different sizes, as they can potentially inflict self-harm by contacting other parts of the machine, leading to damage.
Innovation Solution
A self-protection system is implemented, utilizing sensors and control logic to determine the geometry of the machine and attachments, generating limit signals to prevent collisions by controlling the movement of movable elements, thereby avoiding contact with protected parts.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If modular work machines switch between attachments of different sizes, then versatility and adaptability are improved, but the risk of self-harm and damage increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses sensors to continuously monitor the position of movable elements and attachments, feeding this information back to the control system. The control system processes this feedback to determine if a collision is imminent or occurring, and automatically sends control signals to prevent or stop the harmful movement, thus protecting the machine from self-harm while maintaining attachment versatility
Solution Approach 2:
The control system acts as an intermediary between the operator's commands and the actuators. It intercepts control signals, checks them against safety criteria using sensor data, and either allows or blocks the signals from reaching the actuators. This intermediary function enables safe attachment switching while preventing self-harm
2Reliability
If sensors and control logic are added to prevent collisions, then machine protection is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The control system performs multiple functions: it manages normal attachment operations, monitors sensor data for collision detection, determines machine geometry, and sends protective control signals. By consolidating these diverse functions into a single multi-functional control system rather than separate dedicated systems, the patent reduces overall complexity while achieving comprehensive protection
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses the machine's own sensors and control infrastructure to detect and prevent self-harm. The control system leverages existing sensor data about attachment positions and machine geometry to make protection decisions, rather than requiring entirely external or additional complex monitoring systems
Data Source
AI summary
A work machine includes a controllable subsystem, the controllable subsystem having an actuator configured to actuate a movable element of the subsystem. The work machine also includes a control system configured to generate and send control signals to the controllable subsystem actuator, wherein the control signals cause an actuation of the actuator. The work machine also includes a self protection system configured to prevent the control system from sending a control signal to the actuator that would cause a collision between the controllable subsystem and a portion work machine.