Work Machine Task Status Display Using Subsystem Usage Data
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Solution Overview
Problem
Site operators face difficulty in tracking the status of tasks performed by work machines due to limited access to their controls and systems.
Innovation Solution
A system and method for visibly indicating task completion information on work machines using an indicating device with a display portion and a controller that computes and displays the status of tasks based on sub-system usage data.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of information
If site operators physically supervise work machines at the worksite, then they can track task status, but they have limited access to machine controls and systems making tracking difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an indicating device mounted on the work machine that serves as an intermediary between the machine's control systems and the site operator. This device displays task completion status and operational information directly on the machine exterior, allowing operators to monitor task progress without needing physical access to the machine's control systems or cabin.
2Reliability
If site operators access machine controls to track task status, then they can obtain accurate information, but this reduces ease of operation and increases complexity
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the essential task status information from the complex machine control systems and presents it in a simplified format on the indicating device. The controller processes data from various machine subsystems and displays only the relevant task completion status on the indicating device, eliminating the need for operators to navigate complex control interfaces.
3Productivity
If no indicating system is used, then the work machine operates simply, but site operators cannot effectively track task completion
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a feedback system where the controller continuously monitors machine operation data and updates the indicating device in real-time. This provides site operators with continuous feedback on task completion status, enabling them to effectively track progress and make informed decisions about work distribution and machine utilization.
Data Source
AI summary
A system for indicating a status of a task assigned to a work machine on the work machine is described. The system includes an indicating device configured to be mounted to a mounting surface of the work machine and a controller. The indicating device includes a display portion viewable from an outside of the work machine. The controller is configured to receive first data corresponding to the task, determine one or more sub-systems of the work machine needed to execute the task based on the first data, and compute second data based on a usage of the one or more sub-systems during an execution of the task. The controller is configured to calculate a completion data of the task by comparing the second data with the first data and instruct the indicating device to display the completion data as the status of the task on the display portion.