Worksite Vehicle Autonomy With Boundary and Exclusion Zone Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Construction vehicles often require manual operation, which can be hazardous and inefficient, especially in hazardous work environments, as existing systems for autonomous or semi-autonomous operation are limited and lack features like boundary definition and exclusion zone management.
Innovation Solution
A system comprising a robotics processing unit and a machine automation portal (MAP) application that allows for the definition of autonomous operating zones and exclusion zones on a computing device, enabling vehicles to perform tasks autonomously while avoiding obstacles and managing emergency stops, using sensors like GPS, ultrasonic sensors, and 3D depth cameras.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If manual operation of construction vehicles is used, then operational flexibility and adaptability are maintained, but workplace safety deteriorates in hazardous environments
Solution Approach 1:
The construction vehicle is equipped with autonomous operation capabilities including sensors (ultrasonic, 3D depth cameras, GPS) and a robotics processing unit that enable the vehicle to perform tasks independently without continuous human intervention, thereby improving workplace safety while maintaining operational flexibility through programmable adaptability
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces manual mechanical control with an autonomous control system comprising a robotics processing unit, sensors, and a machine automation portal application that communicates wirelessly with the vehicle, substituting human operators with an automated system that can safely operate in hazardous environments
2Productivity
If autonomous operation system is added to construction vehicles, then workplace safety and operational efficiency are improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The robotics processing unit serves multiple functions including receiving sensor data, generating command paths, controlling vehicle operations, and communicating with the machine automation portal, thereby achieving autonomous operation with a integrated system rather than separate complex subsystems
Solution Approach 2:
The machine automation portal application acts as an intermediary between the user and the autonomous vehicle system, providing a wireless communication interface that simplifies the interaction complexity by consolidating control and monitoring functions in a single portable device
3Reliability
If boundary definition and exclusion zone management features are implemented, then autonomous operation safety is improved, but device complexity and programming requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system pre-defines operational boundaries and exclusion zones through the machine automation portal application before autonomous operation begins, allowing the robotics processing unit to automatically enforce these pre-programmed safety parameters without requiring complex real-time decision-making algorithms
Solution Approach 2:
The autonomous operation system continuously monitors the vehicle's position relative to defined boundaries and exclusion zones using sensor data, providing real-time feedback to the robotics processing unit which adjusts command paths to maintain safety constraints, creating a closed-loop control system that simplifies safety management
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
Enables safe and efficient autonomous or semi-autonomous operation of construction vehicles, improving workplace safety and operational efficiency by allowing vehicles to perform repetitive tasks independently within defined boundaries while avoiding hazards.
Implementation Method 1
a global positioning system (GPS) receiver that determines a position and an orientation of the vehicle
Implementation Method 2
an ultrasonic sensor that detects an obstacle
Implementation Method 3
three-dimensional (3D) depth cameras that capture image data and/or depth data
Data Source
AI summary
A system for autonomous or semi-autonomous operation of a vehicle is disclosed. The system includes a machine automation portal (MAP) application configured to enable a computing device to (a) display a map of a work site and (b) provide a graphical user interface that enables a user to (i) define a boundary of an autonomous operating zone on the map and (ii) define a boundary of one or more exclusion zones. The system also includes a robotics processing unit configured to (a) receive the boundary of the autonomous operating zone and the boundary of each exclusion zone from the computing device, (b) generate a planned command path that the vehicle will travel to perform a task within the autonomous operating zone while avoiding each exclusion zone, and (c) control operation of the vehicle so that the vehicle travels the planned command path to perform the task.