US 11,977,378 B2 · Virtual path guidance system

Abstract

A guidance system for remotely guiding a work machine along a virtual path. The system uses a vision system to capture image data representative of areas surrounding the work machine. The image data is used to produce a spatial map. Analysis of image data allows the work machine's then-current position to be represented on the spatial map. A virtual path extending from the work machine's position is next added to the spatial map. The virtual path may be generated in response to external input provided at the display showing an image of the spatial map. Using continuously-updated image data, the work machine is driven toward the virtual path. During operation, the actual path of the work machine is compared to the virtual path. If any deviation between the paths is detected, the trajectory of the work machine is automatically adjusted.

Claims19

Dependent claims

A method, comprising:

capturing image data representative of one or more scenes in the vicinity of a self-propelled work machine;
locating the work machine in relation to the imaged vicinity;
receiving data about a virtual path for the work machine, the virtual path originating at the machine's then-current location;
generating the virtual path within the captured image data using the received data;
driving the work machine along an actual path;
and comparing the actual path of the driven work machine to the virtual path;
and as the work machine is driving along the actual path, adjusting the trajectory of the work machine in response to any deviation of the actual path from the virtual path.

4 more elements

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.

Virtual path guidance system

Life of this patent

Virtual path guidance system

Life of this patent

Abstract

Claims19