System and Method for Optimizing a Work Implement Path

A controller-implemented method for determining an optimized cut location for a work implement of a machine, the machine moving on a work surface along a path, comprising:

• storing a loading profile;
• storing an end location of the path;
• determining the position of the work surface based upon position signals from a position sensor;
• storing an initial cut location;
• determining a plurality of potential cut locations along the path between the initial cut location and the end location;
• determining an efficiency for moving an amount of material for each of the initial cut location and the plurality of potential cut locations based upon the amount of material to be moved, a parameter associated with moving the amount of material, and the loading profile;
• and
• selecting the optimized cut location from one of the initial cut location and the plurality of potential cut locations based upon the efficiency of each of the initial cut location and the plurality of potential cut locations.

A machine, comprising:

• a prime mover;
• a work implement for engaging a work surface along a path;
• a position sensor for generating position signals indicative of a position of the work surface;
• a controller configured to:
• store a loading profile;
• store an end location of the path;
• determine the position of the work surface based upon the position signals;
• store an initial cut location;
• determine a plurality of potential cut locations along the path between the initial cut location and the end location;
• determine an efficiency for moving an amount of material for each of the initial cut location and the plurality of potential cut locations based upon the amount of material to be moved, a parameter associated with moving the amount of material, and the loading profile;
• and
• select an optimized cut location for the work implement from one of the initial cut location and the plurality of potential cut locations based upon the efficiency of each of the initial cut location and the plurality of potential cut locations.