US 9,428,885 B2 · Guidance system for earthmoving machinery

Abstract

Disclosed is a guidance system that helps an earthmoving machine operator to control exactly to what elevation to dig. The system includes an electronic sensing device and a display monitor. In one embodiment, the electronic sensing device includes a distance measuring sensor (LDM), an elevation detecting sensor, an orientation sensor, and a steering mechanism for the LDM. The sensing device is mounted to an earthmoving machine, and sends signals to the display showing the machine operator where to move the digging tool for digging to the desired elevation. The various sensors in the sensing device are calibrated at the factory, so the sensing device can be mounted to an earthmoving machine and then be immediately used by that machine without needing any calibration that involves the machine itself, which is a huge advantage for the equipment operator. The measurements are made via non-contact sensors, thereby preserving the jobsite surface.

Claims21

Dependent claims

An integrated sensing device for use with an earthmoving machine that includes a working tool edge, said integrated sensing device comprising:

(a) an electronic distance sensor, having a sensing output that is directed at a jobsite surface, which determines a distance between a datum of said sensing output and said jobsite surface without making physical contact with said jobsite surface;
(b) an electronic orientation sensor for detecting an angular orientation of said sensing output;
and
(c) a processing circuit, and a memory circuit;
(d) wherein said processing circuit is configured:
(i) to receive output signals from said electronic distance sensor and said electronic orientation sensor;
(ii) to determine the distances between said datum and a plurality of physical points on said jobsite surface, and to generate a “latest profile” that represents an actual shape of said jobsite surface;
and
(iii) to send signals to said visible monitor screen, so as to display said “latest profile”.

6 more elements

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.

Guidance system for earthmoving machinery

Life of this patent

Guidance system for earthmoving machinery

Life of this patent

Abstract

Claims21