Method and apparatus for satellite positioning of earth-moving equipment
US7640683B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventor
Key dates
| Filing date | Apr 15, 2005 |
| Grant date | Jan 5, 2010 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Sep 6, 2026 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC E)Fixed Constructions
- CPC primaryE02F3/437
- WIPO fieldCivil engineering
- WIPO sectorOther fields
Abstract
A method and apparatus for using satellite positioning systems to more precisely locate the position of a portion of an attachment on an earthmoving machine is disclosed. More specifically, satellite positioning system antennas are mounted to an arm or other point relative to the arm of an illustrative excavator. A reference point relative to these antennas is used to determine the precise location of a portion of an attachment to the excavator, such as the prongs of a bucket. In one embodiment, an angle sensor or inclinometer is used to ascertain the position of the prongs when the bucket is scooped. In another embodiment, an angle sensor or inclinometer is used to measure the tilt of the body of the excavator, such as would occur when the excavator is resting on a sloped surface.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.