DETAILED ACTION
Notice of Pre-AIA or AIA Status
The present application, filed on or after March 16, 2013, is being examined under the first inventor to file provisions of the AIA .
Priority
Receipt is acknowledged of certified copies of papers required by 37 CFR 1.55.
Continued Examination Under 37 CFR 1.114
A request for continued examination under 37 CFR 1.114, including the fee set forth in 37 CFR 1.17(e), was filed in this application after final rejection. Since this application is eligible for continued examination under 37 CFR 1.114, and the fee set forth in 37 CFR 1.17(e) has been timely paid, the finality of the previous Office action has been withdrawn pursuant to 37 CFR 1.114. Applicant's submission filed on August 21, 2025 has been entered.
Response to Amendment
Applicant submitted amendments and remarks on August 21, 2025. Therein, Applicant submitted substantive arguments. Claims 1, 5-11, 13-16, and 18 have been amended. Claim 22 was added. Claim 19 was cancelled.
Applicant has made adequate amendments to claims in order to eliminate the
terms:
(a) “first communication unit connected to the attachment tool” as recited in claim 1.
(b) “a second communication unit connected to the work device a connection region for the
attachment tool” as recited in claim 1.
(c) “first communication unit or the second configuration unit, the identification module
configured to obtain the first and second acceleration signals” as recited in claim 1.
(d) “first communication unit is configured to wirelessly transmit the first acceleration signal”,
as recited in claim 2.
(e) “reception unit configured to receive signals”, as recited in claim 2.
(f) “second communication unit comprises the reception unit and is configured to provide the
first and second acceleration signals”, as recited in claim 3.
(g) “second communication unit is configured to transmit the second acceleration signal”, as
recited in claim 4.
(h) “first communication unit is configured to provide an identification signal”, as recited in
claim 5.
(i) “identification module is configured to take account of one or more pieces of information in
comparing the first and second acceleration signals”, as recited in claim 6.
(j) “identification module is configured to receive the first one or more additional accelerations
in one or more additional acceleration signals”, as recited in claim 7.
(k) “identification module is configured to identify the attachment tool as attached”, as recited
in claim 8.
(l) “third communication unit connected with a second attachment tool that is configured to
connect with the first attachment tool”, as recited in claim 9.
(m) “identification module configured to obtain the first acceleration signal, the second
acceleration signal, and the third acceleration signal”, as recited in claim 9.
(n) “third communication unit connected to a second attachment tool, the first communication
unit and the third communication unit configured to communicate with each other”, as
recited in claim 10.
(o) “identification module is configured to calculate”, as recited in claim 11.
(p) “identification module is configured to identify the attachment tool”, as recited in claim 16.
(q) “identification module is configured to identify which of the first attachment tool or the one
or more additional attachment tools is connected to the work device”, as recited in claim 17.
(r) “identification module configured to receive acceleration signals”, as recited in claim 18.
(s) “identification module configured to determine”, as recited in claim 18.
(t) “identification module configured to determine”, as recited in claim 19.
(u) “identification module configured to determine”, as recited in claim 20.
that could be interpreted under 35 U.S.C. 112(f). Therefore, these claim interpretations are withdrawn. Subsequently, the associated rejections of claims 1-11 and 16-20 under 35 U.S.C. 112(a) and 35 U.S.C. 112(b) are also withdrawn.
The submitted claims are considered below.
Claim Rejections - 35 USC § 103
In the event the determination of the status of the application as subject to AIA 35 U.S.C. 102 and 103 (or as subject to pre-AIA 35 U.S.C. 102 and 103) is incorrect, any correction of the statutory basis (i.e., changing from AIA to pre-AIA ) for the rejection will not be considered a new ground of rejection if the prior art relied upon, and the rationale supporting the rejection, would be the same under either status.
The following is a quotation of 35 U.S.C. 103 which forms the basis for all obviousness rejections set forth in this Office action:
A patent for a claimed invention may not be obtained, notwithstanding that the claimed invention is not identically disclosed as set forth in section 102, if the differences between the claimed invention and the prior art are such that the claimed invention as a whole would have been obvious before the effective filing date of the claimed invention to a person having ordinary skill in the art to which the claimed invention pertains. Patentability shall not be negated by the manner in which the invention was made.
The factual inquiries for establishing a background for determining obviousness under 35 U.S.C. 103 are summarized as follows:
1. Determining the scope and contents of the prior art.
2. Ascertaining the differences between the prior art and the claims at issue.
3. Resolving the level of ordinary skill in the pertinent art.
4. Considering objective evidence present in the application indicating obviousness or nonobviousness.
This application currently names joint inventors. In considering patentability of the claims the examiner presumes that the subject matter of the various claims was commonly owned as of the effective filing date of the claimed invention(s) absent any evidence to the contrary. Applicant is advised of the obligation under 37 CFR 1.56 to point out the inventor and effective filing dates of each claim that was not commonly owned as of the effective filing date of the later invention in order for the examiner to consider the applicability of 35 U.S.C. 102(b)(2)(C) for any potential 35 U.S.C. 102(a)(2) prior art against the later invention.
Claims 1-11 and 13-15 are rejected under 35 U.S.C. 103 as being unpatentable over Matsuyama et al. (U.S. Patent Application Publication 20180148905) in view of Tsutsui, et al. (Japanese Patent Application No. 2022174555A).
Regarding claim 1, Matsuyama, et al. teaches: A system for identifying a first attachment tool for a work device, the system comprising: a first communication unit and provided on the first attachment tool (Matsuyama, et al. Paragraph [0020]: "The work equipment (110) is provided with a boom (111), an arm (112), a bucket (113), boom cylinders (114), an arm cylinder (115), and a bucket cylinder (116)." ; Matsuyama, et al. Paragraph [0051]: "The control device (126) is provided with a work machine information storing unit (200), a manipulation amount acquiring unit (201), a detected information acquiring unit (202), a posture specifying unit (203), a target construction data storing unit (204), a target construction line specifying unit (205), a distance specifying unit (206), a target speed deciding unit (207), a work equipment control unit (208), a bucket control unit (209), and a control command output unit (210).")
Specifically, "a system for identifying an attachment tool" refers to an attachment tool (113), "for a work device" refers to the working machine (100), "a first communication unit" refers to element (209) in Fig. 4, and "connected to an attachment tool" refers to an attachment device (113).
a second communication unit directly attached to the work device in a connection region for the first attachment tool (Matsuyama, et al. Paragraph [0020]: "The work equipment (110) is provided with a boom (111), an arm (112), a bucket (113), boom cylinders (114), an arm cylinder (115), and a bucket cylinder (116)." ; Matsuyama, et al. Paragraph [0051]: "The control device (126) is provided with a work machine information storing unit (200), a manipulation amount acquiring unit (201), a detected information acquiring unit (202), a posture specifying unit (203), a target construction data storing unit (204), a target construction line specifying unit (205), a distance specifying unit (206), a target speed deciding unit (207), a work equipment control unit (208), a bucket control unit (209), and a control command output unit (210).")
Specifically, "a second communication unit" refers to element (207) in Fig. 4, and "connected to the work device a connection region for the attachment tool" refers to an attachment device (113).
Matsuyama, et al. does not teach having a first acceleration sensor configured to measure a first acceleration of the attachment tool and to provide a first acceleration signal representing the first acceleration of the first attachment tool; having a second acceleration sensor configured to measure a second acceleration of the connection region of the work device to provide a second acceleration signal representing the second acceleration of the connection region; and an identification module that is coupled to one or more of the first communication unit or the second communication unit, the identification module configured to obtain the first and second acceleration signals and identify the attachment tool as attached to the work device and not the one or more additional attachment tools by comparing the first and second acceleration signals responsive to the first and second acceleration signals being closer to each other than to one or more other acceleration signals from one or more additional communication units connected to the one or more additional attachment tools.
In a similar field of endeavor (construction machinery), Tsutsui, et al. teaches: having a first acceleration sensor configured to measure a first acceleration of the first attachment tool and to provide a first acceleration signal representing the first acceleration of the attachment tool; (Paragraph [0031]: "An accelerator sensor (22) for detecting accelerations of the boom (14) is attached to a side plate (14A) on the left side of the boom (14) constituting the front (13). An accelerator sensor (23) for detecting accelerations of the arm (16) is attached to a left side plate (16A) of the arm (16). An accelerator sensor (24) for detecting accelerations of the bucket (17) in association with the operation of the bucket link (18) is attached to a left side surface (18A) of the rear link (18A1) constituting the bucket link (18). Further, the upper revolving structure (3) is provided with a vehicle body inclination angle sensor (25) for detecting the inclination of the hydraulic excavator (1) at the work site.")
Specifically, "having a first acceleration sensor configured to measure a first acceleration of the first attachment tool and to provide a first acceleration signal representing the first acceleration of the attachment tool" refers to "…the acceleration sensor (24) for detecting the acceleration of the bucket (17)", as stated in Paragraph [0031].
having a second acceleration sensor configured to measure a second acceleration of the connection region of the work device to provide a second acceleration signal representing the second acceleration of the connection region; (Paragraph [0031]: "An accelerator sensor (22) for detecting accelerations of the boom (14) is attached to a side plate (14A) on the left side of the boom (14) constituting the front (13). An accelerator sensor (23) for detecting accelerations of the arm (16) is attached to a left side plate (16A) of the arm (16). An accelerator sensor (24) for detecting accelerations of the bucket (17) in association with the operation of the bucket link (18) is attached to a left side surface (18A) of the rear link (18A1) constituting the bucket link (18). Further, the upper revolving structure (3) is provided with a vehicle body inclination angle sensor (25) for detecting the inclination of the hydraulic excavator (1) at the work site.")
Specifically, "a second acceleration sensor configured to measure a second acceleration of the connection region of the work device to provide a second acceleration signal representing the second acceleration of the connection region" refers to "…the acceleration sensor (22) for detecting the acceleration of the boom (14)", as stated in Paragraph [0031].
and an identification module that is coupled to one or more of the first communication unit or the second communication unit, the identification module configured to obtain the first and second acceleration signals and identify the first attachment tool as attached to the work device and not the one or more additional attachment tools by comparing the first and second acceleration signals responsive to the first and second acceleration signals being closer to each other than to one or more other acceleration signals from one or more additional communication units connected to the one or more additional attachment tools (Paragraph [0031]: "An accelerator sensor (22) for detecting accelerations of the boom (14) is attached to a side plate (14A) on the left side of the boom (14) constituting the front (13). An accelerator sensor (23) for detecting accelerations of the arm (16) is attached to a left side plate (16A) of the arm (16). An accelerator sensor (24) for detecting accelerations of the bucket (17) in association with the operation of the bucket link (18) is attached to a left side surface (18A) of the rear link (18A1) constituting the bucket link (18). Further, the upper revolving structure (3) is provided with a vehicle body inclination angle sensor (25) for detecting the inclination of the hydraulic excavator (1) at the work site." ; Paragraph [0032]: "The acceleration sensors (22), (23) and (24) and the vehicle body inclination angle sensor (25) are configured to: When the semi-automatic operation construction using the hydraulic excavator (1) is performed, a posture of the front (13) constructing the ground, that is, a position of a tip (claw tip) of an excavation claw (17B) provided in the bucket (17) is detected, and is connected to a controller (not shown) mounted on the upper swing body (3). Then on the accelerations of the boom (14), the arm (16), and the bucket (17) detected by the acceleration sensors (22), (23), and (24), the inclination of the excavator (1) (the upper slewing body (3)) detected by the vehicle body inclination angle sensor (25), and the like, the controller."; Paragraph [0050]: "In a case where semi-automatic operation construction using the excavator (1) is performed, the controller (not illustrated) calculates the accelerations of the boom (14), the arm (16), and the bucket (17) detected by the acceleration sensors (22), (23), and (24) Based on the inclination or the like of the hydraulic excavator (1) detected by the vehicle body inclination angle sensor (25), the position of the claw tip of an excavation claw (17B) provided on the bucket (17) is calculated [calculates proximity of acceleration signals and determines position of attachment tool].")
Specifically, "an identification module" refers to a controller (not shown) in Paragraph [0032], "that is coupled to one or more of the first communication unit or the second communication unit, the identification module configured to obtain the first" refers to "…the acceleration sensor (24) for detecting the acceleration of the bucket (17)" in Paragraph [0031], "and identify the attachment tool as attached to the work device by comparing the first and second acceleration signals" refers to the controller controls the operation of the front (13) while comparing the calculated positional information of the tip of the digging claw (17B) and the three-dimensional data of the ground to be worked in Paragraph [0032]. As a result, the semi-automatic construction operation using the hydraulic excavator (1) is performed.
Therefore, it would have been obvious to one of the ordinary skill of the art before the effective filing date of the claimed invention to modify Matsuyama, et al. to include the teaching of Tsutsui, et al. based on a reasonable expectation of success and motivation to provide a construction machine capable of suppressing transmission of impact forces (Tsutsui, et al. Paragraph [0009]).
The combination of Matsuyama, et al. and Tsutsui, et al. does not teach comprising a short range wireless transceiver; automatically; upon a mechanical coupling procedure of the first attachment tool or one or more additional attachment tools.
In a similar field of endeavor (work tool data), Matzelle teaches: automatically; (Matzelle Col. 7, lines 23-31: "In addition, to sense movement of the work tool attachment (102), for example, when coupled to and picked up by the machine, the data transmission device (180) can include a motion detector (194) such as an accelerometer that can measure acceleration forces. Any change in the current state or spatial reference experienced by the work tool attachment (102) is interpreted by the accelerometer as movement [measure acceleration as a function of coupling attachment].")
comprising a short range wireless transceiver (Matzelle, Col. 13, lines 7-8: "automatically transmit the first tool data set and the second tool data set [automatic detection].").
Therefore, it would have been obvious to one of the ordinary skill of the art before the effective filing date of the claimed invention to modify the combination of Matsuyama, et al. and Tsutsui, et al. to include the teaching of Matzelle based on a reasonable expectation of success and motivation to improve the measurement of positions between an implement and the body of a work vehicle (Matzelle Col. 1, lines 6-8).
Regarding claim 2, Matsuyama, et al., Tsutsui, et al., and Matzelle remain as applied to claim 1, and in a further embodiment, teach: The system in accordance with claim 1, wherein the first communication unit is configured to wirelessly transmit the first acceleration signal to a reception unit wirelessly, with the reception unit configured to receive signals within a limited reception radius (Matsuyama, et al. Figs. 1-7, Paragraph [0034]: "The position detector (122) detects a position of the excavator body (120). The position detector (122) is provided with a first receiver (1231) that receives a positioning signal from an artificial satellite constituting a global navigation satellite system (GNSS). The position detector (122) detects a position of a representative point of the excavator body (120) in a global coordinate system on the basis of the positioning signal received by the first receiver (1231). The global coordinate system is a coordinate system in which a given point on the ground (for example, a position of a GNSS reference station installed at a construction site) is set as a reference point. An example of the GNSS may include a global positioning system (GPS).").
Specifically, the reception unit refers to a global positioning system, or GPS (see Matsuyama at Paragraph [0034] "… the GNSS may include a global positioning system (GPS))".
Regarding claim 3, Matsuyama, et al., Tsutsui, et al., and Matzelle remain as applied to claim 2, and in a further embodiment, teach: The system in accordance with claim 2, wherein the second communication unit comprises the reception unit and is configured to provide the first and second acceleration signals to the identification module; and wherein the second communication unit comprises the identification module or an identification unit connected to the work device that comprises the identification module and is configured to receive the first and second acceleration signals from the second communication unit in a wired or wireless manner (Tsutsui, et al. Paragraph [0031]: "An accelerator sensor (22) for detecting accelerations of the boom (14) is attached to a side plate (14A) on the left side of the boom (14) constituting the front (13). An accelerator sensor (23) for detecting accelerations of the arm (16) is attached to a left side plate (16A) of the arm (16). An accelerator sensor (24) for detecting accelerations of the bucket (17) in association with the operation of the bucket link (18) is attached to a left side surface (18A) of the rear link (18A1) constituting the bucket link (18). Further, the upper revolving structure (3) is provided with a vehicle body inclination angle sensor (25) for detecting the inclination of the hydraulic excavator (1) at the work site." ; Tsutsui, et al. Paragraph [0032]: "The acceleration sensors (22), (23) and (24) and the vehicle body inclination angle sensor (25) are configured to: When the semi-automatic operation construction using the hydraulic excavator (1) is performed, a posture of the front (13) constructing the ground, that is, a position of a tip (claw tip) of an excavation claw (178) provided in the bucket (17) is detected, and is connected to a controller (not shown) mounted on the upper swing body (3). Then on the accelerations of the boom (14), the arm (16), and the bucket (17) detected by the acceleration sensors (22), (23), and (24), the inclination of the excavator (1) (the upper slewing body (3)) detected by the vehicle body inclination angle sensor (25), and the like, the controller.").
Specifically, "wherein the second communication unit comprises the reception unit and is configured to provide the first and second acceleration signals to the identification module; and wherein the second communication unit comprises the identification module or an identification unit connected to the work device that comprises the identification module and is configured to receive the first and second acceleration signals" refers to the acceleration sensor (22) for detecting the acceleration of the boom (14), as stated in Paragraph [0031]. Additionally, "from the second communication unit in a wired or wireless manner" refers to a controller (not shown), as stated in Paragraph [0032].
Regarding claim 4, Matsuyama, et al., Tsutsui, et al., and Matzelle remain as applied to claim 2, and in a further embodiment, teach: The system in accordance with claim 2, further comprising: wherein an identification unit connected to the work device, the identification unit comprising the identification module and the reception unit; (Matsuyama, et al. Figs. 1-7, Paragraph [0064]: "The target speed deciding unit (207) decides a target speed of the boom (111) on the basis of the amount of manipulation of the right manipulation lever (1212) in the forward/backward direction, which is acquired by the manipulation amount acquiring unit (201).")
Specifically, the identification unit target speed deciding unit refers to the target speed deciding unit (207) (ref. Paragraph [0064]: "The target speed deciding unit (207) decides a target speed of the arm (112) on the basis of the amount of manipulation of the left manipulation lever (1213) in the forward/backward direction").
and wherein the second communication unit is configured to transmit the second acceleration signal to the identification unit in a wired or wireless manner (Matsuyama, et al. Figs. 1-7, Paragraph [0034]: "The position detector (122) detects a position of the excavator body (120). The position detector (122) is provided with a first receiver (1231) that receives a positioning signal from an artificial satellite constituting a global navigation satellite system (GNSS). The position detector (122) detects a position of a representative point of the excavator body (120) in a global coordinate system on the basis of the positioning signal received by the first receiver (1231). The global coordinate system is a coordinate system in which a given point on the ground (for example, a position of a GNSS reference station installed at a construction site) is set as a reference point. An example of the GNSS may include a global positioning system (GPS).").
Specifically, "wherein the second communication unit is configured to transmit the second acceleration signal to the identification unit in a wired or wireless manner" refers to a GPS (see Matsuyama at Paragraph [0034] "… the GNSS may include a global positioning system (GPS))".
Regarding claim 5, Matsuyama, et al., Tsutsui, et al., and Matzelle remain as applied to claim 1, and in a further embodiment, teach: The system in accordance with claim 1, wherein the first communication unit is configured to provide an identification signal relating to one or more of a location, a dimension, a type, or to another property of the first attachment tool and to transmit the identification signal to one or more of the identification module or a control of the work device (Matsuyama, et al. Figs. 1-7, Paragraph [0034]: "The position detector (122) detects a position of the excavator body (120). The position detector (122) is provided with a first receiver (1231) that receives a positioning signal from an artificial satellite constituting a global navigation satellite system (GNSS). The position detector (122) detects a position of a representative point of the excavator body (120) in a global coordinate system on the basis of the positioning signal received by the first receiver (1231). The global coordinate system is a coordinate system in which a given point on the ground (for example, a position of a GNSS reference station installed at a construction site) is set as a reference point. An example of the GNSS may include a global positioning system (GPS).").
Specifically, the identification signal refers to a global positioning system, or GPS (see Matsuyama at Paragraph [0034] "… the GNSS may include a global positioning system (GPS))".
Regarding claim 6, Matsuyama, et al. and Tsutsui, et al., remain as applied to claim 1, and in a further embodiment, teach: The system in accordance with claim 1, wherein the identification module is configured to take account of one or more pieces of information in comparing the first and second acceleration signals, the one or more pieces of information comprising one or more of: a property, of a radio connection of the first communication unit; an instantaneous location of the attachment tool; a position of the first communication unit at an attachment tool; an instantaneous position of the work device; or an instantaneous coupling state of the attachment tool with the connection region of the work device (Matsuyama, et al. Fig. 1, Paragraph [0034]: "The position detector (122) detects a position of the excavator body (120). The position detector (122) is provided with a first receiver (1231) that receives a positioning signal from an artificial satellite constituting a global navigation satellite system (GNSS). The position detector (122) detects a position of a representative point of the excavator body (120) in a global coordinate system on the basis of the positioning signal received by the first receiver (1231). The global coordinate system is a coordinate system in which a given point on the ground (for example, a position of a GNSS reference station installed at a construction site) is set as a reference point. An example of the GNSS may include a global positioning system (GPS).").
Specifically, "an instantaneous position of the work device" refers to process described in Fig. 1, Paragraph [0034].
Regarding claim 7, Matsuyama, et al. and Tsutsui, et al., remain as applied to claim 1, and in a further embodiment, teach: The system in accordance with claim 1, wherein the identification module is configured to receive one or more additional accelerations in one or more additional acceleration signals from the one or more additional communication units connected to the one or more additional attachment tools, the identification module configured to compare (a) each of the first acceleration and the one or more additional accelerations with (b) the second acceleration of the second communication unit and identify which of the first acceleration and the one or more additional accelerations has a highest correlation with the second acceleration to identify which of the first attachment tool or the one or more additional attachment tools is connected to the work device (Tsutsui, et al. Paragraph [0032]: "The acceleration sensors (22), (23) and (24) and the vehicle body inclination angle sensor (25) are configured to: When the semi-automatic operation construction using the hydraulic excavator (1) is performed, a posture of the front (13) constructing the ground, that is, a position of a tip (claw tip) of an excavation claw (178) provided in the bucket (17) is detected, and is connected to a controller (not shown) mounted on the upper swing body (3). Then on the accelerations of the boom (14), the arm (16), and the bucket (17) detected by the acceleration sensors (22), (23), and (24), the inclination of the excavator (1) (the upper slewing body (3)) detected by the vehicle body inclination angle sensor (25), and the like, the controller."; Paragraph [0050]: "In a case where semi-automatic operation construction using the excavator (1) is performed, the controller (not illustrated) calculates the accelerations of the boom (14), the arm (16), and the bucket (17) detected by the acceleration sensors (22), (23), and (24) Based on the inclination or the like of the hydraulic excavator (1) detected by the vehicle body inclination angle sensor (25), the position of the claw tip of an excavation claw (17B) provided on the bucket (17) is calculated [calculates proximity of acceleration signals and determines position of attachment tool].").
Specifically, "the identification module" refers to a controller (not shown) (ref. Paragraph [0032]), "is configured to receive one or more additional accelerations in one or more additional acceleration signals from one or more additional communication units connected to one or more additional attachment tools" refers to the bucket (17), and "the identification module configured to compare (a) each of the first acceleration and the one or more additional accelerations with (b) the second acceleration of the second communication unit to identify which of the first attachment tool or the one or more additional attachment tools is connected to the work device" refers to Paragraph [0032], in which the controller controls the operation of the front (13) while comparing the calculated positional information of the tip of the digging claw (17B) and the three-dimensional data of the ground to be worked. As a result, semi-automatic operation construction using the hydraulic excavator (1) is performed.
Regarding claim 8, Matsuyama, et al., Tsutsui, et al., and Matzelle remain as applied to claim 7, and in a further embodiment, teach: The system in accordance with claim 7, wherein the identification module is configured to identify the first attachment tool as attached to the work device by comparing the first and second acceleration signals and based on a difference between the second acceleration signal and an expected acceleration for the first attachment tool calculated based on the second acceleration signal (Tsutsui, et al. Paragraph [0031]: "An accelerator sensor (22) for detecting accelerations of the boom (14) is attached to a side plate (14A) on the left side of the boom (14) constituting the front (13). An accelerator sensor (23) for detecting accelerations of the arm (16) is attached to a left side plate (16A) of the arm (16). An accelerator sensor (24) for detecting accelerations of the bucket (17) in association with the operation of the bucket link (18) is attached to a left side surface (18A) of the rear link (18A1) constituting the bucket link (18). Further, the upper revolving structure (3) is provided with a vehicle body inclination angle sensor (25) for detecting the inclination of the hydraulic excavator (1) at the work site." ; Tsutsui, et al. Paragraph [0032]: "The acceleration sensors (22), (23) and (24) and the vehicle body inclination angle sensor (25) are configured to: When the semi-automatic operation construction using the hydraulic excavator (1) is performed, a posture of the front (13) constructing the ground, that is, a position of a tip (claw tip) of an excavation claw (178) provided in the bucket (17) is detected, and is connected to a controller (not shown) mounted on the upper swing body (3). Then on the accelerations of the boom (14), the arm (16), and the bucket (17) detected by the acceleration sensors (22), (23), and (24), the inclination of the excavator (1) (the upper slewing body (3)) detected by the vehicle body inclination angle sensor (25), and the like, the controller.").
Specifically, "the identification module" refers to a controller (not shown) (ref. Paragraph [0032]), "is configured to identify the attachment tool as attached to the work device by comparing the first and second acceleration signals and based on one or both of: a first difference between the first and second acceleration signals" refers to Paragraph [0031] for the acceleration sensor (22) for detecting the acceleration of the boom (14), and "a second difference between the second acceleration signal and an expected acceleration for the attachment tool calculated based on the second acceleration signal" refers to Paragraph [0032], in which the controller controls the operation of the front (13) while comparing the calculated positional information of the tip of the digging claw (17B) and the three-dimensional data of the ground to be worked. As a result, semi-automatic operation construction using the hydraulic excavator (1) is performed.
Regarding claim 9, Matsuyama, et al. teaches: The system in accordance with claim 1, further comprising: a third communication unit of the one or more additional communication units connected with a second attachment tool of the one or more attachment tools (Paragraph [0020]: "The work equipment (110) is provided with a boom (111), an arm (112), a bucket (113), boom cylinders (114), an arm cylinder (115), and a bucket cylinder (116)." ; Paragraph [0075]: "The target construction line specifying unit (205) specifies a contour point located at the lowest position in the global coordinate system among the contour points of the bucket (113) (step S5). The target construction line specifying unit (205) specifies a target construction surface that is located vertically below the specified contour point (step S6). Next, the target construction line specifying unit (205) calculates an intersecting line between a driving surface of the bucket (113), which passes through the specified contour point and the target construction surface, and target construction data as a target construction line (step S7). The distance specifying unit (206) specifies a distance between the bucket (113) and an excavation object position (step S8). The target speed deciding unit (207) calculates target speeds of the boom (111), the arm (112), and the bucket (113) on the basis of the amounts of manipulation acquired by the manipulation amount acquiring unit (201) in step S1 (step S9).").
Specifically, with respect to the reference Matsuyama, et al., "a third communication unit " refers to Fig. 4 and element (209), "connected with a second attachment tool" refers to an attachment tool (113), and "that is configured to connect with the first attachment tool while the first attachment tool is connected with the work device,", refers to Paragraphs [0075]-[0076] in which Figs. 5-6 provides for the connecting region in Paragraphs [0066] and [0076] and at least Paragraphs [0039] and [0040].
Matsuyama, et al. does not teach the third communication unit having a third acceleration sensor configured to measure a third acceleration of the second attachment tool and to provide a third acceleration signal representing the third acceleration of the second attachment tool, the identification module configured to obtain the first acceleration signal, the second acceleration signal, and the third acceleration signal to determine an attachment order of the first attachment tool and the second attachment tool based on the first acceleration signal, the second acceleration signal, and the third acceleration signal.
In a similar field of endeavor (construction machinery), Tsutsui, et al. teaches: the third communication unit having a third acceleration sensor configured to measure a third acceleration of the second attachment tool and to provide a third acceleration signal representing the third acceleration of the second attachment tool, the identification module configured to obtain the first acceleration signal, the second acceleration signal, and the third acceleration signal to determine an attachment order of the first attachment tool and the second attachment tool based on the first acceleration signal, the second acceleration signal, and the third acceleration signal (Paragraph [0031]: "An accelerator sensor (22) for detecting accelerations of the boom (14) is attached to a side plate (14A) on the left side of the boom (14) constituting the front (13). An accelerator sensor (23) for detecting accelerations of the arm (16) is attached to a left side plate (16A) of the arm (16). An accelerator sensor (24) for detecting accelerations of the bucket (17) in association with the operation of the bucket link (18) is attached to a left side surface (18A) of the rear link (18A1) constituting the bucket link (18). Further, the upper revolving structure (3) is provided with a vehicle body inclination angle sensor (25) for detecting the inclination of the hydraulic excavator (1) at the work site.").
Specifically, "the third communication unit having a third acceleration sensor configured to measure a third acceleration of the second attachment tool and to provide a third acceleration signal representing the third acceleration of the second attachment tool, the identification module configured to obtain the first acceleration signals" refers to the acceleration sensor (24) for detecting the acceleration of the bucket (17) (ref. Paragraph [0031], "of the at least two first communication units and to one or more of compare the first acceleration signals with one another or compare the first acceleration signals with the second acceleration signal to determine an attachment order of the attachment tools "refers to the acceleration sensor (22) for detecting the acceleration of the boom (14) (ref. Paragraph [0031])".
Therefore, it would have been obvious to one of the ordinary skill of the art before the effective filing date of the claimed invention to modify Matsuyama, et al. to include the teaching of Tsutsui, et al. based on a reasonable expectation of success and motivation to provide a construction machine capable of suppressing transmission of impact forces (Tsutsui, et al. Paragraph [0009]).
Regarding claim 10, Matsuyama, et al., Tsutsui, et al., and Matzelle remain as applied to claim 1, and in a further embodiment, teach: The system in accordance with claim 1, further comprising a third communication unit of the one or more additional communication units connected to a second attachment tool of the one or more additional tools, the first communication unit and the third communication unit configured to communicate with each other (Matsuyama, et al. Paragraph [0020]: "The work equipment (110) is provided with a boom (111), an arm (112), a bucket (113), boom cylinders (114), an arm cylinder (115), and a bucket cylinder (116)." ; Matsuyama, et al. Paragraph [0075]: "The target construction line specifying unit (205) specifies a contour point located at the lowest position in the global coordinate system among the contour points of the bucket (113) (step S5). The target construction line specifying unit (205) specifies a target construction surface that is located vertically below the specified contour point (step S6). Next, the target construction line specifying unit (205) calculates an intersecting line between a driving surface of the bucket (113), which passes through the specified contour point and the target construction surface, and target construction data as a target construction line (step S7). The distance specifying unit (206) specifies a distance between the bucket (113) and an excavation object position (step S8). The target speed deciding unit (207) calculates target speeds of the boom (111), the arm (112), and the bucket (113) on the basis of the amounts of manipulation acquired by the manipulation amount acquiring unit (201) in step S1 (step S9)." ; Matsuyama, et al. Paragraph [0076]: "Next, the work equipment control unit (208) specifies a speed limit of the work equipment (110) associated with the distance between the bucket (113) and the excavation object position, which is specified by the distance specifying unit (206) according to the table shown in FIG. 5 (step S10). Next, the work equipment control unit (208) calculates a speed limit of the boom (111) on the basis of the target speeds of the arm (112) and the bucket (113) and the speed limit of the work equipment (110) (step S11). The work equipment control unit (208) generates a control command of the boom (111) and a control command of the bucket (113) on the basis of the speed limit of the boom (111) which is generated by the work equipment control unit (208) (step S12).").
Specifically, "wherein the attachment tool is a first attachment tool, and further comprising a third communication unit connected to a second attachment tool" refers to attachment tool (113) and "the first communication unit and the third communication unit configured to communicate with each other" refers to Paragraphs [0075-0076], in which Figs. 5-6 provide for the connecting region a described in Paragraphs [0066], [0076], and [0039]-[0040].
Regarding claim 11, Matsuyama, et al., Tsutsui, et al., and Matzelle remain as applied to claim 1, and in a further embodiment, teach: The system in accordance with claim 1, wherein the identification module is configured to calculate an expected acceleration for the first attachment tool based on the second acceleration signal and to compare the expected acceleration with the first acceleration signal of the first communication unit of the first attachment tool to one or more of recognize whether the first attachment tool is connected to the work device or identify a state of the work device (Tsutsui, et al. Paragraph [0031]: "An accelerator sensor (22) for detecting accelerations of the boom (14) is attached to a side plate (14A) on the left side of the boom (14) constituting the front (13). An accelerator sensor (23) for detecting accelerations of the arm (16) is attached to a left side plate (16A) of the arm (16). An accelerator sensor (24) for detecting accelerations of the bucket (17) in association with the operation of the bucket link (18) is attached to a left side surface (18A) of the rear link (18A1) constituting the bucket link (18). Further, the upper revolving structure (3) is provided with a vehicle body inclination angle sensor (25) for detecting the inclination of the hydraulic excavator (1) at the work site." ; Tsutsui, et al. Paragraph [0032]: "The acceleration sensors (22), (23) and (24) and the vehicle body inclination angle sensor (25) are configured to: When the semi-automatic operation construction using the hydraulic excavator (1) is performed, a posture of the front (13) constructing the ground, that is, a position of a tip (claw tip) of an excavation claw (178) provided in the bucket (17) is detected, and is connected to a controller (not shown) mounted on the upper swing body (3). Then on the accelerations of the boom (14), the arm (16), and the bucket (17) detected by the acceleration sensors (22), (23), and (24), the inclination of the excavator (1) (the upper slewing body (3)) detected by the vehicle body inclination angle sensor (25), and the like, the controller.").
Specifically, "wherein the identification module" refers to a controller (not shown) (ref. Paragraph [0032]), "is configured to calculate an expected acceleration for the attachment tool based on the second acceleration signal" refers to the acceleration sensor 22 for detecting the acceleration of the boom 14 (ref. Paragraph [0031]), "and to compare the expected acceleration with the first acceleration signal of the first communication unit of the attachment tool (ref. bucket (17), Paragraph [0031])) to one or more of recognize whether the attachment tool (ref. bucket (17), Paragraph [0031])) is connected to the work device or identify a of the work device" refers to a circumstance in which the controller controls the operation of the front (13) while comparing the calculated positional information of the tip of the digging claw (17B) and the three-dimensional data of the ground to be worked. As a result, semi-automatic operation construction using the hydraulic excavator (1) is performed (ref. Paragraph [0032]).
Regarding claim 13, Matsuyama, et al. teaches: A method comprising: of a first attachment tool using a first acceleration sensor of a first communication unit provided on the first attachment tool (Paragraph [0020]: "The work equipment (110) is provided with a boom (111), an arm (112), a bucket (113), boom cylinders (114), an arm cylinder (115), and a bucket cylinder (116)." ; Paragraph [0051]: "The control device (126) is provided with a work machine information storing unit (200), a manipulation amount acquiring unit (201), a detected information acquiring unit (202), a posture specifying unit (203), a target construction data storing unit (204), a target construction line specifying unit (205), a distance specifying unit (206), a target speed deciding unit (207), a work equipment control unit (208), a bucket control unit (209), and a control command output unit (210).")
Specifically, "of an attachment tool" refers to an attachment tool (113), "using a first acceleration sensor of a first communication unit" refers to Fig. 4, element (209), and "connected to the attachment tool" refers to an attachment tool (113).
of the connection region of the work device using a second acceleration sensor of a second communication unit that is directly attached to the connection region of the work device (Paragraph [0018]: "FIG. 1 is a perspective view showing a constitution of a hydraulic excavator according to a first embodiment. In the first embodiment, a hydraulic excavator (100) is described as an example of a work machine. A work machine according to another embodiment may not necessarily be the hydraulic excavator (100)." ; Paragraph [0051]: "The control device (126) is provided with a work machine information storing unit (200), a manipulation amount acquiring unit (201), a detected information acquiring unit (202), a posture specifying unit (203), a target construction data storing unit (204), a target construction line specifying unit (205), a distance specifying unit (206), a target speed deciding unit (207), a work equipment control unit (208), a bucket control unit (209), and a control command output unit (210).")
Specifically, "of the connection region of the work device" refers to the working machine (100) and "using a second acceleration sensor of a second communication unit" refers to element (207) of Fig. 4.
Matsuyama, et al. does not teach detecting a first acceleration; detecting a second acceleration; transmitting first and second acceleration signals representing the first and second accelerations to an identification module; comparing the first and second acceleration signals to verify connection of the first attachment tool to the work device responsive to the first and second acceleration signals being closer to each other than to one or more other acceleration signals from one or more additional communication units connected to the one or more additional attachment tools.
In a similar field of endeavor (construction machinery), Tsutsui, et al. teaches: detecting a first acceleration (Paragraph [0031]: "An accelerator sensor (22) for detecting accelerations of the boom (14) is attached to a side plate (14A) on the left side of the boom (14) constituting the front (13). An accelerator sensor (23) for detecting accelerations of the arm (16) is attached to a left side plate (16A) of the arm (16). An accelerator sensor (24) for detecting accelerations of the bucket (17) in association with the operation of the bucket link (18) is attached to a left side surface (18A) of the rear link (18A1) constituting the bucket link (18). Further, the upper revolving structure (3) is provided with a vehicle body inclination angle sensor (25) for detecting the inclination of the hydraulic excavator (1) at the work site.")
Paragraph [0031]: Specifically, "detecting a first acceleration" refers to the acceleration sensor (24) of the bucket (17).
detecting a second acceleration (Paragraph [0031]: "An accelerator sensor (22) for detecting accelerations of the boom (14) is attached to a side plate (14A) on the left side of the boom (14) constituting the front (13). An accelerator sensor (23) for detecting accelerations of the arm (16) is attached to a left side plate (16A) of the arm (16). An accelerator sensor (24) for detecting accelerations of the bucket (17) in association with the operation of the bucket link (18) is attached to a left side surface (18A) of the rear link (18A1) constituting the bucket link (18). Further, the upper revolving structure (3) is provided with a vehicle body inclination angle sensor (25) for detecting the inclination of the hydraulic excavator (1) at the work site.")
Specifically, "detecting a second acceleration" refers to providing (via sensor (22)) a second acceleration signal (the acceleration sensor (22) of the boom (14)).
transmitting first and second acceleration signals representing the first and second accelerations to an identification module (Paragraph [0031]: "An accelerator sensor (22) for detecting accelerations of the boom (14) is attached to a side plate (14A) on the left side of the boom (14) constituting the front (13). An accelerator sensor (23) for detecting accelerations of the arm (16) is attached to a left side plate (16A) of the arm (16). An accelerator sensor (24) for detecting accelerations of the bucket (17) in association with the operation of the bucket link (18) is attached to a left side surface (18A) of the rear link (18A1) constituting the bucket link (18). Further, the upper revolving structure (3) is provided with a vehicle body inclination angle sensor (25) for detecting the inclination of the hydraulic excavator (1) at the work site.")
Specifically, transmitting the first and second acceleration signals to the identification module refers to a controller (not shown).
comparing the first and second acceleration signals to verify connection of the first attachment tool to the work device responsive to the first and second acceleration signals being closer to each other than to one or more other acceleration signals from one or more additional communication units connected to the one or more additional attachment tools (Paragraph [0050]: "In a case where semi-automatic operation construction using the excavator (1) is performed, the controller (not illustrated) calculates the accelerations of the boom (14), the arm (16), and the bucket (17) detected by the acceleration sensors (22), (23), and (24) Based on the inclination or the like of the hydraulic excavator (1) detected by the vehicle body inclination angle sensor (25), the position of the claw tip of an excavation claw (17B) provided on the bucket (17) is calculated [calculates proximity of acceleration signals and determines position of attachment tool in order to determine connection].")
Therefore, it would have been obvious to one of the ordinary skill of the art before the effective filing date of the claimed invention to modify Matsuyama, et al. to include the teaching of Tsutsui, et al. based on a reasonable expectation of success and motivation to provide a construction machine capable of suppressing transmission of impact forces (Tsutsui, et al. Paragraph [0009]).
The combination of Matsuyama, et al. and Tsutsui, et al. does not teach while a connection region of a work device is moving during a mechanical coupling procedure of the first attachment tool or one or more additional attachment tools to the connection region; while the connection region is moving during the mechanical coupling procedure.
In a similar field of endeavor (work tool data), Matzelle teaches: while a connection region of a work device is moving during a mechanical coupling procedure of the first attachment tool or one or more additional attachment tools to the connection region; (Col. 7, lines 23-31: "In addition, to sense movement of the work tool attachment (102), for example, when coupled to and picked up by the machine, the data transmission device (180) can include a motion detector (194) such as an accelerometer that can measure acceleration forces. Any change in the current state or spatial reference experienced by the work tool attachment (102) is interpreted by the accelerometer as movement [measure acceleration as a function of coupling attachment motion].")
while the connection region is moving during the mechanical coupling procedure (Col. 7, lines 23-31: "In addition, to sense movement of the work tool attachment (102), for example, when coupled to and picked up by the machine, the data transmission device (180) can include a motion detector (194) such as an accelerometer that can measure acceleration forces. Any change in the current state or spatial reference experienced by the work tool attachment (102) is interpreted by the accelerometer as movement [measure acceleration as a function of coupling attachment motion].")
Therefore, it would have been obvious to one of the ordinary skill of the art before the effective filing date of the claimed invention to modify the combination of Matsuyama, et al. and Tsutsui, et al. to include the teaching of Matzelle based on a reasonable expectation of success and motivation to improve the measurement of positions between an implement and the body of a work vehicle (Matzelle Col. 1, lines 6-8).
Regarding claim 14, Matsuyama, et al., Tsutsui, et al., and Matzelle remain as applied to claim 13, and in a further embodiment, teach: The method in accordance with claim 13, further comprising: detecting a third acceleration of a second attachment tool of the one or more additional attachment tools using a third acceleration sensor of a third communication unit of the one or more additional communication units that is connected to the second attachment tool; (Tsutsui, et al. Fig. 1, Paragraph [0031]: "An accelerator sensor (22) for detecting accelerations of the boom (14) is attached to a side plate (14A) on the left side of the boom (14) constituting the front (13). An accelerator sensor (23) for detecting accelerations of the arm (16) is attached to a left side plate (16A) of the arm (16). An accelerator sensor (24) for detecting accelerations of the bucket (17) in association with the operation of the bucket link (18) is attached to a left side surface (18A) of the rear link (18A1) constituting the bucket link (18). Further, the upper revolving structure (3) is provided with a vehicle body inclination angle sensor (25) for detecting the inclination of the hydraulic excavator (1) at the work site.")
Specifically, "detecting a third acceleration of a second attachment tool using a third acceleration sensor of a third communication unit connected to the second attachment tool" refers to the bucket (17) and "with the attachment tools being couplable to one or more of one another the connection region" refers to the boom (14).
and determining which of one or more of the first attachment tool or the second attachment tool is connected to the work device by comparing the third acceleration with the second acceleration (Tsutsui, et al. Paragraph [0031]: "An accelerator sensor (22) for detecting accelerations of the boom (14) is attached to a side plate (14A) on the left side of the boom (14) constituting the front (13). An accelerator sensor (23) for detecting accelerations of the arm (16) is attached to a left side plate (16A) of the arm (16). An accelerator sensor (24) for detecting accelerations of the bucket (17) in association with the operation of the bucket link (18) is attached to a left side surface (18A) of the rear link (18A1) constituting the bucket link (18). Further, the upper revolving structure (3) is provided with a vehicle body inclination angle sensor (25) for detecting the inclination of the hydraulic excavator (1) at the work site."; Tsutsui, et al. Paragraph [0032]: "The acceleration sensors (22) (23) and 24 and the vehicle body inclination angle sensor (25) are configured to: When the semi-automatic operation construction using the hydraulic excavator (1) is performed, a posture of the front (13) constructing the ground, that is, a position of a tip (claw tip) of an excavation claw (178) provided in the bucket (17) is detected, and is connected to a controller (not shown) mounted on the upper swing body (3). Then on the accelerations of the boom (14), the arm (16), and the bucket (17) detected by the acceleration sensors (22), (23), and (24), the inclination of the excavator (1) (the upper slewing body (3)) detected by the vehicle body inclination angle sensor (25), and the like, the controller.").
Specifically, "and determining which of one or more of the first attachment tool or the second attachment tool is connected to the work device by comparing the third acceleration with the second acceleration to determine" refers to the bucket (17) (Paragraph [0031]) and the excavator (1) (Paragraph [0032]).
Regarding claim 15, Matsuyama, et al., Tsutsui, et al., and Matzelle remain as applied to claim 14, and in a further embodiment, teach: The method in accordance with claim 14, further comprising: transmitting information relating to one or more of a location, a dimension, a type, or another property of the first attachment tool and the second attachment tool to the identification module by the respective first communication unit and the third communication unit, wherein determining which of the one or more of the first attachment tool or the second attachment tool is connected to the work device is based on the information (Matsuyama, et al. Figs. 1-7, Paragraph [0036]: "The slope detector (124) measures an acceleration and an angular velocity of the excavator body (120), and detects a slope (for example, a pitch indicating rotation about an X axis, a yaw indicating rotation about a Y axis, and a roll indicating rotation about a Z axis) of the excavator body (120) on the basis of the measured results. The slope detector (124) is installed on, for example, a lower surface of the cab (121). The slope detector (124) can use, for example, an inertial measurement unit (IMU) as an inertia measuring device.").
Specifically, the sensor substrate (26) has a length dimension larger than that of the acceleration sensor (22) and a width dimension equal to that of the acceleration sensor (22) (ref. Specification)".
Claims 16-17 are rejected under 35 U.S.C. 103 as being unpatentable over Matsuyama et al. (U.S. Patent Application Publication 20180148905), Tsutsui, et al. (Japanese Patent Application No. 2022174555A), and Matzelle (U.S. Patent No. 11314223) in view of Tinker, et al. (U.S. Patent No. 10900778).
Regarding claim 16, the combination of Matsuyama, et al., Tsutsui, et al., and Matzelle does not teach the system in accordance with claim 1, wherein the identification module is configured to identify the first attachment tool as attached to the work device by comparing the first and second acceleration signals and based on signal strengths of the first acceleration signal and the second acceleration signal.
In a similar field of endeavor (vehicle implement movement measurement), Tinker, et al. teaches: The system in accordance with claim 1, wherein the identification module is configured to identify the attachment tool as attached to the work device by comparing the first and second acceleration signals and based on signal strengths of the first acceleration signal and the second acceleration signal ("Col. 5, lines 4-5: "…measurements may be made by the IMUs and transmitted to the controller (112) for further analysis [identification module gets acceleration data]." ; Col. 5, lines 11-17: "…determining relative differences between the measurements obtained from different IMUs. In this step, IMU readings/positional data common to the compared IMUs can be zeroed-out so that only the positional data individually associated with each IMU and isolated from common movement is identified for determining the respective component positions [can identify attachment tool by comparing acceleration signals between different IMUs]." ; Col. 5, lines 24-28: "…processing the relative differences data from the IMUs. The processing may be performed using a Kalman filter procedure. The Kalman filter may combine the relative differences, e.g., relative angular velocities and relative accelerations, by monitoring signal behavior [comparing signal strengths of acceleration signals].").
Therefore, it would have been obvious to one of the ordinary skill of the art before the effective filing date of the claimed invention to modify the combination of Matsuyama, et al., Tsutsui, et al., and Matzelle to include the teaching of Tinker, et al. based on a reasonable expectation of success and motivation to improve the identification of the relative movement attributes of a work vehicle implement (Tinker, et al. Col. 1, lines 6-8).
Regarding claim 17, the combination of Matsuyama, et al., Tsutsui, et al., and Matzelle does not teach the system in accordance with claim 7, wherein the identification module is configured to identify which of the first attachment tool or the one or more additional attachment tools is connected to the work device based on a smallest difference between the second acceleration and each of the first acceleration and the one or more additional accelerations.
In a similar field of endeavor (vehicle implement movement measurement), Tinker, et al. teaches: The system in accordance with claim 7, wherein the identification module is configured to identify which of the first attachment tool or the one or more additional attachment tools is connected to the work device based on a smallest difference between the second acceleration and each of the first acceleration and the one or more additional accelerations (Col. 5, lines 4-5: "…measurements may be made by the IMUs and transmitted to the controller (112) for further analysis [identification module gets acceleration data]." ; Col. 5, lines 11-17: "…determining relative differences between the measurements obtained from different IMUs. In this step, IMU readings/positional data common to the compared IMUs can be zeroed-out [smallest difference between accelerations] so that only the positional data individually associated with each IMU and isolated from common movement is identified for determining the respective component positions [can identify attachment tool by comparing acceleration signals between different IMUs].").
Therefore, it would have been obvious to one of the ordinary skill of the art before the effective filing date of the claimed invention to modify the combination of Matsuyama, et al., Tsutsui, et al., and Matzelle to include the teaching of Tinker, et al. based on a reasonable expectation of success and motivation to improve the identification of the relative movement attributes of a work vehicle implement (Tinker, et al. Col. 1, lines 6-8).
Claims 18 and 20-22 are rejected under 35 U.S.C. 103 as being unpatentable over Matzelle (U.S. Patent No. 11314223) in view of Tinker, et al. (U.S. Patent No. 10900778).
Regarding claim 18, Matzelle teaches: A system comprising: tool acceleration sensors configured to be directly attached to attachment tools and one or more adapters or extensions, the one or more adapters or extensions configured to be interchangeably connected to a work device, the attachment tools configured to be connected to the work device by the one or more adapters or extenders; (Col. 4, lines 4-8: "…machine (100) to perform a variety of tasks, or to customize the machine for a particular task, the work tool attachment (102) may be interchangeable and may be configured for releasable attachment to the implement mechanism (120) [interchangeably connected to work device]." ; Col. 4, lines 31-37: "…monitoring and recording information about use of the work tool attachment (102) and its operative interaction with the machine (100), the machine can be associated with a work tool data system (140) that includes an electronic control unit, control module or electronic machine controller (142) configured to process electronic signals in the form of binary bits and bytes [connection of sensors to work device]." ; Col. 5, lines 9-14: "…the electronic machine controller (142) can include an input/output interface (148) that can communicate with various sensors and controls disposed about the machine (100) and that are operatively associated with the work tool data system (140) [multiple connected sensors]." ; Col. 7, lines 26-31: "the data transmission device (180) can include a motion detector (194) such as an accelerometer that can measure acceleration forces. Any change in the current state or spatial reference experienced by the work tool attachment (102) is interpreted by the accelerometer as movement [device acceleration sensor - coupled with work device]." ; Col. 3, lines 56-61: "To cause the boom (122), stick (124), and bucket (102) to articulate with respect to each other, implement mechanism (120) may be operatively associated with one or more actuators (126) such as, for example, hydraulic cylinders that can extend and retract a piston resulting in lifting, tilting and other motions [connected to extensions].")
a device acceleration sensor configured to be coupled with the work device (Col. 7, lines 26-31: "the data transmission device (180) can include a motion detector (194) such as an accelerometer that can measure acceleration forces. Any change in the current state or spatial reference experienced by the work tool attachment (102) is interpreted by the accelerometer as movement [device acceleration sensor - coupled with work device].").
Matzelle does not teach and an identification module configured to receive acceleration signals received from each of the tool acceleration sensors and from the device acceleration sensor during movement of the work device, the identification module configured to determine which of the attachment tools is connected to the work device by the one or more adapters or extensions, whether the attachment tool that is connected is at a correct installation position, and an order in which the attachment tools and the one or more adapters or extensions are connected with each other by comparing the acceleration signals.
In a similar field of endeavor (vehicle implement movement measurement), Tinker, et al. teaches: and an identification module configured to receive acceleration signals received from each of the tool acceleration sensors and from the device acceleration sensor during movement of the work device, (Col. 3, lines 5-8: "…position sensor system (104) of the machine (101) may include one or more inertial measurement units (IMUs). An IMU may include one or more accelerometers and one or more gyroscopes [multiple acceleration sensors]." ; Col. 3, lines 18-20: "The controller (112) may be configured to receive, analyze, and/or store measurements obtained from the position sensor system (104) [identification module].")
the identification module configured to determine which of the attachment tools is connected to the work device by the one or more adapters or extensions, whether the attachment tool that is connected is at a correct installation position, and an order in which the attachment tools and the one or more adapters or extensions are connected with each other by comparing the acceleration signals (Col. 5, lines 4-5: "The measurements may be made by the IMUs and transmitted to the controller (112) for further analysis [identification module gets acceleration data]." ; Col. 5, lines 11-17: "…determining relative differences between the measurements obtained from different IMUs. In this step, IMU readings/positional data common to the compared IMUs can be zeroed-out so that only the positional data individually associated with each IMU and isolated from common movement is identified for determining the respective component positions [order in which attachment tools are connect with each other by comparing acceleration signals between different IMUs].").
Therefore, it would have been obvious to one of the ordinary skill of the art before the effective filing date of the claimed invention to modify Matzelle to include the teaching of Tinker, et al. based on a reasonable expectation of success and motivation to improve the identification of the relative movement attributes of a work vehicle implement (Tinker, et al. Col. 1, lines 6-8).
Regarding claim 20, Matzelle and Tinker, et al. remain as applied to claim 18, and in a further embodiment, teach: The system in accordance with claim 18, wherein the identification module is configured to determine the one or more of (a) which of the attachment tools is connected to the work device or (b) the order in which the attachment tools are connected with each other by comparing signal strengths of the acceleration signals (Tinker, et al. Col. 5, lines 4-5: "The measurements may be made by the IMUs and transmitted to the controller (112) for further analysis [identification module gets acceleration data]."; Tinker, et al. Col. 5, lines 11-17: "Step (240) may include determining relative differences between the measurements obtained from different IMUs. In this step, IMU readings/positional data common to the compared IMUs can be zeroed-out so that only the positional data individually associated with each IMU and isolated from common movement is identified for determining the respective component positions [order in which attachment tools are connect with each other by comparing acceleration signals between different IMUs]." ; Tinker, et al. Col. 5, lines 24-28: "Step (250) may include processing the relative differences data from the IMUs. The processing may be performed using a Kalman filter procedure. The Kalman filter may combine the relative differences, e.g., relative angular velocities and relative accelerations, by monitoring signal behavior [comparing signal strengths of acceleration signals].").
Regarding claim 21, Matzelle and Tinker, et al. remain as applied to claim 18, and in a further embodiment, teach: The system in accordance with claim 18, wherein the work device is an excavator, and the attachment tool is an excavator bucket (Matzelle Col. 3, lines 13-14: "In the illustrated example of an excavator, the machine includes a frame (110) [excavator]" ; Matzelle Col. 3, lines 55-56: "Pivotally disposed at the end of the stick (124) can be the work tool attachment (102) in the form of a bucket [excavator bucket].").
Regarding claim 22, Matzelle and Tinker, et al. remain as applied to claim 18, and in a further embodiment, Matzelle teaches: The system in accordance with claim 18, wherein the movement of the work device is a pivoting movement, (Col. 3, lines 46-51: "…the implement mechanism (120) can include a mechanical linkage with elongated and pivotally connected rigid bodies or links that can pivot and articulate with respect to each other to extend, retract, lift, lower and/or tilt the work tool attachment (102) [work device is pivoting movement].")
Matzelle, et al. does not teach and the identification module is configured to determine that the attachment tool that is connected to the work device by the one or more adapters or extensions is at the correct installation position based on the acceleration signals that are compared.
In a similar field of endeavor (vehicle implement movement measurement), Tinker, et al. teaches: and the identification module is configured to determine that the attachment tool that is connected to the work device by the one or more adapters or extensions is at the correct installation position based on the acceleration signals that are compared (Col. 5, lines 11-17: "…determining relative differences between the measurements obtained from different IMUs. In this step, IMU readings/positional data common to the compared IMUs can be zeroed-out so that only the positional data individually associated with each IMU and isolated from common movement is identified for determining the respective component positions [order in which attachment tools are connect with each other by comparing acceleration signals between different IMUs]." ; Col. 6, lines 3-7: "The relative differences between the measurements or the calibrated measurements from different IMUs are determined. For example, the relative differences between the accelerations measured by the IMU (111) and the accelerations measured by the IMU (109) or IMU (110) are determined [comparison of signals].").
Therefore, it would have been obvious to one of the ordinary skill of the art before the effective filing date of the claimed invention to modify Matzelle to include the teaching of Tinker, et al. based on a reasonable expectation of success and motivation to improve the identification of the relative movement attributes of a work vehicle implement (Tinker, et al. Col. 1, lines 6-8).
Response to Arguments
Applicant's arguments filed on August 21, 2025 have been fully considered but they are not persuasive.
Applicant asserted that amended claims 1 and 13 were patentable over Matsuyama, et al. (U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2018014890) in view of Tsutsui, et al. (Japanese Patent No. 2022174555) because the software units (207) and (209) of Matsuyama, et al. are not connected to an attachment tool or directly attached to the connection region of the work device. The examiner disagrees. In Matsuyama, et al., the “first communication unit” is taught as a bucket control unit (209) in Fig. 4, the “second communication unit” is taught as a “target speed deciding unit” (207) in Fig. 4 (ref. Paragraphs [0020] and [0051]). Even they are connected via a control device (126), they have the ability to connect to physical sensors at different locations on the work vehicle body (Paragraphs [0036] and [0094]). Subsequently, it would have been obvious to combine Matsuyama, et al with Tsutsui, et al. because Tsutsui, et al. teaches the specific features of an acceleration signal pertaining to each attached sensor on the attachment tool (Paragraph [0031]).
Applicant also asserted that amended claims 1 and 13 were patentable over Matsuyama, et al. (U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2018014890) in view of Tsutsui, et al. (Japanese Patent No. 2022174555) because Tsutsui, et al. does not compare accelerations to identify the tool attached to a work device. The examiner disagrees. In Tsutsui, et al., a semi-automatic process is conducted in which “…the controller (not illustrated) calculates the accelerations of the boom (14), the arm (16), and the bucket (17) detected by the acceleration sensors (22), (23), and (24)”, and as a result, this data is compared in conjunction with “…the inclination or the like of the hydraulic excavator (1) detected by the vehicle body inclination angle sensor (25)” in order to determine the position of a work device, or “…the position of the claw tip of an excavation claw (17B) provided on the bucket (17)” (Paragraph [0050]). Subsequently, it would have been obvious to combine Tsutsui, et al. with Matsuyama, et al. because Matsuyama, et al. teaches a first and second communication unit for an attachment work tool (Paragraph [0020]).
Applicant also asserted that independent claims 1 and 13 were patentable over Matsuyama, et al. (U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 20180148905) in view of Tsutsui, et al. (Japanese Patent Application No. 2022174555), and further in view of Wieckhorst (European Patent Application No. 2022174555) (in the case of claim 13) because Wieckhorst is not analogous art. The examiner disagrees. In order for a reference to be proper for use in an obviousness rejection under 35 U.S.C. 103, the reference must be analogous art to the claimed invention. In re Bigio, 381 F.3d 1320, 1325, 72 USPQ2d 1209, 1212 (Fed. Cir. 2004). A reference is analogous art to the claimed invention if: (1) the reference is from the same field of endeavor as the claimed invention (even if it addresses a different problem); or (2) the reference is reasonably pertinent. to the problem faced by the inventor (even if it is not in the same field of endeavor as the claimed invention). As such, Wieckhorst is analogous art because it is in the same field of endeavor as the claimed invention. Specifically, Wieckhorst teaches the concept of an agricultural machine which has the ability to control the machine by comparing the data relating to each attachment tool to ensure that the connection between the tool and the machine are verified. As stated in the Specification, the structure of the work vehicle has an identification module which compares the value of incoming data from the attachments (Paragraph [0010]). As a result, it would have been obvious to one of the ordinary skill in the art before the effective filing date of the claimed invention to apply Wieckhorst because the reference teaches a process in which allows “…output means of the control unit for verification of the attachments for the connected implement” (Page 3). Nevertheless, reference Wieckhorst was removed as part of the updated 35 U.S.C. 103 rejection with respect to claims 1 and 13.
Applicant also asserted that amended claim 18 was patentable over Matzelle (U.S. Patent No. 11314223) in view of Tinker, et al. (U.S. Patent No. 10900778) because no acceleration signals are compared to determine which tool is connected or the order in which the tools are connected in Tinker, et al. The examiner disagrees. In Tinker, et al., the IMU describes the process of eliminating IMU data that is common to the different IMUs, which yields the remaining positional data from each IMU which can be used to “…determining the respective component positions” on each IMU (Col. 5, lines 11-17). This information is then “…transmitted to the controller (112) for further analysis” (Col. 5, lines 4-5). Subsequently, it would have been obvious to combine Tinker, et al. with Matzelle because Matzelle teaches tool acceleration sensors coupled to attachment tools (Col. 4, lines 4-8, Col. 4, lines 31-37, Col. 5, lines 9-14, and Col. 7, lines 26-31) and a device acceleration sensor coupled to a work device (Col. 7, lines 26-31).
Therefore, it can be concluded that since the combination of Matsuyama, et al. and Tsutsui, et al. teaches an attachment tool or directly attached to the connection region of the work device, as stated in amended claims 1 and 13, compares accelerations to identify the tool attached to a work device, as stated in amended claims 1 and 13, and the combination of Matzelle and Tinker, et al. teaches acceleration signals which are compared in order to determine which tool is connected or the order in which the tools are connected, as stated in amended claim 18, the arguments presented by the Applicant are not persuasive, and the rejection is maintained.
Conclusion
The prior art made of record and not relied upon is considered pertinent to applicant's disclosure.
a. Shirao, et al. (U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 20120057956), work vehicle
b. Arshad, et al. (U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 20200256039), A working machine having an attachment device and a system for monitoring attachment status of an attachment device
c. Krone, et al. (U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 20210215483), Controlling movement of a machine using sensor fusion
d. Sakamoto, et al. (U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 20190211532), Construction machine
e. Izumi, et al. (U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 20220049453), Work machine
f. Fujishima, et al. (U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 20050027420), Excavation teaching apparatus for construction machine
g. Sherlock, et al. (U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 20190301138), Excavator measurement and control logic
h. Wieckhorst, et al. (European Patent Application No. 3400769), Agricultural Machine and Method For Operating An Agricultural Machine
Applicant is considered to have implicit knowledge of the entire disclosure once a reference has been cited. Therefore, any previously cited figures, columns and lines should not be considered to limit the references in any way. The entire reference must be taken as a whole; accordingly, the Examiner contends that the art supports the rejection of the claims and the rejection is maintained.
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/TORRENCE S MARUNDA II/Examiner, Art Unit 3663
/ANGELA Y ORTIZ/Supervisory Patent Examiner, Art Unit 3663