Autopilot and Operator Assistance Systems for Wheel Loaders

Abstract

In recent years, employing personnel for construction machinery operators has become challenging, requiring a lot of effort and experience. Meanwhile, personnel costs are increasing in Europe, Turkey, and other developed countries. The autopilot system facilitates the bucket loading and unloading process, among the most basic functions of wheel loader machines. It reduces the need for experienced operators and operator errors, increases the operational efficiency and productivity of the vehicle, and reduces fuel consumption and exhaust emissions to the environment. This study is about autopilot and operator assist systems and their benefits and advantages. It explains the working systematics, skid detection and prevention systems, mapping the earth, detecting people and objects, developments to increase vehicle efficiency and productivity, improving operator comfort level, etc. Even though some of the functions are carried out automatically, the vehicle still runs under the control and supervision of the operator in the cabin or a remote-control station.