Patent ID: 6739078
Filing Date: 2004-05-25
Classification: B25J,E02F,G05B

Abstract:
An apparatus for a user to remotely controlling a backhoe across a data network, the backhoe including a boom arm, a dipper arm, and a bucket each being controlled by a corresponding electrically controlled hydraulic movement system, the apparatus comprising:a user personal computer having a graphical user interface, the graphical user interface operable to receive movement instructions from the user and to display a visual representation of the backhoe in response to received position data, the user personal computer coupled to the data network and operable to transmit movement instructions over the data network and to receive position data; first and second wireless modems capable of transmitting and receiving data over a wireless connection to one another; a remote personal computer coupled to the data network and operable to receive movement instructions therefrom, the remote personal computer coupled to the first wireless modem and operable to transmit the movement instructions; a programmable controller coupled to the second wireless modem and operable to receive the movement instructions, the programmable controller further operable to translate the received user instructions into electrical control signals, the programmable controller coupled to the boom arm, dipper arm, and bucket hydraulic movement control systems, wherein the electrical control signals are routed to the hydraulic movement control system corresponding to the movement instructions to provide for actuation of the corresponding hydraulic movement system; and a data generator coupled to the user personal computer, the data generator operable to provide position data corresponding to the movement instructions.