Caterpillar Inc.

John A Sherman

Tazio Stephan Grivetti

Christopher M Sketch

Kevin Anthony O'Neil

Sam M Kherat

James L Babin

Joseph M Spanier

Matthew T West

Systems and methods are disclosed for contour crafting. The system includes a work tool configured to form a first layer by depositing material from a print head and following a path for depositing a second layer of material atop the first layer. The system further includes an optics assembly configured to produce a light pattern directed toward previously deposited material, and a camera configured to capture image data of the previously deposited material. The system further includes a processing device being configured to obtain, from the image data, a visible formation of the light pattern as it is projected onto the previously deposited material, and make a comparison of the visible formation to a predicted formation. The processing device is further configured to determine that the second layer is not aligned with the first layer, and adjust of the path being followed by the work tool based on the determination.

Machine control system for contour crafting

A construction system is provided. The construction system includes at least one machine. The construction system also includes a gantry system having a beam member. The construction system further includes a reference member provided proximal to a predetermined path of the at least one machine. The construction system includes a sensing unit associated with the at least one machine. The sensing unit is configured to determine distance of a portion of the at least one machine from the reference member. The construction system also includes a control unit in communication with the at least one machine and the sensing unit. The control unit is configured to receive inputs indicative of distance of the portion of the at least one machine from the reference member. The control unit is also configured to move the at least one machine to move the gantry system along the reference member for a predetermined distance.

Construction system

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Peoria, IL, United States of America

John A Sherman