Lifting system for lifting vehicle comprising data aggregation system and method of lifting vehicle

Abstract

The invention relates to a lifting system (2) for lifting a vehicle (6) and a method for lifting a vehicle, the lifting system comprising a data aggregation system. The lifting system according to the invention comprises:-at least one lifting device (4) having a carriage (8) and a drive system (10) and configured for lifting a vehicle; -a control system (22) configured for controlling the at least one lifting device, the control system comprising:-a data aggregation system (14) configured for acquiring a plurality of measurements at a time (T); -a data processing unit (16) operatively connected with the data aggregation system; -a memory (18) operatively connected with the data processing unit; -a first communication module (20) operatively connected with the data processing unit; and-a lifting data reception system (24) comprising a processor (30), a memory (28) in operative connection with the processor, and a second communication module (26) in operative connection with the processor, where the second communication module is configured to: receive one or more of the plurality of measurements from the at least one lifting device; and-sending instructions to the at least one lifting device, where the instructions are determined by comparing the received measurements with one or more threshold values, where the instructions include at least one or more of a maintenance warning, a warning and / or a locking signal and a selection of one or more lifting devices for the lifting system.

Description

[0001] This invention relates to a lifting system for raising and lowering vehicles (e.g., passenger cars, trucks, buses, and other vehicles). The lifting system may include one or more lifting devices with brackets and drive systems, such as (mobile) bollards, twin-pile bollards with pivot support arms, four-pile bollards with rails, underground lifts, etc. The lifting system comprises at least one lifting device, or two or any other suitable number of the above-described lifting devices, all suitable for raising and lowering vehicles.

[0002] Traditional lifting systems are operated by operators / users, who control and monitor the lifting operations.

[0003] One problem with traditional lifting systems is monitoring them. Monitoring involves the actual usage of the lifting system, maintenance requirements, safety issues, and more. This requires monitoring and checking numerous items and data. This can lead to unnecessary maintenance and repair costs. Furthermore, it can potentially cause unintended safety hazards.

[0004] The purpose of this invention is to eliminate or at least reduce one or more of the above-mentioned problems.

[0005] According to the present invention, this objective is achieved through a lifting system for raising and lowering a vehicle. The lifting system includes: - At least one lifting device having a bracket and a drive system and configured for lifting a vehicle; - A control system configured to control at least one lifting device, the control system comprising: - A data aggregation system configured to collect multiple measurements over time (T) from at least one or more of the following categories: - The height of the bracket; - The speed of the bracket; - Lifting device status data, including data related to the status of the drive system of at least one lifting device; and - Lifting process data, which includes data related to the lifting operation; - A data processing unit that is operationally connected to a data aggregation system, wherein the data processing unit is configured to process each of a plurality of measurement results from the data aggregation system.

[0006] - Memory, which is operationally connected to the data processing unit; - First communication module, which is operatively connected to the data processing unit; - A lifting data receiving system, comprising a processor, a memory operatively connected to the processor, and a second communication module operatively connected to the processor, wherein the second communication module is configured to be connected to a first communication module of the lifting system, and is configured to: - Receive one or more measurement results from a plurality of measurement results from at least one lifting device; and - Sending instructions to at least one lifting device, wherein the instructions are determined by comparing received measurement results with one or more thresholds, wherein the instructions include maintenance warnings, warning and / or lockout signals, and selecting at least one or more of one or more lifting devices for the lifting system.

[0007] The control system is capable of controlling the lifting operations of at least one lifting device and a lifting vehicle. The control system includes a data aggregation system, a data processing unit, a memory, and a first communication module. The memory and the first communication module are operatively connected to the data processing unit. The data aggregation system and the aforementioned unit can be provided as separate systems / units, or as several connected subsystems, which optionally have separate (sub)processes.

[0008] The data aggregation system is configured to acquire multiple measurements at specific times. These measurements may include data from one or more of the following categories: bracket height and / or speed, lifting device status data related to the drive system, and lifting process data related to the actual lifting operation. Bracket height and speed can be measured using different sensors, including conventional sensor types. Lifting device status data may include data related to battery status, such as the minimum and / or maximum potential number of lifts required before charging; drive cylinder status data, such as the amount of hydraulic fluid and / or electrical energy used at a specific time and / or so far in a particular lifting operation and / or in cumulative lifting operations since the most recent maintenance. Lifting cylinders may be hydraulic, electric, and / or pneumatic cylinders. Lifting process data may include data related to the actual lifting operation, such as optionally including vehicle type and / or vehicle identification. Lifting process data may also include the number and identification of one or more lifting devices actually used for this particular lifting operation.

[0009] The data processing unit is capable of processing each of multiple measurement results from the data aggregation system. The lifting process data may also include information about the operator / user. The data processing unit is operationally connected to a memory to store the measurement data and to a first communication module to enable communication of the measurement data.

[0010] The lifting system also includes a lifting data receiving system having a processor, a memory operatively connected to the processor, and a second communication module operatively connected to the processor. More specifically, the second communication module is configured to connect to the first communication module of the lifting system to receive measurement results from at least one lifting device and / or process measurement data from at least one lifting device, and to send instructions to the at least one lifting device. The lifting data receiving system determines instructions by processing the received measurement results and / or comparing the received measurement results and / or processed measurement results with one or more thresholds. Instructions include maintenance warnings, warnings and / or lockout signals, and selecting at least one or more of one or more lifting devices for the lifting system.

[0011] Maintenance warnings can be generated for a variety of reasons. For example, a maintenance warning may be issued when the actual load and / or cumulative load used on the bracket and / or drive system exceeds a threshold. This instruction triggers a maintenance operation, allowing maintenance to be performed on the lifting system. Optionally, the lifting system may be used for a period of time and / or perform multiple lifting operations and / or reach the cumulative load before maintenance is performed, after which the lifting system may optionally be locked.

[0012] Therefore, in some embodiments of the invention, the lift data receiving system may be part of an external system, which may optionally be located at a distance from the lift system. Furthermore, the lift data receiving system may also be configured to receive information from more than one lift system. In some currently preferred embodiments of the invention, the lift data receiving system communicates with a maintenance service provider to instruct maintenance operations to be performed on the respective lift system.

[0013] If the actual load exceeds a threshold and / or the cumulative load exceeds a corresponding threshold, the lifting data receiving system can generate warning and / or lock signals. This improves safety when working with the lifting system and significantly reduces the risk of lifting system failure due to malfunctions, fatigue, etc. Warning signals can be sent to operators / users, supervisors, and / or the lifting system. Optionally, warning signals can also be used in conjunction with lock signals to actively lock the lifting system. Optionally, when a corresponding threshold is exceeded, a lock signal can also be sent directly to the lifting system.

[0014] Instructions can also be generated or provided when selecting one or more lifting devices for a lifting system. For example, when selecting a mobile lifting column for a group of lifting columns (which collectively define a lifting system for lifting vehicles), information about the status and / or previous usage of each lifting device can be considered when selecting lifting devices for the lifting system. For example, the battery status of each lifting device would be considered when selecting the most suitable lifting device for the next lifting operation. This can prevent lifting operations from malfunctioning or being delayed due to limited battery power in one of the lifting devices.

[0015] In some currently preferred embodiments, the lifting system includes a so-called SIM card or other suitable communication method to enable communication between the control system's data processing unit and the lifting data receiving system. This communication operates independently of any local network. Optionally, communication between the lifting data receiving system and / or other (external) systems (including maintenance systems) can also be enabled.

[0016] The memory in the lifting data receiving system is operatively connected to the data processing unit (preferably including at least one processor), wherein the memory is preferably configured to store the measurement results received by the second communication module in the form of time (t) as a timestamp. This enables efficient storage of relevant management data.

[0017] In a currently preferred embodiment of the invention, the lifting process data includes one or more data points regarding vehicle type and / or vehicle weight. This allows the actual lifting operation to be associated with vehicle type (optionally, with a specific vehicle). The data may also include the actual load and / or the cumulative load since the most recent maintenance operation. The load / weight of the vehicle to be lifted may influence the selection of a particular lifting device. Furthermore, vehicle identification information can enable a pay-per-use lifting scheme, where the vehicle owner or person in charge pays for the actual lifting operation, preferably taking into account the duration of the lifting operation and / or the actual load on the lifting system.

[0018] In another preferred embodiment of the invention, the lifting device status data includes one or more of the following: multiple lifting operations, energy usage and / or availability, and the travel distance of the bracket and / or drive system. This information can be used in conjunction with the aforementioned pay-per-use scheme and / or can be used as a trigger for scheduling battery maintenance and / or charging operations for the lifting system.

[0019] Optionally, the lifting device status data includes processed data, preferably generated by a (local) control system configured to control at least one lifting device. The processed data may contain calculated and / or combined data. One advantage of using such processed data is reduced data transmission.

[0020] In another preferred embodiment of the invention, the lifting system further includes a display and an input control device operatively connected to the lifting data receiving system, wherein the display is configured to display information about the data aggregation system and threshold settings, and wherein the input control device is configured to allow a user to adjust the threshold settings.

[0021] The display is capable of exchanging information with operators / users regarding the data aggregation system and threshold settings, and allows for adjustment of threshold settings using input controls. The display can be used to exchange information with users / operators and / or their supervisors.

[0022] In the presently preferred embodiment of the invention, the lifting system includes one, two, or any other suitable number of movable lifting bollards. Tests have shown that the control system, which includes a data aggregation system and a lifting data receiving system, can be effectively applied to lifting systems with one, two, or any other suitable number of movable lifting bollards.

[0023] In a currently preferred embodiment of the present invention, the lifting system further includes a maintenance control module configured to compare lifting device status data with maintenance thresholds to generate maintenance messages.

[0024] The maintenance control module can be a standalone controller or integrated into the controller of the lifting system. Lifting device status data may include information such as the number of lifting operations and / or the distance traveled by the lifting cylinder and / or bracket. Typically, this information is compared with one or more maintenance thresholds to determine whether maintenance work is required. Preferably, the maintenance controller is configured to combine lifting process data and lifting device status data, and compare the combined lifting process data and lifting device status data with one or more maintenance thresholds. For example, in a currently preferred embodiment, the travel distance and energy consumption of the lifting cylinder and / or bracket are combined with the load of a single lifting operation, and then compared with one or more maintenance thresholds. According to another example, the product of the actual load and the actual travel distance of the cylinder and / or bracket can be compared with the corresponding maintenance threshold. Optionally, the cumulative value of these combined data can be monitored at any time and compared with the corresponding maintenance threshold.

[0025] In another preferred embodiment of the invention, the lifting system further includes a selection module for selecting a lifting device (e.g., a mobile lifting column) for a specific lifting operation, wherein the selection module uses lifting device status data to select one or more lifting devices.

[0026] The selection module can be a standalone unit or integrated into the control system of the lifting system. Optionally, the selection module also provides information about the vehicle to be lifted and its load. Furthermore, preferably, the selection module also provides information about the status data of each lifting device in order to select the most suitable lifting device for the lifting system. For example, when using a lifting device with a drive system (which carries a battery), the lifting device status data also includes battery status data. If the battery status data indicates that the battery is low, the selection module will not select the appropriate lifting device for the lifting system in the next lifting operation.

[0027] In a currently preferred embodiment of the invention, the drive system includes a battery charger, and the lifting device status data includes battery charger status data. Alternatively, in one embodiment of the invention, the drive system includes an energy generator, and the lifting device status data includes energy generator status data. The use of these devices and data further enhances the flexibility and operability of the lifting system.

[0028] In another preferred embodiment of the invention, the lifting system further includes a warning control module configured to compare lifting device status data and / or lifting process data with a warning threshold to generate a warning message.

[0029] The warning control module can be implemented as a standalone unit or integrated into the control system of the lifting system. Warning messages can indicate unsafe operation, such as operation caused by bracket overload. This may involve comparing lifting process data and / or lifting device status data related to the actual load and / or vehicle weight with a warning threshold. Optionally, bracket height and / or bracket speed may also be considered when generating a warning message. For example, under a specific (high) load, the speed may be limited to prevent any unsafe situation from occurring. Warning messages can be sent to the operator / user and / or their supervisor. As mentioned above, warning messages may also include a locking signal, and / or a locking signal may be issued immediately after the warning message if the unsafe situation is not resolved within a specific time period. Optionally, in the case of generating such a locking command, the warning control module may also provide an unlocking command immediately after safety is restored.

[0030] In another preferred embodiment of the present invention, the data processing unit of the lifting system processes the measurement results as follows: - Determine whether the measurement results meet at least one of a set of standards; - If the measurement results meet at least one of the criteria in this set: - Store the measurement results in memory, at least temporarily; - The measurement results are sent to the lifting data receiving system using the first communication module; - If the measurement result does not meet at least one of the standards in this set: - Skip the measurement results; This set of standards includes: - The measurement result has no valid previous measurement result, where valid previous measurement results include the latest corresponding measurement result acquired at time (T-1), conforming to the set of criteria and stored in memory, where time (T-1) represents the time when the data aggregation system acquired the latest corresponding measurement result; - The measurement results have valid previous measurements, and - The time period between (T-1) and (T) exceeds the relevant predetermined duration threshold. - When the difference between the measured value and the valid previous measured value exceeds the relevant predetermined difference threshold, or - The measurement result is within the relevant critical value range; and Among them, the duration threshold, difference threshold, and key value range include threshold settings stored in memory.

[0031] It should be noted that valid previous measurements include the latest corresponding measurement that was acquired at time (T-1), conforms to the set of criteria, and is stored in memory, where time (T-1) represents the time when the data aggregation system acquired the latest corresponding measurement.

[0032] Furthermore, it's important to note that, for example, when the lifting system starts, no values ​​are stored in memory since no data has been collected yet. Alternatively, default measurement results can be stored in memory at the start of the process; for example, the speed can be set to zero when the lifting system initiates its lifting operation.

[0033] It should also be noted that this set of standards can also be called "standards". The duration threshold, difference threshold, and key value stored in memory can also be called "threshold settings". Predetermined threshold settings can be called "preset threshold settings". Multiple preset threshold settings can be stored in memory.

[0034] This method of processing measurement results reduces the data transmission required by the lifting system according to the invention. In fact, data is only transmitted when one or more of the aforementioned criteria are met. This reduces the amount of data sent and the bandwidth required to transmit it.

[0035] The duration threshold standard ensures that the measurement result is sent to the rise and fall data receiving system at least each time the duration threshold is exceeded. The advantage of introducing a duration threshold is that it can distinguish between faulty sensors that are no longer taking measurements and sensors whose measurement results remain within the difference threshold range for an extended period.

[0036] The difference threshold standard ensures that a measurement result is only sent to the rise and fall data receiving system when the change in the measurement result exceeds the threshold. The advantage of this is that it prevents the transmission of continuous or minimally fluctuating measurement results. This reduces the total amount of data transmitted over mobile broadband connections without reducing the frequency of data measurements.

[0037] Key value criteria ensure that some measurements are always sent to the lift data receiving system, even if they typically fall within a difference threshold. The benefit of this is that when a key value is significant, it will always be recorded in the lift data receiving system. An example is bracket speed. In context, when analyzing data, the difference between being stationary and slowly moving might be important, and the speed difference might fall within a difference threshold; therefore, if the key value for speed is not set to zero, it will not be recorded.

[0038] Preferably, the display is configured to show information about the data aggregation system and threshold settings, as well as any input control devices configured to allow the user to adjust the threshold settings. Optionally, the data processing unit may also be configured to select a preset threshold setting from a set of reset threshold settings. For example, this selection may be made considering a specific lifting or lowering operation that is about to be performed.

[0039] In the currently preferred embodiment, the difference threshold includes the percentage change between the measured value and the previous value.

[0040] The choice of threshold can also take into account the type of vehicle to be lifted or lowered in the upcoming lifting operation.

[0041] Optionally, the threshold settings can be dynamically adjusted based on the available bandwidth of the first and / or second communication modules. This dynamic adjustment may include lowering the difference threshold and duration threshold when there is ample available bandwidth, and raising the difference threshold and duration threshold when there is limited available bandwidth. This effectively utilizes the available bandwidth. Preferably, the first and second communication modules are used to send the measurement results or a set of measurement results to the rise and fall data receiving system at predefined time intervals. This predefined time interval can be in the range of 1 to 3 seconds, more preferably about 2 seconds. It should be understood that any other time interval is conceivable according to the present invention.

[0042] In another preferred embodiment, the elevation data receiving system is further configured to: if an element exists in memory at time (T-1), and the corresponding element is missing from the received measurement results acquired at time (T), then the element is repeatedly stored in memory with a timestamp (T). This repetition of the measurement result value allows the elevation data receiving system to continue performing its task even when it has not received a measurement result.

[0043] The present invention also relates to a method for raising and lowering a vehicle, the method comprising the following steps: - A lifting system according to embodiments of the present invention is provided; - Use a control system to control at least one lifting device; - Use a data aggregation system to collect multiple measurement results over time (T); - Use the data processing unit to process each of the multiple measurement results from the data aggregation system; - Connect the second communication module of the lifting system to the first communication module for: - Receive measurement results from at least one lifting device, wherein the measurement results include status data of the lifting device; and - Sending an instruction to at least one lifting device, wherein the instruction is determined by comparing a received measurement result with one or more thresholds, wherein the instruction includes a maintenance warning, a warning and / or a locking signal, and selecting at least one or more of one or more lifting devices for the lifting system.

[0044] This method provides the same or similar advantages as described in the section on lifting systems. It should be understood that each aspect of the lifting system can also be used in methods for lifting vehicles. The method also includes positioning the vehicle to be lifted relative to the lifting system, and raising and lowering the vehicle.

[0045] The present invention also relates to a method for operating a control system of a lifting system, the method comprising the following steps: - Collect multiple measurement results from at least one or more of the following categories through the control system of at least one lifting device: - The height of the bracket; - The speed of the bracket; - Lifting device status data, including data related to the status of the drive system of at least one lifting device; and - Lifting process data, which includes data related to the lifting operation; - Send the measurement results from multiple measurements of at least one lifting device to the lifting data receiving system; - Receive instructions from the lifting data receiving system, wherein the instructions are determined by comparing the received measurement structure with one or more thresholds, wherein the instructions include maintenance warnings, alerts and / or lockout signals, and selection of at least one or more of one or more lifting devices for the lifting system.

[0046] The method of operating the control system of the lifting system provides the same or similar advantages as the descriptions related to the lifting system and / or the method of lifting vehicles.

[0047] The method preferably also includes the step of executing instructions received by the lifting data receiving system. This provides an operating system. By operating this control system, the vehicle can be raised or lowered.

[0048] The present invention also relates to a method for a lifting data receiving system for operating a lifting system, the method comprising the following steps: - Receives multiple measuring structures from at least one lifting device, wherein the measurement results are acquired by the control system of at least one lifting device, and wherein the multiple measurement results belong to at least one or more of the following categories: - The height of the bracket; - The speed of the bracket; - Lifting device status data, including data related to the status of the drive system of at least one lifting device; and - Lifting process data, which includes data related to the lifting operation; - Sending instructions to at least one lifting device, wherein the instructions are determined by comparing received measurement results with one or more thresholds, wherein the instructions include maintenance warnings, warning and / or lockout signals, and selecting at least one or more of one or more lifting devices for the lifting system.

[0049] The method (including its control system for operating the lifting system and its lifting data receiving system for operating the lifting system) provides the same or similar effects and additional advantages as described in the description of the lifting system and its associated methods for lifting vehicles. Vehicles can be lifted or lowered by operating the lifting data receiving system.

[0050] Other advantages, features, and details of the invention will be set forth based on its preferred embodiments, with reference to the accompanying drawings, wherein: - Figure 1 A schematic diagram of the lifting system according to the present invention is shown; - Figure 2 It shows according to Figure 1 The lifting system shown has a movable lifting column; - Figures 3 to 6 An alternative lifting system according to the present invention is shown.

[0051] The following description is illustrative only and is not intended to limit the invention, its application, or uses. While this disclosure is described as having exemplary attributes and applications, its content can be further modified. Therefore, this application is intended to cover any variations, uses, or modifications made to it using the general principles of this disclosure. Furthermore, this application is intended to cover improvements that depart from this disclosure but fall within the scope of what is known or customary to those skilled in the art to which this disclosure pertains and fall within the scope of the appended claims. Therefore, the following description of certain embodiments and examples should be considered illustrative only and not limiting of the invention.

[0052] Lifting System 2 ( Figure 1 This relates to a lifting system having multiple movable lifting columns 4 capable of raising and lowering a vehicle 6 from the workshop floor. Each lifting column 4 includes a bracket 8 configured to engage the vehicle 6 and a drive system 10 having a battery 12 and a cylinder 13. Each movable lifting column 4 also includes a data aggregation system 14, a data processor 16, a memory 18, and a first communication module 20, which together define a control system 22 in the illustrated embodiment.

[0053] The lifting system 2 also includes a lifting data receiving system 24, which includes a second communication module 26, a memory 28, and a processor 30. The first communication module 20 sends data and / or instructions 32 to the second communication module 26 and receives data and / or instructions 32 from the second communication module 26. These data / instructions 32 can be transmitted bidirectionally. The lifting data receiving system 24 can be integrated into one or more lifting devices 4, or it can be a separate entity.

[0054] In the illustrated embodiment, the lifting data receiving system 24 further includes a maintenance control module 34, a selection module 36, and a warning control module 38. Preferably, it also includes a data reduction module 40.

[0055] The maintenance control module 34 uses data 32 to determine the need for maintenance operations. The selection module 36 uses data to select or suggest one or more lifting devices 4 for the lifting system 2 during the lifting operation selection phase. The warning control module 38 uses data 32 to issue warnings in cases of (potential) unsafe operation. The data reduction module 40 adjusts the amount of data 32 and derives the value based on available bandwidth, actual needs, and / or possibilities.

[0056] External system 50 receives information from lifting data receiving system 24 and sends information to lifting data receiving system 24. These external systems may be related to manufacturer system 52, sales system 54, service system 56, and / or workshop system 58 and / or any other suitable system. Manufacturer system 52 enables the manufacturer to monitor lifting system 2. For example, this allows the manufacturer of the lifting system to perform maintenance or fault analysis. Sales system 54 can monitor the actual usage of lifting system 2 and provide any updates, including software updates for lifting system 2. Service system 56 can schedule maintenance work based on the data received by lifting data receiving system 24. Workshop system 58 can use data 33 to calculate effective logistics plans or work schedules for lifting system 2.

[0057] The following examples will illustrate the feasibility of lifting systems and related methods.

[0058] The maintenance control module 34 can determine the maintenance operation requirements based on the actual usage of the lifting system 2. For example, the actual load can be multiplied by the travel distance of the lifting system's cylinders and / or brackets, and a series of lifting operations can be accumulated. Once a maintenance threshold is exceeded, the maintenance control module 34 can generate a maintenance command.

[0059] Selection module 36 can suggest or select a suitable lifting device 4 from the available lifting devices, which is capable of performing the upcoming lifting operation. For example, this may involve the battery status of battery 12. It can also combine the cumulative value of load and travel distance and / or the number of lifting operations performed, etc.

[0060] When the load exceeds a warning threshold, the warning control module 38 may issue a (safety) warning. Alternatively, the warning control module 38 may also generate a warning, or combine the load with a specific speed to generate a warning. For example, a low-speed load may be acceptable, but the same load at a high speed may be unacceptable for safety reasons. In this case, the warning control module 38 may control the warning command. In the illustrated embodiment, the lifting system 2 issues a warning when the load on vehicle 6 exceeds the corresponding threshold. This prevents any overload and / or unsafe operating conditions. Optionally, if such an overload condition is not resolved within a certain time period, the warning control module 38 may generate a locking command that can selectively lock the lifting system 2, rendering it unusable until the overload condition is resolved.

[0061] The data reduction module 40 controls the data transmission between the first communication module 20 and the second communication module 26 according to the settings.

[0062] In one embodiment, the lifting system 2 receives data on the travel distance of the bracket 8 and / or cylinder 13. For clarity, examples of T=1 to T=4 are given here. The data processing unit 16 is configured to perform the above measurements using a predetermined difference threshold of 0.5 mm. The table below lists a series of measurement results, indicating their values ​​and whether the communication module 20 sends the measurement result to the lifting data receiving system 24. For clarity, the table also shows the (dynamic) difference threshold range, making it easy to see when the difference between the value of the measurement result and the value of a valid previous measurement result exceeds the preset difference threshold. Since the measurement result at T=1 is the first measurement result in the sequence and therefore there is no valid previous measurement result, this measurement result is sent. Since the value of the measurement result at T=2 is outside the difference threshold range, this measurement result is sent. Since the value of the measurement result at T=3 is within the (dynamic) range, this measurement result is not sent. Since the value of the measurement result at T=4 is outside the range, this measurement result is sent. In another example of the invention, the speed of the bracket 8 is recorded in millimeters per second using a predetermined difference threshold of 1 mm / s and a critical value of 0 mm / s. The lifting system 100 includes a set of four lifting devices 102 ( Figure 2 The lifting column 102 raises and lowers the passenger vehicle 6 from the ground / workshop floor G. In the illustrated embodiment, the lifting columns 102 are interconnected wirelessly. The lifting column 102 includes a base 104, which can travel on the ground G or, for example, the floor of a garage or workshop, via running wheels 106. Additional running wheels 108 are provided on the forks of the base 104. The running wheels 106 are part of a pallet truck mechanism 110, which facilitates the manipulation of moving the lifting column 102. The lifting column 102 also includes a mast 116 and a bracket 118, which can move up and down along the mast 116. The bracket 118 is driven by a motor / drive system 120. Optionally, a remote controller 17 is also provided.

[0063] In the illustrated embodiment, each lifting column 102 is equipped with a local controller 122, which allows the user to control the lifting system 100. This controller serves as the control system 22, such as... Figure 1 As shown. In the illustrated embodiment, a separate lifting data receiving system 124 is also provided, which has an optional display 126. The lifting data receiving system 124 is preferably integrated with... Figure 1 The lifting data receiving system 24 shown corresponds to this.

[0064] 202 underground elevator Figure 3The system is used to lift vehicle 6 and includes one or more movable lifts 206 that can move within pit 208. In the illustrated embodiment, a fixed lift 210 is housed within a box-type or container-type structure 212 and has a telescopic lifting cylinder 214. A bracket 216 can be used to carry vehicle 6. In the illustrated embodiment, wheel hatches or wheel grooves 218 and hatches 220 for maintenance or inspection are also provided, for example. A remote controller 128 can be used to control the lifting system 202. A lifting data receiving system 224 is preferably connected to... Figure 1 Corresponding to the illustrated lifting data receiving system 24. Furthermore, in the illustrated embodiment, the lifting system 202 includes a remote controller 128. It should also be understood that the controller 124, capable of controlling multiple lifting devices 102, can be provided as a separate controller, and / or similar control functions can be integrated into a local controller 122, which can also be used to control other lifting devices 102 in the lifting system 100 and operate as the control system 22, such as... Figure 1 As shown. In the illustrated embodiment, the underground lift 202 is a piston type. Alternatively, a scissor lift may also be provided.

[0065] Lifting device 302 ( Figure 4 This is a so-called overhead crane lifting device. The lifting device 302 is capable of raising and lowering vehicle 6 from the ground G. In the illustrated embodiment, the lifting device 302 includes four outriggers 308 and two brackets 310. Cylinder 312 serves as the drive unit for the lifting device 302. A controller 314 is schematically shown, which includes control components for the lifting device 302. Furthermore, in the illustrated embodiment, the controller 314 is integrated with a remote controller 17 and serves as a control system 22, such as... Figure 1 As shown. The lifting data receiving system 324 is preferably... Figure 1 The lifting data receiving system 24 shown corresponds to this.

[0066] Lifting device 402 ( Figure 5 The track is a four-pile system, comprising four posts 404 and a support track 406. In the illustrated embodiment, indicator lights 408 are provided, having a green light 410 and a red light 412 to indicate to the driver, for example, when the vehicle 6 is correctly positioned relative to the posts or stakes 404, and when the vehicle 6 can be raised or lowered from the ground G. Remote controller 17 can communicate with a local controller 414, which can raise and / or lower the track 406 and acts as a control system 22, such as... Figure 1 As shown. The lifting data receiving system 424 is preferably... Figure 1 The lifting data receiving system 24 shown corresponds to this.

[0067] Lifting device 502 ( Figure 6For example, it can be controlled via remote control 17. The dual-pile lifting device 502 includes two piles 504, each with a support arm 506. Optionally, lights 508 with green lights 510 and red lights 512 can be installed to indicate to the driver or vehicle 4 the correct vehicle position or the need for repositioning. The local controller 514 serves as the control system 22, such as... Figure 1 As shown, and can be coupled to remote controller 17. The lifting data receiving system 524 is preferably coupled to... Figure 1 The lifting data receiving system 24 shown corresponds to this.

[0068] It should be understood that the present invention is applicable to a range of lifting devices and systems, including but not limited to four-pile and two-pile lifting columns, such as the Stertil-Koni mobile pile lift ST1075, the Stertil-Koni two-pile lift SK 2070, and the Stertil-Koni four-pile lift ST 4120, as well as overhead, mobile, and underground lifting systems, such as the Stertil underground Ecolift and the Stertil underground Diamond lift. Furthermore, it should be understood that other embodiments of the invention can be implemented by combining and / or switching features in the described and / or illustrated embodiments. For example, remote controllers 17 and 128 can be selectively applied to all the different lifting devices and systems.

[0069] This invention is by no means limited to the preferred embodiments described above. The rights sought by this invention are defined by the following claims, and various modifications are contemplated within their scope.

Claims

1. A lifting system for raising and lowering a vehicle, the lifting system comprising: - At least one lifting device having a bracket and a drive system configured for lifting a vehicle; - A control system configured to control at least one lifting device, the control system comprising: - A data aggregation system configured to collect multiple measurements over time (T) from at least one or more of the following categories: - The height of the bracket; - The speed of the bracket; - Lifting device status data, including data related to the status of the drive system of at least one lifting device; and - Lifting process data, which includes data related to the lifting operation; - A data processing unit that is operationally connected to a data aggregation system, wherein the data processing unit is configured to process each of a plurality of measurement results from the data aggregation system; - Memory, which is operationally connected to the data processing unit; - A first communication module, which is operatively connected to the data processing unit; and - A lifting data receiving system, comprising a processor, a memory operatively connected to the processor, and a second communication module operatively connected to the processor, wherein the second communication module is configured to be connected to a first communication module of the lifting system, and is configured to: - Receive one or more measurement results from a plurality of measurement results from at least one lifting device; and - Sending instructions to at least one lifting device, wherein the instructions are determined by comparing received measurement results with one or more thresholds, wherein the instructions include maintenance warnings, warning and / or lockout signals, and selecting at least one or more of one or more lifting devices for the lifting system.

2. The lifting system according to the preceding claim, wherein, The lifting process data includes one or more of the following: vehicle type, vehicle identification, and vehicle weight.

3. The lifting system according to one or more of the preceding claims, wherein, The status data of the lifting device includes one or more of the following: multiple lifting operations, energy usage and / or availability, and the travel distance of the bracket and / or drive system.

4. The lifting system according to one or more of the preceding claims further includes a display, the display being operatively connected to the lifting data receiving system and the input control device, wherein, The display is configured to show information about the data aggregation system and threshold settings, and the input control is configured to allow the user to adjust the threshold settings.

5. The lifting system according to one or more of the preceding claims, wherein, The lifting device includes at least one movable lifting column.

6. The lifting system according to one or more of the preceding claims further includes a maintenance control module, the maintenance control module being configured to compare lifting device status data and / or lifting process data with a maintenance threshold to generate a maintenance message.

7. The lifting system according to the preceding claim, wherein, The maintenance controller is configured to combine lifting process data and lifting device status data, and compare the combined lifting process data and lifting device status data with maintenance thresholds.

8. The lifting system according to claim 6 or 7, wherein, The drive system includes a lifting cylinder, and the lifting device status data includes the distance traveled by the lifting cylinder of the drive system.

9. The lifting system according to one or more of the preceding claims further includes a selection module, the selection module being used to select a lifting device for lifting operation, the lifting device being, for example, a movable lifting column, wherein... The selection module uses the status data of the lifting device to select one or more lifting columns.

10. The lifting system according to the preceding claim, wherein, The drive system includes a battery, and the lifting device status data includes battery status data.

11. The lifting system according to any one of claims 9 to 10, wherein, The drive system includes a battery charger, and the lifting device status data includes battery charger status data.

12. The lifting system according to any one of claims 9 to 11, wherein, The drive system includes an energy generator, and the lifting device status data includes energy generator status data.

13. The lifting system according to any one of claims 9 to 12, wherein, The selection module selects one or more lifting devices using lifting process data and / or lifting device status data.

14. The lifting system according to one or more of the preceding claims further includes a warning control module configured to compare lifting device status data with a warning threshold to generate a warning message.

15. The lifting system according to the preceding claim, wherein, The lifting system includes a lock configured to prevent use of the lifting system, and a warning message includes a locking instruction.

16. The lifting system according to claim 12 or 13, wherein, The warning controller is configured to combine lifting process data and lifting device status data and compare them with a warning threshold.

17. The lifting system according to one or more of the preceding claims, wherein, The data processing unit processes the measurement results including: - Determine whether the measurement results meet at least one of a set of standards; - If the measurement results meet at least one of the criteria in the group: - Store the measurement results in memory, at least temporarily; - The measurement results are sent to the lifting data receiving system using the first communication module; - If the measurement result does not meet at least one of the criteria in the group: - Skip the measurement results; The group standards include: - The measurement result has no valid previous measurement result, wherein the valid previous measurement result includes the latest corresponding measurement result acquired at time (T-1), conforming to the set of criteria and stored in memory, wherein time (T-1) represents the time when the latest corresponding measurement result was acquired by the data aggregation system; - The measurement results have valid previous measurement results, and - The time period between (T-1) and (T) exceeds the associated predetermined duration threshold. - When the difference between the measured value and the valid previous measured value exceeds the associated predetermined difference threshold, or - The measurement result value is within the associated critical value range; and Among them, the duration threshold, difference threshold, and key value range include threshold settings stored in memory.

18. The lifting system according to the preceding claim, wherein, The data processing unit is also configured to select a preset threshold setting from a set of preset threshold settings.

19. The lifting system according to claim 17 or 18, wherein, The difference threshold includes the percentage change between the value of the measurement at time (T) and the value of a valid previous measurement at time (T-1).

20. The lifting system according to any one of claims 17 to 19, wherein, The data processing unit is also configured to select a preset threshold setting from a set of preset threshold settings based on the vehicle type.

21. The lifting system according to any one of claims 17 to 20, wherein, The data processing unit is further configured to dynamically adjust the threshold settings based on the amount of available bandwidth through the first communication module and / or the second communication module, wherein the dynamic adjustment includes lowering the difference threshold and the duration threshold when the available bandwidth is large, and raising the difference threshold and the duration threshold when the available bandwidth is small.

22. The lifting system according to any one of claims 17 to 21, wherein, The data processing unit is also configured to send a set of standard-compliant measurement results to the lifting data receiving system at predetermined time intervals using a communication unit.

23. The lifting system according to the preceding claim, wherein, The predetermined time interval is in the range of 1 to 3 seconds, preferably about 2 seconds.

24. The lifting system according to any one of claims 17 to 23, wherein, The lifting data receiving system is also configured to: If an element exists in memory at time (T-1), and the corresponding element is missing in the received measurement results acquired at time (T), then the element is repeatedly stored in memory with a timestamp (T).

25. A method for raising and lowering a vehicle, the method comprising the following steps: - Provide a lifting system according to any one of the preceding claims; - Use a control system to control at least one lifting device; - Collect multiple measurement results using a data aggregation system over time (T); - Use the data processing unit to process each of the multiple measurement results from the data aggregation system; - Connect the second communication module of the lifting system to the first communication module for: - Receive measurement results from at least one lifting device, wherein the measurement results include lifting device status data; and - Sending instructions to at least one lifting device, wherein the instructions are determined by comparing received measurement results with one or more thresholds, wherein the instructions include maintenance warnings, warning and / or lockout signals, and selecting at least one or more of one or more lifting devices for the lifting system.

26. A method for operating a control system of a lifting system, the method comprising the following steps: - Multiple measurement results are collected from at least one or more of the following categories through the control system of at least one lifting device: - The height of the bracket; - The speed of the bracket; - Lifting device status data, which includes data related to the status of the drive system of at least one lifting device; as well as - Lifting process data, which includes data related to the lifting operation; - Send the measurement results from multiple measurements of at least one lifting device to the lifting data receiving system; - Receive instructions from the lifting data receiving system, wherein the instructions are determined by comparing received measurement results with one or more thresholds, wherein the instructions include maintenance warnings, alerts and / or lockout signals, and selecting at least one or more of one or more lifting devices for the lifting system.

27. The method according to the preceding claims, further comprising: - Execute instructions received by the lifting data receiving system.

28. A method for operating a lifting data receiving system for a lifting system, comprising: - Receive a measurement result from multiple measurement results of at least one lifting device, wherein the measurement results are acquired by the control system of at least one lifting device, and wherein the multiple measurement results are at least one or more of the following categories: - The height of the bracket; - The speed of the bracket; - Lifting device status data, including data related to the status of the drive system of at least one lifting device; and - Lifting process data, which includes data related to the lifting operation; - Sending instructions to at least one lifting device, wherein the instructions are determined by comparing received measurement results with one or more thresholds, wherein the instructions include maintenance warnings, warning and / or lockout signals, and selecting at least one or more of one or more lifting devices for the lifting system.

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