Smart monitoring of a lifting process with pneumatic lifting cushion

Abstract

The invention relates to a method for monitoring the safety of a pneumatic lifting process of a load (1) using at least one first lifting bag (10), which is a pneumatic lifting bag, and with the aid of a measuring device (12) integrated into the first lifting bag (10), a transmitting device (13) integrated into the first lifting bag (10), and an external operating or information unit (40). Furthermore, the invention relates to a corresponding system for monitoring the safety of a pneumatic lifting process of a load (1), as well as a pneumatic lifting bag (10, 20, 30) suitable therefor.

Description

[0001] The present invention relates to a method (claim 1) and a system (claim 11) for monitoring the safety of a pneumatic lifting operation of a load, as well as to a pneumatic lifting bag, in particular for use in such a method or system (claim 16).

[0002] A wide variety of pneumatic lifting bags (hereinafter referred to as lifting bags) are known in the art. They have a variable internal volume, which can be significantly increased by filling them with a pressure medium, such as compressed air. This allows loads resting on the lifting bag to be lifted. Such lifting bags are typically constructed with an internal bladder made of vulcanized rubber material enclosing the variable internal volume, and a reinforcing layer wrapped around the inner bladder facing the outside. For inflation purposes, a valve connection is also provided, providing a continuous connection from the environment to the variable internal volume of the inner bladder.

[0003] A common problem when handling heavy loads with lifting bags is monitoring and controlling the lifting process to ensure that the lifting bags are functioning properly and that no dangerous situations arise. For example, if a heavy load falls again after being lifted using one or more lifting bags, this can also pose a danger to emergency personnel.

[0004] Based on this, the object of the invention is therefore to propose a method for monitoring the safety of a pneumatic lifting process of a load using at least one first lifting cushion, as well as a system for monitoring the safety of a pneumatic lifting process of a load, as well as a corresponding pneumatic lifting cushion, with which method or system or lifting cushion the monitoring and safety of such pneumatic lifting processes is improved.

[0005] This object is achieved with respect to a method having the features of the preamble of claim 1 by a method having the features of the characterizing part of claim 1. Furthermore, the object is achieved with respect to a system having the features of the preamble of claim 11 by a system having the features of the characterizing part of claim 11. Furthermore, the object is achieved by a pneumatic lifting bag having the features of claim 16. Advantageous embodiments are the subject of the dependent claims or can be taken from the following description, in particular also from the figures and their description.

[0006] Essential to the invention is the finding that an advantageous monitoring method and a system for increasing safety during pneumatic lifting operations using one or more lifting bags are provided, in which a measuring device has been integrated into the pneumatic lifting bag. This integration of the measuring device serves to record safety-relevant measurements that represent the lifting operation. These parameters are communicated by a transmitter, which is also integrated into the lifting bag, to an external control or information unit located outside the immediate operational or effective range of the lifting bag. Emergency services can thus receive information about the status of the lifting operation in real time or on demand and monitor the process from a safe distance and intervene if necessary.This advantageously proposes an intelligent combination of measurement and external communication, which makes it possible to increase the safety of the lifting process by identifying risks more quickly and detecting errors early on from a safe distance. The pneumatic lifting bag itself is designed for efficient placement and expansion for lifting the load. Together with the intelligent monitoring technology in the form of an integrated measuring device and transmitter, and the ability to communicate with an external control or information unit, this innovative system offers particular advantages in safety-critical applications such as rescue services and industrial applications involving heavy loads.

[0007] Specifically, according to a first aspect of the present disclosure (as described in claim 1), a method for monitoring the safety of a pneumatic lifting operation of a load using at least one first lifting bag is proposed. The first lifting bag is a pneumatic lifting bag that is inflatable from a flat state for placing underneath the load to an inflated state for lifting the load by increasing an internal volume enclosed by the first lifting bag.

[0008] The method is proposed to be characterized by at least the following steps: a) a measuring device integrated into the first lifting bag records a safety value representing the safety of the pneumatic lifting process; b) a transmitting device integrated into the first lifting bag transmits the safety value recorded in step a) to a first external operating or information unit; and c) the first external operating or information unit receives the safety value transmitted in step b) and processes it further.

[0009] According to a further independent aspect, the disclosure (as described in claim 11) relates to a system for monitoring the safety of a pneumatic lifting operation of a load. The proposed system comprises at least one first lifting bag for lifting the load, wherein the first lifting bag is a pneumatic lifting bag that is inflatable from a flat state for placing underneath the load by increasing an internal volume enclosed by the first lifting bag to an inflated state for lifting the load. Furthermore, the proposed system comprises at least one first external operating or information unit.

[0010] According to the proposed system, the first lifting bag includes an integrated measuring device for detecting a safety variable representing the safety of the pneumatic lifting process. Furthermore, the system includes an integrated transmitting device for transmitting the detected safety variable to the first external control or information unit. Furthermore, the system is characterized in that the first external control or information unit is configured to receive and further process the detected safety variable.

[0011] According to a further independent aspect, the disclosure (as described in claim 16) relates to a pneumatic lifting bag. In particular, the pneumatic lifting bag is designed for use in a method described above or below for monitoring the safety of a pneumatic lifting operation of a load (in particular for use in a method according to one of claims 1 to 10) or for use in a system described above or below for monitoring the safety of a pneumatic lifting operation of a load (in particular for use in a system according to one of claims 11 to 15). The proposed pneumatic lifting bag is designed to be inflatable for lifting a load from a flat state for placing underneath the load by increasing an internal volume enclosed by the pneumatic lifting bag to an inflated state for lifting the load.Furthermore, the lifting bag according to the proposal has an integrated measuring device for detecting a safety variable representing the safety of the pneumatic lifting process and a transmitting device for transmitting the detected safety variable to a first external operating or information unit.

[0012] Features described within the framework of a proposed method or its preferred embodiments (also below), such as the features of the measuring device, the transmitting device, or the external operating or information unit, as well as others, can also individually contribute to inventively characterizing a system for monitoring the safety of a pneumatic lifting process of a load according to the present disclosure. Furthermore, the features can individually contribute to inventively characterizing a pneumatic lifting bag according to the present disclosure. This also applies in reverse, or between the subject matter of the system according to the present disclosure and that of the lifting bag according to the present disclosure.Corresponding features described only in connection with one category can be transferred to the other subject matter in a technically reasonable manner and thus form an independent embodiment according to the present disclosure.

[0013] A pneumatic lifting bag is a load-lifting aid that can be expanded from a flat state, where it can be easily slid under a load, to an inflated state by increasing its internal volume through the introduction of air or another gas ("pressurized medium"). An example application is in a car accident, where an emergency medical service uses pneumatic lifting bags to lift a crashed vehicle and free a person trapped underneath.

[0014] In principle, vulcanized rubber can be used as the main material for the pneumatic lifting bag. The pneumatic lifting bag can have an outer shell made of vulcanized rubber material, which outer shell encloses an inner bladder that defines the internal volume and, if appropriate, a reinforcing layer facing outwards towards the external environment. In principle, the pneumatic lifting bag can have a round shape, such that when empty, the pneumatic lifting bag is essentially designed as a flat cylinder. When filled, the internal volume increases and the external appearance changes, forming a more voluminous ellipsoid. However, other shapes of pneumatic lifting bags are also conceivable, such as rectangular or square when viewed from above when empty, or cuboid or cube-shaped relative to the body.It can be provided that an outer shell and the inner bladder are materially connected to one another, in particular vulcanized together.

[0015] The measuring device, which is also integrated into the first pneumatic lifting bag, can measure one or more safety variables continuously, regularly, or on request during the lifting process. This safety variable can, for example, be the internal pressure of the lifting bag or the height of the lifted load to ensure that the load remains within safe operating limits during the lifting process or to ensure that the lifted load maintains a desired lifting height. For example, a pressure sensor built into the lifting bag can continuously measure the air pressure inside the bag to detect overpressure or underpressure conditions. This can reduce the risk of the lifting bag bursting. By recording the safety variables, information can be provided about safety during the pneumatic lifting process.

[0016] The transmitter, which is also integrated into the lifting bag in addition to the measuring device, can transmit the recorded safety values ​​wirelessly or via a cable connection to an external control unit or an external information unit. This allows the safety of the lifting process to be monitored remotely, especially from a distance that is safe for the emergency services. For example, after recording the current pressure in the lifting bag, a built-in transmitter can send this data in real time, regularly, or on request to a control tablet held and monitored by an operator. One example is the transmission of measured pressure values ​​or other critical safety values ​​to an emergency service member's tablet via Bluetooth, allowing them to react immediately if the values ​​reach a critical range.Alarms can also be automatically triggered or security measures can be automatically initiated in the external control or information unit, i.e. the monitoring device, under predefined conditions.

[0017] Preferably, according to the proposed method, or the proposed system can be configured to perform a comparison between the safety value received by the first received external operating or information unit and a predetermined safety value to be maintained.

[0018] Furthermore, preferably according to the proposed method, or the proposed system can be configured to automatically initiate a safety-relevant protective measure if the safety value received by the first received external operating or information unit and a predefined safety value to be maintained are undershot and / or exceeded. The safety-relevant protective measure can, for example, involve issuing an alarm. Alternatively or additionally, the safety-relevant protective measure can involve issuing a control signal to a compressed air supply of the lifting bag(s), whereby, in particular, the compressed air supply can be increased or decreased.

[0019] The first external control or information unit is used to receive and further process the transmitted safety variables. This unit could be a portable device such as a smartphone, tablet, or a special monitoring device running appropriate application software that provides the operator with information about the status of the lifting process. For example, a control tablet can receive pressure data from the lifting bag and display warning messages when the pressure reaches a critical value. The external control or information unit can also be configured to allow the operator to intervene in the lifting process, for example, by regulating the supply of pressure medium to the lifting bag. Further processing of the received safety variables can take place in the external control or information unit by analyzing the safety variables, saving them, or triggering predefined actions.For example, the data can be visualized, an alarm signal can be triggered, or additional safety mechanisms can be activated, such as increasing the supply pressure or the supply of pressure medium, or reducing it or even activating a relief valve.

[0020] The described components and their intelligent interaction can therefore ensure comprehensive monitoring and make it possible to improve safe operation during pneumatic lifting processes.

[0021] In particular, the proposed method or system can also provide an additional pneumatic lifting bag as a second lifting bag, or even additional pneumatic lifting bags. The additional lifting bag can be inflatable in the same way as the first lifting bag and, together with the first, form a load lifting tower. For example, to lift a larger load or when lifting a load with a higher attachment point, two or more lifting bags can be stacked to raise the corresponding load to a higher lifting position.

[0022] According to one embodiment of the proposed method, as set forth in claim 2, or also of the proposed system, at least one second lifting bag is further provided, which is a pneumatic lifting bag and, for lifting the load, is inflatable from a flat state for placing underneath the load by increasing an internal volume enclosed by the second lifting bag to an inflated state for lifting the load. The first lifting bag and the second lifting bag together form a tower for lifting the load. The method is thus extended to scenarios in which multiple lifting bags are used simultaneously to form a "load lifting tower." This enables the simultaneous monitoring of multiple lifting bags to ensure the stability and safety of the entire lifting process using the tower.

[0023] In this case, as further stated in claim 2, the measuring device can preferably be integrated into both the first lifting bag and the second lifting bag. The measuring device can be formed from two or more separate sensors, each operating independently of one another. For example, a first sensor can be formed in the first lifting bag, a second sensor in the second lifting bag, etc. Alternatively, the measuring device could also consist of just a single sensor in a tower made up of several lifting bags. Or several sensors can work together. For example, an angle of the tower made up of lifting bags can be regarded as a critical safety value, and this angle can be determined using sensors arranged in the different lifting bags and interacting with one another.Another example can be the total lifting height of the tower from several lifting bags as a critical safety value, which can be determined jointly or interactively by sensors arranged in the various lifting bags.

[0024] In particular, the measuring device can be configured to measure several different parameters, allowing differentiated safety variables to be recorded. For example, pressure, temperature, and lifting height could be measured as safety-relevant critical safety variables to ensure that the lifting process proceeds safely. In principle, the measuring device can be configured with several different sensors.

[0025] According to one embodiment of the proposed method, as set forth in claim 3, or also of the proposed system, the measuring device is configured to measure several different parameters, and different types of safety variables can be detected by the measuring device. This versatile measuring device enables comprehensive monitoring of the pneumatic lifting process by detecting and analyzing a range of safety parameters, providing a robust picture of the current status of the lifting process.

[0026] The measuring device can be specifically configured to measure the lifting height to monitor how far a load has been lifted. This can then advantageously provide a quick conclusion regarding the safety of the lifting process if, for example, a minimum height required for safe lifting or working is no longer maintained.

[0027] In one embodiment of the method according to the present disclosure, as described by claim 4, or also of the proposed system, the measuring device is configured to measure a lifting height, and the safety variable or one of the safety variables corresponds to this lifting height. The precise determination of the lifting height is critical, as it provides important information about the positioning and potential for movement of the load during the lifting process and thus contributes to the safety-relevant maintenance of critical lifting heights.

[0028] In particular, the measuring device can be implemented using various sensors. In particular, one or more of the following sensors can be used. However, this list is not exhaustive; other sensors may also be used. However, depending on the application, the following sensors have proven to be advantageous for determining the lifting height.

[0029] In principle, the sensor (or the plurality of sensors) forming the measuring device can be arranged in particular inside the lifting bag. Further preferably, the sensor can measure the distance between the upper and lower inner walls of the lifting bag, depending on the intended alignment during the lifting process.

[0030] Particularly advantageously, the sensor (or sensors) forming the measuring device can be permanently integrated into the lifting bag. The sensor(s) can advantageously be permanently connected to the inside of the lifting bag, or they can be integrated into or bonded to the vulcanized material of the lifting bag.

[0031] The measuring device can, in particular, comprise an ultrasonic sensor. The ultrasonic sensor can preferably be configured to measure the distance from an upper inner side of the lifting bag to a lower inner side of the lifting bag. The ultrasonic sensor can perform the measurement using sound waves. The sensor can preferably be arranged at the top, with the lower inner side serving as a reference surface that reflects the emitted ultrasonic waves and sends them back to the sensor arranged at the top. A reverse arrangement is also conceivable.

[0032] Furthermore, the measuring device can, in particular, comprise a laser distance sensor. Similar to ultrasonic sensors, laser distance sensors measure the time it takes for a laser beam to travel to the object and back. The laser distance sensor(s) can be arranged inside the lifting bag in a similar way to the described ultrasonic sensor and function accordingly.

[0033] Furthermore, the measuring device can, in particular, comprise a potentiometric sensor. The potentiometric sensor can utilize the change in electrical resistance caused by a mechanical movement. For example, a slider could be arranged and configured in such a way that it expands with the lifting cushion, thereby changing the resistance of a potentiometer, which then converts this change in resistance into a height measurement.

[0034] Furthermore, the measuring device can in particular comprise a magnetic sensor, wherein the magnetically based sensor could, for example, detect a relative position of a magnet that moves along a scale and is connected to the lifting cushion.

[0035] Other non-contact sensors could also be used as measuring devices. For example, a cable pull sensor is conceivable. This sensor is attached to the upper or lower inner side of the lifting bag, with its measuring cable, which unwinds during the measurement, anchored to the opposite inner side. This automatically unwinds the measuring cable when the lifting bag inflates, allowing the lifting height to be determined.

[0036] In one embodiment of the method according to the present disclosure, as described by claim 5, or also of the proposed system, the measuring device is configured to measure an angle of inclination, and the safety variable or one of the safety variables corresponds to this angle of inclination. Monitoring the angle of inclination is a critical aspect when lifting loads, as it helps to detect potential tipping hazards at an early stage and initiate appropriate measures to secure the load and the lifting process.

[0037] In one embodiment of the method according to the present disclosure, as described by claim 6, or also of the proposed system, the measuring device is configured to measure a pressure in the pneumatic lifting bag, and the safety variable or one of the safety variables corresponds to the pressure in the pneumatic lifting bag. Monitoring the pressure within the pneumatic lifting bag is important because it allows direct conclusions to be drawn about the load-bearing capacity and efficiency of the lifting process and enables early detection of leaks or other operational problems.

[0038] In one embodiment of the method according to the present disclosure, as also described by claim 6, or of the proposed system, the measuring device is configured to measure a temperature, and the safety quantity or one of the safety quantities corresponds to the temperature. This contributes to ensuring the reliability of the pneumatic lifting cushion by ensuring that the temperature conditions remain within safe operating parameters to avoid damage due to heat or cold.

[0039] In one embodiment of the method according to the present disclosure, as described by claim 7, or also of the proposed system, the measuring device is configured to additionally measure the charge state of a power supply device for supplying power to the measuring device and / or the transmitting device. This functionality enables continuous monitoring of the energy availability for the safe operation of the measuring or transmitting device and contributes to preventing failures.

[0040] In one embodiment of the method according to the present disclosure, as also described by claim 7, or also of the proposed system, the transmitting device is configured to transmit a charge level of a power supply device for supplying power to the measuring device and / or the transmitting device to the first external operating or information unit. This functionality enables continuous monitoring of the power availability for the safe operation of the measuring or transmitting device and contributes to preventing failures.

[0041] In one embodiment of the method according to the present disclosure, as described by claim 8, or also of the proposed system, the measuring device and / or the transmitting device can be set into a monitoring mode and is / are operated in the monitoring mode, as well as in at least one or another of the following two modes: a sleep mode, wherein the measuring device does not measure the safety variable in the sleep mode to save energy and / or the transmitting device does not send any safety variables to the first external operating or information unit in the sleep mode to save energy; and / or an energy-saving mode, wherein the measuring device does not measure the safety variable in the energy-saving mode to save energy and / or the transmitting device only sends a status of the most recently acquired safety variables to the first external operating or information unit in the energy-saving mode to save energy.

[0042] In monitoring mode, the measuring device records the safety quantity(s), and the transmitting device transmits the recorded safety quantity(s) to the first external control or information unit. The ability to put the measuring device or transmitting device into different modes, including a monitoring mode and at least one other mode such as a sleep or energy-saving mode, can improve the energy efficiency of the system by limiting measurements and transmissions of safety quantities to relevant moments, thus saving energy during periods of low activity. This can also improve the safety of the lifting process by ensuring a longer operating life of the corresponding device.

[0043] In one embodiment of the method according to the present disclosure, as described by claim 9, or also of the proposed system, the first lifting bag and / or the second lifting bag has / have a wake-up sensor for detecting a desired operation of the first lifting bag and / or the second lifting bag. This wake-up sensor is connected to the measuring device and / or the transmitting device in such a way that the measuring device and / or the transmitting device can be switched from the sleep mode and / or the energy-saving mode to the monitoring mode based on a start signal detected by the wake-up sensor. The wake-up sensor can wake the measuring device and / or the transmitting device from the sleep or energy-saving mode as needed. This ensures adaptive responsiveness of the system to activities or changes in the state of the lifting bag.For example, certain movements of the lifting bag caused by the operator, such as removing the lifting bag from an emergency vehicle or throwing it on the ground, can be the activation movement that awakens the lifting bag.

[0044] In one embodiment of the method according to the present disclosure, as also described in claim 9, or also of the proposed system, the wake-up sensor is designed as an inclination sensor. The start signal is then a predetermined detected inclination of the first lifting cushion or the second lifting cushion. This enables efficient and situation-appropriate activation of the monitoring system.

[0045] In one embodiment of the method according to the present disclosure, as also described in claim 9, or also of the proposed system, the wake-up sensor is designed as an acceleration sensor. The start signal is then a predetermined detected movement of the first lifting cushion or the second lifting cushion. This enables efficient and situation-appropriate activation of the monitoring system.

[0046] Advantageously, the corresponding sensor can detect certain conditions such as inclinations or movements and interpret them as a start signal for activating the monitoring system.

[0047] In one embodiment of the method according to the present disclosure, as described by claim 10, or also of the proposed system, the first external operating or information unit is designed as a storage unit. The first external operating or information unit stores the detected safety variable(s). This storage preferably takes place in a cloud application. This enables reliable monitoring of the lifting process. This facilitates central analysis and archiving of important operating data, which can improve the safety of operations in the long term. An analysis of the historical operating data of the lifting bags using a cloud-based platform is also possible, among other things to increase safety, since lifting bags that have been heavily used in the past can be withdrawn from service.

[0048] According to a further embodiment of the proposed system, as described in claim 12, the first external operating or information unit is designed as a display unit for displaying the detected safety variable to an external user of the system. This display functionality is advantageous because it allows the user to keep an eye on the essential parameters and act accordingly, should this be necessary.

[0049] Preferably, the first external control or information unit is configured to display the detected safety value to the external user on a display of a portable device. Smartphones or tablets are particularly suitable devices in this regard, as these devices are widely used and easily accessible to the user.

[0050] According to a further embodiment of the proposed system, as described in claim 13, the first external operating or information unit, or optionally a second external operating or information unit, is designed as a storage unit for storing the recorded safety variables. This storage unit enables the recorded safety variables to be stored permanently and reliably, which may be essential for documentation purposes or subsequent analyses. It is particularly advantageous to store the safety variables in a cloud application. The use of cloud storage offers flexibility and accessibility for the user, which in turn increases the user-friendliness of the system, improves data analysis, and thus increases the long-term safety of lifting operations.

[0051] According to a further embodiment of the proposed system, as also described in claim 13, the first external operating or information unit, or optionally the second external operating or information unit, or optionally a third external operating or information unit, can be designed as a control unit for controlling the compressed air supply to the first lifting bag. The integration of such a control unit increases the precision and reliability of the system by enabling the operation of the lifting bag to be proactively regulated as soon as corresponding parameters have been detected that necessitate intervention for safety reasons, thus minimizing the risk during the lifting process.

[0052] According to a further embodiment of the proposed system, as described in claim 14, the various external control or information units can be interconnected via a communication link. Thus, it can be specifically provided that the following external control or information units are connected to one another via a communication link: the first external operating or information unit and the second external operating or information unit, and / or the first external operating or information unit and the third external operating or information unit, and / or the second external operating or information unit and the third external operating or information unit.

[0053] The communication link enables data exchange and promotes integrated monitoring and control of the entire system, simplifying system operation and increasing safety. This allows multiple emergency personnel to be warned independently in the event of a sudden increase in risk, increasing the likelihood of prompt intervention by personnel. Advantageously, all designated external units can communicate with each other.

[0054] According to a further embodiment of the proposed system, as described in claim 15, the measuring device is arranged to measure at least one of the following parameters and the safety quantity(s) correspond(s) to at least one of the following quantities: a lifting height; an inclination angle; an acceleration; a pressure in the pneumatic lifting bag; and / or a temperature.

[0055] The system is therefore advantageously equipped with a measuring device designed to measure specific parameters, which determine the safety variables. By recording these diverse parameters, either through a single parameter alone or, more importantly, through a combination of several parameters, the system can provide a comprehensive picture of operational safety and thus ensure a high level of safety performance during operation.

[0056] The transmitting device for transmitting the detected safety variable to a (first, second, or third) external control or information unit can be designed, in particular, as a BLE module (BLE = Bluetooth Low Energy) or comprise such a module. Other, preferably wireless, transmission methods are also conceivable.

[0057] Further advantageous and preferred embodiments will become apparent from the following description with reference to the figures. The drawing, which merely represents an exemplary embodiment, shows Fig. 1 shows a proposed system, schematically illustrated with a tower of three lifting bags, a compressed air supply, and an external operating or information unit; Fig. 2 shows a schematic representation of a proposed pneumatic lifting bag; and Fig. 3 shows a display of an external operating or information unit according to two different views (view a) and view b) in Fig. 3 ).

[0058] In Fig. 1An embodiment of a proposed system for monitoring the safety of a pneumatic lifting process of a load 1 is shown. The illustration is schematic and already indicates various options for how the system can be designed, as will become apparent from the following description.

[0059] The load 1 is to be lifted from a base 2 using several lifting bags. For this purpose, a first lifting bag 10, a second lifting bag 20, and a third lifting bag 30 are first placed in a flat state beneath the load 2. The lifting bags 10, 20, 30 are then inflated to an increased internal volume by being filled with compressed air using a compressed air supply 3 via corresponding supply lines 4, 5, 6. The lifting bags 10, 20, 30 expand vertically and lift the load 1 to a desired lifting height. Although the load 1 is shown spaced from the top of the uppermost lifting bag in the form of the third lifting bag 30, this is merely intended to better illustrate the tower 123 formed from lifting bags 10, 20, 30. In use, the lifting bags 20 and 30 each lie on corresponding connection sections 11 and 21 of the lifting bags 10 and 30 respectively arranged underneath.20, or the load 1 on the connection section 31 of the uppermost lifting bag 30.

[0060] The system could also have just one of the three lifting bags 10, 20, or 30, or even two of the three or more lifting bags. Therefore, a tower 123 does not necessarily have to be constructed.

[0061] The system further comprises a first external operating or information unit 40. This external operating or information unit 40 can be used by the emergency personnel to observe or monitor the lifting process, on the one hand, and also to control it, on the other hand. In principle, it could also simply be an operating unit for operating or controlling certain parameters of the lifting process (such as the supply pressure for filling the lifting bags), or simply an information unit for displaying certain parameters of the lifting process to the emergency personnel (such as a lifting height). In the present case and preferred, however, it is preferred if the emergency personnel can use the external operating or information unit 40 to both observe, i.e. monitor, the lifting process, and also intervene in a regulating or intervening manner.

[0062] More external control or information units than just the first external control or information unit 40 can be provided. For example, several emergency personnel can monitor or control the lifting process. The external control or information unit 40 can also be multi-part, with additional devices or units forming part of the more complex external control or information unit for monitoring or control purposes. Thus, as in Fig. 1 As shown, a cloud application 50 may be provided and, for example, the first external operating or information unit 40 may also be designed as a storage unit and store critical parameters, such as safety variables recorded as described later, in this cloud application 50. However, the parameters could also be stored locally on the or one of the possibly several external operating or information units 40.

[0063] In the present case, the first external operating or information unit 40 is designed as a tablet, since such a portable device is particularly advantageous for use. Alternatively or additionally, the external operating or information unit can also be designed as a smartphone. Other applications or devices are also conceivable. It is also possible to dispense with an external operating or information unit 40 designed as an independent, separate device, wherein the external operating or information unit 40 is then designed, for example, as a software application that can be used on various external devices, or the cloud application 50 itself, which is only shown schematically, forms the external operating or information unit. This can be made possible by establishing a direct communication connection between the lifting bags 10 or 20 or 30 and the cloud application 50 (as in Fig. 1indicated by the dotted lines) or the software application.

[0064] By means of the dashed line running between the first external operating or information unit 40 and the compressed air supply 3, it is indicated that the external operating or information unit 40 controls the compressed air supply 3 and can thus initiate or stop further inflation of the lifting bags 10, 20, 30 or can also cause pressure to be released from the or one of the lifting bags 10, 20, 30.

[0065] It is essential to understand that the safety of the lifting process can be increased by improved automatic monitoring of the lifting process by at least one of the three or, in the case of the present Fig. 1 In the illustrated embodiment, all three lifting bags, 10, 20, 30 are smart and capable of communication.

[0066] The first lifting bag 10 has an integrated measuring device 12 for detecting a safety variable representing the safety of the pneumatic lifting process. The second lifting bag 20 also has an integrated measuring device 22 for detecting a safety variable representing the safety of the pneumatic lifting process. Finally, the second lifting bag 30 also has an integrated measuring device 32 for detecting a safety variable representing the safety of the pneumatic lifting process.

[0067] It could also be sufficient for just one measuring device 12 or 22 or 32 in the tower 123 comprising the three lifting bags 10, 20, 30 to increase the safety of the lifting process. Alternatively, the single measuring device 12 or 22 or 32 can also be formed by components present in several (i.e., at least two) of the lifting bags 10, 20, or 30. For example, a critical safety value could be determined by a measuring process, which safety value is determined jointly by sensors or components that interact with one another but are arranged in different lifting bags. It is conceivable, for example, to define an inclination of the entire tower 123 as a safety value, which inclination is determined by interrelated, communicating sensors in the uppermost and lowermost lifting bags 30 and 10, respectively, of the tower 123.

[0068] Furthermore, it is essential that the first lifting bag 10 comprises an integrated transmitting device 13 for transmitting the detected safety value to the first external operating or information unit 40. In addition, the second lifting bag 20 comprises an integrated transmitting device 23 for transmitting the detected safety value to the first external operating or information unit 40. Finally, it is also provided that the third lifting bag 30 comprises an integrated transmitting device 33 for transmitting the detected safety value to the first external operating or information unit 40. The communication capability is indicated by the dotted line between the corresponding transmitting device 13 or 23 or 33 in Fig. 1The respective measuring device 12, 22, or 32 is also in communication with the respective transmitting device 13, 23, or 33, so that the detected safety value can be transferred to the respective transmitting device 13, 23, or 33 for further transmission. Measuring device 12, 22, or 32 and transmitting device 13, 23, or 33 can, of course, also be integrated together within the respective lifting bag 10, 20, or 30, for example, by connecting them to a common circuit board.

[0069] Again, analogous to the measuring device 12 or 22 or 32, just one transmitting device 13 or 23 or 33 in the tower 123 from the three lifting bags 10, 20, 30 could be sufficient to increase the safety of the lifting process. Alternatively, the transmitting device 13 or 23 or 33 can also be formed by components present in several (i.e., at least two) of the lifting bags 10 or 20 or 30. For example, just one of the transmitting devices 13 or 23 or 33 could be configured for communication with the first external control or information unit 40 located further away, while the other transmitting devices are configured only for communication with that one transmitting device configured for communication further out.

[0070] Finally, it is essential that the first external operating or information unit 40 is configured to receive and further process the detected safety value. In the simplest case, this can simply involve storing the values, which can then be retrieved and analyzed at any time. This makes it possible to discontinue the subsequent use of a lifting bag if certain safety values ​​no longer meet safety requirements. In a simple case, this could also be achieved by a counter of the filling processes of the lifting bag integrated into the lifting bag, so that after a certain number of filling or lifting processes, the corresponding lifting bag is no longer used. In this case, the counter corresponds to the measuring device.

[0071] The safety variables can also be further processed in the first external control or information unit 40 in such a way that they are graphically presented and the safety variables are visually displayed to the relevant emergency personnel on site, allowing intervention in the lifting process if necessary. Automatically derived measures are also possible. For example, an alarm can be triggered if a safety variable reaches a critical value, or a safety-relevant protective measure can even be automatically initiated that actively intervenes in the lifting process, such as further filling a lifting bag or reducing the supply pressure for filling.

[0072] The illustrated and described system or the corresponding method for monitoring the safety of the pneumatic lifting process using at least the first pneumatic lifting bag 10 offers improved safety for the personnel involved. The integration of the measuring device 12, 22, or 32 enables the recording of safety-relevant measurements during the lifting process and, via networking using the integrated transmitter device 13, 23, or 33 or the external operating or information unit 40, enables real-time analysis and monitoring of critical conditions during the lifting process. Remote monitoring and remote intervention by operating personnel is possible from a safe distance.

[0073] The proposed pneumatic lifting cushion 10 or 20 or 30 helps in this, as it is schematically shown separately in relation to the first lifting cushion 10 in Fig. 2This embodiment can also be implemented for the second lifting bag 20 or the third lifting bag 30.

[0074] The measuring device 12 of the first lifting bag 10 is according to Fig. 2 formed by several sensors. These are sensors 12a, 12b, 12c, and 12d. As described later, sensor 12d can also be used for other purposes and, in that application, need not be considered part of the proposed measuring device 12.

[0075] The different sensors 12a, 12b, 12c, 12d can determine various parameters, which can all individually or together represent a safety variable within the meaning of the present invention, which safety variable is to be recorded and monitored.

[0076] By recording a large number of safety variables, comprehensive monitoring of the lifting process can be ensured and, in particular, combined sensor data can provide particularly valuable information about the current safety status of the lifting process.

[0077] With 12a in Fig. 2 a pressure sensor. The pressure sensor 12a can detect the current pressure in the lifting bag 10, which can be a relevant safety parameter, since both excessive pressure can be dangerous and an excessive drop in pressure can negatively impact the lifting process in a safety-relevant manner.

[0078] With 12b in Fig. 2a height sensor. The height sensor 12b can detect the lifting height of the lifting bag 10, which can be a relevant safety variable, since both an excessive lifting of the load 1 and an excessive drop in the lifting height can have a negative impact on the lifting process in terms of safety. In principle, the height sensor 12b can be configured to measure the lifting height in interaction with other sensors. For example, the lifting height of a tower 123 formed from three lifting bags can be determined by adding together the individually measured lifting heights. This can also be done as part of the further processing in the external first operating or information unit 40.

[0079] With 12c in Fig. 2an acceleration sensor. The acceleration sensor 12c can detect an acceleration of the lifting bag 10, which can be representative of a movement such as rolling or tipping of the lifting bag 10. This acceleration value can be a relevant safety parameter, since excessive movement of the lifting bag 10 can have a negative impact on the lifting process in terms of safety.

[0080] With 12d in Fig. 2 an inclination sensor. The inclination sensor 12d can detect an inclination of the lifting bag 10, which can be a relevant safety parameter, since an excessive inclination of the lifting bag 10 can lead to tipping and negatively impact the lifting process in a safety-relevant manner.

[0081] An inclination of a tower 123 consisting of several lifting cushions, such as in Fig. 1As shown, it is also possible to detect lifting bags across all lifting bags by having the sensors arranged in the different lifting bags interact with each other, for example by detecting their orientation to each other, and thereby inferring the safety variable in the form of the inclination of the multiple lifting bags.

[0082] The different sensors 12a, 12b, 12c, 12d are in communication connection with the transmitting device 13, indicated by the dotted lines. The transmitting device 13 can then send the detected safety variables to the external operating or information unit, for example via the Fig. 2 indicated BLE module 13a.

[0083] Furthermore, in Fig. 2to detect an energy supply device 14, for example one or more batteries, which can supply the sensors 12a, 12b, 12c, 12d as well as the transmitting device 13 with energy (as indicated by the solid connecting lines).

[0084] It is advantageously additionally provided that the charge state of the energy supply device 14 can also be measured and this charge state can also be sent to the first external operating or information unit 40 as an additional safety-relevant safety variable.

[0085] To ensure the system is operated as energy-efficiently as possible, the method or system may also include various operating modes, such as a monitoring mode, a sleep mode, and an energy-saving mode. In these modes, the measuring device 12 and the transmitting device 13 regulate energy consumption accordingly by adjusting the measuring and transmitting functionality.

[0086] For activation from the energy-saving modes, there is a wake-up sensor that can be connected to the measuring device 12 and / or the transmitting device 13. This sensor can be, for example, the inclination sensor 12d or the acceleration sensor 12c, or be designed as another suitable sensor and generates a start signal when a predetermined inclination or movement is detected. Thus, dropping the lifting bag 10 onto the ground 2 for use in operation can serve as a start signal, which puts the measuring device 12 or the transmitting device 13 into a monitoring mode in which the relevant safety variables are recorded and transmitted.

[0087] As already described, the first external operating or information unit 40 can be used for storing, displaying, or further processing the recorded safety variables. The external operating or information unit 40 can function as a storage unit and, for example, store the data in the cloud application 50. In principle, the safety variables can also be stored on the device itself, or the device can simply have a display unit to show the safety variables. This can be done on a display 41 of a portable device such as a tablet for an external user, such as the emergency personnel. This is generally possible in Fig. 3 shown, whereby in view a) and view b) the display 41 is shown with different views or illustrated lifting processes.

[0088] The display 41 can be the display of a portable device, such as a smartphone or tablet. Its function is to visualize the status of the lifting process and also issue appropriate warnings to the emergency personnel. The advantage is that the emergency personnel remain mobile, and immediate information and, if necessary, warnings can be sent to the user.

[0089] On the display according to view a) in Fig. 3 Schematically representative graphic representations of the first lifting bag 10a, the second lifting bag 20a, and the third lifting bag 30a can be seen. The lifting bags are each shown in different filled states.

[0090] Likewise, for each lifting bag there is also a graphic representation of the recorded pressure in the form of a bar, which is shown with different filling levels according to the prevailing pressure, namely in the first lifting bag by the reference number 12a.1, in the second lifting bag by the reference number 22a.1, and in the third lifting bag by the reference number 32a.1.

[0091] Furthermore, for each lifting bag there is also a graphic representation of the recorded lifting height in the form of a bar, which is shown with different filling levels depending on the measured lifting height, namely in the first lifting bag by the reference number 12b.1, in the second lifting bag by the reference number 22b.1, and in the third lifting bag by the reference number 32b.1.

[0092] Furthermore, for each lifting bag there is also a graphic representation of the charge level in the form of a graphically represented battery, which can be shown filled to different levels depending on the charge level, namely in the first lifting bag by the reference number 14a, in the second lifting bag by the reference number 24a, and in the third lifting bag by the reference number 34a.

[0093] This allows the operating personnel to intuitively see an excessively rising or falling pressure in the lifting bag or, analogously, a sharp rise or fall in the lifting height, which has a positive effect on the safety of the lifting process.

[0094] In view b) of the Fig. 3The graphical representations are analogous, whereby a tower 123 consisting of two lifting bags is used in the underlying application. This tower is graphically represented on the left edge, while in the center the first lifting bag is shown as "active" (10a) and its safety variables (12a.1 and 12b.1) are shown analogously to the procedure described in view a). On the right edge of the display, the second lifting bag (20a) is shown as active and its safety variables (12a.1 and 12b.1) are shown analogously to the procedure described in view a).

[0095] In addition, in view b), a graphical representation of the recorded lifting height of the tower 123 from lifting bags is also provided, with the corresponding bar being marked with the reference number 123.1. List of reference symbols

[0096] 1 load 20a graphic representation of the second lifting bag 2 Underground 3 Compressed air supply 22a.1 graphical representation of the recorded pressure in the second lifting bag 4, 5, 6 supply line 10 first lifting bag 20 second lifting bag 22b.1 graphical representation of the recorded lifting height of the second lifting bag 30 third lifting bag 123 Tower 11, 21, 31 Connection section 24a graphical representation of the charge level of the power supply device of the second lifting bag 12, 22, 32 measuring device 13, 23, 33 transmitting device 12a pressure sensor 30a graphic representation of the third lifting bag 12b Altitude sensor 32a.1 graphical representation of the recorded pressure in the third lifting bag 12c Accelerometer 12d Tilt sensor 13a BLE module 32b.1 graphical representation of the recorded lifting height of the third lifting bag 14 Energy supply facility 10a graphic representation of the first lifting bag 34a graphical representation of the charge level of the power supply device of the third lifting bag 12a.1 graphical representation of the recorded pressure in the first lifting bag 123.1 graphical representation of the recorded lifting height of the tower from lifting bags 12b.1 graphical representation of the recorded lifting height of the first lifting bag 14a graphical representation of the charge level of the power supply device of the first lifting bag 40 external control or information unit 41 Display 50 Cloud application

Claims

1. A method for monitoring the safety of a pneumatic lifting operation of a load (1) using at least one first lifting cushion (10), wherein the first lifting cushion (10) is a pneumatic lifting cushion which, for lifting the load (1), is designed to be inflatable from a flat state for placing underneath the load (1) by enlarging an internal volume enclosed by the first lifting cushion (10) into an inflated state for lifting the load (1), characterized in thatat least the following steps are carried out: a) a measuring device (12) which is integrated into the first lifting bag (10) records a safety variable which represents the safety of the pneumatic lifting process; b) a transmitting device (13) which is integrated into the first lifting bag (10) transmits the safety variable recorded in step a) to a first external operating or information unit (40); and c) the first external operating or information unit (40) receives the safety variable transmitted in step b) and processes it further.

2. Method according to claim 1, wherein further at least one second lifting bag (20) is provided, which is a pneumatic lifting bag and, for lifting the load (1), is designed to be inflatable from a flat state for placing underneath the load (1) by enlarging an internal volume enclosed by the second lifting bag (20) into an inflated state for lifting the load (1), wherein the first lifting bag (10) and the second lifting bag (20) together form a tower (123) for lifting the load (1), wherein, preferably, the measuring device (12, 22) is integrated both in the first lifting bag (10) and in the second lifting bag (20).

3. Method according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the measuring device (12, 22) is configured to measure a plurality of different parameters and different types of safety variables can be detected by the measuring device (12, 22).

4. Method according to one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the measuring device (12, 22) is arranged to measure a lifting height and the safety variable or one of the safety variables corresponds to the lifting height.

5. Method according to one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the measuring device (12, 22) is arranged to measure an angle of inclination and the safety variable or one of the safety variables corresponds to the angle of inclination.

6. Method according to one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the measuring device (12, 22) is set up to measure a pressure in the pneumatic lifting bag and the safety variable or one of the safety variables corresponds to the pressure in the pneumatic lifting bag, and / or wherein the measuring device (12, 22) is set up to measure a temperature and the safety variable or one of the safety variables corresponds to the temperature.

7. Method according to one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the measuring device (12, 22) is additionally configured to measure a charge state of a power supply device (14) for supplying power to the measuring device (12, 22) and / or the transmitting device (13, 23), and / or wherein the transmitting device (13, 23) is configured to transmit a / the charge state of a / the power supply device (14) for supplying power to the measuring device (12, 22) and / or the transmitting device (13, 23) to the first external operating or information unit (40) 8. The method according to one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the measuring device (12, 22) and / or the transmitting device (13, 23) can be put into a monitoring mode and is / are operated in the monitoring mode, as well as in at least one further of the following two modes: - a sleep mode, wherein the measuring device (12, 22) does not carry out any measurement of the safety variable in the sleep mode in order to save energy and / or the transmitting device (13, 23) does not carry out any transmission of safety variables to the first external operating or information unit (40) in the sleep mode in order to save energy;and / or - an energy-saving mode, wherein the measuring device (12, 22) does not measure the safety variable in the energy-saving mode to save energy, and / or the transmitting device (13, 23) only sends a status of the most recently detected safety variables to the first external operating or information unit (40) in the energy-saving mode to save energy; wherein, in the monitoring mode, the measuring device (12, 22) detects the safety variable(s) and the transmitting device (13, 23) sends the detected safety variable(s) to the first external operating or information unit (40).

9. The method according to claim 8, wherein the first lifting bag (10) and / or the second lifting bag (20) has / have a wake-up sensor for detecting a desired operation of the first lifting bag (10) and / or the second lifting bag (20), and wherein the wake-up sensor is connected to the measuring device (12, 22) and / or the transmitting device (13, 23) in such a way that the measuring device (12, 22) and / or the transmitting device (13, 23) can be switched from the sleep mode and / or from the energy-saving mode to the monitoring mode based on a start signal detected by the wake-up sensor, wherein, preferably, the wake-up sensor is designed as an inclination sensor and the start signal is a predetermined detected inclination of the first lifting bag (10) or the second lifting bag (20), and / or wherein the wake-up sensor is designed as an acceleration sensor and the start signal is a predetermined detected movement of the first lifting bag (10) or the second lifting bag (20).

10. The method according to one of claims 1 to 9, wherein the first external operating or information unit (40) is designed as a storage unit and stores the detected security variable(s), preferably in a cloud application (50).

11. System for monitoring the safety of a pneumatic lifting process of a load (1), comprising at least the following: - at least one first lifting cushion (10) for lifting the load (1), wherein the first lifting cushion (10) is a pneumatic lifting cushion which, for lifting the load (1), is designed to be inflatable from a flat state for placing underneath the load (1) by enlarging an internal volume enclosed by the first lifting cushion (10) into an inflated state for lifting the load (1), and - at least one first external operating or information unit (40), characterized in thatthe first lifting bag (10) has an integrated measuring device (12) for detecting a safety variable representing the safety of the pneumatic lifting process, that the first lifting bag (10) has an integrated transmitting device (13) for transmitting the detected safety variable to the first external operating or information unit, and that the first external operating or information unit (40) is configured to receive and further process the detected safety variable.

12. System according to claim 11, wherein the first external operating or information unit (40) is designed as a display unit for displaying the detected security variable for an external user of the system, preferably, wherein the first external operating or information unit (40) is designed to display the detected security variable to the external user on a display (41) of a portable device, preferably a smartphone or a tablet.

13. System according to claim 11 or 12, wherein the first external operating or information unit (40) or, insofar as related to claim 12, a second external operating or information unit is designed as a storage unit for storing the detected safety variable and, preferably, is designed to store the detected safety variable in a cloud application (50), and / or wherein the first external operating or information unit (40) or, insofar as related to claim 12, a second external operating or information unit or a third external operating or information unit is designed as a control unit for controlling the compressed air supply (3) of the first lifting bag (10).

14. System according to claims 11 to 13, wherein the following external operating or information units are in a communication connection with one another: - the first external operating or information unit (40) and the second external operating or information unit, and / or - the first external operating or information unit (40) and the third external operating or information unit, and / or - the second external operating or information unit and the third external operating or information unit.

15. System according to one of claims 11 to 14, wherein the measuring device (12) is configured to measure at least one of the following parameters and the safety variable(s) correspond(s) to at least one of the following variables: - a lifting height; - an inclination angle; - an acceleration; - a pressure in the pneumatic lifting bag; and / or - a temperature.

16. Pneumatic lifting bag (10, 20, 30), in particular for use in a method according to one of claims 1 to 10 and / or for use in a system according to one of claims 11 to 15, wherein the pneumatic lifting bag, for lifting a load (1), is designed to be inflatable from a flat state for placing underneath the load (1) by enlarging an internal volume enclosed by the pneumatic lifting bag into an inflated state for lifting the load (1), and wherein the pneumatic lifting bag has an integrated measuring device (12) for detecting a safety variable representing the safety of the pneumatic lifting process and a transmitting device (13) for transmitting the detected safety variable to a first external operating or information unit.

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