Adaptive Safety Sensor Control Using Radio Location Data
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing safety systems in industrial settings operate at fixed, high safety levels, leading to unnecessary restrictions on operating routines and reduced productivity, as they are designed for the worst-case scenario rather than the actual hazard situation.
Innovation Solution
A safety system that includes a radio location system and spatially resolving sensors, where the safety level of the sensors is dynamically adjusted based on the presence of persons or objects in the monitored zone, allowing higher safety levels for proximal sensors and lower levels when no personnel or objects are detected.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If safety sensors operate at the highest available safety level, then safety reliability is improved, but productivity deteriorates due to unnecessary restrictions on operating routines
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by enabling the safety sensor to dynamically adjust its safety level based on real-time hazard assessment. The sensor transitions from a static, fixed safety level to a dynamic system that can adapt between different safety levels (e.g., PL d to PL b) depending on the detected risk situation, thereby resolving the contradiction between maintaining high safety reliability and avoiding unnecessary productivity restrictions
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements parameter changes by modifying the safety level parameter of the sensor based on detected conditions. The system changes operational parameters (safety level, monitoring strictness) in response to varying hazard levels, allowing the sensor to operate at reduced safety levels when hazards are low and at higher levels when risks are detected, thus balancing safety and productivity
2Reliability
If safety systems are designed for the worst-case scenario, then safety coverage is improved, but operational flexibility deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The system transitions from a static worst-case design to a dynamic adaptive system that continuously assesses actual hazard levels and adjusts safety measures accordingly. This allows the safety system to maintain comprehensive coverage when needed while providing operational flexibility during low-risk periods
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies local quality by enabling different safety levels to be applied to different spatial zones or operational contexts within the monitored area. The sensor can identify specific hazard locations and apply appropriate safety measures locally rather than imposing uniform restrictions across the entire operational area
3Reliability
If safety sensors restrict operating routines, then safety level is maintained, but productivity is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The system changes operational parameters dynamically based on detected hazard levels. When hazards are low, the sensor permits more flexible operating routines with reduced restrictions, and when hazards are detected, it automatically tightens safety parameters and restricts operations accordingly, thus maintaining safety without unnecessary productivity loss
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This approach enhances productivity by reducing sensor operation to the necessary safety level, minimizing downtime and maintaining safety without unnecessary restrictions.
Implementation Method 1
a radio location system (4) for position determination of the person (2) and/or object (8) in the monitored zone (10)... position data of the person (2) and/or object (8) are determined by means of the radio location system (4)
Implementation Method 2
at least one spatially resolving sensor (7) for presence determination of the person (2) and/or object (8) in a protected field (11)
Data Source
AI summary
A method using a safety system for localizing a person and/or object in a monitored zone having a control and evaluation unit, having at least one radio location system for the position determination of the person and/or object in the monitored zone, wherein the control and evaluation unit is configured to evaluate position data of the radio location system and status information of a spatially resolving sensor and, if a person and/or object is/are determined in the monitored zone by the radio location system, the control and evaluation unit is configured to set the spatially resolving sensor into operation at a non-reduced safety level and, if no person and/or no object is/are determined in the monitored zone by the radio location system, the control and evaluation unit is configured to set the spatially resolving sensor into operation at a reduced safety level.