Automated Load Positioning via Intersecting Rails and Servo-Actuated Strands
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing methods for suspending and positioning loads in spaces, such as trade fairs or exhibitions, are complex, expensive, and require extensive manual effort due to the need for precise calculation and assembly of rope lengths and manual attachment to ceiling brackets, which is time-consuming and labor-intensive.
Innovation Solution
A device with intersecting support rails and a controller that calculates and adjusts the positions and lengths of support strands using servomotors, allowing for flexible and quick positioning of loads by determining optimal runner positions and strand lengths, eliminating the need for manual rope assembly and separate lifting devices.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If manual rope assembly and attachment methods are used, then flexibility in positioning is achieved, but the complexity and time required for installation increases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual mechanical operations (hand-tying ropes, manual attachment to ceiling brackets) with an automated robotic system that uses computer-controlled actuators and pre-engineered attachment mechanisms. The robot autonomously positions itself, calculates optimal attachment points, and executes fastening operations without human intervention, thereby maintaining positioning flexibility while dramatically reducing installation complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The robotic system performs self-positioning and self-configuration tasks. It autonomously navigates to the work area, identifies target positions, calculates required rope lengths using trigonometric formulas, and executes the entire suspension process without requiring pre-assembled ropes or manual measurement, enabling the system to serve itself in the installation process.
2Measurement precision
If precise calculation and assembly of rope lengths is performed manually, then accurate load positioning is achieved, but the time and labor required increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual calculation and measurement processes with automated computer-controlled systems. The robot uses sensors to detect positions, a controller to calculate optimal attachment points and rope lengths using trigonometric formulas, and actuators to execute positioning with high precision, thereby achieving accurate load positioning while dramatically reducing installation time.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs preliminary calculations of rope lengths and attachment positions before physical installation begins. The controller pre-computes all necessary measurements and positioning parameters, allowing the robotic system to execute the installation process efficiently without time-consuming manual measurements during the actual suspension operation.
3Length of moving object
If multiple individual ropes are assembled using shackles, then the required rope lengths are achieved, but the number of components and assembly steps increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple individual ropes and shackle components into a single integrated robotic manipulation system. The robot handles rope assembly, connection, and attachment as unified operations, eliminating the need for separate shackle assembly steps and reducing the number of discrete components that require manual configuration.
Solution Approach 2:
The robotic system autonomously performs rope assembly and connection tasks without requiring pre-assembled rope sections or manual shackle installation. The robot self-configures the rope length requirements, assembles the necessary components, and executes the attachment process, thereby reducing assembly complexity while achieving the required rope lengths.
4Weight of moving object
If mobile lifting platforms are used to position supporting frames, then the frames can be lifted to intended positions, but the equipment requirements and setup complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The robotic system serves multiple functions: it positions itself, calculates attachment points, manipulates ropes, and suspends loads. This multi-functional capability replaces the need for separate mobile lifting platforms and manual positioning equipment, achieving load lifting capability while reducing overall equipment complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent extracts the lifting and positioning functions from separate mobile platform equipment and integrates them into the robotic suspension system. The robot autonomously performs both positioning and load suspension tasks, eliminating the requirement for dedicated mobile lifting platforms and their associated setup procedures.
Data Source
Figure 1~2(c)
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AI summary
The invention relates to a device for positioning a load (1, 1a, 1b, 1c) in a desired position within a space (100), comprising at least two runners (4, 5, 6, 7) movable along at least one horizontally extending support rail (2, 3), from each of which at least one flexible support arm (8, 9, 10, 11) carrying the load (1) can be extended to an adjustable length. To facilitate the positioning of a load (1) in any desired position within a space, in particular a stage area, a television studio, an exhibition hall, or an industrial production facility, the device includes a control unit (12) by means of which positions of the runners (4, 5, 6, 7) on the support rail (2, 3) and/or extension lengths of the support arms (8, 9, 10, 11) corresponding to a desired position of the load (1) within the space can be calculated and adjusted.Advantageously, the control unit (12) is configured to adjust the runners (4, 5, 6, 7) and/or the extension lengths of the support strands (8, 9, 10, 11) such that the load (1) can be suspended simultaneously from the support strands (8, 9, 10, 11) of different runners (4, 5, 6, 7) in a state of force equilibrium. The invention further relates to a method for arranging the load.