Automated Rolling Jack Positioning for Drive-On Vehicle Lifts
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current vehicle lift systems require manual operation of rolling-jacks, which is time-consuming and prone to human error, leading to increased labor costs, safety risks, and potential vehicle damage due to incorrect positioning.
Innovation Solution
The system automates the operation of rolling-jacks using motorized transport mechanisms, adjustable engagement mechanisms, and guidance systems that utilize sensors and computer vision to position and lift vehicles safely and efficiently, allowing for fully automatic or semi-automatic operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If manual operation of rolling-jacks is used, then device complexity is reduced, but productivity decreases and loss of time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The rolling-jack system performs self-positioning and self-engagement operations through automated transport mechanisms and guidance systems, eliminating the need for manual technician intervention in positioning tasks while maintaining operational efficiency
Solution Approach 2:
Manual mechanical positioning operations are replaced with motorized transport mechanisms and computer vision-guided automated systems, substituting human labor with automated mechanical and optical systems to improve productivity
2Reliability
If manual positioning of rolling-jack is used, then ease of operation is maintained, but reliability decreases due to human error
Solution Approach 1:
Computer vision systems and sensors continuously monitor and provide feedback on the rolling-jack position and vehicle alignment, enabling real-time corrections to achieve precise positioning and engage lift pads accurately with vehicle lift points
Solution Approach 2:
Human visual estimation and manual positioning are replaced with sensor-based detection systems and computer vision technology, providing objective and precise measurement of positions to eliminate human error in positioning accuracy
3Productivity
If automated transport mechanism is added, then productivity increases, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The automated transport mechanism serves multiple functions including moving the rolling-jack between storage and engagement positions, positioning it under different vehicle types, and coordinating with the lift system, making a single complex system perform multiple productive tasks
Solution Approach 2:
The transport mechanism is integrated with the existing lift structure and control systems, merging multiple functions into a unified system that coordinates vehicle positioning, rolling-jack transport, and lifting operations to improve overall productivity
4Manufacturing precision
If precise positioning system is implemented, then manufacturing precision is improved, but loss of time in setup increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system pre-positions the rolling-jack and pre-aligns lift pads with vehicle lift points before the actual lifting operation begins, using computer vision and sensors to prepare the exact positioning in advance, reducing the time needed during the critical engagement phase
Data Source
AI summary
Techniques are disclosed for methods and systems for automating the operation of a rolling-jack system for the servicing of automotive vehicles. The rolling-jack(s) travel/transport between the runways of a drive-on lift. They have automated/motorized transportation, engagement and jacking power mechanisms. These mechanisms are controlled by a guidance system which guides/controls them for a fully automated operation. A number of technologies may be used for this purpose, including sensors onboard the vehicles and/or the drive-on lifts and/or the rolling-jacks and/or the service center. A computer vision pipeline may also be utilized to assist in the process. Machine learning may also be employed. Techniques are also extended to autonomous vehicles as well as interfacing with fleet management software.