Autonomous Mobile Scanner for Refractory Lining Characterization
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
In the metallurgical industry, operators are exposed to harsh environments while measuring the interior refractory lining of vessels using conventional mobile scanners, which poses safety risks and inefficiencies due to the need for physical intervention and high heat exposure.
Innovation Solution
The development of autonomous mobile scanners equipped with laser scanning systems and robotic vehicles that can independently position and scan the refractory lining, reducing operator exposure to hazardous conditions by allowing for remote operation and automated data collection.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If mobile scanners are used to measure refractory lining, then measurement capability is improved, but operator safety deteriorates due to exposure to harsh environments and high heat
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an autonomous mobile scanner as an intermediary device that performs measurements remotely. The scanner includes a laser range finder and positioning system that enables it to autonomously navigate and measure refractory lining without human operators being exposed to high heat and harsh environments. The scanner acts as a mediator between the measurement objective and the operator, eliminating direct exposure to harmful conditions.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces manual mechanical operations with an autonomous robotic system. The mobile scanner uses automated navigation, laser ranging, and computer-controlled measurement processes instead of manual positioning and measurement techniques. This substitution eliminates the need for operators to physically position equipment and take measurements in hazardous environments, improving safety while maintaining measurement precision.
2Object-affected harmful factors
If autonomous scanners are implemented, then operator safety is improved by reducing exposure, but device complexity increases due to automation requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The autonomous mobile scanner is designed as a multi-functional integrated system that combines navigation, positioning, laser ranging, and data processing capabilities in a single device. This universal design allows the scanner to perform multiple functions autonomously, reducing the need for separate specialized equipment and operators, thereby managing complexity through consolidation rather than multiplication of components.
Solution Approach 2:
The mobile scanner is equipped with autonomous navigation and self-positioning capabilities that enable it to operate independently without human intervention. The system uses onboard sensors, positioning systems, and control algorithms to navigate to measurement locations, position itself correctly, and execute measurements automatically. This self-service capability reduces operational complexity by eliminating the need for manual control while maintaining safety.
3Ease of operation
If manual positioning and scanning is performed, then ease of operation is maintained, but productivity decreases due to time-consuming procedures and operator intervention
Solution Approach 1:
The autonomous mobile scanner is pre-programmed with measurement protocols, navigation paths, and positioning algorithms that enable it to autonomously execute measurement tasks without real-time human intervention. The system prepares and positions itself automatically before measurements begin, and continues operations autonomously throughout the measurement process. This preliminary automation of operations maintains ease of use while dramatically improving productivity by eliminating manual positioning and measurement time.
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 solution enhances safety and operational efficiency by enabling rapid, accurate characterization of refractory lining without human intervention, extending vessel lifespan and reducing downtime, while maintaining high production availability.
Implementation Method 1
a laser scanning system (16) mounted on a robotic vehicle (18)
Implementation Method 2
measuring distances to a plurality of points on a surface of the refractory lining
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3
AI summary
Apparatuses, methods, and systems are disclosed for autonomously characterizing the refractory lining in a container using a scanner that includes a scanning laser range finding system, a control system being communicatively connected to the laser scanning system to control the scanner; and a robotic vehicle having a controller communicatively connected to the control system and a drive system to propel the scanner autonomously in an area adjacent to the container, wherein characterization of the refractory lining is performed by comparing refractory thickness values determined from the distances measured from the laser scanning system to the surface of the refractory lining and the relative position of the scanner and the container, and comparing the same to a reference measurement of the refractory lining.