Bridge Clearance Measurement Using Dynamic Sensor Data
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing systems fail to provide accurate and real-time bridge height clearance information, leading to potential truck collisions due to outdated or incorrect bridge height data, driver error, or environmental factors affecting the clearance height.
Innovation Solution
A system comprising a measuring device mounted on a bridge that continuously measures and displays the clearance height, using a processor to account for bridge protrusions and location, with data transmitted to displays on the bridge, in vehicles, or along the roadway, allowing for real-time updates and preferred route calculations based on bridge clearance data.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Use of energy by moving object
If a flexible antenna-like height indicator that physically contacts overhead objects is used, then the device can function without electrical supply, but it will wear over time due to direct physical contact
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical contact-based flexible antenna system with an electronic sensor system that uses electromagnetic fields (ultrasonic or infrared) to measure bridge height. This substitution eliminates direct physical contact between the indicator and overhead objects, thereby preventing wear while maintaining the ability to provide height information. The electronic system processes sensor data to determine clearance height without mechanical contact.
2Loss of information
If a vehicle-mounted ultrasonic distance detector is used, then the driver receives distance information, but the system only shows distance from bumper to object without indicating whether the vehicle height exceeds bridge clearance
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple information sources and processing functions into an integrated system. It merges the ultrasonic distance detector data with vehicle height data from separate sensors, then processes both through a control unit that compares the sum of vehicle height and detected distance against the bridge height. This integration provides the driver with comprehensive clearance information including visual indicators (lights) and audible warnings, ensuring accurate collision prevention by considering both vertical and horizontal dimensions.
3Adaptability or versatility
If a computerized vehicle classification system is used, then the system can classify vehicles for toll collection, but it rejects absolute height measurements as anomalous and cannot determine true vehicle height
Solution Approach 1:
The patent inverts the approach of classification systems by directly measuring absolute vehicle height using dedicated sensors (ultrasonic, infrared, or cameras) rather than inferring height from classification categories. The system measures the actual vertical distance from the ground to the highest point of the vehicle, then uses this precise absolute measurement for bridge clearance determination, toll collection, and routing decisions, eliminating the rejection of height data that plagues classification systems.
4Loss of information
If bridge height data is posted statically, then the information is available to drivers, but the clearance height may be outdated due to road repaving, bridge settling, snow, mud, or thermal expansion
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a dynamic bridge height measurement system using sensors (ultrasonic, infrared, or cameras) mounted on the bridge that continuously or periodically measure the actual clearance height. The system automatically updates the bridge height data and transmits it to approaching vehicles via wireless communication or road-side displays. This dynamic approach ensures drivers receive current, accurate clearance information that accounts for road repaving, bridge settling, environmental factors, and thermal expansion, eliminating reliance on static outdated posted heights.
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
The system provides accurate and timely bridge height information to drivers, reducing the risk of collisions by ensuring that truck drivers have up-to-date and precise clearance data, enabling them to navigate safely and avoiding potential bridge strikes.
Implementation Method 1
U.S. Pat. No. 5,389,912 disclosed a vehicle mounted system for detecting the height of a vehicle using ultrasound waves that are focused in front of the vehicle.
Implementation Method 2
The distance from the point at which the measuring device is mounted on the bridge to the roadway below is measured
Data Source
AI summary
A method is presented for warning of bridge height clearance with a system that has a measuring device mounted on a bridge, a processor and a display. The method includes measuring the distance from the point at which the measuring device is mounted on the bridge to pavement below to obtain measurement data, processing the measurement data to calculate a clearance height of the bridge, and displaying a clearance height of the bridge on a display so that a driver approaching the bridge can see the current height of the bridge.