Buoyant Apparatus Collision Detection Using Acceleration Sensors
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing buoyant apparatuses, such as buoys and floating hoses, face challenges in detecting collisions with unknown objects while floating in water, which can lead to water ingress and loss of buoyancy, necessitating a rapid and reliable method to identify collisions and initiate appropriate actions.
Innovation Solution
A system equipped with a collision detection unit comprising acceleration sensors and a processor unit that generates a warning signal upon detecting a collision, allowing for quick identification and transmission of collision data, including acceleration values and location, to facilitate timely repair or retrieval.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a buoyant apparatus is placed in water to perform its function, then it can operate in the intended environment, but it becomes vulnerable to collisions with unknown objects that can cause water ingress and loss of buoyancy
Solution Approach 1:
The collision detection unit is installed in advance on the buoyant apparatus to detect collisions before they cause catastrophic failure. The acceleration sensors continuously monitor for collision events, enabling early warning and prompt remedial action to maintain reliability while the apparatus operates in the water environment.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the buoyant apparatus is located at a great distance from shore or base, then it can access remote operational areas, but collision detection and response time are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The collision detection unit provides immediate feedback through automated warning signals when a collision is detected. The processing unit analyzes acceleration data in real-time and triggers alerts without delay, enabling rapid response even when the apparatus is located far from shore or base, thus minimizing the time loss associated with remote collision detection.
3Device complexity
If simple acceleration sensors are used for collision detection, then the device complexity is reduced, but the precision of collision detection and differentiation from wave motion may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The processing unit dynamically analyzes acceleration patterns by evaluating the characteristics of detected accelerations, including their magnitude, duration, and temporal patterns. This dynamic analysis enables accurate differentiation between collision events and normal wave motion, maintaining high measurement precision while using relatively simple acceleration sensors rather than complex detection systems.
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
Enables rapid detection and communication of collisions, ensuring prompt action to prevent sinking and minimize downtime, thereby enhancing the safety and maintenance efficiency of buoyant apparatuses.
Implementation Method 1
The apparatus comprises a collision detection unit comprising at least one acceleration sensor. Each acceleration sensor is designed to detect an acceleration acting on the apparatus.
Implementation Method 2
the processor unit is configured for identifying a collision of the apparatus with an unknown object based on the at least one detected acceleration
Implementation Method 3
Systems comprising at least one buoyant apparatus are known from the prior art. An apparatus is preferably understood to be buoyant if at least a part of the apparatus is arranged above a water line if said apparatus is placed in the water such that it can move freely.
Data Source
AI summary
The invention relates to a system (2) for generating a warning signal. The system (2) has a buoyant apparatus (4). The apparatus (4) comprises a collision detection unit (6) which has at least one acceleration sensor (18). Each acceleration sensor (18) is designed to detect an acceleration acting on the apparatus. The collision detection unit (6) comprises a processor unit (10), which is configured for identifying a collision of the apparatus (4) with an unknown object based on the at least one detected acceleration, wherein the processor unit (10) is designed to generate a warning signal when a collision is identified, which signal represents the detected collision. The collision detection unit (6) has a signal interface (12) for transmitting the warning signal.