Cargo Tie Down Locator Using Coordinate Markers and Light Projection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Implementing tie down plans for securing cargo is challenging due to difficulties in identifying proper tie down restraint locations, which can lead to cargo shifting and potential accidents during transportation.
Innovation Solution
A system that uses a coordinate system with alpha-numeric or color-coded markers and a light projector to accurately identify tie down restraint locations on a vehicle's floor, ensuring correct attachment points are used as per the tie down plan, and a handheld device to confirm correct node selection.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If traditional tie down plans are used without visual aids, then the complexity of the system is low, but the difficulty of identifying correct tie down locations increases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies color-coded markers and visual indicators to clearly distinguish different tie down locations and their corresponding restraint requirements. Different colors indicate different anchor points, restraint types, or priority levels, making it immediately visually apparent to operators which locations to use and how to configure restraints, thereby dramatically improving ease of operation without adding complex electronic systems
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses visual copies or representations of the tie down plan displayed as overhead projections or marked on the floor, creating a visual replica of the restraint configuration scheme. This allows operators to directly see the planned restraint locations and paths without interpreting complex documentation, bridging the gap between the tie down plan and physical implementation while maintaining system simplicity
2Productivity
If manual identification of tie down locations is used, then the system remains simple, but the time required to secure cargo increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent pre-marks all tie down locations, anchor points, and restraint paths on the cargo compartment floor before cargo loading begins. These visual indicators are prepared in advance according to the specific cargo and restraint requirements, so that when cargo arrives, operators can immediately see where to apply restraints without spending time searching or calculating locations, significantly reducing the time to secure cargo
Solution Approach 2:
Different colors indicate different phases or types of restraint operations, allowing operators to quickly identify which locations have been secured and which remain to be addressed. This visual tracking system eliminates the need for operators to consult documentation or remember which anchor points have been used, accelerating the cargo securing process
3Measurement precision
If visual indication systems are implemented to mark tie down locations, then identification accuracy improves, but the cost and complexity of the system increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses distinct color codes for different anchor points, restraint types, and operational statuses, providing unambiguous visual identification that eliminates mistakes. Each color serves a specific identification purpose, ensuring operators can accurately determine which locations to use and how to configure restraints without requiring complex electronic verification systems
Solution Approach 2:
The visual markers create an accurate representation of the tie down plan directly on the cargo compartment floor, showing exact anchor point locations, restraint paths, and configuration requirements. This visual copy ensures operators implement the restraint plan precisely as intended, achieving high identification accuracy through simple visual means rather than complex measurement or verification devices
4Reliability
If no visual aids are provided for tie down locations, then the system remains simple and低成本, but the reliability of cargo restraint decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The color-coded visual indication system provides clear, mistake-proof identification of correct tie down locations and restraint configurations. By using distinct colors for different anchor points and restraint types, the system prevents operators from using wrong locations or incorrect restraint configurations, thereby ensuring reliable cargo restraint through simple visual guidance rather than complex verification systems
Solution Approach 2:
The visual markers create a permanent, accurate representation of the approved tie down plan on the cargo compartment floor, ensuring that the restraint configuration matches the safety-approved plan. This visual copy serves as a continuous reference during the restraint process, preventing deviations from the reliable configuration scheme without requiring complex monitoring or verification equipment
Data Source
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AI summary
A system and method for identifying tie down restraint locations (314) in a cargo compartment or other storage area is disclosed. The system includes labeling or otherwise highlighting the tie down locations (314) on a floor (302) where the cargo (308) is to be secured. The labeling is based on a reference coordinate system that is associated with a tie down plan. Additionally or alternatively, a tie down locator device (300) is mounted above the floor (302) that highlights or otherwise illuminates a tie down location (314). As a cargo handler completes a connection, the device highlights the next tie down location.