Centralized Controller for Vehicle Lifting System
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing vehicle lifting systems face communication disturbances due to large structures and other wireless devices, leading to ineffective operation and potential hazardous situations, as they rely on reliable wireless signal communication between moveable lifting columns.
Innovation Solution
A central controller with computing means and wireless communication capabilities is introduced to centrally control individual lifting devices, ensuring robust operation by minimizing communication interference and eliminating the need for computing means in each lifting column, while enabling synchronization of lifting operations and remote monitoring and control.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If wireless communication is used between lifting columns, then communication flexibility and ease of operation are improved, but communication reliability deteriorates due to disturbances from large structures and other wireless devices
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a base station as an intermediary device that receives signals from remote controllers and transmits them to the lifting columns. This mediator approach allows wireless communication while improving signal reliability by using the base station as a centralized communication hub that can manage signal distribution and reduce interference between multiple wireless devices in the workshop environment.
2Adaptability or versatility
If computing means are provided in each lifting column, then individual control capability is improved, but device complexity and costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the computing functionality from individual lifting columns into a centralized control unit. The lifting columns retain only the necessary actuation mechanisms while the centralized unit handles all control logic, signal processing, and coordination. This reduces complexity in each column while maintaining individual control capability through the centralized system's ability to address and control specific columns independently.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple lifting columns operate independently, then operational flexibility is improved, but synchronization accuracy and system reliability worsen
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a feedback mechanism where the base station receives status information from each lifting column and sends coordinated control signals back to ensure synchronized operation. The system monitors the position and operation state of each column and adjusts control signals accordingly to maintain synchronization, while still allowing flexible individual addressing when needed.
Data Source
AI summary
A lifting system and method of use thereof for lifting a vehicle. The lifting system includes one or more lifting devices. Each lifting device includes a frame with a carrier configured for carrying the vehicle, a drive for driving the carrier in at least one of the ascent or descent of the carrier, a transmitter/receiver for wireless communication with a central controller that is configured for centrally controlling the one or more lifting devices, and a sensor for measuring at least one of the ascent or descent of the carrier. The central controller includes a transmitter/receiver for communication with the individual lifting devices and a processor for determining required control actions for individual lifting devices. The central controller and/or at least one of the lifting devices includes a user input. The central controller controls two or more independent groups of selected lifting devices.