Floor Conveyor Object Following Sensor Integration
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing floor conveyor systems require complex hardware and software configurations to effectively detect and navigate around objects, making them difficult to operate and requiring extensive user interaction.
Innovation Solution
A floor conveyor system equipped with a sensor device and control unit that can detect objects on multiple sides, featuring a search mode to automatically choose and follow objects, and allowing remote control operation, with sensors mounted at an angle for enhanced detection range and protection.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If multiple sensor devices are used to detect objects on multiple sides, then detection capability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple sensor devices are merged into a single integrated sensor device that can detect objects on multiple sides simultaneously. This combines the functionality of what would otherwise require multiple separate sensors, reducing hardware complexity while maintaining comprehensive detection capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The sensor device is designed with multi-functionality to perform detection on multiple sides and in multiple directions. This universal sensor can replace multiple specialized sensors, simplifying the overall system architecture while preserving the ability to detect objects from various angles and positions.
2Ease of operation
If automatic search mode is implemented to choose objects independently, then ease of operation is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The floor conveyor system performs self-service by automatically selecting and following objects without requiring operator intervention. The control unit independently processes sensor data, identifies target objects, and navigates to them, freeing the operator from manual object selection tasks.
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements feedback loops where sensor data continuously informs the control unit about object positions, which then adjusts the conveyor's path accordingly. This closed-loop control enables automatic object following while maintaining adaptability to changing environments.
3Reliability
If sensor device is mounted at an angle for enhanced detection range, then detection capability is improved, but ease of repair worsens
Solution Approach 1:
The sensor mounting system is segmented into adjustable components that allow the sensor to be positioned at optimal angles for detection while maintaining accessibility for maintenance. The segmented design enables independent adjustment of the sensor angle without affecting other system components.
Solution Approach 2:
The sensor mounting arrangement is made dynamic and adjustable rather than fixed. This allows the sensor angle to be optimized for detection performance while also being easily repositioned or accessed when maintenance is required, balancing operational effectiveness with serviceability.
Data Source
AI summary
Systems and methods for a floor conveyor include a sensor device and a control unit, wherein the control unit is operable to control the travel functions of the floor conveyor, wherein the sensor device is arranged to be able to provide the control unit with sensor data, wherein the sensor device is arranged such that it can detect objects in a plane. The plane is arranged to a have a follow section and a steer away section. And the floor conveyor is arranged such that it can determine an object to follow.