3D Simulation System for Crane Blind Pick Safety
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Solution Overview
Problem
Crane operators face challenges in safely maneuvering cranes due to limited visibility during lifts, particularly during blind picks and when navigating around obstacles, leading to potential collisions with structures or other objects on construction sites.
Innovation Solution
A 3D simulation system that uses sensor data to render a virtual view of the job site, including the crane and its surroundings, providing the operator with a comprehensive view of the environment and warning of potential collisions through safety bubbles and alerts, allowing for real-time updates and multiple viewpoints.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of information
If the crane operator relies on direct visual observation from the crane cab, then the operation is simple and requires no additional equipment, but the operator has limited visibility during lifts and cannot detect obstacles in blind spots
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a virtual copy of the physical job site environment through 3D rendering. Sensors capture the real-world environment, and a computer generates a corresponding virtual representation that can be displayed on a screen. This virtual copy allows the operator to see obstacles, structures, and terrain features that would otherwise be invisible from the crane operator's perspective, including blind spots during lifts.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary system between the operator and the physical environment. This intermediary consists of sensors that detect the environment, a computer that processes the sensor data and generates 3D visualizations, and a display device that presents the information to the operator. This intermediary chain enables the operator to perceive information about obstacles and the environment that would otherwise be inaccessible.
2Reliability
If the crane operates without real-time environmental awareness, then the operation is straightforward, but collisions with obstacles and structures cannot be detected in time
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary detection of potential collision risks before they occur. Sensors continuously monitor the environment and update the 3D simulation in real-time, allowing the operator to see potential obstacles and collision risks before the crane reaches critical positions. This advance warning enables the operator to take corrective action and avoid collisions.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements a feedback loop where sensors continuously monitor the actual environment, the computer updates the 3D simulation based on new sensor data, and the display presents updated information to the operator. This continuous feedback mechanism ensures that the operator always has current information about the environment and potential risks, enabling real-time adjustments to avoid collisions.
3Loss of information
If the crane operator uses traditional visual observation, then the equipment required is minimal, but the operator cannot see the object being lifted during blind picks
Solution Approach 1:
The system creates a virtual copy of the crane and its surroundings, including the lifted object. The 3D simulation renders the object being lifted and its position relative to the crane and environment, allowing the operator to see what would otherwise be invisible during blind picks. The virtual representation updates in real-time as the crane moves and the object changes position.
Data Source
AI summary
Methods and systems are disclosed for rendering a job site in a three dimensional simulation. A stream of input data is received at a processor about a job site wherein the data pertains to movements and lifts of at least one lifting device associated with the job site and at least one partially constructed building associated with the job site. A three dimensional (3D) simulation is generated, at the processor, of the at least one lifting device and the at least one partially constructed building. The 3D simulation is updated in real time, at the processor, to simulate movements of the at least one lifting and the at least one partially constructed building. The 3D simulation is sent from the processor to a display.