Crane Control System Using Laser Sensors for Autonomous Return
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional overhead cranes used in hazardous environments, such as those storing radioactive materials, become stranded due to power failures and are difficult to repair due to their inaccessible location, as traditional retrieval methods like ropes or additional devices are inefficient or limited by power loss.
Innovation Solution
A remotely operated crane control system utilizing an auxiliary power source, light-emitting sources, and photoelectric sensors to enable the crane's components to move back to a home position even when the main power source is lost, allowing for autonomous return and repair.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of repair
If conventional retrieval methods (rope or additional device) are used to return the crane, then the crane can be retrieved from the hazardous area, but the method is inefficient or limited by power loss and tunnel length
Solution Approach 1:
The crane uses its own auxiliary power source and photoelectric sensor system to return itself to the safe area without external assistance. The photoelectric sensor detects the laser beam to activate the auxiliary power source, which then drives the crane's motor to move the crane back, eliminating the need for ropes or additional retrieval devices.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces mechanical retrieval methods (ropes, chains, or additional retrieval devices) with an optical-electrical control system. The laser beam serves as the control signal, the photoelectric sensor converts it to an electrical signal, and the auxiliary power source drives the motor to move the crane, substituting purely mechanical systems with an integrated optical-electrical-mechanical system.
2Ease of repair
If the crane returns to home position upon power loss, then it becomes accessible for repair, but the system complexity increases with auxiliary power source and photoelectric sensors
Solution Approach 1:
The photoelectric sensor serves multiple functions: it detects the laser beam for position indication, activates the auxiliary power source when needed, and can potentially serve as part of the normal control system during powered operation. The auxiliary power source also serves dual purposes by providing backup power for both the control system and the motor during power loss scenarios.
Solution Approach 2:
The laser beam serves as an intermediary communication medium between the external control system and the crane's photoelectric sensor. It transmits control signals through the hazardous environment without requiring physical contact or complex wiring, simplifying the overall control architecture while enabling remote operation.
3Object-affected harmful factors
If remote operation via laser and photoelectric sensor is implemented, then human intervention is eliminated in hazardous areas, but the reliance on optical signals may be affected by environmental factors
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary actions by positioning the photoelectric sensor to detect the laser beam before power loss occurs, and the auxiliary power source is pre-charged during normal operation. This ensures that when power loss happens, the system is already prepared to immediately activate and return the crane without delay, maintaining reliability despite potential environmental challenges.
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 the crane to safely and efficiently return to a repairable position without human intervention, overcoming the limitations of power loss and hazardous access, ensuring operational safety and efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
the first photoelectric sensor receives light from the first light-emitting source and the first photoelectric sensor enables power to flow from the auxiliary power source to the apparatus
Data Source
AI summary
A control system is used for remotely operating an apparatus powered by a main power source. The control system includes an auxiliary power source to provide power to the apparatus upon a loss of power to the main power source, and first and second light-emitting sources positioned remote of the apparatus. A first photoelectric sensor is positioned proximate the apparatus and interconnected with the apparatus and the auxiliary power source, wherein upon a loss of power to the main power source, the first photoelectric sensor receives light from the first light-emitting source and the first photoelectric sensor enables power to flow from the auxiliary power source to the apparatus. At least one second photoelectric sensor is positioned proximate the apparatus and interconnected with a component of the apparatus and the auxiliary power source, wherein upon a loss of power to the main power source, the second photoelectric sensor receives light from the second light-emitting source and enables power to flow from the auxiliary power source to the respective component to activate movement of the component.