Crane Load Weight Estimation Using Vision and Distance Sensing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing work vehicles struggle to accurately estimate the weight of suspended loads, which is crucial for safe and efficient operation.
Innovation Solution
A work vehicle equipped with a visual recognition unit having imaging and distance detection functions, along with a control unit that calculates the estimated weight of a suspended load based on captured images and detected distances.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If only imaging function is used to recognize suspended load, then device complexity is reduced, but measurement precision of load weight is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the imaging function and distance detection function into a single visual recognition unit. The control unit integrates image data from the imaging device with distance information from the distance detection device to calculate suspended load weight, achieving accurate measurement without significantly increasing device complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The control unit acts as an intermediary that processes and integrates data from multiple sources (imaging device and distance detection device). It combines visual information with distance measurements to derive weight information, enabling accurate load recognition without requiring direct weight sensors on the load.
2Measurement precision
If visual recognition unit with both imaging and distance detection functions is used, then measurement precision of suspended load weight is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The visual recognition unit is designed with multi-functionality, serving both imaging and distance detection purposes. This allows a single integrated unit to perform multiple functions that would otherwise require separate devices, improving measurement precision while minimizing the increase in device complexity.
3Reliability
If accurate weight estimation is achieved through multiple measurement functions, then operational safety is improved, but loss of time for data processing increases
Solution Approach 1:
The control unit continuously processes and stores measurement data from the imaging device and distance detection device before lifting operations begin. This preliminary data processing and storage capability allows for rapid weight estimation when needed, improving operational safety without causing time loss during actual lifting operations.
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 accurate estimation of suspended load weight, improving operational safety and efficiency by allowing operators to determine if a load can be lifted before initiating the lifting operation.
Implementation Method 1
an imaging device that captures an image of a suspended load
Implementation Method 2
a distance detection function
Data Source
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AI summary
This work vehicle comprises a visual recognition unit having an imaging function and a distance detection function, and a control unit that controls a crane device. The control unit calculates the estimated weight of a suspended load on the basis of information relating to an image of the suspended load that has been captured by the visual recognition unit and the distance to the suspended load that has been detected by the visual recognition unit.