Crane Multi-Camera Imaging for Payload Suspension-Point Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional cranes are unable to detect a suitable lifting position for a load, requiring manual positioning of the hook, which limits their ability to automatically place the load at the desired installation position.
Innovation Solution
A crane equipped with a first and second camera system and a control apparatus that calculates the lifting position of a load by performing image processing on captured images, allowing the hook to be automatically positioned at the calculated lifting position.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a crane uses conventional single-camera or sensor-based detection systems, then the device complexity is reduced, but the measurement precision of the lifting position is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The detection system is segmented into multiple independent cameras positioned at different locations (boom tip, cabin, ground). Each camera captures images from its specific viewpoint, and the control device processes these separate images to calculate three-dimensional coordinates. This segmentation allows the system to achieve high measurement precision without requiring a single complex detection device.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges data from multiple cameras with different viewpoints into a unified three-dimensional coordinate system. The control device combines the image data and position information from all cameras to calculate the precise spatial coordinates of the load and lifting position, achieving accurate measurement through data integration rather than relying on a single complex sensor.
2Extent of automation
If a crane implements automatic hook positioning using multi-camera image processing, then the extent of automation is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The crane system performs automatic hook positioning through self-service automation. The control device automatically processes images from multiple cameras, calculates the three-dimensional coordinates of the load and lifting position, determines the optimal hook positioning path, and executes the positioning without requiring manual intervention. This self-service approach maximizes automation while keeping the control logic distributed across existing system components.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces manual mechanical positioning operations with automated optical measurement and computational control. Instead of relying on operators to visually locate and position the hook, the system uses camera-based image processing to automatically calculate positions and control the hook's movement, substituting mechanical human operation with automated sensing and control systems.
3Productivity
If a crane uses manual hook positioning methods, then the device complexity is minimized, but the productivity is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The system implements continuous feedback loops where cameras continuously capture images of the load and surrounding environment, the control device continuously calculates updated three-dimensional coordinates, and the hook positioning is continuously adjusted based on this real-time feedback. This closed-loop control enables rapid and accurate load placement, significantly improving productivity compared to manual methods.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs preliminary actions by pre-calculating the three-dimensional coordinates of the lifting position and planning the optimal hook positioning path before actual positioning begins. This preliminary computation allows the crane to execute precise positioning operations more efficiently, reducing the time required for load placement and improving overall productivity.
Data Source
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AI summary
The present invention addresses the problem of providing a crane capable of detecting a suspension location of a payload, in order to enable accurate positioning of a hook at the suspension location of the payload. This crane (1) comprises: a freely derricking boom (9) provided to a swivel (7); and a sub-hook block (11) and a sub-hook (11a) suspendedly provided from the boom (9). The crane also comprises: a boom camera (9b) capable of imaging a payload (W) that is to be carried by the crane (1); hook cameras (31) capable of imaging the payload (W) from different viewpoints than the boom camera (9b); and a control device (35) for controlling the crane (1). The control device (35) acquires images (s1)/(s2) obtained by imaging the payload (W) with the boom camera (9b) and the hook cameras (31), runs image processing on the images (s1)/(s2), and calculates a suspension location (Ag) of the payload (W).