Crane Obstacle Detection Using Obstacle-Side Position Data

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing obstacle detection systems for cranes complicate data processing by varying interpretations of what constitutes an obstacle based on the shape of the suspended load, leading to complex data handling.

Innovation Solution

The system identifies obstacles based on obstacle position designation information transmitted from the obstacle side, using methods such as laser beams, portable terminals, drones, or markers to determine the obstacle's position, allowing for simplified on-site determination.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If obstacle detection is performed autonomously on the crane side, then obstacle detection capability is improved, but data processing complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveobstacle detection capabilityVSAvoiddata processing complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

Instead of having the crane autonomously detect and interpret obstacles, the system inverts the approach by having obstacles transmit their own position information actively. The obstacle position designation unit on the obstacle side designates position information, which is then received and processed by the crane. This reverses the traditional detection paradigm, simplifying the crane's data processing while maintaining reliable obstacle detection.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #13The other way round (Inversion)

Solution Approach 2:

The obstacle serves itself by actively designating its own position information through the obstacle position designation unit. Rather than requiring the crane to actively search and interpret what constitutes an obstacle, the obstacle provides its own identification data, reducing the computational burden on the crane's processing system while ensuring accurate obstacle detection.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

2Measurement precision

If obstacle interpretation varies based on suspended load shape, then detection accuracy is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedetection accuracyVSAvoidease of operation
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The system extracts the obstacle identification function from the crane's complex interpretation process and places it on the obstacle side. The obstacle position designation unit on the obstacle side generates position information independently of the suspended load shape, eliminating the need for the crane operator to interpret varying obstacle definitions based on load characteristics.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #2Taking out (Extraction)

Solution Approach 2:

The obstacle position designation unit provides a universal solution that works for all types of obstacles regardless of suspended load shape. By having the obstacle actively designate its position rather than requiring the crane to interpret different obstacle types, the system achieves both accuracy and ease of operation across diverse working conditions.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

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

This approach simplifies obstacle detection by ensuring only relevant data is input, facilitating easier and more accurate obstacle identification and preventing collisions by restricting crane operations when necessary.

Implementation Method 1

using methods such as laser beams, portable terminals, drones, or markers to determine the obstacle's position

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectLaser: Laser

Data Source

PatentUS20250320092A1Crane site obstacle determination system and crane
Publication Date: 2025.10.16 SUMITOMO HEAVY IND LTD
  • US20250320092A1 patent drawing
  • US20250320092A1 patent drawing
  • US20250320092A1 patent drawing

AI summary

A crane site obstacle determination system that determines an obstacle with respect to a suspended load of a crane. The system includes: an obstacle position identification unit that identifies a position of the obstacle based on obstacle position designation information transmitted from an obstacle side; and an entry prohibition range determination unit that determines an entry prohibition range of the crane including the obstacle identified by the obstacle position identification unit.