Configurable Crane Radio Control for Multi-Speed Operation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing wireless remote radio control systems for cranes lack configurability and customization options, providing only two speeds for motorized functions and not being easily adaptable for different types of cranes or applications.
Innovation Solution
A kit comprising a transmitter and a receiver configured for wireless communication, with configurable user input interfaces on the transmitter and customizable settings on the receiver, including a RCM Configuration Generator application and RCM Interface application to create configuration files and interface with RCM devices.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If wireless remote radio control systems provide only two speeds for motorized functions, then the system is simpler to manufacture, but the ease of operation and adaptability are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically adjusts the number of speed levels based on the specific application requirements. The configurable interface allows users to set different speed levels (e.g., 2, 3, 4, or more speeds) for each motorized function, transforming a static two-speed system into a dynamic multi-speed system that adapts to operational needs.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements configurable parameters that allow users to modify the number of speed levels, response times, and control characteristics. By changing these parameters through software configuration rather than hardware redesign, the system achieves enhanced operational precision without proportionally increasing manufacturing complexity.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the control system is customized for different types of cranes and applications, then the adaptability improves, but the device complexity and manufacturing difficulty increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a universal control platform that can be configured for different crane types and applications through software settings rather than hardware modifications. The configurable user interface and parameter settings allow a single base design to serve multiple functions and applications, maintaining manufacturing simplicity while achieving broad adaptability.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses configurable parameters to adapt to different crane types and applications. Users can adjust speed levels, response characteristics, and control parameters through software configuration, eliminating the need for custom hardware designs for each application while maintaining full adaptability.
3Productivity
If the receiver provides only basic two-speed control outputs, then the device complexity is reduced, but the productivity and operational efficiency decrease
Solution Approach 1:
The receiver dynamically adjusts its output control characteristics based on configured parameters. It can provide different numbers of speed levels and control responses depending on the application requirements, allowing optimized productivity without requiring complex hardware for every possible configuration.
Solution Approach 2:
The receiver's control outputs are defined by configurable parameters that allow adjustment of speed levels, response times, and control characteristics. This parameter-based configuration enables enhanced productivity through precise control while keeping the receiver's base complexity manageable.
Data Source
AI summary
A platform for an improved radio control system for mobile equipment (e.g., crane) is provided that has different types of Transmitters (Basic Transmitter, Standard Transmitter, Belly Box Transmitter, and Mill-Style Belly Box Transmitter) and different types of Receivers (Standard Crane Mount Receiver, Digital Receiver, Expandable Receiver operable with different internal expansion cards, and different external Receiver boards) from which users can create a customized radio system for their desired radio controlled machine application (e.g., a DC Radio System, or an AC Radio System, for industrial and commercial environments). Transmitters have platform-wide battery pack and charger compatibility. Transmitters/Receivers have USB connections to obtain data logs, and various indicators (e.g., tricolor LEDs) for battery status, pairing status, and/or operational configuration or status (e.g., fault). Transmitters/Receivers are supplied with a basic Configuration or a Customer Specific Configuration; and a button interface, or a configuration software application and interface, to modify configuration.