Dual Mode Remote Control for Pneumatic Telescoping Mast
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing extendable mast arrangements face issues with weight due to numerous wires required for command signal transmission, limited operator mobility, and susceptibility to interference in wireless control systems, particularly in scenarios with multiple mast deployments.
Innovation Solution
A dual mode handheld remote control that switches between wired and wireless communication modes, using spread spectrum modulation to minimize interference and reduce the need for physical wires, allowing for reliable and efficient control of mast arrangements.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If numerous wires are used to transmit command signals from the base to the accessory, then reliable communication is achieved, but the weight of the mast arrangement increases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical wire-based communication system with a wireless communication system. The handheld remote control transmits commands wirelessly to the mast base, which then relays signals to the accessory. This substitution eliminates the need for numerous wires extending along the mast, significantly reducing the weight of the mast arrangement while maintaining communication reliability through wireless protocols.
2Object-affected harmful factors
If a control panel is located within the vehicle, then operator safety is improved, but operator mobility and visibility are limited
Solution Approach 1:
The control system is segmented into separate components: a control panel within the vehicle for safety-critical functions, and a portable handheld remote control for operational commands. This segmentation allows the operator to use the handheld device outside the vehicle with full visibility of the mast and accessory, improving mobility and ease of operation while maintaining safety through the internal control panel.
Solution Approach 2:
The handheld remote control acts as an intermediary device between the operator and the mast system. It wirelessly transmits commands to the mast base, enabling the operator to control the mast and accessory from a distance with full visibility, while the mast base serves as an intermediary relay between the handheld controller and the accessory.
3Ease of operation
If wireless communication is used for remote control, then operator mobility is improved, but susceptibility to interference increases
Solution Approach 1:
The mast base serves as an intermediary relay station between the handheld remote control and the accessory. Wireless commands from the handheld controller are received by the mast base, which then relays signals to the accessory. This two-stage wireless communication approach allows the operator to move freely while the mast base, positioned near the accessory, provides a stable intermediate communication point that can help mitigate interference through local signal processing and relay.
4Area of stationary object
If multiple mast arrangements are deployed in one area, then coverage area is improved, but wireless communication interference between masts increases
Solution Approach 1:
The communication system is segmented with the mast base acting as an independent relay node for each mast arrangement. Each handheld controller communicates wirelessly with its corresponding mast base, which then manages communication with the accessory. This segmentation isolates communication channels between different mast systems, reducing interference when multiple masts are deployed in the same area, as each base-controller pair operates as a semi-independent communication unit.
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
The dual mode remote control reduces weight and mobility limitations while ensuring reliable communication, maintaining simplicity and ease of operation, and preventing interference issues in multi-mast environments.
Implementation Method 1
using spread spectrum modulation to minimize interference and reduce the need for physical wires
Data Source
Figure 1
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Figure 3A~3B
AI summary
A dual mode handheld remote control for selectively operating and communicating with an associated mast arrangement in one of a wired or a wireless mode is provided. The remote control includes a housing and a controller disposed internally to the housing. The controller includes a wireless communication mode for wirelessly communicating with the mast arrangement and a wired communication mode for communicating with the mast arrangement via a wired connection. An input device is secured to the housing and is operatively connected to the controller. The input device is responsive to an associated command selected by an associated operator and relays the associated command to the controller for controlling the associated mast arrangement. A power source is provided for powering the remote control.