Dynamic Climbing Assist System with Load Sensing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing ladder climbing assist systems fail to dynamically adjust assistance based on the climber's changing needs, such as fitness level, weight, and fatigue, often relying on constant speed or load, which can lead to fatigue and reduced safety during extensive climbs.
Innovation Solution
A system that includes a sensor to detect the climber's load and state, a control mechanism to adjust the assistance dynamically, and a communication pathway to allow real-time adjustments of assistance levels, enabling selection of assistance modes based on the climber's attributes and conditions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a constant speed control system is used, then the device is simple to operate, but the climber experiences fatigue during extensive climbs due to inability to adjust assistance dynamically
Solution Approach 1:
The control system transitions from static constant speed control to dynamic control that automatically adjusts assistance based on real-time load sensing. The system modulates motor output according to climber weight and fatigue level, providing adaptive support that maintains safety while reducing climber effort during extended climbs.
Solution Approach 2:
A load sensing mechanism provides continuous feedback about the climber's weight and position to the control system. This feedback loop enables the controller to dynamically adjust motor assistance levels, ensuring optimal support throughout the climb while preventing over-assistance that could cause safety issues.
2Stability of the object's composition
If a counterweight system is used, then constant assist load is maintained, but the climber cannot dynamically adjust assistance to match changing fitness levels and fatigue
Solution Approach 1:
The system replaces static counterweight mechanisms with a dynamic motorized drive system controlled by a microprocessor. This enables real-time adjustment of assistance levels based on load sensor feedback, allowing the system to adapt to changing climber conditions while maintaining stable and controlled support throughout the climb.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical counterweight systems with an electromechanical system using a motorized winch and electronic control. This substitution enables programmable dynamic adjustment of assistance levels, replacing the fixed mechanical advantage of counterweights with flexible electronic control that can respond to real-time climber needs.
3Device complexity
If indirect load sensing is used, then the device complexity is reduced, but measurement precision of climber state is insufficient for optimal assistance control
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses a load sensing mechanism as an intermediary between the climber and the control system. This sensor provides direct measurement of climber weight and position, enabling precise control of assistance levels without requiring complex analysis of climber behavior or indirect estimation methods.
Data Source
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AI summary
A climb assist system is disclosed that dynamically adjusts the rate and level of assist of a climber as the climber's needs may change over the period of traverse of the ladder. A sensor detects the state of a person, such as the load exerted by the climber on a ladder associated with an assist rope, to provided an upward support force on the climber to compensate the climber's weight. Additionally, a sender is provided to transmit the load data to a receiver and a receiver to receive the data from the sender. A controller interprets the received data and thereafter provides control through a controlled motor and drive to provide energy to the assist rope.