Electronic Interface Control for Pneumatic Vehicle Safety Lift
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing vehicle lift systems lack ergonomic considerations and clear operator interface communication, leading to safety concerns and inefficiencies in lifting vehicles, especially in situations like getting unstuck from mud or snow.
Innovation Solution
An electronic interface control system for a pneumatic vehicle safety lift system that includes a computer with sensors, indicators, and audible alerts, which communicates the operational status through LEDs and sounds, ensuring safe and convenient lifting by managing pneumatic jacks and incorporating a carrying case with safety struts and a torque wrench for sequence usage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If manual jacks are used for vehicle lifting, then the vehicle can be lifted, but the operator interface communication is unclear and safety concerns arise
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements visual feedback through LEDs and audible feedback through a horn to communicate jack status and operational commands to the operator. The system provides real-time feedback about which jack is active, whether the vehicle is properly positioned, and confirms operational status, eliminating the information loss present in manual jack systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary control system that acts as a mediator between the operator and the jack mechanism. This intermediary processes operator inputs (via buttons or voice commands) and translates them into appropriate jack actions, while also mediating the communication of system status back to the operator through visual and audible signals.
2Productivity
If multiple jacks are operated simultaneously, then lifting speed increases, but safety control becomes difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic control of multiple jacks by allowing the operator to select and activate individual jacks sequentially or simultaneously based on the situation. The system dynamically adjusts which jacks are active and provides real-time feedback about each jack's status, enabling flexible lifting strategies that balance speed and safety.
Solution Approach 2:
The system provides individual feedback signals for each jack through LEDs and audible commands, allowing the operator to monitor and control multiple jacks independently. This feedback mechanism ensures that even when multiple jacks are operated simultaneously, the operator maintains awareness of each jack's status and can intervene if safety concerns arise.
3Loss of information
If electronic control systems are added to pneumatic jack systems, then operator interface communication improves, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a microcontroller-based system that performs multiple functions: receiving operator inputs via buttons or voice commands, controlling pneumatic valves for jack operation, providing visual feedback through LEDs, and providing audible feedback through a horn. This multi-functional approach consolidates what could be multiple separate systems into a single integrated control unit, managing complexity while improving communication.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces manual mechanical jack operation with an electronic control system that uses microcontrollers, sensors, and electronic signaling. This substitution eliminates the need for complex mechanical linkages and manual操作流程, providing clearer operator communication while the electronic system manages the complexity internally through software control.
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
Enhances safety and convenience by providing clear operational status feedback and ensuring safe lifting procedures, integrating ergonomic considerations and effective switching controls, while being cost-effective and suitable for retail distribution.
Implementation Method 1
The computer receives electrical power from an automotive vehicle and directs operation of an air compressor that pressurizes a system of hoses.
Implementation Method 2
The computer in cooperation with the air hoses operates at least one jack mounted upon an automotive vehicle.
Implementation Method 3
The computer operates that check upon a method of inquiring the status of sensors deployed upon a vehicle and within a carrying case.
Data Source
AI summary
An electronic interface control system for a pneumatic vehicle safety lift system has a computer that receives sensor inputs, presents outputs, and receives commands from a user. The computer has its power from an automobile and operates an air compressor for air hoses. The computer operates a pneumatic jack upon an automobile. The computer reads sensors related to jack position and triggers indicators to the user so the jack raises the vehicle after a footplate rests below it in a safe manner. The system lifts a vehicle stuck or undergoing repair. The computer checks that a certain number of jacks, preferably one, activate at once. The computer checks by inquiring of the sensors and switches deployed upon a vehicle and within a carrying case. The carrying case has a safety strut for the jack and a torque gun for a user.