Floor Panel Radar Detection for Human Machine Differentiation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current sensor systems in production environments, such as those using laser or radar, are not compatible and lack the ability to reliably distinguish between humans and machines, posing safety risks due to their limited coverage and inflexibility, especially in dynamic manufacturing settings like Industry 4.0.
Innovation Solution
Integration of a radar device into floor panels to emit and detect radar signals, allowing for the differentiation between types of objects, such as humans and machines, through a holder mounted under or on the panel, enabling reliable and flexible object detection without interfering with existing infrastructure.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If weight sensors are used in floor panels to detect objects, then object detection capability is provided, but the system cannot distinguish between different types of objects (humans vs. machines)
Solution Approach 1:
The detection function is segmented into multiple independent sensor types (weight sensors and radar sensors) that work together. Each sensor type detects different physical properties, and their combined data enables reliable object classification and safety detection.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent combines weight sensors and radar sensors into an integrated detection system. The weight sensors detect contactless weight changes while radar sensors detect motion and position, merging their capabilities to achieve both object detection and reliable type differentiation for safety applications.
2Adaptability or versatility
If different sensor systems (laser, radar) are used in various machines, then specific detection functions are achieved, but compatibility and networking between systems is not possible
Solution Approach 1:
The floor panel detection system uses radar technology that can serve multiple functions: detecting objects, classifying object types, monitoring motion, and providing safety warnings. This multi-functional approach creates a universal system that can replace or supplement various machine-specific sensor systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The floor panel radar system acts as an intermediary monitoring layer between different machines and the human operators. It provides a common detection platform that can communicate with various machines, enabling networking and coordination without requiring direct compatibility between all machine sensor systems.
3Reliability
If a global monitoring system is implemented to cover wide areas, then safety coverage is improved, but system complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The monitoring system transitions from machine-centric point detection to floor-based area detection, adding a spatial dimension to safety monitoring. By embedding sensors in the floor panels, the system achieves wide-area coverage while maintaining relatively simple individual sensor units distributed across the workspace.
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 radar-based system provides a cost-effective and reliable means to detect and differentiate objects, enhancing safety by enabling early warning systems and improving operational flexibility in production environments.
Implementation Method 1
a radar device configured to emit a radar signal, detect a radar echo reflected from the object
Implementation Method 2
detect a radar echo reflected from the object
Data Source
AI summary
A floor panel has a bottom side and a walkable top side opposite the bottom side. An apparatus for detecting an object on the floor panel includes a holder that is mounted on, in, or under the floor panel. The apparatus includes a radar device configured to emit a radar signal, detect a radar echo reflected from the object, and provide a data signal based on the radar echo. The holder is configured to hold the radar device. A method for detecting the object on the floor panel includes, using the radar device, emitting a radar signal. The method includes, using the radar device, detecting a radar echo reflected from the object. The method includes providing a data signal based on the radar echo.