Forklift Camera Visibility System for Mast and Load Blind Spots
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Solution Overview
Problem
Powered industrial trucks (PITs) face issues with poor operator visibility due to blind spots created by masts and cargo, leading to frequent collisions, even with the use of multiple mirrors and spotters.
Innovation Solution
The integration of a system of sensors, including cameras and display screens, which gather data on objects around the vehicle and provide real-time video and proximity information to the operator, enhancing visibility and situational awareness, and potentially allowing for autonomous operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Illumination intensity
If multiple mirrors are positioned about the truck to provide views of blind spots, then operator visibility is improved, but the operator must observe multiple different fields of view simultaneously which increases complexity and reduces ease of operation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple camera feeds from different locations on the vehicle into a single integrated display system. Multiple cameras capture views of blind spots and the operator sees all areas simultaneously on one or more display screens, eliminating the need to switch between multiple mirrors or focus on multiple separate fields of view.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical mirror system with an electronic camera and display system. Instead of using physical mirrors that require the operator to physically adjust or mentally track multiple reflections, the system uses electronic sensors and digital displays to present a synthesized view of all areas around the vehicle.
2Illumination intensity
If the operator travels with the load trailing to achieve adequate visibility, then visibility is improved, but the productivity and speed of operation are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the need for physical repositioning (traveling in reverse) with an electronic visualization system. Cameras mounted on the vehicle capture images of areas that would normally be invisible when traveling forward, and these images are displayed to the operator, allowing forward travel while maintaining visibility.
3Reliability
If a spotter is used to direct the operator, then collision avoidance is improved, but the device complexity and operational coordination requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent enables the vehicle to monitor and report its own surroundings without external assistance. The camera system continuously captures images of areas around the vehicle, and the operator receives this information directly, eliminating the need for a separate spotter to observe and communicate conditions.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the human spotter system with an automated camera and display system. Instead of relying on another individual to watch and direct, the electronic system continuously monitors and presents visual information to the operator.
Data Source
AI summary
Motorized vehicles that include a mast, a carriage supported by the mast, a hydraulic cylinder configured to raise and lower the carriage along the mast, forks or a platform coupled to the carriage and configured to support a load wherein raising and lowering the carriage raises and lowers the forks or the platform and thereby raises and lowers the load supported thereon, a system of sensors configured to gather data relating to objects in proximity to the motorized vehicle including at least two cameras configured to obtain video of at least two areas around the motorized vehicle, and one or more display screens configured to visually display the data gathered by the system of sensors or information based thereon to an operator including real-time video obtained by the cameras. Methods are provided for operating the vehicles with improved operator visibility and situational awareness relative to pre-existing vehicles.