Forklift Mast Sensor Layout for Wide Detection Without View Obstruction
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Solution Overview
Problem
Material handling vehicles face challenges in object detection due to the additional components required for sensing, which can obstruct the operator's view and interfere with other systems, and existing solutions do not effectively provide a comprehensive detection field without impeding the operator's field of view.
Innovation Solution
A mast with a supplementary object detection system is integrated into the material handling vehicle, featuring a mounting platform with support members and sensors positioned below the highest point of the vehicle, allowing the detection system to operate outside the operator's field of view while providing a comprehensive detection field that extends beyond the vehicle's boundaries.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Difficulty of detecting and measuring
If sensors and detection components are mounted on the vehicle body, then object detection capability is improved, but the operator's field of view is obstructed
Solution Approach 1:
The patent positions the detection system on the mast structure extending vertically above the vehicle, transitioning from horizontal mounting on the vehicle body to vertical mounting on the mast. This dimensional change allows sensors to be positioned at elevated locations that do not obstruct the operator's forward view while maintaining comprehensive detection coverage of the operational area.
2Difficulty of detecting and measuring
If detection components are positioned to provide comprehensive coverage, then detection field is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The mast structure serves multiple functions: it provides structural support for the vehicle, enables vertical elevation of the detection system, and acts as a mounting platform for sensors. This multi-functionality allows comprehensive detection coverage to be achieved without adding separate support structures, thereby reducing overall system complexity.
3Measurement precision
If sensors are positioned closer to the vehicle surface, then detection precision is improved, but interference with other systems increases
Solution Approach 1:
The detection system is segmented and distributed across multiple sensor units mounted at different positions on the mast structure. This segmentation allows each sensor to cover specific zones with high precision while the distributed arrangement minimizes interference with other vehicle systems by spacing components vertically rather than concentrating them in a single location near the vehicle surface.
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 solution enables effective object detection without obstructing the operator's view, enhances navigation by maintaining system clearance, and improves detection efficiency by positioning sensors closer to the vehicle's surface for better obstacle detection, thus enhancing the vehicle's operational capabilities.
Implementation Method 1
the detection system includes: a first sensor configured to project a first detection zone, the first detection zone configured to detect an object positioned in the first detection zone; a second sensor configured to project a second detection zone, the second detection zone configured to detect an object positioned in the second detection zone
Data Source
AI summary
A material handling vehicle. The material handling vehicle including a vehicle body, an operator compartment, and a mast. The mast has a mounting platform, a first support member coupled to the mounting platform, a second support member coupled to the mounting platform, and a detection system coupled to the mast. The mast is coupled to the vehicle body at a frontward location relative to the operator compartment. The position of the mast on the vehicle body prevents the mast from impeding a field of view of an operator positioned in the operator compartment.