Line Marking Apparatus with GNSS Distance Tracking
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing line marking apparatuses face inaccuracies and inefficiencies due to insufficiently accurate distance measurement methods, such as trundle wheels and tapes, which are not integral parts of the apparatus and require time to implement, leading to inaccuracies and inefficiencies in marking lines on surfaces with irregularities.
Innovation Solution
A line marking apparatus with a mobile body and a line marking head that incorporates a distance measurement system, including a GNSS sensor, radio transceiver, and computer display for real-time distance tracking, material flow control, and automatic adjustments for line width, enabling precise and efficient line marking.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a trundle wheel is used for distance measurement, then the measurement can be taken along the surface contours, but the measurement accuracy deteriorates due to surface irregularities
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces mechanical measurement devices (trundle wheels and tapes) with an electronic distance measurement system using a GPS receiver and processor. This substitution eliminates the problem of surface irregularities affecting measurement accuracy, as the electronic system calculates distance based on satellite positioning data rather than physical contact with the surface.
2Measurement precision
If a tape measure is used for distance measurement, then the measurement can be taken directly, but the measurement process becomes time-consuming due to anchoring and recovering the tape
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces mechanical tape measures with an electronic distance measurement system that continuously tracks position via GPS. This eliminates the time-consuming processes of anchoring and recovering tapes, as the system automatically calculates distance based on positional data without requiring manual intervention for measurement setup and retrieval.
3Measurement precision
If a GPS receiver is integrated into the line marking apparatus, then the distance measurement accuracy is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent integrates the GPS receiver into the line marking apparatus, allowing it to serve multiple functions: positioning the apparatus, measuring distance travelled, and controlling line marking operations. This multi-functionality justifies the added complexity by eliminating the need for separate measurement devices and enabling automated control based on precise positioning data.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent combines the distance measurement system with the line marking apparatus by integrating the GPS receiver, processor, and control system into a single unified device. This merging of functions reduces the need for separate equipment and enables coordinated operation between positioning and line marking operations.
4Productivity
If distance measurement is integrated into the line marking apparatus, then the operational efficiency is improved, but the manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The integrated system performs multiple functions including positioning, distance measurement, and line marking control within a single apparatus. This multi-functionality improves operational efficiency by eliminating the need for separate measurement devices and manual measurement processes, while the modular integration approach manages manufacturing complexity.
Data Source
AI summary
A line marking apparatus comprises a body (21) mounted so as to be mobile, a line marking head (29) movable relative to the body, and means (35, 37, 41, 43) for determining the distance travelled by the apparatus from a determined point.