Grid Track Sensors for Precise Vehicle Crossing Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for tracking the position of remotely operated vehicles on a grid structure are complex and lack precision, necessitating a simpler and more accurate approach to detect the number of track crossings in x- and y-directions relative to a frame structure.
Innovation Solution
The method involves attaching sensors to wheel supports on a remotely operated vehicle, with at least one sensor on each side for detecting track crossings and measuring distance to the next crossing, transmitting signals to a controller for precise control of wheel drives when approaching the total number of crossings between start and stop positions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Extent of automation
If integrated tracking devices are used to track the robot's position, then the robot can keep track of its position autonomously, but the system becomes complex and loses precision
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces complex integrated tracking devices with a simpler optical sensing system. Sensors detect track crossings by monitoring changes in light reflection patterns from the track structure, substituting mechanical/electronic tracking complexity with optical detection that is both simpler and more precise
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces the track structure itself as an intermediary element that carries positional information. By detecting optical properties of the track at crossing points, the system uses the track as a mediator to convey position data without requiring complex onboard tracking devices
2Measurement precision
If sensors are attached to all wheel supports for detecting track crossings, then position detection is comprehensive, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies sensors selectively only to active wheel supports that are in contact with the track, rather than all wheel supports. This local application of sensing capability maintains measurement precision where needed while reducing overall system complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The patent makes the sensor activation dynamic by linking it to the operational state of wheel supports. Sensors are activated only when their associated wheel support is active (in contact with track), allowing the system to adapt sensor usage to current operational conditions and reduce complexity
Data Source
AI summary
Method and vehicle for tracking the position of a remotely operated vehicle following a set route relative to tracks laid out on a frame structure forming a grid, the vehicle having first and second sets of wheels connected to drives for moving the vehicle in corresponding x- and y-directions on the grid, the method comprising: receiving information of the number of track crossings to pass between start and stop positions in x- and y-directions according to the set route; directing sensors attached to the vehicle at the tracks along the route of the vehicle; detecting and monitoring track crossings passed when moving the vehicle in the x- and y-directions according to the set route, and transmitting a signal to a controller, controlling the drives of the wheels of the vehicle, when the number of track crossings passed is close to the total number of track crossings to pass between the start and stop positions in respective x- and y-directions along the set route.