Gripping Means Positioning via 3D Point Cloud Comparison
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing load handling devices, such as cranes, face reduced operational efficiency due to the need for regular servicing of gripping means like hooks, which can be damaged and require electrification, leading to decreased utilization and interdependence among multiple cranes, affecting overall load handling capacity.
Innovation Solution
A method involving the formation of a 3D point cloud of the gripping means using a positioning device, like a ToF camera, to determine their location and position without accessories, by comparing the point cloud to pre-formed 3D models, allowing for accurate positioning without electrification and reducing downtime.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If electric devices are installed on the hook to determine its location, then the location can be determined actively, but the devices may be damaged due to impacts or manufacturing faults, reducing reliability
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses optical copying by capturing images of the hook with a camera and processing these images to determine hook location. Instead of installing electronic devices on the hook, the system creates a visual copy through imaging and processes this copy to achieve the measurement objective, thereby avoiding the reliability issues of installing electronic devices on the hook
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces electronic active beam devices with an optical imaging system. The camera-based optical field system substitutes for electronic devices, using light reflection and image processing to determine position without requiring electronic components on the hook itself
2Measurement precision
If reflecting sheets are installed on the hook to determine location, then the location can be determined passively, but the sheets require frequent cleaning to maintain functionality, increasing maintenance time
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses optical copying through image capture and processing to determine hook location. By processing visual information from the camera image rather than relying on physical reflecting sheets, the system eliminates the need for cleaning and maintenance of reflecting surfaces
Solution Approach 2:
The patent substitutes the mechanical reflecting sheet system with an optical imaging and processing system. The camera captures images and software processes these images to determine position, replacing the need for physical reflecting sheets that require cleaning
3Measurement precision
If accessories are installed on the gripping means for positioning, then the location can be determined, but the complexity of the gripping means increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses optical copying by capturing images of the gripping means and processing these images to determine position. This approach achieves precise positioning without adding physical accessories to the gripping means, maintaining structural simplicity
Solution Approach 2:
The camera system serves multiple functions: it captures images for positioning, and the image processing system can potentially serve other monitoring and control functions. This multi-functional approach achieves positioning without adding dedicated accessories to the gripping means
4Ease of repair
If the crane is taken out of service for servicing operations, then the gripping means can be maintained, but the utilization of the crane decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The system enables self-monitoring and self-diagnosis capabilities through the camera and image processing system. The automatic positioning and monitoring functions allow the crane to detect and report issues without requiring immediate shutdown for inspection, enabling maintenance to be planned during non-operational periods
Solution Approach 2:
The image processing system provides continuous feedback on the gripping means condition and position. This feedback mechanism allows for early detection of problems and enables maintenance to be performed proactively, reducing the need for unexpected crane shutdowns and improving overall utilization
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
This method enables precise and efficient positioning of gripping means, enhancing the operational efficiency of load handling devices by minimizing downtime and maintaining capacity across multiple cranes, even during servicing.
Implementation Method 1
A method involves forming a 3D point cloud of gripping means of a load handling device in relation to a device which is moved horizontally above a load in the load handling device
Data Source
Figure 1~6
AI summary
A 3D point cloud is formed of the gripping means (204, 206) of a load handling device in relation to a device (202) which is moved horizontally above a load in the load handling device and to which the gripping means (204, 206) are connected to be moved in the vertical direction. The gripping means (204, 206) are positioned in relation to the horizontally movable device by comparing the formed 3D point cloud with at least one 3D model of the gripping means (204, 206).