Hoist Control via Local Area Network for Real-Time Logistics

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional hoist systems lack optimized control and operation mechanisms, relying on manual input and limited real-time data integration, which can lead to inefficiencies and safety concerns in building and industrial applications.

Innovation Solution

A local area network system that collects and processes sensor data and logistics event data to automatically optimize hoist operations and display information, using technologies like barcode scanning, RFID tags, and proximity sensors to trigger control data transmission for changing hoist operations and display content.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Productivity

If manual input and limited real-time data integration are used in conventional hoist systems, then device complexity is reduced, but productivity and operational efficiency deteriorate

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveoperational efficiencyVSAvoidsystem complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The system implements real-time feedback loops where sensors continuously monitor hoist operations, payload conditions, and environmental factors. This data is processed by the control system to automatically adjust hoist operations, optimize transport schedules, and alert workers to logistics events, creating a closed-loop control system that improves productivity through continuous optimization

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

Solution Approach 2:

The hoist system performs self-monitoring and self-adjustment through integrated sensors and automated control algorithms. The system automatically detects logistics events, adjusts operational parameters, and manages transport schedules without requiring constant manual intervention, enabling the system to serve itself while improving operational efficiency

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

2Reliability

If manual control methods are used in conventional hoist systems, then ease of operation is maintained, but reliability and safety deteriorate

Engineering Contradiction:
ImprovesafetyVSAvoidoperational simplicity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

Real-time sensor feedback continuously monitors critical safety parameters such as payload weight, hoist position, and operational status. The system automatically compares actual conditions against safety thresholds and triggers automated responses or alerts when deviations occur, enhancing safety through continuous monitoring and automatic intervention

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

Solution Approach 2:

Manual mechanical control operations are replaced with automated electronic control systems that process sensor data and execute control commands. This substitution eliminates human error in critical safety functions while maintaining operational simplicity through intuitive interfaces and automated decision-making algorithms

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

3Productivity

If real-time data collection and automated control are implemented, then productivity is improved, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveoperational efficiencyVSAvoidsystem complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The control system is designed as a multi-functional platform that handles diverse tasks including real-time data acquisition from multiple sensors, logistics event detection, automated hoist control, worker communication, and predictive maintenance monitoring. By consolidating these functions into a single integrated system, the patent improves productivity without proportionally increasing overall system complexity

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent introduces a centralized control system that acts as an intermediary between various sensors, hoist mechanisms, and worker interfaces. This intermediary processes and coordinates information flow, managing the complexity of real-time data collection and automated control while presenting simplified interfaces to operators and maintaining streamlined operational workflows

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

4Loss of information

If conventional hoist control systems are used, then device complexity is minimized, but loss of information and worker guidance deteriorate

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveinformation availabilityVSAvoidsystem complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Loss of informationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The system implements comprehensive feedback mechanisms that continuously collect and transmit information about hoist operations, logistics events, and environmental conditions to relevant workers. This real-time information flow ensures that all stakeholders have access to current operational status, reducing information loss and improving coordination while maintaining manageable system complexity through standardized communication protocols

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

Data Source

PatentEP3664004B1A system and methods for changing display information provided to the workers at a work site
Publication Date: 2024.08.21 ALIMAK HEK GRP AB
  • EP3664004B1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP3664004B1 patent drawingFigure 2a~2c

AI summary

The present invention relates to methods and a system for providing information related to logistics events to the workers at a work site, where the hoist system comprises at least one local area network located at the work site. The invention further relates to a system and a local area network system configured for receiving at least one of sensor data and event data related to logistics events and, at least partly based on the received sensor data and/or logistics event data, transmitting control data for changing display information presented on at least one display screen located at the work site.