Laser Rangefinder Detection Device for Container Filling Level
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing container filling level detection devices are expensive, limited in application to specific conditions such as containers with lids or those combined with poles, and often suffer from damage due to opening and closing mechanisms.
Innovation Solution
A detection device comprising a tubular portion fixed to a support pole with a laser rangefinder measuring the filling level, capable of measuring distances up to 4 meters with high resolution, and adjustable angles, connected to electronic control and data transmission means for remote communication, suitable for open garbage baskets and various container types.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If laser sensors are placed inside the lid of the container, then the filling level can be measured, but the sensor risks being damaged by opening and closing the basket
Solution Approach 1:
The laser sensor is extracted from the lid and relocated to a fixed support structure positioned above the container. This separation removes the sensor from the moving lid assembly, preventing damage during opening and closing operations while maintaining measurement capability through the container opening.
Solution Approach 2:
A fixed support structure serves as an intermediary carrier for the laser sensor, positioning it above the container without direct attachment to the moving lid. This intermediary structure provides a stable mounting platform that remains stationary during lid operations, protecting the sensor while enabling measurement.
2Measurement precision
If three meters are placed parallel to the ground in the basket, then the filling level can be verified, but the baskets become expensive to produce
Solution Approach 1:
The measurement function is extracted from the basket itself and relocated to an external fixed support structure. The basket remains a simple, inexpensive container while the sophisticated laser measurement system is mounted separately above it, eliminating the need to embed expensive sensors within the basket structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The fixed support structure serves multiple functions: it provides structural support for the container, mounts the laser measurement sensor, and enables filling level verification. This multi-functional approach consolidates what would otherwise require separate expensive components integrated into the basket.
3Measurement precision
If containers are combined with poles or lids to support detection devices, then measurement can be achieved, but the solution is limited to specific container conditions
Solution Approach 1:
The fixed support structure is designed as a universal mounting platform that can accommodate various container types (open baskets, covered containers, different sizes) without requiring the container itself to be modified. The sensor can measure through openings or alongside containers, making the system adaptable to diverse container configurations.
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of attaching the detection device to the container (which limits applicability), the container is positioned within the measurement zone of a fixed detection system. This inverted approach allows the same detection infrastructure to serve multiple container types that pass through or are placed under the fixed sensor.
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 provides a simple, economical, and versatile means to accurately measure waste quantity, applicable to different container conditions, reducing operational costs and enhancing reliability by avoiding damage from lid operations.
Implementation Method 1
a laser sensor of the filling level inside the lid of the container itself
Implementation Method 2
laser rangefinder measuring the filling level, capable of measuring distances up to 4 meters with high resolution
Data Source
Figure 1~3
AI summary
It is provided a detection device (1) for containers filling (10), comprising: a tubular portion (2) that can be constrained to a pole (11) or to a support, a measuring portion (3) which is fixed to the tubular portion (2) and horizontally diametrically protruding from the tubular portion (2), defining a free area (3a) of the measuring portion (3) facing the ground, the measuring portion (3) comprising a laser measurer (4) facing the free area (3a) and data connection means (5) with the outside, the laser measurer (4) being configured to measure the distance between the laser measurer (4) and the first obstacle surface to the laser light emitted by the laser measurer (4) along a plurality of directions (4a), the directions (4a) mutually forming, starting from the laser measuring device (4), a maximum angle (α) of at least 10°.