Lidar Reflector Positioning for Container Handling Equipment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing container handling equipment in environments like ports and intermodal yards face challenges in precise positioning due to interference from large objects and repetitive structures, making RF-based and laser-based methods unreliable for accurate location determination.
Innovation Solution
Utilizing reflector units with unique reflective patterns detected by multi-layer lidar to identify and determine the location of container handling equipment, complemented by other methods like Wi-Fi access points for enhanced positioning accuracy.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If RF-based or laser-based methods are used for positioning, then location determination can be achieved, but reliability deteriorates due to interference from large objects and repetitive structures
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces reflector units as intermediary objects that are attached to fixed structures in the container handling area. These reflector units serve as mediators between the lidar sensor on the straddle carrier and the positioning system. The reflector units have highly reflective surfaces that actively return lidar signals, creating reliable reference points that are not affected by the interference problems plaguing passive RF or laser-based positioning methods. This intermediary approach transforms the positioning problem from detecting signals in a noisy environment to measuring distances to known, stable reference points.
2Reliability
If automated positioning systems are implemented, then operational safety and efficiency improve, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The reflector units are passive devices that automatically return lidar signals without requiring power sources, controllers, or complex electronics. They self-serve the positioning function by simply being present and reflective. The straddle carrier's lidar sensor autonomously detects the reflector units and calculates position based on time-of-flight measurements. This self-service approach achieves automated positioning with minimal system complexity - no active components are needed on the reference points, and the calculation logic is straightforward distance measurement to known coordinates.
3Ease of manufacture
If passive positioning methods are used, then system cost is reduced, but measurement precision deteriorates due to signal interference
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the key parameter of the reference objects from passive reflective surfaces to active reflector units with optimized optical properties. The reflector units are designed with specific reflective characteristics that enhance signal return strength and consistency. By modifying the optical parameters of the reference points (using highly reflective materials, specific geometries, and arranged patterns), the system achieves high measurement precision while maintaining the cost-effectiveness of passive positioning - no power sources or electronics are needed, only carefully designed reflective surfaces.
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
Provides reliable and cost-effective location determination of container handling equipment with precision up to +/â10 cm, ensuring safe and efficient operation by avoiding collisions and optimizing container handling processes.
Implementation Method 1
detecting a reflector unit that comprises a plurality of reflector elements
Implementation Method 2
detected by multi-layer lidar
Data Source
AI summary
A method comprising detecting a reflector unit that comprises a plurality of reflector elements arranged in a pre-determined manner with respect to each other, identifying the reflector unit based, at least partly, on its characteristics, and determining a location of a container handling equipment based, at least partly, on the identified reflector unit.