Lift Device User Contact Sensor for Obstacle Collision Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing lift devices restrict user freedom of movement when the user is positioned between the user interface and an obstacle during platform movement, potentially limiting the user's ability to operate the device effectively.
Innovation Solution
A lift device equipped with a user contact sensor that includes a bar assembly pivotally coupled to a rail, where the user's movement towards the user interface forces the bar assembly's end out of an aperture, triggering a sensor to control the lift device's movement, thereby preventing collisions with obstacles.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the user interface is positioned on the platform, then the user can control the platform movement, but the user's freedom of movement is restricted when positioned between the interface and an obstacle
Solution Approach 1:
The sensor assembly is positioned in advance at a location where it can detect user contact before the user reaches a dangerous position between the interface and obstacle. The bar assembly is pre-configured to be pushed by user contact, which preliminarily triggers the sensor to detect the user's position and alert the control system before collision occurs.
2Reliability
If a sensor assembly is added to detect user contact, then user safety is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces complex electronic contact sensors with a simple mechanical bar assembly that uses physical contact and movement to trigger the safety mechanism. The bar's displacement from its initial position mechanically indicates user contact, which is detected by a sensor, thereby reducing electronic complexity while maintaining safety functionality.
3Object-affected harmful factors
If the bar assembly is positioned to detect user contact, then collision prevention is improved, but the user interface accessibility may be affected
Solution Approach 1:
The sensor assembly is strategically positioned at a specific location on the platform where it can detect user contact without interfering with the user interface. The bar assembly is placed such that it monitors user position in the hazard zone between the interface and potential obstacles, while the interface itself remains accessible to the user without obstruction.
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 user contact sensor enhances user safety by automatically stopping or reversing the lift device's movement when the user is positioned between the interface and an obstacle, ensuring safe operation and preventing collisions.
Implementation Method 1
The sensor assembly includes a bar including a first end portion, a second end portion opposite the first end portion, and a resilient member extending between the first end portion and the second end portion. The resilient member is configured to apply a biasing force to resist the second end portion exiting the aperture.
Data Source
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AI summary
A lift device includes a chassis, a platform configured to support a user, a lift assembly coupling the platform to the chassis, an actuator configured to at least one of (a) move the platform relative to the chassis or (b) propel the chassis, a sensor assembly, and a controller. The sensor assembly includes a rod including a first end portion coupled to the platform and a second end portion opposite the first end portion, a housing defining an aperture sized to receive the second end portion of the rod, and a sensor coupled to the housing and configured to provide a signal in response to the second end portion of the rod exiting the aperture. The controller is operatively coupled to the sensor and the actuator and configured to control the actuator in response to receiving the signal from the sensor.