Powered Lift Platform Extension With Obstacle Sensing Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing scissor lifts lack effective obstacle detection systems to prevent the platform from colliding with obstacles during extension and retraction, posing safety risks and operational inefficiencies.
Innovation Solution
The lift device incorporates a platform with ultrasonic and lidar proximity sensors to detect obstacles in various directions, coupled with a controller that adjusts platform movement to avoid collisions, defining warning and stop zones based on sensor data.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If scissor lifts use traditional extension mechanisms without obstacle detection, then device complexity is reduced, but safety and reliability deteriorate due to collision risks
Solution Approach 1:
The sensor system performs preliminary detection of obstacles in the extension path before the platform reaches them. The controller processes sensor data in advance to identify potential collision risks and activates the warning zone before actual contact occurs, preventing accidents rather than reacting to them
Solution Approach 2:
The system continuously monitors the extension path using sensors and provides real-time feedback to the controller. When obstacles are detected within the warning zone, the system feedbacks this information to stop further extension, creating a closed-loop safety mechanism that prevents collisions
2Reliability
If scissor lifts incorporate obstacle detection sensors and control systems, then safety and reliability improve, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces complex mechanical obstacle detection mechanisms with sensor-based detection systems. Instead of using mechanical switches or physical contact sensors that would add mechanical complexity, the system uses optical or electromagnetic sensors that provide reliable obstacle detection with simpler mechanical integration
Solution Approach 2:
The controller serves multiple functions: it manages the normal extension and retraction operations, processes sensor data, determines obstacle locations, controls warning zone activation, and manages the two-deck extension mechanism. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate dedicated components for each function
3Productivity
If the platform extends fully without obstacle detection, then productivity and operational efficiency are maximized, but collision risks increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system allows partial extension into the warning zone before stopping, rather than preventing all extension movements. This partial action approach enables the platform to reach most of its intended working position while still maintaining a safety buffer zone, balancing productivity with collision prevention
4Object-affected harmful factors
If obstacle detection systems are added to scissor lifts, then harmful factors (collision risks) are reduced, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The second deck is nested within or adjacent to the first deck, with the actuator integrated into the platform structure. The sensor system is nested within the existing platform framework, with sensors mounted on the platform perimeter. This nesting approach minimizes additional space requirements and reduces overall system complexity
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
Enhances safety by preventing platform collisions and optimizing platform extension, ensuring efficient and controlled operation.
Implementation Method 1
an actuator coupled to the first deck and the second deck
Implementation Method 2
a sensor to detect an obstacle in an area into which the second deck is to extend
Data Source
AI summary
One aspect relates to a lift device. The lift device may include a frame assembly, a platform to support an operator and a lift assembly coupling the platform to the frame assembly and to raise or lower the platform. The platform may include a first deck coupled to the lift assembly, a second deck slidably coupled to the first deck, and an actuator coupled to the first deck and the second deck. The lift device may include a controller operatively coupled to the actuator to control the actuator to move the second deck relative to the first deck.