Lift Platform Obstacle Detection for Controlled Lowering
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Solution Overview
Problem
Scissor lifts lack effective obstacle detection systems to prevent collisions with objects below the platform during lowering operations, posing safety risks.
Innovation Solution
Incorporation of a sensor system, including ultrasonic and lidar sensors, to detect obstacles below the platform, with a controller that limits lift operation when obstacles are detected within a stop zone and allows lowering when they are outside this zone.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If no obstacle detection system is installed, then the device complexity is low, but safety risks increase due to potential collisions with objects below the platform during lowering operations
Solution Approach 1:
The sensor system performs preliminary detection of obstacles in the stop zone before the platform reaches them during lowering operations. The controller proactively limits lowering operation when obstacles are detected within the stop zone, preventing collisions before they can occur.
Solution Approach 2:
A sensor system comprising ultrasonic sensors and/or lidar sensors acts as an intermediary between the platform and potential obstacles. These sensors detect obstacles indirectly by measuring distance to objects in the stop zone, allowing the controller to make informed decisions about limiting lowering operation without direct contact or interference with the obstacles themselves.
2Reliability
If obstacle detection is implemented with a stop zone, then collision prevention improves, but operation flexibility decreases due to limited lowering when obstacles are detected
Solution Approach 1:
The control system applies different operational qualities to different spatial zones. The stop zone, extending a predetermined distance beneath the platform, triggers limitation of lowering operation to prevent collisions. Areas outside the stop zone do not trigger limitations, allowing flexible operation. This local differentiation resolves the contradiction by restricting operation only where necessary for safety.
Solution Approach 2:
The operational state of the lift device is dynamically adjusted based on real-time sensor feedback. When obstacles are detected within the stop zone, the controller dynamically limits lowering operation. When no obstacles are present or they are outside the stop zone, normal operation is permitted. This dynamic adaptation allows the system to maintain flexibility while ensuring safety.
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 collisions with obstacles, ensuring controlled platform movement and reducing potential damage or injury.
Implementation Method 1
Incorporation of a sensor system, including ultrasonic and lidar sensors, to detect obstacles below the platform
Implementation Method 2
Incorporation of a sensor system, including ultrasonic and lidar sensors, to detect obstacles below the platform
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, a lift assembly coupling the platform to the frame assembly and to raise or lower the platform. The platform may include a deck coupled to the lift assembly, an extendable deck movable relative to the deck in a longitudinal direction, and a sensor to detect an obstacle below the platform. The lift device may include a controller operatively coupled to the sensor. The controller may limit operation of the lift device to lower the platform in response to the sensor detecting the obstacle within a stop zone, the stop zone extending a predetermined distance beneath the platform, and permit operation of the lift device to lower the platform towards the obstacle in response to the sensor detecting the obstacle beneath the stop zone.