Ball-and-Plate Locking Mount for LiDAR Grain Bin Alignment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Accurate measurement of product volume in containers, such as grain bins, is challenging due to the irregular shape of the product and varying density, leading to errors in weight-based measurements and propagation of discrepancies throughout the supply chain.
Innovation Solution
An image scanning system utilizing LiDAR technology to generate point clouds of the product within the container, allowing for precise volumetric measurements by rotating the image scanning head and base housing to capture distance information from various angles, and a locking system to securely position the scanning device.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If weight-based measurement methods are used to measure grain in containers, then the measurement process is simple, but measurement precision deteriorates due to irregular product shape and varying density
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces weight-based mechanical measurement with an optical/image scanning system that uses light to capture three-dimensional data of the grain. The image scanning device emits light and captures reflected images to generate point clouds, eliminating the need for physical contact or weight-based estimation while achieving precise volumetric measurements of irregularly shaped products.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes the measurement parameter from weight to volume by using optical scanning. Instead of measuring mass directly, the system captures spatial coordinates of grain surfaces and calculates volume from the three-dimensional point cloud data, fundamentally changing how the measurement is performed to accommodate irregular shapes and varying densities.
2Reliability
If a locking system with multiple compressible materials and securing plates is used to position the image scanning system, then reliability of positioning improves, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The locking system is divided into multiple independent components: a ball member, first securing plate, second securing plate, and multiple compressible materials. Each component has a specific function - the ball provides rotational locking, the plates provide securing surfaces, and the compressible materials provide friction and positioning. This segmentation allows each element to be optimized for its specific role while working together to achieve reliable positioning.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses compressible materials (such as rubber or foam) in the locking system to provide flexible friction surfaces. These compressible materials deform under compression to create consistent friction forces that hold the ball in position, providing reliable positioning while accommodating manufacturing tolerances and surface variations without requiring rigid, complex adjustment mechanisms.
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 accurate and precise volumetric measurements of products in containers, reducing errors and ensuring accurate tracking and measurement of agricultural products throughout the supply chain.
Implementation Method 1
the image scanning system uses a Light Detection and Ranging (LiDAR)-based image scanning device
Implementation Method 2
the brush helps shed debris that may block penetration of the radiation wavelength through the window
Data Source
AI summary
A locking system securing an image scanning device to a container includes a first and second compressible material. A first securing plate is disposed between the first and second compressible materials, while a second securing plate is adjacent to the second compressible material on a surface opposite a surface of the second compressible material that is adjacent to the first securing plate. A ball is disposed within curved edges of the first and second securing plates, where the curved edges each curve away from the second compressible material. A shaft extends from the ball to the image scanning device. A fastener is secured through the first and second securing plates, and into the securing surface to lock the ball, and subsequently the shaft and image scanning device, in place. The locking system can be secured to a pitched surface to naturally position the image scanning device perpendicular to level ground.