Machine Slope Warning Using Pitch Detection for Secure Parking
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing systems fail to effectively warn operators when a machine is parked on a slope that exceeds the threshold for safe parking, risking unexpected movement and potential damage or injury.
Innovation Solution
A system comprising an inclinometer to measure the pitch of the machine, a controller to determine if the pitch exceeds a secure parking threshold, and a warning generator to alert the operator via visual, audible, or tactile means.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the machine is parked on a steep slope without warning, then the parking brake may fail to hold, but providing a warning system increases device complexity
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary detection of slope conditions using an inclinometer before the machine is parked. The controller evaluates the pitch data and generates a warning signal in advance if the slope exceeds safe parking thresholds, allowing the operator to take corrective action before parking attempts are made.
Solution Approach 2:
The inclinometer serves as an intermediary device that indirectly measures the slope condition by detecting the machine's pitch angle. This intermediate measurement is then processed by the controller to determine parking safety, providing a reliable indicator without requiring direct measurement of slope forces.
2Loss of information
If no warning system is provided, then the system remains simple, but the operator cannot determine if safe parking is possible
Solution Approach 1:
The system establishes a feedback loop where the inclinometer continuously monitors the machine's pitch angle, the controller compares this data against predetermined safe parking thresholds, and a warning signal is generated and displayed to the operator when unsafe conditions are detected, enabling informed parking decisions.
Solution Approach 2:
The system replaces the need for operator judgment and mechanical slope assessment with electronic sensing and processing. The inclinometer uses gravitational force detection to automatically determine pitch angle, substituting human assessment with precise electronic measurement and calculation.
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
Ensures safe and secure parking by providing timely warnings to operators when a slope is too steep, preventing unexpected movement and potential hazards.
Implementation Method 1
at least one inclinometer configured to be disposed on the machine, the machine being disposed on the slope and to measure a pitch of the machine
Data Source
AI summary
A system for warning that a slope is too steep for securely parking a machine includes: at least one inclinometer configured to be disposed on the machine, the machine being disposed on the slope and to measure a pitch of the machine; a controller that includes a processor and is configured to be operatively connected to the at least one inclinometer and to determine, using the pitch, if the machine cannot park securely; and a warning generator configured to be operatively connected to the controller and to alert at least an operator of the machine that the machine cannot park securely when the controller so determines.