Mast-Mounted Laser Scanning for AGV Blind Spot Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing automatic guided vehicles (AGVs) face limitations in obstacle detection due to the positioning of laser rangefinders, which can be masked by vehicle parts, leading to blind spots and reduced effectiveness in detecting objects in certain areas, such as in front of or behind the vehicle.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of a self-guided handling equipment with a mast-mounted first laser providing 360° horizontal scanning and a second laser offering 270° scanning in a complementary section, along with distributed imaging systems, to create a comprehensive 3D model of the environment, enabling precise obstacle detection and movement control.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If a single laser rangefinder is positioned on the vehicle, then the device complexity is reduced, but blind spots are created in areas such as in front of or behind the vehicle due to masking by vehicle parts
Solution Approach 1:
The detection system is divided into multiple independent laser rangefinders positioned at different locations on the vehicle. Each laser covers a specific sector, and together they provide complete 360-degree coverage without blind spots caused by vehicle body masking.
Solution Approach 2:
The detection system transitions from a single-point detection to multi-dimensional spatial coverage by positioning lasers at different heights and angles on the vehicle structure, creating overlapping detection cones that eliminate blind zones.
2Reliability
If multiple laser rangefinders are positioned at different locations, then obstacle detection coverage is improved, but the device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple laser rangefinders are merged into a unified detection system with centralized control. The control unit integrates data from all lasers to create a comprehensive obstacle map, allowing the system to function as a single coordinated unit rather than separate independent sensors.
Solution Approach 2:
Each laser rangefinder is designed to perform multiple functions: detecting obstacles in its specific sector, providing early warning for turns, monitoring blind spots, and contributing to the overall 360-degree awareness system, thereby reducing the need for specialized sensors for each function.
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
This configuration enhances detection capabilities, minimizing unswept areas and achieving high precision with 976,000 points per second, allowing for effective obstacle avoidance and movement modification, while also incorporating color information for improved accuracy.
Implementation Method 1
said telemetry means comprises a first laser (4) ensuring a horizontal scan over 360° with an opening of ±15°, and at least a second laser (3) ensuring a scan over a complementary section from -15 to -80°
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to a self-guided handling apparatus comprising a means for detecting obstacles which comprises a telemetry means arranged at the top of a mast (2). The telemetry means comprises a first laser (4) performing a 360° horizontal scan with an opening of ±15° relative to the horizontal plane, and at least a second laser (3) having an opening of -15 to -80° and performing a scan of at least 270°, the detection means comprising a processor using the cluster of telemetric points to detect the obstacles and control the change in the displacement of the apparatus.