Metal Probe Scanning Refuse Containers During Lifting
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing metal probes used in refuse collection vehicles are not suitable for all lifting devices due to size and weight issues, leading to wear and inefficiency, and require complex procedures that are time-consuming and heavy, affecting the lifting device's robustness and test volume.
Innovation Solution
A method and device that use a smaller, shortened metal probe moved along the refuse container as it is lifted, allowing for continuous or stepwise scanning until the container is fully suspended, with automatic zero-point correction and interference filtering, and the option to switch off the measuring field when the container is fully hooked to prevent interference with other systems.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Quantity of substance
If a long metal probe is used to scan the entire refuse container, then the test volume is sufficient, but the metal probe becomes very heavy and causes negative effects on the lifting device
Solution Approach 1:
The scanning process is divided into multiple time-discrete measurements taken at different heights during the lifting operation. Instead of using one long probe to cover the entire container height, the container is scanned in segments as it is lifted, with measurements taken at various positions along its trajectory.
Solution Approach 2:
The scanning approach transitions from a spatial dimension (long probe covering entire height) to a temporal dimension (multiple measurements taken at different times during lifting). The same vertical space is scanned by moving the short probe through time as the container is lifted, rather than using a long probe in space.
2Quantity of substance
If a heavy metal probe is used to ensure sufficient test volume, then the scanning coverage is adequate, but the lifting device experiences increased wear and reduced robustness
Solution Approach 1:
The scanning function is segmented into multiple short-duration measurements taken at different heights during the lifting process. This eliminates the need for a single heavy long probe, thereby reducing wear on the lifting device while maintaining comprehensive coverage through temporal segmentation.
Solution Approach 2:
The scanning operation continues throughout the entire lifting process, with measurements taken continuously or at multiple discrete points as the container is raised. This ensures complete coverage without requiring a heavy stationary probe, maintaining useful action throughout the lifting cycle.
3Weight of moving object
If the metal probe is moved along the refuse container during lifting, then a short probe can be used, but multiple measurements must be taken at different points in time
Solution Approach 1:
The lifting operation and scanning operation are merged into a single coordinated process. The container is lifted while the short probe simultaneously scans it at multiple heights, combining two functions into one integrated operation rather than requiring separate lifting and scanning steps.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses feedback from the lifting device to coordinate the scanning measurements. As the container is lifted and the probe detects metal objects at different heights, this information is fed back to control the measurement process, enabling automated evaluation of the entire container volume.
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
Enables reliable metal detection with a similar test volume to previous methods, reduces wear on lifting devices, and allows for efficient evaluation of large container volumes while minimizing interference from external systems, ensuring accurate and robust metal component examination.
Implementation Method 1
the contents of waste containers are automatically checked for foreign and disruptive materials... The known metal probes are usually arranged in the area of a lifting device of the refuse collection vehicle
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3
AI summary
The refuse searching process involves searching the refuse in a refuse container for metal waste. At least one metal probe (8, 9) is used for this purpose, moving it along the refuse container from below while the refuse container is raised by a lifting device (3, 4) on the dustcart (1), continuously or in stages, from bottom to top.