Mobile Operator Interface for Cable Transportation Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Cable transportation system operators are confined to a fixed station, limiting their ability to move and assist passengers or perform functions within the departure/arrival area, as existing systems do not allow for flexible control while maintaining safety and operational integrity.
Innovation Solution
A method and system that incorporates a mobile operator interface with radiofrequency and infrared signals to define an operating range, enabling the operator to move within the departure/arrival area while ensuring that control commands are only executed when the operator is within a clear view of the area, using a control device that receives and executes commands based on signal reception.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the operator is confined to a fixed control booth, then the control system is simple and stable, but the operator cannot move freely to assist passengers or perform functions within the departure/arrival area
Solution Approach 1:
The control interface transitions from a static fixed booth to a dynamic mobile device that the operator can carry and move freely within the departure/arrival area, enabling operational flexibility while maintaining system control
Solution Approach 2:
The mechanical fixed booth structure is replaced with an electronic mobile computing device that provides the same control functions, eliminating the need for physical confinement while maintaining control capabilities
2Ease of operation
If the operator can move freely within the departure/arrival area, then the operator can assist passengers and perform functions, but the risk of unauthorized or unsafe operations increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system continuously monitors the operator's location via GPS and compares it against predefined safe zones, providing real-time feedback that enables or disables control functions based on whether the operator is in an authorized location
Solution Approach 2:
The system preemptively prevents unsafe operations by disabling control commands when the operator is outside the designated safe zone, before any harmful action can occur
3Speed
If control commands are always executable, then the system is highly responsive, but unauthorized commands from outside the safe zone can be executed
Solution Approach 1:
The system provides real-time location-based feedback that dynamically enables or disables command execution capability, ensuring rapid response when authorized while preventing unauthorized commands
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 operators to move freely within the operating range to assist passengers while ensuring safe and controlled operation of the cable transportation system, with the system automatically stopping moving parts if the operator is outside the designated range.
Implementation Method 1
the step of receiving a radiofrequency signal
Implementation Method 2
positioning an infrared-ray receiver so as to only receive an infrared-ray enabling signal when the mobile operator interface is within the operating range
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
AI summary
A method of controlling a cable transportation system having a departure and arrival area (12), a control device (20), and a mobile operator interface (30); the method including the steps of defining an operating range (40) allowing the operator full view of the departure and arrival area (12); determining location of the mobile operator interface within the operating range (40); receiving a first operating command; and only executing the first operating command if the mobile operator interface is within the operating range (40).