Non-Contact Position Verification for Autonomous Equipment
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Monitoring the operation of automatic or autonomous equipment, especially in hard-to-reach areas, is challenging due to difficulties in verifying calculated positions, which can lead to positional deviations and unforeseen incidents when components are damaged or loose.
Innovation Solution
A method and device that utilize non-contact transmitters to convert signals into comparable picture information, compare calculated positions with real positions at a pixel level, and calculate deviations, providing a more reliable position measurement and warning system, even in inaccessible locations like the seabed.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If position verification is performed in hard-to-reach areas, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity increases due to the need for non-contact transmitters and 3D modeling systems
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces physical contact-based measurement systems with non-contact transmitters (cameras, lasers) that capture optical or electromagnetic signals. This substitution enables position verification in hard-to-reach areas without mechanical intervention, resolving the contradiction by improving measurement precision while avoiding the complexity of physical access systems
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a virtual 3D model (copy) of the equipment and its environment that mirrors the physical system. This digital twin allows position verification through comparison of calculated positions with actual captured images, enabling accurate measurement without physical access to difficult locations
2Reliability
If non-contact transmitters are deployed to monitor inaccessible areas, then reliability is improved, but loss of information increases due to the need for complex signal conversion and comparison processes
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a feedback loop where non-contact transmitters continuously capture position data, compare it with the 3D model's calculated position, and generate deviation warnings. This closed-loop system improves reliability by continuously verifying position accuracy and providing real-time correction alerts
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a processing unit as an intermediary that bridges the gap between raw transmitter signals and meaningful position verification. This intermediary converts and compares data from different sources (calculated position vs. actual position), preventing information loss through systematic data reconciliation
3Object-affected harmful factors
If continuous position monitoring is implemented, then safety is improved, but use of energy increases due to continuous operation of transmitters and processing systems
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs periodic monitoring cycles where non-contact transmitters capture positions at intervals rather than continuously. The system compares calculated positions with actual positions periodically and triggers warnings only when deviations exceed thresholds, reducing energy consumption while maintaining safety through regular verification
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses the equipment's own control system data (calculated positions from 3D models) as a reference for self-verification. By comparing self-calculated positions with externally captured positions, the system achieves safety monitoring without requiring additional active sensors at the monitored location, reducing overall energy consumption
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 secure monitoring and warning of deviations in automatic and autonomous equipment, ensuring accurate positioning and preventing accidents by providing a visual comparison of calculated and real positions, thus enhancing safety and reliability.
Implementation Method 1
The component's position may be measured non-contact, typically by reflection of energy waves, for example in the form of visible light being intercepted by a camera.
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3
AI summary
A method and device for securing operation of automatic or autonomous equipment where the equipment comprises a component being displaced a space, and where the method comprises: - to calculate the component position in the space by means of data from the component control system, and where the method further comprises: - to measure non-contact wise the component real position; and - to calculate a deviation between the calculated position and the real position.