Nozzle Actuated Vehicle Disable System
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing systems for disabling material handling vehicles during fueling processes are often vehicle-specific, require extensive modifications, and do not ensure safe operation, as operators frequently fail to manually disable the vehicles properly, leading to potential damage.
Innovation Solution
A system comprising a holster for the nozzle with a sensor that communicates with the vehicle's drive elements to disable them when the nozzle is not securely stored, allowing for broad application with minimal modification to existing components.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If manual disabling procedures are used, then the vehicle can be disabled during fueling, but operators frequently fail to complete the steps properly, leading to safety issues
Solution Approach 1:
The system automatically monitors nozzle status through sensors and autonomously controls the drive elements without requiring manual intervention. The vehicle self-disables when the nozzle is removed from the holster, eliminating the need for operators to manually complete disabling steps.
Solution Approach 2:
The sensor provides continuous feedback on nozzle position to the control system, which automatically adjusts the drive element status. This closed-loop feedback ensures the vehicle disabling status always matches the actual nozzle status, preventing operator error.
2Reliability
If existing disabling devices are used, then vehicle safety during fueling can be improved, but these devices require extensive modification to the vehicle
Solution Approach 1:
The holster serves multiple functions: it stores the nozzle during fueling operations, positions the nozzle for proper connection, and acts as a sensor trigger mechanism. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate disabling devices and extensive vehicle modifications.
Solution Approach 2:
The system merges the nozzle storage function with the vehicle disabling function into a single integrated system. The holster and sensor work together as one unit that automatically controls the drive elements, eliminating the need for separate disabling mechanisms.
3Reliability
If prior art disabling devices are used, then vehicle safety can be enhanced, but these devices significantly extend the duration of material transfer operations
Solution Approach 1:
The system prepares the vehicle for disabling in advance by having the sensor continuously monitor nozzle position. When the nozzle is removed from the holster, the disabling action occurs automatically and immediately, without requiring additional time for manual procedures or complex sequencing.
Data Source
AI summary
A system for disabling a vehicle carrying a substance in a storage tank includes a holster defining a cavity for receiving a nozzle in fluidic connection to the storage tank when not in use. The holster includes a main body and a bracket. The bracket is affixable to the vehicle and engagable with the main body at a plurality of positions along the main body. The system further includes a sensor for sensing whether the nozzle is received in the holster. The sensor is also in communication with at least one drive element of the vehicle to disable the at least one drive element when the nozzle is not received within the holster.