Overhead Obstacle Detection System Using Ultrasonic Sensors
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current systems for preventing collisions between large vehicles and overhead obstacles, such as bridges and overpasses, are either too expensive, difficult to use, or ineffective, leading to potential damage and injury due to the lack of reliable detection and avoidance mechanisms.
Innovation Solution
A system comprising sensors mounted on vehicles that communicate with a processing unit to measure the height of overhead obstacles relative to the vehicle, alerting the operator and potentially taking evasive actions, such as automatic braking, using ultrasonic or radar sensors and a global positioning system to determine and report obstacle heights and locations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If overhead obstacle detection systems are installed on vehicles, then collision prevention capability is improved, but system cost and complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system integrates multiple functions into a single overhead obstacle detection device: obstacle detection, height measurement, GPS location tracking, and automated warning/alert generation. This multi-functionality improves collision prevention capability while minimizing the addition of separate complex subsystems.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces complex mechanical measurement systems with electronic sensors and computational methods. Instead of physical calipers or manual measurement devices, the system uses electronic height sensors, processors, and software algorithms to detect and measure overhead obstacles, significantly reducing mechanical complexity.
2Measurement precision
If advanced sensor systems are used to accurately measure overhead obstacle heights, then measurement precision is improved, but system cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system introduces an intermediary computational layer that processes raw sensor data through multiple calculation steps. The processor takes sensor readings, adds reference height values, and performs comparative analysis to determine obstacle clearance status. This intermediary processing achieves high measurement precision using relatively simple, low-cost sensors.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs preliminary measurements and calculations in advance of potential collision risks. By continuously monitoring overhead clearances and pre-calculating safety margins, the system maintains high measurement precision without requiring expensive real-time sensors, as the measurements are taken proactively before critical situations arise.
3Reliability
If automated collision avoidance systems are implemented, then safety is improved, but loss of operator control increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system implements a feedback mechanism that continuously monitors overhead obstacles and provides real-time warnings to the operator through visual and audible alerts. This feedback loop maintains operator control by keeping them informed of hazards, while the automated nature of the monitoring improves safety without removing the operator's decision-making authority.
Solution Approach 2:
The system takes preliminary action by detecting and warning operators of overhead obstacles before collision becomes imminent. This advance notice allows operators to maintain control while taking corrective action, rather than requiring automated intervention that would remove operator control. The preliminary detection and warning approach balances safety improvement with operator autonomy.
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
The system effectively prevents collisions by providing accurate height measurements and alerts, enabling operators to avoid overhead obstacles and potentially engaging automatic braking to mitigate hazards, thereby reducing damage and risk to vehicles and infrastructure.
Implementation Method 1
using ultrasonic or radar sensors to determine and report obstacle heights and locations
Implementation Method 2
using ultrasonic or radar sensors to determine and report obstacle heights and locations
Data Source
AI summary
A method for preventing the collision of a vehicle with an overhead obstacle, comprising mounting at least one sensor on a vehicle that includes a vehicle control system, wherein the sensor is in electrical communication with a processor located within and powered by the vehicle; determining a reference height, which is the height above ground level at which the at least one sensor is mounted on the vehicle; inputting the reference height into the processor; determining the height of the tallest portion of the vehicle above ground level; inputting the height of the tallest portion of the vehicle above ground level into the processor; using the sensor to measure the overhead distance between the lowest portion of an obstacle and the at least one sensor; using the processor to determine a measured height of the overhead obstacle, which is the reference height added to the distance between the overhead obstacle and the sensor; and communicating an alarm to an operator of the vehicle if the measured height of the overhead obstacle is less than the height of the tallest portion of the vehicle above ground level.