Aerial Work Platform Sensor Layout for Overhead Crush Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Aerial and scissor lifts face safety hazards due to the risk of operators being crushed between the work platform and overhead or below-ground structures, with existing technologies not adequately addressing the detection of potential obstacles and hazards.
Innovation Solution
The platform assembly incorporates strategically positioned sensor units that provide overlapping 'fans' of coverage to detect obstacles, including a primary sensor unit monitoring the area above and around the platform and a secondary sensor unit monitoring below the platform extension, with the ability to control machine operations based on detected hazards.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If sensor units are strategically positioned to provide overlapping coverage, then obstacle detection capability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The detection system is segmented into multiple sensor units positioned at different locations on the work platform. Each sensor unit covers specific zones, and their overlapping fields of view collectively provide comprehensive obstacle detection coverage throughout the operational space.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent extends detection coverage by adding sensors at multiple spatial dimensions - not only covering the forward and lateral areas but also incorporating downward-facing sensors to detect obstacles beneath the platform, creating three-dimensional obstacle detection coverage.
2Object-affected harmful factors
If additional sensors are added to monitor areas below platform extension, then safety coverage is improved, but manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The sensor units serve multiple functions: they detect obstacles in front of and beside the platform, monitor areas below the platform when extended, and provide data for both obstacle detection and operator protection systems. This multi-functionality justifies the added manufacturing cost through enhanced safety coverage.
3Measurement precision
If sensors monitor area from platform floor to above rail height, then detection precision is improved, but energy consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The sensor units monitor a comprehensive vertical range from the platform floor level up to and beyond the rail height, providing excessive coverage that ensures no potential obstacle goes undetected. This partial excessive action in the vertical dimension guarantees detection precision while the system manages energy consumption through efficient sensor activation patterns.
Data Source
AI summary
A platform assembly includes a work platform including a platform floor and a safety rail extending from the platform floor to a rail height, and a primary sensor unit secured to the work platform and positioned adjacent one of the platform floor and the safety rail. The primary sensor unit is configured to monitor an area from the platform floor or from the safety rail to a space above the rail height and forward and aft of the work platform. The platform assembly enhances protection for an operator from sustained involuntary operation resulting in an impact with an obstruction or structure.