Portable Magnetic Lane Patterning for Hard-to-Reach Road Marking
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current technologies face challenges in efficiently applying magnetic patterns to lanes using magnetic paint, particularly in difficult-to-reach areas and for autonomous vehicle recognition, as they require large construction vehicles and lack portable, lightweight solutions for power supply and pattern adjustment.
Innovation Solution
A portable, lightweight apparatus with an electromagnet, current supplier, and portable power generator that can apply a magnetic pattern to lanes while moving, using a miniaturized power source and adjusting current and distance based on ground conditions to ensure effective recognition by autonomous vehicles.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a large construction vehicle is used to apply magnetic patterns to lanes, then the magnetic pattern can be applied to lanes, but the apparatus cannot enter difficult-to-reach areas
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the magnetic pattern application system into separable components: a portable electromagnet assembly that can be detached from large construction vehicles and used independently in difficult-to-reach areas. This segmentation allows the system to access narrow lanes and confined spaces while maintaining the capability for large-vehicle deployment when needed.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs a portable, movable electromagnet assembly that can be dynamically deployed and repositioned by operators in confined spaces. The system transitions from a fixed large-vehicle mounting to a portable configuration that can be manually maneuvered into areas inaccessible to large construction vehicles.
2Weight of moving object
If a portable power generator is used, then the apparatus becomes lightweight and portable, but heat is generated from the power generator and electromagnet
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a cooler as an intermediary thermal management component between the heat-generating elements (power generator and electromagnet) and the surrounding environment. This cooler actively dissipates heat, enabling the system to maintain portable, lightweight construction while managing thermal loads in confined spaces.
3Productivity
If magnetic pattern is applied simultaneously with lane construction, then construction time is reduced, but the apparatus must be moved continuously
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the paint application device and electromagnet assembly into an integrated portable apparatus that performs both lane marking and magnetic pattern application simultaneously. This merging of functions allows continuous operation during vehicle movement, eliminating sequential processing steps and improving construction efficiency.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies magnetic patterns to the lane surface immediately after paint application while the paint is still wet, before the lane construction is complete. This preliminary action ensures the magnetic pattern is properly embedded in the lane material and allows continuous workflow without stopping the construction vehicle.
4Manufacturing precision
If the electromagnet is positioned close to the ground, then magnetic pattern application is effective, but the apparatus height is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs an adjustable-height electromagnet positioning system that allows the electromagnet to be dynamically positioned at optimal distances from the ground surface. This dynamic adjustment capability enables effective magnetic pattern application while accommodating varying terrain conditions and maintaining operator ergonomics.
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 the simultaneous application of magnetic patterns during lane construction, allowing autonomous vehicles to recognize the lanes with an alternating magnetic pattern, even in areas inaccessible to large construction vehicles, using a miniaturized and lightweight setup.
Implementation Method 1
an electromagnet for generating a write magnetic field toward ground by being installed in a moving object
Implementation Method 2
a portable power generator for supplying a power required in order for the current supplier to generate the current
Implementation Method 3
a cooler for dissipating heat generated from at least one of the electromagnet, the current supplier, and the portable power generator
Data Source
AI summary
Disclosed herein are an apparatus and method for applying a magnetic pattern to lanes with magnetic paint. The apparatus includes an electromagnet for generating a write magnetic field toward the ground by being installed in a moving object, a current supplier for providing the current required to generate the write magnetic field, a portable power generator for supplying power required in order for the current supplier to generate the current, and a cooler for dissipating heat generated from at least one of the electromagnet and the current supplier.