Proximity Detection Using Short Range Wireless Communication Devices
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing proximity detection systems for industrial machines fail to notify operators of objects or personnel in blind spots, leading to hazardous conditions, as they primarily alert personnel attached to the machines rather than the operators controlling them.
Innovation Solution
A device monitor system that uses short-range wireless communication devices to detect proximity via receiver devices and user interfaces, alerting operators through audible or visual means when a personnel-worn short-range wireless communication device is within a threshold distance of the machine, thereby enhancing operator awareness of potential hazards.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a proximity detection system uses wireless communication devices to detect personnel near machines, then operator awareness of hazards is improved, but the system fails to notify operators in blind spots leading to hazardous conditions
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of having the machine detect and alert personnel directly, the system inverts the notification flow by having personnel-worn devices detect proximity and trigger alerts that are then communicated back to operators. This inversion ensures that the party most aware of their own location (personnel) initiates the hazard notification, solving the blind spot problem where machine-mounted sensors cannot detect objects in their blind spots
2Ease of operation
If the detection system alerts personnel attached to machines, then personnel are notified of hazards, but operators controlling the machines are not notified
Solution Approach 1:
The system introduces a communication intermediary that bridges the gap between personnel-worn detection devices and operator interfaces. The intermediary component receives proximity alerts from personnel devices and relays them to operators through machine-mounted displays or audio systems, ensuring both personnel and operators receive hazard notifications without requiring direct coupling between all components
3Reliability
If the system monitors proximity continuously, then real-time hazard detection is achieved, but energy consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of continuous monitoring, the system employs periodic proximity checks where wireless communication devices transmit presence information at intervals rather than maintaining constant communication streams. This periodic action maintains real-time hazard detection capability while significantly reducing energy consumption compared to continuous monitoring, as devices can enter low-power states between transmission cycles
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 notifies operators of proximity hazards, reducing the risk of collisions and catastrophic events by providing real-time alerts and logging hazardous conditions, thus improving workplace safety.
Implementation Method 1
BLUETOOTH® is a wireless technology standard for exchanging data over short distances using short-wavelength ultra high frequency (UHF) radio waves from 2.4 gigahertz (GHz) to 2.485 GHz
Data Source
AI summary
An example described herein may include receiving a signal associated with a short range wireless communication device. The signal may be received via a receiver device configured to receive the signal when the short range wireless communication device is within an angular range of detection associated with the device. An example may involve determining a value of a parameter associated with the signal and/or determining that the short range wireless communication device is within a threshold distance of a machine based on the value of the parameter. An example may involve performing an action based on the short range wireless communication device being within the threshold distance of the machine.