Radar Sensor Placement Control for Stackable Storage
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for placing stackable storage devices, such as containers, lack precision and gentleness in placement, especially when obstacles or changing conditions are present, and often require pre-scanning the area, which is time-consuming and inefficient.
Innovation Solution
The method employs radar sensors to detect the edge of storage devices by evaluating successive radar images, determining the current distance based on the difference in reflected signals, allowing for precise and gentle placement without pre-scanning, and can operate on moving hoists or cranes for consistent detection.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If optical detection systems are used to determine placement distance, then the system can detect the target area, but the view is restricted by adjacent stacks and obstacles, making detection impossible from the side
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces optical detection systems with radar-based detection. Radar sensors emit electromagnetic waves that can penetrate or reflect off obstacles, allowing distance measurement without line-of-sight requirements. The radar system determines distances by measuring the time of flight of reflected signals, enabling detection in areas obscured by containers or adjacent stacks where optical systems fail.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the detection parameter from optical (light-based) to electromagnetic (radar-based). This parameter change allows the detection system to operate independently of visual line-of-sight, as radar waves can detect objects through reflections even when the target area is obscured by containers or located in areas not visible from the side.
2Measurement precision
If pre-scanning of the target area is performed using laser scanners, then distance values can be obtained, but the process is time-consuming and requires traversing the target area beforehand
Solution Approach 1:
The patent eliminates the need for preliminary scanning actions by performing distance determination continuously during the placement process. Instead of requiring a separate pre-scan phase where the target area is traversed beforehand, the radar system actively measures distances in real-time as the container approaches the target location, enabling immediate placement decisions without time-consuming preliminary surveys.
Solution Approach 2:
The radar detection system operates continuously throughout the placement process, providing ongoing distance measurements rather than relying on discrete pre-scan data. This continuous detection enables the system to adapt to changing conditions and maintain accurate placement control throughout the entire operation, eliminating idle time between scanning and placement.
3Ease of operation
If known path information is used to control the spreader, then the control system can operate, but smooth placement of containers is not achieved
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a feedback control system where radar sensors continuously measure the actual distance between the container and the placement surface, and this real-time information is fed back to the control system. The control system adjusts the spreader's movement based on this feedback, comparing the actual position with the desired position and making corrective adjustments to achieve smooth, precise placement rather than relying solely on pre-programmed path information.
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
This approach enables quick, precise, and gentle placement of storage devices, overcoming obstacles and changing conditions, and reduces the need for pre-scanning, resulting in improved placement accuracy and efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
an edge of the storage device is detected by at least one radar sensor during a placement process
Implementation Method 2
at least two reflected signals are identified within the radar images, in which the reflection distances decrease
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to a method for the placement of stackable storage means, for example containers, pallets, cartons and the like, on a bearing surface, in particular stacking arrangements such as, for example, a so-called container stack, in the case of which, during an operation of setting down a storage means, at least one radar sensor is used to detect an edge of the storage means and detects the set-down surface intended for the storage means, wherein at least one distance between the set-down surface and the edge, in particular at the lower end of the storage means, as seen in relation to the set-down operation, is established, and wherein the operation of setting down the storage means on the set-down surface is controlled on the basis at least of the distance established. The invention also relates to an arrangement having means for implementing the method.