Remote Lift Control with Signal Cone Safety Interlock
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing lifting systems lack adequate safety measures to ensure operators remain at a safe distance from lifting devices during vehicle raising and lowering operations, posing risks of injury from moving parts and loads.
Innovation Solution
A control system with each lifting device featuring a transmitter/receiver for control signals and a data interface with a signal cone oriented differently from the load-carrying means, requiring simultaneous presence and control signal detection within a predetermined time window to operate, ensuring the operator is outside the danger zone, and using IR for presence signals and separate communication for control signals to enhance safety.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If the operator operates the lifting system directly at the lifting device, then control precision is improved, but operator safety deteriorates due to proximity to moving parts and loads
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a remote control device as an intermediary between the operator and the lifting device. This remote control transmits control signals wirelessly to the lifting device, allowing the operator to control the system from a safe distance while maintaining precise control through the intermediary communication channel
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical direct-operation system with a wireless communication system. Instead of physically being at the lifting device to operate controls, the operator uses a remote control device that communicates via wireless signals (such as radio frequency or infrared), substituting the mechanical presence requirement with an electromagnetic signal transmission system
2Object-affected harmful factors
If the operator remains at a safe distance from the lifting device, then operator safety is improved, but control precision deteriorates due to distance from the control interface
Solution Approach 1:
The remote control device creates a functional copy of the control interface, replicating the essential control functions and display elements in a portable device that the operator can hold and operate from a distance. This copy provides the same control precision as the original interface while eliminating the need for physical proximity to the lifting device
3Object-affected harmful factors
If wireless communication is used for remote control, then operator safety is improved by enabling distance operation, but system complexity increases due to additional communication interfaces and protocols
Solution Approach 1:
The remote control device is designed as a multi-functional unit that combines wireless communication capabilities, control signal generation, display functions, and processing logic in a single device. This universal device handles multiple functions that would otherwise require separate systems, reducing overall system complexity despite the added capability for remote operation
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 configuration significantly increases operational safety by preventing unauthorized operation and ensuring the operator maintains a safe distance, reducing the risk of accidents and enhancing reliability by requiring precise positioning of the control device within the signal cone for system activation.
Implementation Method 1
the data interface of the control unit has a signal cone that is designed differently from the load-carrying means of the lifting device... the data interface for wirelessly transmitting a presence signal
Data Source
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Figure 4~7
Figure 8
AI summary
The invention relates to a lifting system (11) and a method for controlling the lifting system (11), as well as a control system for a lifting system (11) of this type in which an evaluation signal and a control signal are transmitted in order to actuate the lifting devices (14).