Remote Machine Operation Release With Camera-Based Safety Verification
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing waste collection facilities require on-site supervision by trained personnel for safety-relevant operations, which is time-consuming and costly, and existing remote supervision methods lack reliable safety measures and documentation.
Innovation Solution
A method involving a remote control system that ensures safety of safety-relevant machine operations by requiring acknowledgment signals from operators via a communication network, using safety devices and cameras to verify compliance with safety protocols.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If on-site supervision by trained personnel is implemented, then safety of machine operations is ensured, but operational costs and time consumption increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediary remote control system that mediates between the operator and the hazardous machine. The system transmits control signals remotely and provides real-time video feedback, allowing operators to control compactors and other hazardous machinery from a safe distance while maintaining full operational control and safety monitoring.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical presence of on-site supervisors with an electronic remote control system. Instead of requiring physical presence in hazardous areas, the system uses video cameras, control signals, and electronic interfaces to enable remote operation and supervision, eliminating the need for personnel to be physically present in dangerous zones.
2Ease of operation
If remote control without safety verification is used, then operational flexibility increases, but safety risks and unauthorized access increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements preliminary safety verification through video confirmation before allowing remote operation. The system requires the operator to visually verify the safety zone is clear through live video feed and confirm this condition before the machine can be activated. This preliminary check ensures safety conditions are met before operation begins.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs continuous video feedback from cameras monitoring the safety zone and machine operation. The live video feed provides real-time information to the remote operator, enabling them to monitor conditions and respond to changes immediately. This feedback loop ensures ongoing safety verification throughout the operation.
3Reliability
If safety zones are cordoned off with barriers, then physical safety is improved, but access for legitimate operations becomes restricted
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses video cameras as intermediaries to monitor the safety zone without requiring physical barriers. The cameras provide visual confirmation that the zone is clear, allowing operators to remotely verify safety conditions and proceed with operations when appropriate, eliminating the need for physical flaps or barriers that would restrict access.
4Difficulty of detecting and measuring
If infrared cameras are used for remote monitoring, then thermal detection capability is improved, but reliability in identifying people deteriorates under certain conditions
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses a composite monitoring approach combining multiple camera types (visible light cameras and infrared cameras) rather than relying on a single technology. This combination allows the system to leverage the strengths of each camera type while compensating for their weaknesses, ensuring reliable person detection across various environmental conditions.
Data Source
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AI summary
Method for enabling or disabling a safety-relevant machine operation in an industrial plant, preferably a waste collection facility (1) which has at least one, preferably several, remotely startable machines (2), industrial plant, preferably waste collection facility (1), remote control (3), computer program and data signal.