Rotatable LiDAR Scanning Head for Accurate Grain Bin Volume
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Solution Overview
Problem
Accurate measurement of product volume in containers, such as grain bins, is challenging due to variations in product density and shape, leading to errors in weight-based measurements and discrepancies in supply chain operations.
Innovation Solution
An image scanning system using LiDAR technology with a rotatable image scanning head and base housing, coupled to a securing arm, for precise volumetric measurements, combined with a locking mechanism to secure the system in place within the container.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If weight-based measurements are used to determine product quantity, then the measurement process is simple, but accuracy deteriorates due to variations in product density and shape
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces weight-based mechanical measurement systems with LiDAR-based optical scanning systems. The LiDAR device emits laser pulses and measures the time of flight to generate precise three-dimensional point cloud data of the grain surface, enabling accurate volumetric measurement without relying on weight conversions that are affected by density variations.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the measurement parameter from weight to volumetric dimensions. By measuring the three-dimensional geometry of the grain surface and calculating volume directly from point cloud data, the system eliminates the need for weight-based measurements and their associated conversion factors, thereby improving measurement accuracy.
2Area of stationary object
If a fixed scanning device is used, then the device structure is simple, but measurement coverage deteriorates and cannot capture the entire container volume
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a dynamic scanning system where the LiDAR device is mounted on a rotating base housing that can sweep through multiple angles. The base housing rotates to position the LiDAR device at different angular positions, enabling comprehensive coverage of the entire container volume by systematically moving the scanning device through a defined angular range.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent adds angular positioning as an additional dimension to the scanning system. By mounting the LiDAR device on a rotatable base housing, the system transitions from a single fixed scanning position to multiple angular positions, thereby expanding the measurement coverage from a limited field of view to complete three-dimensional container coverage.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the image scanning head rotates in one direction only, then the mechanism is simple, but positioning flexibility deteriorates and cannot achieve arbitrary angle positioning
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the rotation function into two independent segments: the base housing provides coarse angular positioning through rotation about a vertical axis, while the image scanning head provides fine angular adjustment through rotation about a horizontal axis. This segmentation of rotational degrees of freedom enables precise positioning at arbitrary angles while maintaining manageable mechanical complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements dynamic, multi-axis rotation capabilities where both the base housing and image scanning head can rotate independently. This dynamic positioning system allows the LiDAR device to be oriented at any desired angle by coordinating rotations of both components, providing full three-dimensional scanning capability.
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
Provides precise volumetric measurements by generating point clouds of the container's contents, reducing errors and ensuring accurate tracking and measurement of product throughout the supply chain.
Implementation Method 1
The image scanning device is configured to emit radiation and identify reflected radiation. The image scanning device further identifies a time delay between the emitted radiation and the reflected radiation to determine distance information.
Implementation Method 2
A brush is included on the securing arm located at a position within a plane of rotation formed from rotation of the base housing about the securing arm. In some positions, when rotating the base housing, the window engages the brush so that the brush moves across the window during rotation.
Data Source
AI summary
LiDAR-based scanning systems for a grain bin are provided. One example includes an image scanning head having an image scanning device and a window that is transparent to a wavelength emitted by the image scanning device. The system also comprises a securing arm coupled to the image scanning head, and a brush positioned to engage the window. The system also comprises a controller housing separated from the image scanning head, where the image scanning head receives power from a wire extending from the controller housing.