Sliding-Lock Sensor Node Assembly for Loading Dock Monitoring
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing systems for monitoring loading dock equipment are expensive, time-consuming to install and maintain, and prone to delays if not functioning properly, necessitating an affordable and easy-to-use apparatus for continuous monitoring.
Innovation Solution
A sensor node with a sensor board and housing, coupled to a battery pack and mounting plate, that allows for easy installation and maintenance, featuring slide lock legs and recessed areas for secure attachment, enabling reliable monitoring of equipment parameters and communication with a sensor network.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional monitoring equipment is implemented to continuously monitor loading dock equipment, then monitoring reliability is improved, but installation complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The monitoring system is divided into independent sensor nodes that can be individually installed and replaced. Each sensor node contains integrated electronics, power management, and sensing components, allowing modular deployment without complex system-wide installation
Solution Approach 2:
The sensor nodes are designed to be self-contained with integrated power management and wireless communication capabilities, eliminating the need for complex wiring and power distribution infrastructure during installation
2Reliability
If traditional monitoring equipment is implemented to continuously monitor loading dock equipment, then monitoring reliability is improved, but installation time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system is segmented into pre-assembled sensor nodes that can be quickly deployed. Each node is a complete functional unit requiring minimal on-site assembly, dramatically reducing installation time while maintaining monitoring reliability
Solution Approach 2:
Sensor nodes are pre-assembled and tested before deployment. The integration of electronics, power management, and sensing components is completed in advance, allowing rapid installation at the monitoring location without time-consuming on-site assembly
3Reliability
If traditional monitoring equipment is implemented to continuously monitor loading dock equipment, then monitoring reliability is improved, but maintenance difficulty increases
Solution Approach 1:
The monitoring system is segmented into independent sensor nodes that can be individually maintained or replaced. This modular architecture isolates failures to single nodes, simplifying maintenance by allowing technicians to address only the specific node requiring service without disrupting the entire system
Solution Approach 2:
Sensor nodes are designed as disposable or easily replaceable units. When a node fails or requires calibration, it can be quickly removed and replaced with a new or refurbished node, reducing maintenance complexity and downtime
4Ease of operation
If sensor node with slide lock legs is used for easy installation, then ease of operation is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The slide lock mechanism is integrated directly into the housing structure, combining the fastening function with the housing itself. This eliminates the need for separate mounting brackets or fasteners, simplifying installation while adding minimal complexity to the housing design
Data Source
AI summary
A sensor node configured to measure one or more parameters of a piece of equipment and communicate with a sensor network, the sensor node comprising: a sensor board comprising a plurality of electrical contacts; and a sensor housing defining a cavity, wherein the sensor board is disposed within the cavity, the sensor housing comprising: a first side wall defining a window, wherein the window exposes the plurality of electrical contacts of the sensor board; and a first sliding lock leg extending from the first side wall and defining a groove between the first sliding lock leg and the first side wall, wherein the first sliding lock leg is aligned with the plurality of electrical contacts of the sensor board through the window.