Spreader Position Control Using Single Measurement System
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Solution Overview
Problem
Cranes with spreaders in loading and unloading terminals require multiple measurement systems for accurate positioning, leading to synchronization challenges and accumulation of measurement errors, which complicates the process and reduces efficiency and safety.
Innovation Solution
A system using a single measurement system with detectors positioned in terminal infrastructure to determine both the loading/unloading target position and the spreader position in a fixed coordinate system, allowing for accurate and continuous measurement, and transmitting position control information to the crane for independent movement of the spreader.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If multiple measurement systems are used to determine target position and spreader position, then positioning accuracy is improved, but system complexity and synchronization requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple measurement functions into a single measurement system. The same measurement system that determines the target position on the vehicle is also used to determine the spreader position, eliminating the need for separate measurement systems and reducing synchronization complexity while maintaining positioning accuracy
Solution Approach 2:
The measurement system is designed to perform multiple functions: it determines both the target position on the vehicle and the spreader position relative to the vehicle. This multi-functional approach reduces the number of separate systems needed while providing all necessary positioning information
2Loss of information
If multiple measurement systems are used, then comprehensive position information is obtained, but measurement error accumulation increases
Solution Approach 1:
By using a single measurement system for both target and spreader position determination, the patent eliminates the accumulation of errors from multiple independent measurement systems. All position information is derived from one calibrated system, ensuring consistency and reducing error propagation
3Measurement precision
If multiple measurement systems are used, then accurate target and spreader positioning is achieved, but calibration and synchronization requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the calibration process into a single operation for the unified measurement system. Since the same system determines both target and spreader positions, only one calibration procedure is needed, eliminating the complex synchronization and calibration requirements that would arise from coordinating multiple separate measurement systems
Data Source
AI summary
A method of providing position control information for controlling the movement of a spreader (400) of a crane (10) towards a spreader target position is disclosed. The method comprises measuring both the distance to the loading/unloading target position (32, 36) and the distance to a position of the spreader (400) for determining both a loading/unloading target position (32, 36) and the position of the spreader (400) in a fixed coordinate system. The method also comprises causing position control information corresponding to the position of the spreader (400) and the loading/unloading target position (32, 36) to be transmitted to the crane (10).