Transfer Vehicle Weight Estimation via Distance Sensor Time-Series
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing techniques for estimating the weight of a transfer object are limited to specific transfer embodiments, such as towing or loading on a transfer vehicle, and do not accommodate a wider variety of transfer scenarios.
Innovation Solution
A transfer system that includes an acquisition means for obtaining sensor information related to the distance between a transfer object and a transfer vehicle, and an estimation means that uses time-series data of this sensor information to estimate the weight of the transfer object.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If traditional weight estimation techniques are used (acceleration sensor on transfer vehicle or loaded transfer object), then weight estimation is possible, but the transfer embodiments are limited to specific scenarios (towing or loading)
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies universality by developing a weight estimation technique that works across multiple transfer embodiments (towing, pushing, loading, unloading) using the same sensor information acquisition and processing method. The distance sensor mounted on the transfer vehicle can detect distance changes in all these scenarios, and the control unit processes the sensor information uniformly to estimate weight, making the system universally applicable rather than limited to specific transfer types.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces distance sensor information as an intermediary measurement parameter. Instead of directly measuring weight or relying on acceleration data that requires specific transfer configurations, the system uses distance changes between the transfer vehicle and transfer object as a mediator. The control unit calculates weight by analyzing how distance varies over time during transfer operations, allowing weight estimation in diverse scenarios without requiring direct contact or specific mechanical configurations.
2Adaptability or versatility
If distance sensor information is acquired and processed, then weight estimation becomes possible in wider transfer embodiments, but the system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies self-service by utilizing the transfer vehicle's existing distance sensor (already present for navigation and positioning purposes) to simultaneously perform weight estimation. The control unit, which already processes sensor data for navigation, now also processes distance time-series data for weight calculation. This eliminates the need for separate dedicated weight measurement devices and reduces overall system complexity while expanding functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The control unit is designed to perform multiple functions: navigation control, positioning, and weight estimation. By making the control unit universal and capable of handling various sensor inputs for different purposes, the system avoids adding separate dedicated processing units for each function, thereby reducing overall system complexity while achieving multi-functional capability.
Data Source
AI summary
In order to estimate a weight of a transfer object in a wider variety of transfer embodiments, a transfer system (1) includes: an acquisition unit (11) for acquiring sensor information that changes in accordance with a distance between a transfer object and a transfer vehicle that is transferring the transfer object; and an estimation unit (12) for estimating the weight of the transfer object on the basis of time-series data of the sensor information.