Vehicle Beacon Electromagnet Release for Precise Location Marking
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing location markers deployed from vehicles lack a reliable mechanism for controlled release and positioning, particularly when coupled to an electromagnet under the vehicle's undercarriage.
Innovation Solution
A vehicle-mounted electromagnet system with a switch on the steering wheel controls the magnetized state, allowing a beacon to be releasably coupled and equipped with stabilizers, a power supply, transceiver, and sensors for autonomous location marking and positioning after release.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If an electromagnet is used to hold the beacon to the vehicle undercarriage, then the beacon can be securely retained during vehicle operation, but the mechanism for controlled release and positioning becomes complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces a complex mechanical release mechanism with an electromagnetic field-based retention system. The electromagnet mounted on the vehicle undercarriage holds the beacon through magnetic attraction, and release is achieved by simply turning off the electromagnet power, eliminating the need for mechanical latches, locks, or actuating mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent controls beacon retention by changing the magnetic field parameter (electromagnet activation state). When the electromagnet is energized, the beacon is retained; when de-energized, the beacon is released. This parameter-based control simplifies the release mechanism while maintaining reliable retention during vehicle operation.
2Measurement precision
If the beacon is equipped with stabilizers and wireless communication components, then the accuracy and retrieval capability of location marking is improved, but the device complexity and weight increase
Solution Approach 1:
The beacon is designed as a multi-functional integrated system that combines location marking, stabilization, and wireless communication capabilities in a single deployable unit. The beacon serves multiple purposes: marking location, providing structural stabilization through deployable legs, and enabling wireless data transmission, thereby improving overall system efficiency despite increased complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The beacon system is divided into separable functional components including the main beacon body, deployable stabilizer legs, and wireless communication module. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized independently while maintaining overall system integration, managing complexity through modular design.
3Ease of operation
If the switch is mounted on the steering wheel for easy access, then the ease of operation is improved, but the risk of accidental activation increases
Solution Approach 1:
The switch mounted on the steering wheel incorporates a specific local quality feature - a recessed or protected mounting position that provides physical protection against accidental activation. This localized design modification allows the switch to remain easily accessible to the driver while reducing the risk of unintended operation during normal steering movements.
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
Enables precise and controlled deployment of location markers with enhanced stabilization and wireless communication for easy retrieval, improving the efficiency and accuracy of marking locations during vehicle operation.
Implementation Method 1
An electromagnet is coupled to the undercarriage of the vehicle and is electrically coupled to the power source. A switch is electrically coupled to the electromagnet and is mounted on the steering wheel, wherein the switch turns on or off a magnetized condition the electromagnet.
Data Source
AI summary
A vehicle and deployable location marking system for deploying from a vehicle includes a vehicle including an exterior frame and an undercarriage. A power source is mounted on the vehicle and an electromagnet is coupled to the undercarriage of the vehicle and is electrically coupled to the power source. A switch is electrically coupled to the electromagnet and is mounted on the steering wheel, wherein the switch turns on or off a magnetized condition the electromagnet. A beacon for marking a location is releasably coupled to the electromagnet and releases from the electromagnet when actuated by the switch to a demagnetized condition.