Material Handling Vehicle Centre of Gravity Calculation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing material handling vehicles face challenges in achieving stability without complex damping systems, requiring a simpler construction method that does not rely on complex mechanics.
Innovation Solution
A material handling vehicle equipped with a control unit, load surface divided into sections, and sensor devices to determine forces and acceleration, allowing for the calculation of the load's centre of gravity using a formula (Zpos = ΔR * I / m * a), which simplifies and enhances precision in determining the load's position.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Stability of the object's composition
If complex damping systems and mechanics are applied to improve vehicle stability, then stability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces complex mechanical damping systems with a sensor-based calculation system. Force sensors measure forces on the load surface, and a control unit calculates the center of gravity position using these force measurements. This substitution of mechanical stabilization with computational analysis resolves the contradiction by achieving stability control without complex mechanical damping components.
Solution Approach 2:
The vehicle system uses its own operational data (force measurements from sensors during normal operation) to automatically determine the center of gravity position. The control unit processes force data from the load surface sensors and calculates stability parameters without requiring external intervention or complex additional stabilization mechanisms, allowing the system to self-assess and self-adjust.
2Measurement precision
If force sensors and acceleration sensors are added to determine centre of gravity, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The force sensors integrated into the load surface serve multiple functions: they measure both the magnitude and distribution of forces applied to the vehicle, enabling center of gravity calculation. The same sensor system that monitors load presence also provides data for stability analysis, eliminating the need for separate dedicated measurement devices and reducing overall system complexity despite enhanced measurement capabilities.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent combines force sensing and acceleration measurement capabilities into an integrated control system. The control unit processes both force data from the load surface sensors and acceleration data to jointly determine the center of gravity position, merging multiple measurement functions into a unified computational approach that reduces system complexity while maintaining high measurement precision.
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
This solution improves safety and optimizes vehicle performance by accurately determining the centre of gravity, enabling better velocity control and preventing tipping, with the added benefit of simplified calculations and robust sensor technology.
Implementation Method 1
a third sensor device for determining the acceleration of the material handling vehicle in a predetermined x-direction
Implementation Method 2
a first and a second sensor device for determining a force in a predetermined z-direction on the respective first and second section
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3
Figure 4~5
AI summary
Material handling vehicle (1), wherein the vehicle comprises, a control unit (2), a load surface comprising a first and a second section (4, 5), a first, second and third sensor device, wherein the material handling vehicle (1) is able to detect the position of the centre of gravity in a predetermined z-direction. The disclosure is also related to a method of determining a position of the centre of gravity of a load (9), in a predetermined z-direction, and a computer software.