Vehicle Control Module Input Mapping for Multi-Vehicle Compatibility
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing materials handling vehicle control systems are not adaptable to different types of vehicles, as they are designed specifically for unique hardware devices and functional systems, making it difficult to use identical components across various vehicle models.
Innovation Solution
A computer-based vehicle control module that includes a module input table, configuration tables, and vehicle function input elements, allowing it to operate on multiple types of vehicles by transforming input values and linking them with corresponding vehicle function inputs, using a routing table and configuration tables to route inputs and outputs effectively.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If vehicle control systems are designed specifically for unique hardware devices and functional systems, then the system can be optimized for that specific vehicle type, but the system cannot be adapted to different vehicle types
Solution Approach 1:
The control system employs a universal architecture with standardized communication protocols and modular functional blocks that can operate across multiple vehicle types. The system uses configurable parameter sets and adaptive identification routines to recognize different vehicle configurations and adjust operations accordingly, allowing a single control unit to serve multiple vehicle models without requiring vehicle-specific customizations
Solution Approach 2:
The system utilizes configurable parameters and settings that can be adjusted based on the detected vehicle type. Through adaptive parameter modification, the control system changes operational characteristics, communication rates, and functional enabledment to match the specific hardware configuration, thereby maintaining optimization for each vehicle type while preserving overall system universality
2Adaptability or versatility
If a universal control system is used across different vehicle types, then component compatibility is improved, but the system cannot be optimized for vehicle-specific requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The universal control system implements localized optimization through configurable parameter sets and modular functional blocks that can be selectively activated. Each vehicle type receives customized control parameters and enabled functional blocks tailored to its specific requirements, while the overall system architecture remains universal and compatible across different vehicle platforms
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically adapts its configuration based on detected vehicle characteristics. Through real-time parameter adjustment and conditional functional activation, the control system transforms from a static universal design to a dynamic, vehicle-specific optimized system, maintaining compatibility while achieving vehicle-appropriate performance
3Reliability
If separate control systems are designed for each vehicle type, then vehicle-specific requirements are met, but the complexity of managing multiple control systems increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent consolidates multiple vehicle-specific control systems into a single universal control unit. By merging the control functions into one system with configurable parameters and modular blocks, the complexity of managing separate control systems is eliminated while maintaining vehicle-specific control capabilities through adaptive parameter adjustment and selective functional activation
4Ease of manufacture
If identical components are used across different vehicle types, then manufacturing cost is reduced, but the components may not be optimized for specific vehicle hardware
Solution Approach 1:
The control system uses identical universal components across different vehicle types, reducing manufacturing complexity and cost. Through configurable parameters and adaptive identification routines, these universal components are optimized for specific vehicle hardware configurations, achieving both cost efficiency and hardware-appropriate performance without requiring vehicle-specific component variations
Data Source
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AI summary
Computer-based vehicle control modules capable of operating on one of first and second materials handling vehicles are provided. The module comprises a source table comprising a first superset of source elements. The first superset of source elements comprises a first subset of source elements related to a first set of hardware devices provided on the first vehicle and a second subset of source elements related to a second set of hardware devices provided on the second vehicle. At least one configuration table is provided, comprising respective configuration elements corresponding to ones of the first superset of source elements. Each respective configuration element comprises data related to effect a transformation of a value associated with the corresponding source element of the source table. A vehicle function input table is provided, comprising a set of vehicle function input elements related to vehicle function inputs utilized on the first vehicle and the second vehicle. Structure is provided for determining a value of a source element of the source table corresponding to a vehicle function input element of the vehicle function input table, transforming the value to a transformed value and linking the transformed value with the corresponding vehicle function input element. Methods for a vehicle control module capable of operating on one of first and second materials handling vehicles are also provided.