Automated Vehicle Leak Detection Using Sensor Positioning
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Solution Overview
Problem
Automated vehicle maintenance systems face challenges in accurately identifying and locating potential leak points on diverse vehicle configurations, particularly in heavy-duty vehicles with unique component arrangements, which complicates the automation of leak detection processes.
Innovation Solution
A computer-implemented method that receives vehicle identifier data, obtains vehicle configurations, and moves sensor devices, such as ultrasonic sensors, to potential leak locations based on the vehicle configuration and relative location data, enabling automated leak detection in pneumatic and hydraulic systems.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Extent of automation
If manual maintenance operations are used, then flexibility in handling diverse vehicle configurations is maintained, but automation and productivity are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary actions by pre-storing vehicle configuration data and component location information in a database before the actual leak detection process. When a vehicle is brought for maintenance, the system retrieves the appropriate configuration data and automatically adjusts sensor positions and inspection routes, eliminating the need for manual adaptation to different vehicle types.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes operational parameters dynamically based on detected vehicle characteristics. Sensors are repositioned to different coordinates, inspection sequences are modified, and detection thresholds are adjusted according to the specific vehicle model and configuration identified through vehicle identifier data, enabling automated adaptation to diverse vehicle types.
2Productivity
If automated processes are implemented, then productivity increases, but measurement precision at correct locations deteriorates due to difficulty in identifying component locations
Solution Approach 1:
The system introduces an intermediary layer of vehicle configuration data and component location databases that mediate between the automated sensor system and the physical vehicle components. This intermediary provides precise coordinate information and component identification data, enabling the automated system to accurately locate and inspect the correct components without manual intervention.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces manual mechanical positioning and visual identification with automated optical scanning, image recognition, and computer-controlled sensor positioning. The system uses vehicle identifier data and configuration databases to automatically determine component locations, substituting human expertise with automated information processing and precision positioning systems.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple vehicle models are inspected, then versatility increases, but device complexity and difficulty of detecting and measuring increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system achieves universality by designing a single automated inspection platform that can handle multiple vehicle models through software configuration rather than hardware modification. The core inspection system remains unchanged while adapting to different vehicle types by retrieving appropriate configuration parameters and component location data from the database, making the system multi-functional without increasing physical complexity.
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 approach automates the leak detection process, accurately determining relative positions of vehicle components and detecting leaks in multiple locations on various vehicles, improving the efficiency and accuracy of maintenance operations.
Implementation Method 1
The first sensor device may include an ultrasonic sensor device. The measurement from the first sensor device may include an ultrasonic sensor measurement indicative of an air leak.
Implementation Method 2
The second sensor device may include a pressure sensor device. receiving, by the processor device, a measurement from a second sensor device indicative of a location of the vehicle relative to a predetermined ground location
Data Source
Figure 1A~1B
Figure 2
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AI summary
A computer-implemented method includes receiving, by a processor device of a computer system, vehicle identifier data indicative of a vehicle. The method further includes obtaining, by the processor device, a vehicle configuration of the vehicle based on the vehicle identifier data, the vehicle configuration including at least one potential leak location. The method further includes moving, by the processor device, a first sensor device to the at least one potential leak location with respect to the vehicle. The method further includes receiving, by the processor device, a measurement from the first sensor device.