Wired Vehicle Fleet Control Using 3D Cable Separation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing vehicle fleets connected by bendable connection elements face challenges in avoiding collisions between these elements or vehicles, which can disrupt operations.
Innovation Solution
A control system with a control unit that adjusts the height and path of vehicles and connection elements using height variable masts and path planning algorithms to maintain a cascading arrangement, preventing collisions by determining optimal waylines and safety zones.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If vehicles are connected by bendable connection elements to a supply unit, then resource supply (energy, fuel, fertilizer) is enabled, but collision between connection elements or with vehicles may occur
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces height as a third dimension for arranging connection elements. By vertically stacking connection elements at different heights (cascading arrangement), the system enables multiple vehicles to be supplied simultaneously without horizontal collision, transforming a 2D plane problem into a 3D spatial solution
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs height-variable masts with telescopic extendable elements that can dynamically adjust the height of connection elements during vehicle operation. This dynamic adjustment capability allows the system to adapt to changing vehicle positions and maintain safe vertical separation, preventing collisions while preserving resource supply functionality
2Productivity
If multiple vehicles operate in a fleet with bendable connection elements, then operational efficiency is improved, but coordination complexity increases to avoid collisions
Solution Approach 1:
The control system pre-calculates and determines waylines for multiple vehicles before operation begins, taking into account the heights of connection elements and the cascading arrangement. This preliminary planning prevents collision scenarios before they occur, allowing multiple vehicles to operate efficiently without requiring complex real-time coordination during movement
Data Source
AI summary
A wired vehicle fleet having a first vehicle connected with a supply unit by a first bendable connection element and a second vehicle connected with the supply unit by a second bendable connection element is controlled by a control unit to avoid a collision between the first and the second bendable connection elements.