Wireless Crane Control via Mobile Terminal
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing crane remote-control systems require specialized operating units, which are costly and limit operator flexibility, increasing the risk of downtime and reducing safety due to the need for specific hardware and software knowledge.
Innovation Solution
A control system utilizing a mobile terminal with pre-installed application software for entering and transmitting control commands wirelessly to a control unit, allowing for intuitive operation of cranes without the need for a special control panel, and incorporating identification and sensor elements for enhanced security and monitoring.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a special operating unit is used for crane control, then the control precision and reliability are improved, but the device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies universality by enabling mobile terminals (smartphones, tablets) to function as crane control interfaces. The mobile terminal, originally designed for general purposes, is made capable of executing crane-specific control functions through the control system, eliminating the need for dedicated specialized operating units while maintaining control reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements copying by creating a virtual representation of the crane control interface on the mobile terminal screen. The display shows crane operational parameters, status information, and control options, replicating the functionality of a physical specialized operating unit in a software-based interface that can be accessed on common mobile devices.
2Manufacturing precision
If a special operating unit is required, then the control precision is improved, but the ease of operation and operator flexibility deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The system allows operators to use familiar mobile devices they already possess and are comfortable with, rather than requiring training on specialized equipment. The mobile terminal's touchscreen interface and familiar navigation patterns provide ease of operation while the system maintains control precision through proper signal transmission and processing.
Solution Approach 2:
The mobile terminal utilizes its own existing hardware components (processor, display, communication modules) to perform crane control functions. The device serves itself by leveraging its built-in capabilities rather than requiring external specialized equipment, thereby improving operator flexibility and ease of use.
3Reliability
If specialized hardware is used, then the control reliability is improved, but the loss of time due to equipment failure increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies this principle by allowing the use of common, readily replaceable mobile terminals instead of expensive specialized operating units. If a mobile terminal fails or becomes unavailable, operators can immediately use another personal device, minimizing downtime. The mobile terminal acts as a temporary, easily replaceable control interface compared to dedicated specialized equipment.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes the parameter of control interface availability by allowing multiple different mobile terminals to connect and control the crane. Rather than relying on a single specialized unit, the system accepts control signals from various compatible devices, thereby reducing the impact of any single device failure on overall system availability and minimizing downtime.
Data Source
AI summary
A control system for a crane comprises a mobile terminal, with pre-installed application software for entering a control command for a crane and with a transmitting module for transmitting the control command, a control unit with a receiving module which is suitable for receiving the control command and is capable of being brought into signal linkage with the mobile terminal, the signal linkage being wireless, and at least one crane module in signal linkage with the control unit, for executing the control command.