Wireless Loading Control System for Commodity Transport Bins
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current systems for loading bulk materials into transport bins require multiple operators to manage flow and positioning, posing safety risks and inefficiencies, especially in agriculture where operators are often older and exposed to harsh conditions.
Innovation Solution
A wireless monitoring and control system that includes a loading system control device and a user interface device for safe and efficient operation from within the vehicle cab, using imaging devices for visual feeds and wireless communication to control actuators, reducing the need for operators to leave the cab and minimizing exposure to dust and allergens.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If multiple operators are used to manage commodity loading (one for flow control, another for positioning), then loading safety and reliability are improved, but labor costs and operational complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system enables self-service operation where the loading system automatically monitors its own status through imaging devices and control systems, eliminating the need for multiple operators. The single operator can control the entire loading process from the vehicle cab using wireless interfaces, and the system automatically detects when positioning changes are needed through visual feedback from imaging devices.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces manual mechanical monitoring and control with automated electronic systems. Imaging devices provide visual feedback instead of manual inspection, wireless communication enables remote control from the cab instead of physical proximity to controls, and automated control systems manage the coordination between flow control and positioning functions that previously required multiple operators.
2Ease of operation
If operators manually monitor loading from outside the vehicle cab, then real-time control is possible, but exposure to dust, noise, and harsh conditions increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces imaging devices and wireless communication systems as intermediaries between the operator and the loading process. Instead of the operator directly observing and controlling from outside the cab, the imaging devices capture visual information and transmit it wirelessly to the control system inside the cab, allowing the operator to monitor and control remotely without exposure to harmful conditions.
Solution Approach 2:
The system replaces direct mechanical observation and manual control with electronic imaging and wireless communication. The imaging devices provide real-time visual feeds, and wireless transmitters carry control signals, enabling the operator to remain inside the protected environment of the vehicle cab while maintaining full control capability.
3Device complexity
If simple on-off switches control the flow devices, then device complexity is reduced, but precise control and monitoring of loading progress is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements feedback mechanisms where imaging devices continuously monitor the loading progress and provide visual information back to the control system. This feedback loop enables the system to automatically adjust flow control based on actual loading status, providing precise control and monitoring without significantly increasing device complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The control system is designed to perform multiple functions through a single integrated platform. The same control system that manages flow control also receives visual feedback from imaging devices, processes this information, and automatically adjusts operations. This multi-functionality provides comprehensive monitoring and control without requiring separate complex systems for each function.
Data Source
AI summary
A system for in-vehicle monitoring and control of commodity loading, such a grain or loose or fluid materials, from a storage bin to a transport bin using a loading system, includes a loading system control device and a user interface device capable of mutual wireless communication. The system improves safety by eliminating the need for operators to crawl up the side of vehicle in order to check levels of commodity in the transport bin, while also trying to move the transport bin as required. The loading system control device includes a logic switching unit for selectively operating the loading system that transfers the commodity from the storage bin; one or more cameras providing visual feeds of the loading of commodity into the transport bin; and a security or safety feature. The user interface device includes a display for displaying the visual feeds and control switches for operating the loading system.