Working Machine Overhead Obstacle Detection for Lift Arm Collision Avoidance
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing working machines, such as compact track loaders, lack effective detectors to prevent their working devices from colliding with obstacles above the machine, particularly when the lift arms are swung upward, leading to potential collisions with ceilings or other overhead structures.
Innovation Solution
Equipping the working machines with detectors on the protector and/or working device to detect obstacles above the machine body, and a controller to implement processes such as speed reduction, notification, and stopping the machine to prevent collisions, with optional attachment-specific obstacle detection based on the type of attachment attached.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If the lift arms are swung upward to perform material handling operations, then the working machine's operational capability is improved, but the risk of collision with overhead obstacles increases
Solution Approach 1:
The ultrasonic sensor detects overhead obstacles before the lift arms reach them, allowing the control system to preemptively slow down or stop the lift arm movement, preventing collision while maintaining operational capability
Solution Approach 2:
The control system continuously monitors the position of lift arms and the detection signals from the ultrasonic sensor, dynamically adjusting the movement speed or stopping the lift arms based on real-time feedback to avoid obstacles
2Reliability
If a detector is added to detect overhead obstacles, then the safety is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces complex mechanical obstacle detection systems with an ultrasonic sensor-based detection system, which uses acoustic waves to detect obstacles and provides simpler, more reliable overhead obstacle detection
Solution Approach 2:
The control system integrates multiple functions including lift arm control, ultrasonic sensor signal processing, and obstacle avoidance decision-making into a single integrated system, reducing overall complexity
3Area of stationary object
If the ultrasonic sensor is positioned on the machine body, then the detection coverage is improved, but the detection accuracy for obstacles close to the working device decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The detection system is divided into multiple functional zones: the ultrasonic sensor on the machine body provides wide-area detection for distant obstacles, while additional sensors or detection methods are implied for close-proximity detection, ensuring both coverage and precision
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
Effectively prevents collisions with overhead obstacles by adjusting the machine's movement and notifying the operator, enhancing safety and operational efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
a detector provided on the protector to detect an obstacle higher than the protector
Implementation Method 2
it is not used to detect obstacles above the working machine
Data Source
AI summary
A working machine includes a machine body, a working device provided on the machine body movably up and down with respect to the machine body, a protector provided on the machine body to protect an operator's seat on the machine body, a detector provided on the protector to detect an obstacle higher than the protector, and a controller configured or programmed to, when the detector detects the obstacle, perform at least one process to prevent the working device from contacting the obstacle.