methods for monitoring vehicle operation and for detecting impacts on a vehicle

专利摘要:
METHODS FOR MONITORING A VEHICLE'S OPERATION AND FOR DETECTING IMPACTS ON A VEHICLEA method of monitoring the operation of a vehicle detects an application of force on the vehicle and a change in moment of the vehicle is calculated. If moment shifts and force application are determined to occur within a predetermined period of time with each other, an impact signal is generated.
公开号:BR112012006981A2
申请号:R112012006981-0
申请日:2010-09-29
公开日:2020-10-06
发明作者:Ronald L. Ziegler；Dean E. Winner；Michael P. Kovach；Timothy A. Wellman
申请人:Crown Equipment Corporation；
IPC主号:

专利说明:

"METHODS FOR MONITORING A VEHICLE'S OPERATION AND FOR DETECTING IMPACTS ON A VEHICLE"
TECHNICAL FIELD Radiotelephony strategies can be employed by "5 business operations, including distributors, retail outlets, - manufacturers, etc., to improve the efficiency and accuracy of business operations. Radiotelephony strategies can also be developed by such business operations, to avoid the insidious effects of constantly increasing labor and logistics costs 10 BASICS OF THE TECHNIQUE In a typical wireless implementation, workers are linked to a control system run over a computer enterprise via a mobile wireless transceiver The wireless transseeptor can be used as an interface for the control system to direct 15 workers in their tasks, for example, instructing workers where and / or how to harvest, pack, place, move, arrange, process or otherwise manipulate workers. items within the operator's facility.The wireless transceiver can also be used in combination with a device input file suitable for exploring, detecting or otherwise reading labels, tags or 20 other identifications to track the movement of projected items within the facility.
In order to move items around the operator's facility, workers with Kequência use material handling vehicles, including, for example, transporters. Forklift trucks having a main body and a mast or tower, manually operated reed trucks or engine, etc. However, disruptions in the operation of such material handling vehicles collide with the ability of the control system and the corresponding wireless strategy to achieve pieo operating efficiency.
In addition, conventional enterprise software, including corresponding control systems not being responsible for screening, communicates with or otherwise provides access to the availability, health, status, suitability of material handling vehicles to perform the necessary work. Furthermore, conventional company software, "5 including corresponding control systems, does not provide tools to control access to, and operation of, the available material handling vehicles within the facility in an efficient and integrated manner.
Impacts on or made by 10 material handling vehicles can assist in assessing the availability, health and status of such vehicles. Therefore, this application refers to detecting impacts on or made by material handling vehicles and, more particularly, an impact measurement system for use on a material handling vehicle that measures both g-forces and changes for the time being, to detect 15 impacts and determine which impacts are significant enough to be reported, recorded or otherwise brought to the attention of a vehicle operator and operator control, using wireless strategies, as described here.
DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION According to a first aspect of the present invention, a method of monitoring the operation of a vehicle comprises detecting that a force application has occurred on the vehicle; calculate a vehicle moment change; determining whether the momentum change and the application of force occurred within a predetermined period of time with each other; and generating an impact signal indicating that the moment change and the application of force occurred within the predetermined period of time.
According to a second aspect of the present invention, a method of detecting impacts on a material handling vehicle comprises monitoring g-forces applied to the material handling vehicle.
"'3
Ú materials; compare g-forces applied to the material handling vehicle with a selectable g-force threshold value; determining 'a gross vehicle weight for the material handling vehicle; determine the acceleration of the material handling vehicle; calculate a "5 boost signal based on the vehicle's gross vehicle weight. - material handling and material handling vehicle acceleration; select an impulse signal limit for the material handling vehicle; compare the signal impulse of the material handling vehicle with the impulse signal limit; and generating an impact signal 10 when g-forces applied to the material handling vehicle exceed the selectable g-force limit threshold value and the impulse signal exceeds the impulse signal limit In accordance with other aspects of the present invention, monitoring g-forces applied to the material handling vehicle may comprise mounting at least one accelerometer on the material handling vehicle, and receiving g-force signals generated by at least one accelerometer. Mounting at least one accelerometer in the material handling vehicle may comprise mounting at least one ace.lerometer to a main body of the vehicle and material handling and / or mounting at least one accelerometer at 20 µm from a mast or a material handling vehicle tower. The method may further comprise determining whether the material handling vehicle is stopped, and generating an impact signal when g-forces applied to the material handling vehicle exceed the threshold value of the g-force limit and the handling vehicle of materials is stopped. Determining a weighted vehicle weight 25 for the material handling vehicle may comprise determining a service weight for the material handling vehicle; determine a load weight for the material handling vehicle; and adding the service weight and the load weight to determine the gross vehicle weight. Determining a gross vehicle weight for the material handling vehicle may further comprise limiting the gross vehicle weight to a predetermined maximum value.
Determining the acceleration of the material handling vehicle can comprise determining the speed of the material handling vehicle and performing three point differentiations of the speed of the material handling vehicle.
Calculating a pulse signal may involve multiplying the weight of
- vehicle driven by the acceleration of the material handling vehicle and by 0.146. Select a limit. pulse signal for the material handling vehicle may comprise selecting an initial pulse signal limit for the material handling vehicle; activate the vehicle for handling IO materials around a facility where the vehicle for handling materials is to be used; monitor impact signals generated while triggering the material handling vehicle; and selecting an impulse signal limit that is higher than the initial impulse signal limit, if impact signals are generated during the typical actuation of the material handling vehicle 15.
The method of detecting impacts on a material handling vehicle may further comprise storing information relating to at least one of the g-forces, impulse signals and impact signals on board the material handling vehicle.
The method of detecting inipacts on a material handling vehicle may further comprise transmitting information relating to at least one of g-forces, impulse signals and impact signals to a remote receiver.
The method of detecting hnactacts on a Material Handling vehicle can further comprise disabling operation of the material handling vehicle based on the impact signal. BRIEF DESCRIPTION. OF THE DRAWINGS
The following detailed description of the various embodiments of the present invention can be better understood when read in combination with the following drawings, where a similar structure is indicated with equal reference numerals, in which: Fig. 1 is a schematic illustration of a wireless communication system that allows mobile devices, such as fork lift trucks and other industrial vehicles, to communicate wirelessly with a server; Fig. 2 is a schematic illustration of the "5 wireless communication system of Fig. 1 in an implementation that is distributed
- across multiple locations; Fig. 3 is a schematic illustration of the wireless communication system of Fig, 1 in an implementation that is still communicated with a remote server; 10 Fig. 4 is a schematic illustration of a plurality of enterprise systems communicably coupled to a common server, where each enterprise comprises an implementation of the wireless communication system of Fig. 1; Fig. 5A is an illustration of an exemplary mobile active information linker to enable wireless communication; Fig. 5B is an exemplary behavior of the operator of a vehicle d, and material handling, illustrating a mobile active information link device to enable wireless communication, which is integrated into a vehicle control area; 20 Fig. 6 is a block diagram of an exemplary integration of the components of a mobile active information link device within the control system of a mobile asset; Fig. 7 is a block diagram of an exemplary implementation of recording possible triggered data according to various aspects of the present invention; Fig. 8 is a diagram of a workflow entering the system; Fig. 9 is a flow chart of a checklist operation;
Fig. 10 is a flowchart of a checklist operation with asset-derived application list verification; Fig. Ll is a block diagram illustrating the communication of reference material from an application server to a mobile asset; "5 Fig. 12 is a block diagram to implement tuning - of mobile asset performance; Fig. 13 is a block diagram to implement demarcated area.
Fig. 14 is a block diagram for receiving 10O wireless software updates; Fig. 15 is a block diagram of a processor and memory of a wireless interface controller; Fig. 16 is a block diagram of an exemplary system for wireless communication of environmental information; and 15 Fig. 17, when placed above Fig. 18, forms a block diagram of an exemplary impact measurement system that can be used with a pool control system.
MODES FOR CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION In the detailed description, reference is made to the accompanying drawings 20 which are part of this, and in which it is shown by way of illustration, and not by way of limitation, specific embodiments in which the invention can be practiced . It should be understood that other embodiments can be used and that changes can be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the various forms of realization of the present invention. According to various aspects of the present invention, hardware and software systems are provided to enable mobile assets to communicate over a wireless network environment. Systems, computer implemented methods and computer program products are also provided to leverage wireless communication and / or mobile asset processing capabilities with a robust software solution to implement large enterprise asset control functions to integrate data mobile assets in existing workflows and / or to enable integration of trusted third parties into the enterprise for increased assets and / or workflow control. and System Architecture Aspects of the present invention comprise systems that enable mobile assets to communicate wirelessly with applications developed in an enterprise computing environment. As used here, a mobile asset is any piece of equipment that is capable of moving or otherwise being moved around a workplace. Exemplary mobile assets include material handling vehicles, such as fork lift trucks, reach trucks, tower trucks, walkie stacking truck tow tractors, manually operated 15-pallet trucks, etc. Typical material handling vehicles include a main body that houses traction engines, an internal combustion engine, batteries, hydraulic systems, driving systems and the like, and a mast or tower along which load-carrying devices are moved in a general vertical direction.
Referring to the drawings and particularly to Fig. 1, an exemplary computer environment 10 is illustrated, which includes components that support wireless communication capability. A plurality of movable assets 12, such as material handling vehicles (shown as bracket forklift conveyors having a main body and mast for the convenience of illustration), each includes a communication device that enables the movable asset 12 communicate wirelessly with a processing device, just like a mobile asset application server 14. Mobile asset application server 14 can further interact with a data resource 16, for example, one or more databases, data stores or other sources of information, to facilitate interaction with mobile assets 12, which will be described in more detail here.
The computing environment 10 may also support additional processing devices 8, which may include, for example, "5 servers, personal computers, microcomputers (notebooks),
"transactional systems, application or broadcast computing devices, such as personal data assistants (PDAs), handling computers, cellular access processing devices, special-purpose computing devices, network storage devices and / or 10 other devices capable of interacting with the computing environment 10. One or more of the processing devices 18 can also communicate with the mobile assets 12 and / or the mobile asset application server 14 through the computing environment 10 The wireless communication architecture can be based on a standard wireless fidelity infrastructure (W1Fi), as can be developed using 802.11 b / g wireless networks for a communications protocol.
However, any other protocol can alternatively be implemented.
For example, one or more points of. wireless access 20 can be used for relay data between a wireless transceiver 20 of each mobile asset 12 and one or more wired devices in the computing environment 10, for example, the mobile asset application server 14. In this regard , each access point 20 can comprise any device capable of relaying data between wired or wireless connections.
The number of access points 20 and their placement can be determined based on the specific implementation.
For example, in a relatively large location, for example, a commercial establishment, distribution facility, retail distributor, etc., numerous access points 20 may be required to provide wireless communications coverage through a projected area in that mobile assets 12 are to be operated.
In addition, computing environment 10 may be supported by one or more cabling concentrators 22 and / or other network components that interconnect the various hardware and / or software processing devices, including, for example, routers, firewalls, "5 network interfaces and corresponding interconnections.
Private network components
- provided in computing environment 10 can thus be selected to support one or more intranets, extranets, local area networks (LAN), wide area networks (WAN), wireless networks (W1Fi), Intemet, including World wide web, and / or other arrangements to enable communication through computing environment 10, in real time or otherwise, for example, via time shift, batch processing, etc.
Referring to Fig. 2, a distributed enterprise architecture can also be implemented, for example, in which several local computing environments 10 are connected via a network 24, 15 such as a LAN, WAN, Intemet, etc. .
Each local computing environment 10 can represent, for example, one of n different sites that comprise a larger computing enterprise 26, where enterprise 26 provides some form of common network control or supervision through associated local computing environments 10. For For example, an entity may have operations on multiple distinct physical site loops, whereas the computer systems at each site are interconnected, capable of communication, or are otherwise integrated.
Under this configuration, each site can maintain its own mobile asset application server 14, or enterprise 26 can control that site l-n from a centralized location 25.
For purposes of illustration, the mobile asset application server 14 is shown to reside on site 1.
Under this arrangement, mobile assets 12 on sites 2-n can communicate with the mobile asset application server 14 over network 24. Referring to Fig. 3, in another exemplary implementation,
1 The one or more computing environments 10 and / or co-computing enterprises 26 may further communicate with a remote server 30, such as over network 32. Remote server 30 may comprise, for example, a third server that interacts with mobile assets 12, the "5 mobile asset application server 14 and / or other
- processing 18 of the computing environment (s) 10O / computing enterprise (s) 26. The remote server 30 can also interact with a data resource 34, for example, one or more databases, memory data or other sources of information, as will be described in more detail here. In this configuration, network 32 can be the same as, or different from network 24, seen in Fig. 2. For example, both networks 24, 32 can comprise Intemet.
As another example, network 24 may comprise a LAN or WAN and network 32 may comprise Intemet.
Referring to Fig. 4, remote server 30 can interact with 15 multiple computing enterprises 26, where each computing enterprise 26 may have one or more sites, for example, local computing environments 10, as shown in Fig. 2. This allows, for example, a third party, such as the manufacturer of mobile assets 12, to electronically communicate with 26 participating computer enterprises, 20 including communications with selected mobile assets 12, a selected mobile asset communications server 14, a selected data resource 16 and / or another processing device 18 within a corresponding enterprise 26, as will be described in more detail here.
Fig. 4 further illustrates an exemplary enterprise 26 as having a computing environment, 25 including multiple processing devices 18, as well as multiple access points 20, to illustrate the flexibility of these exemplary implementations.
Referring to Figs. 1-4 generally, it can be seen that, depending on the particular implementation, data corresponding to wireless communications with mobile assets 12 can be locally maintained, for example, on a particular website, such as a local computing environment 10.
Data corresponding to wireless communications with mobile assets 12 can also be shared through the websites of a "5 larger computing enterprise.
In addition, data corresponding to
- wireless communications with mobile assets 12 can be shared between sites / enterprises 10, 26, etc., and remote server (s) 30, which
- can be maintained by a trusted third party, such as a mobile asset manufacturer, or multiple trusted third parties. 10 Wireless Communication System Interfaces Conceptually, at least three general classes of interface can be provided to interact with the wireless communication systems illustrated in Figs. 1-4. The first class of interface is provided in a mobile asset 12. The second class of interface is provided in a fixed location of 15 intra-enterprise and the third class of interface is provided in an inter-enterprise location.
A "fixed intra-enterprise location" corresponds to a fixed location processing device (not installed on a mobile asset 12) that is under the control and / or supervision of an entity associated with a corresponding enterprise 26. As an example , the second class of interface (intra-enterprise) can be implemented by a software client that runs on a personal computer, laptop, etc., within a corresponding local computing environment 10 or is otherwise part of enterprise 26 which is registered within the mobile asset application server 14. The sofhvare client can alternatively be registered in a processing device 18, such as a warehouse control system application that interacts with one or more mobile assets. 12 and / or mobile asset application server 14, etc.
An intercompany location corresponds to a remote remote location for the control / supervision of a local IO computing environment or associated enterprise 26.
For example, a third class (intercompany) interface, can be implemented by a software client that runs on a site processing device
5 remote, such as a personal computer, laptop, etc., registered on the server
· Remote 30 that can be operated by a trusted third party, such as an equipment manufacturer.
The inter-enterprise interface can enable interaction with data stored in a corresponding data resource 34, which was obtained via communication with one or more 10 mobile asset information servers 14 and / or mobile assets 12 of one or more enterprises 26. A interoperability interface can also / alternatively enable interaction between the remote server 30 and one or more mobile assets 12 or the mobile asset application servers 14 through one or more corresponding computing environments 15 10 / developments 26. One style Client-Web navigation can be used to implement one or more of the various interface classes that will be described in greater detail below.
The user's role in a particular interface can influence how that user interacts with the system according to several aspects of the present invention.
For example, a business user, who wants to interact with the system on an active mobile interface, can assume the role of a mobile asset operator, an authorized intra-business user, who cannot be the active operator, such as a supervisor / adrninistrador, a person of technological support of the information,
25 a mechanic / service person, etc.
In the same way, a third user can access the system via a mobile asset interface, such as when implementing the role of an asset / component / accessory / supplier or peripheral manufacturer, technician, support person, sales representative, etc.
Each user can have different needs, goals,
capacity, limitations and requirements when interacting with the wireless communication system of the mobile asset interface, examples of which are described here. In the same way, an understanding user in a
W 5 fixed location interface for intra-system understanding "wireless communication, for example, a user on a computer registered on a corresponding mobile asset application server 14 can implement any number of roles, including, for example: an authorized user intrapreneurship, such as a supervisor / administrator; 10 an information technology administrator or support person; a mechanic / service person; an asset operator who is not currently operating a mobile asset, etc. Again, each user It may have different needs, objectives, capacity, limitations and requirements when interacting with the wireless communication system of the intra-enterprise fixed location interface The intra-enterprise (remote) interface can be used, for example, by a third party. trust, such as a manufacturer, supplier, supplier, sales representative, etc. of assets. and peripheral manufacturers, suppliers, maintenance providers, sales representatives, etc. assets can also interact with the wireless communications system, for example, via a remote intercompany interface. Whether or not a remote intercom / remote server interface 30 can interact with a particular enterprise 26 will also depend on the specific implementation 25 of the various aspects of the wireless communications system described in more detail here. The Interface & Mobile Asset Referring to Fig. 5A, a fixable mobile asset information connection device 38 is illustrated. The mobile asset information linking device 38 implements a mobile asset interface that facilitates interaction with the user of mobile asset 12, for example, a material handling vehicle, and is made possible by hardware and software, as will be described in more detail here.
The illustrated mobile asset information connection device 38 includes, in general, an antenna 40, which attaches to a transceiver for wireless communication ('not shown in Fig. 5A), a monitor 41, and controls 42 for interacting with a user.
Although shown for purposes of illustration as an external antenna 40, the antenna may alternatively be internal to the connector or otherwise configured.
The information link device 38 may further include additional aspects, such as a reading device 43, such as a pocket reader or other device for electronically obtaining information entering the operator's system.
The procedures for entering the operator's system are described in more detail here.
The mobile asset information link 38 can alternatively be integrated (built in) with a corresponding mobile asset 12, as illustrated in Fig. 5B.
As shown for purposes of illustration, the mobile asset information link 38 is integrated with a work area, for example, a console in an operator's compartment.
In this configuration, the aspects of the mobile asset interface 38, more fully described here, can be integrated directly with other existing vehicle aspects and functions typically embedded in the monitor and corresponding controls.
Within a given computer enterprise 26, site 10, or other suitable computing environment, each mobile asset information linking device 38 is treated or otherwise derived from a unique identifier, which is known or made known to the corresponding server mobile asset application server 14. Thus, using the known identifiers, the mobile asset application server 14 can conduct targeted communications with mobile asset information link devices 38, or broadcast information for groups or for all link devices mobile asset information information 38 that are associated with that mobile asset application server 14. » "5 According to one aspect of the present invention, to start
- communication between the mobile asset application server 14 and a mobile asset information linking device 38, a recognition sequence is implemented.
For example, the mobile asset application server 14 can send a request or ping from a specific mobile asset information link device 38 over a mobile asset 12. If the pinged mobile asset information link device 38 responds, an exchange of information takes place between the mobile asset information link 38 and the mobile asset application server 14. Referring to Fig. 6, a block diagram illustrates an exemplary implementation of an information link device of mobile asset 38 which has been integrated into a control system of a corresponding mobile asset 12, such as a material handling vehicle.
The integrated system shown in Fig. 6 can be implemented regardless of whether the mobile asset information link 38 is attached to a mobile asset 20 plus an additional one (Fig. 5A) or whether the information link device mobile asset 38 is integrated into the corresponding mobile asset 12 (Fig. 5B). The mobile asset information link 38 comprises a monitor control module 44 for controlling display 41 (shown in Figs. 5A, 5B), and an input / output control module 45, 25 that is associated with controls 42 (also shown in Figs. 5A, 5B). The mobile asset information connection device 38 further comprises a transeeptor 46, a monitoring input / output module 48, a wireless communications interface controller 50, and vehicle power conditioning / conditioning circuits 52.
Transceiver 46 can provide, for example, two-way communication with processing devices, including server computers, such as the mobile asset application server 14 through the corresponding computing environment.
The "5 monitoring 48 input / output module can be used to receive sensors and control inputs and / or to control outputs, such as horn, buzzer, lights and other active components and / or devices.
As just a few exemplary illustrations, the monitoring input / output module 48 can interface with analog sensors 54, switches 56, encoders and other similar input devices 58, impact sensor (s) 60, measurement input (s) 62 and any other analog or digital input and / or output signals 64 to integrate such information within the wireless communications system.
The monitoring input / output module 48 allows data logging capabilities to be used, for example, to monitor displacement usage meters, hydraulic usage meters, steering usage meters, operator usage meters, heterogeneous sensor and other types of data related to assets.
The information detected by the monitoring input / output module 48 can be temporarily stored, collected,
conserved, collected, manipulated and / or otherwise processed, for example, by a processor and corresponding memory (not shown in Fig. 6) of interface controller 50 or another suitable processor and memory, which can be provided as part of electronic mobile assets.
In addition, the collected information can be communicated to a corresponding mobile asset application server 14, for example, using transceiver 46. Interface controller 50 may comprise a processor, memory, software, resident hardware programming, etc., suitable for controlling the functions of the mobile asset information linking device 38, as described more fully here.
In addition, the interface controller processor is configured to communicate with transceiver 46, wirelessly through the Go-free computing environment, to a corresponding server computer, for example, "5 the application server 14. The active force enabling circuits
- mobile 52, where applicable, allow power to be provided to the mobile asset information connection device 38, even when the corresponding mobile asset 12, such as a material handling vehicle, is switched off.
In addition, the mobile asset strength enabling circuits 52 10 can be tied to the mobile asset ignition to avoid moving asset assets, unless certain conditions are met, or to force mobile asset outages, as shown, uematically represented by the switch shown inside box 52- As an example, starting conditions for mobile asset can be evaluated by interface controller 50 of mobile asset information link device 38 or other suitable processor, before allowing mobile asset 12 turned on and fully functional for the operation.
In an illustrative implementation where a mobile asset 12 comprises a material handling vehicle, such as a forklift truck 20, the components of the mobile asset information link device 38 can be coupled to and / or communicate with other components of the mobile asset system, via a suitable mobile asset network system 68, for example, a vehicle network bus.
The mobile asset 68 network system is any wired or wireless network, 25 bus or other communication capability that allows electronic components of the mobile asset 12 to communicate with each other.
As an example, the mobile asset 68 network system may comprise a controlling area network bus (CAN), ZigBee, Bluetooth, Local Interconnected Network (LIN), time driven data bus protocol (TTP) or another strategy adequate communication.
As will be described more fully here, the use of the mobile asset network system 68 enables the wireless integration of the components of the mobile asset information link 38 into native electronics, "5 including mobile asset controllers 12 and, optionally , any
- peripheral electronics associated with mobile asset 12 that integrate with and can communicate through network system 68. Thus, as an example, a processor provided in a material handling vehicle, for example, when provided within the 10 interface controller 50 or otherwise integrated within the material handling vehicle, can be configured to implement at least one function by wireless communication with the application server via transceiver 46 and interacting with at least one component of the vehicle. material handling through the vehicle network bus, such as 15 communicating with at least one native control module 70, 72, 74, 76, 78, 80, 82 of the material handling vehicle through the vehicle network system 68. Integration is also achieved where event codes and other communications via the vehicular network bus are well understood by the Information Connector 3 8 device, so 20 possibilities enabling interaction between the application server 14, the information linking device 38, and the material handling vehicle at the machine component level.
For example, the processor provided within interface controller 50, or otherwise integrated within the material handling vehicle, can transmit configuration information to at least one component of the material handling vehicle over the vehicle network bus and / or receiving operational information of one or more vehicle components via the vehicle network system 68 which is transported to the application server 14. The processor can also filter, manipulate or otherwise process the information transmitted via the vehicle network bus , where numerous examples are described in more detail here. The CAN protocol is a convenient network platform for 5 mobile assets 12, such as material handling vehicles, when there is no addressing of subscribers or stations in the conventional network sense. Instead, CAN defines a prioritized system of transmitted messages where the priority of a given message broadcast through CAN is dependent on an identifier code. That is, each participating CAN can broadcast a message that includes an identifier and the message to be communicated. Each message can compete to access the bus with messages generated by other CAN participants, and priority will typically be determined based on the identifier codes. However, a message broadcast from a first participant can be received by all central points or participants connected to the CAN bus. Each participant can now be programmed to decide, for example, based on the identifier or other information encoded in the message received, whether that participant should start acting on the basis of the messages received. The mobile asset network system 68 may alternatively comprise any other bus system or communications architectures. As such, each network participant may broadcast, broadcast point-to-point or otherwise communicate with one or more of the other participants in the mobile asset network system 68.
Where the information link device 38 is connected to the mobile asset network system 68, communication is open and can be carried out between coniponents or otherwise connected to the information link device 38 and the other components and modules of the information system. mobile asset, thus enabling a strong coupling of wireless aspects with core vehicle capability.
For example, the mobile asset can include a component or module, such as a monitor and corresponding display controller 70. The inonitor can be a conventionally implemented device that provides vehicle operation status, "5 maintenance messages, etc.
Communication from the
- information 38 with the monitor and display controller 70, for example via network system 68, allows consolidation of monitors and directs the vehicle operator to a single point of reference for 'vehicle interaction and capacity without thread. 10 As another example, the information link device 38 can communicate with input / output controls and the corresponding I / O controller 72, such as to control switches, buttons, levers, cranks, pedals, etc., which are designated for mobile asset functions.
The information link device 38 can also communicate with a
15 vehicle control module (VCM) 74, which controls the electronic capacity of the mobile asset, a motor control module 76, which controls the driving wheels of the vehicle, a hydraulic control module 78, which controls the hydraulics, for example example, lifting the vehicle and any other controllers / modules and other electronics 80 that are associated with the mobile asset.
In addition, the information link device 38 can communicate with other heterogeneous devices, such as a keyless entry pocket reader 82 or any other devices that are attached to the vehicle.
Controllers / modules and other electronics 80, 82 can also include scanning technologies, such as barcode scans, RFID and other label scanning technologies, hardware to support warehouse control systems and other enterprise software, printers and other devices, as well as other teenologies that an operator can currently use as separate components.
As an alternative for communication via network systenia 68, components can be communicated together with the information link device 38, via an input 64 coupled to the monitoring input / output module 48 or via another input suitable for the "5 controller interface 50, such as where a separate co-component data, for
- example, a tag reader, cannot communicate via CAN bus or other vehicle network system 68 of mobile asset 12. Regardless of whether multiple components communicate via network system 68, for example, components vehicle, or via input 10 64 of the Information Connecting device 38, the various components of mobile asset 12, for example, I / O controller 72, VCM 74, motor control module 76, motor control module hydraulic 78 and other controllers 80, can be integrated into an enterprise infrastructure using the mobile asset information link 15 to incorporate all misfortunes flowing into or out of mobile asset 12 in a container. wirelessly transmitted data that interacts with other enterprise resources.
In an illustrative implementation, the mobile asset information link device 38 comprises a monitor 41, which can communicate via the mobile asset network system 68, for example, CAN bus.
This allows monitor 41 to be shared with mobile asset modules external to device 38. In addition, mobile asset 12 can now comprise an appropriate display such as monitor 70, which can communicate via the CAN bus, for example, with interface controller 25 50. In this arrangement, monitor 41 of information link device 38 may be optional.
Similarly, the input / output control module 45 may be optional, for example, where suitable controls capable of interfacing with interface controller 50 are implemented by the input / output controls 72 of mobile asset 12.
Thus, as an illustrative example, application server software 14 can be used to store customization parameters that are used to customize one or more aspects of a material handling vehicle. Based on the "5 identification information provided by the material handling vehicle for application server 14, for example, the identification of the particular material handling vehicle or registered operator, the customization parameters can be received by the handling vehicle. of materials from the application server 14, via the transceiver of its corresponding lThe information link device 38, Customization parameters can be used to reconfigure at least one aspect of the material handling vehicle, examples of which are more fully described here. As an illustrative example, the monitoring input / output module 48 can be used to couple control inputs and / or outputs with the processor to the corresponding wireless communication interface controllers 50 via a connector. "N" conductors that connect to the connector with corresponding input and output components, shown as composed components 54, 56, 58, 60, 62 and 64. It may be that different vehicles have different input / output needs.
20 In addition, events of the same type of input / output device may operate differently, for example, based on implemented logic, such as high active or low active, etc. Therefore, a server administrator can map inputs and outputs to any vehicle by storing application server input / output PIN programming parameters 14. 25 So, for example, application server 14 can be used to customize and install settings, parameters , etc. for each PIN of the connector and carry this information to the vehicle, so that the processor in the interface controller 50 can configure the input / output module 48 to identify the PIN for the appropriate installed hardware.
Thus, aspects of driver choices can be reconfigured according to the repaired personalization parameters associated with vehicle identification. As such, the processor of the interface controller 50 can communicate with the plurality of electronic components, for example "5, 54, 56, 58, 60, 62, 64, via the monitoring I / O module 48 with - based in the parameters that distribute specific functions for each of the plurality of conductors that are coupled to the processor for the plurality of electronic components.
Data Collection 10 The information detected by the monitoring input / output module 48, or otherwise obtained by accessing the network system 68, can be temporarily stored, collected, preserved, manipulated and / or otherwise processed, by example, by a processor and corresponding memory of the interface controller 50 or by another suitable processor and memory, which can be provided as part of the mobile asset electronics. In addition, the collected information can be transmitted to the application server 14, for example, using transceiver 46. Thus, the information link device 38 can be used to facilitate data coupling, registering from of mobile asset 20 12 of the mobile asset application server 14. As will be described in more detail here, this approach can be used to create a history of operational parameter values that can vary over time, such as speed, temperature, state battery charge, registered service codes, height, weight and other measurable parameters.
25 As an example, the exchange of information via the vehicle network system 68 of a material handling vehicle can be monitored. If a predetermined event associated with the material handling vehicle is detected, the processor provided within interface controller 50, or otherwise integrated within the material handling vehicle, can be configured to implement a function in response to detect a predetermined event for wireless communication associated with the event between a server computer, for example, the application server 14 and the "5 material handling vehicle, via transceiver 46. The interface controller processor 50
"can also interact with at least one component of the material handling vehicle through the vehicle network system 68 in response to the event to implement the function.
Thus, the data collection capacity of the mforInation link 10 device can be used to implement data file activities triggered at the event.
For example, the detection of a predetermined event can trigger the processor of the interface controller 5.0 to start recording certain data, and recording certain data, files a predetermined window of collected data and / or otherwise performs another operation (s) prescribed (s). The mobile asset information link 38 can also continuously or periodically monitor certain vehicle parameters.
If all monitored parameters are within the prescribed tolerances, such recorded data can be subsequently summarized, deleted, sent to the server of 20 applications 14, etc.
As an illustrative example, if one of the monitored parameters is speed, the system can record a sample of the truck's speed at predetermined intervals.
Through a prescribed period of time, if no event of interest is detected, 25 then the system can only save the top speed, an average computed speed and / or some other measure.
Referring to Fig. 7, according to aspects of the present invention, a method 90 is illustrated for integrating material handling vehicles with enterprise computing systems.
The information is monitored through the vehicle network bus at 92, for example, to create a data record. If a predetermined trigger event is detected at 94, any additional data can be transmitted to the data log via the material handling vehicle's network bus at '5 96. The processor provided within interface controller 50, or from another · integrated mode within the material handling vehicle, it can then transmit the information associated with the event in 98, for example, creating a Matory of the event from the data record, in which the event report can cover data accumulated through from a time window, such as spanning a period of time before the trigger event to a time after the trigger event. The processor can also wirelessly transmit the generated event report to the application server 14.
If a trigger event is detected, such as the detection of a parameter that exceeds a predetermined tolerance, then the registered content 15 can be stored, for example, by transmitting the information to the application server 14. So, for example, if the vehicle's speed, load or other measurable parameter exceeds a threshold or other defined condition, then specific data can be accumulated, collected, collected, etc. in an event report and such data can be transmitted 20 to the application server 14.
As another example, if an impact from one of the impact sensors is detected, for example, if a detected impact exceeds one or more predetermined impact conditions, an event process can be triggered, which creates an event report by saving recorded data from a time window that can extend a predetermined time before impact to a predetermined time after impact. Additionally, the event can trigger the accumulation of specific data harmful to the impact. For example, in the detection of an impact, certain vehicle components can be selected and probed, for example, through the vehicle network bus to check the operation status information. In addition, certain data may be desired regardless of the type of impact, such as recording a time stamp, operator identification, etc. As such, a flight recorder function can be "5 implemented to create a recording of the event of interest.
= As yet another illustrative example, the triggering of an impact can be based on an impact sensor detection that exceeds a predetermined threshold value. These values can be stored as parameters in the application server 14 and can be transmitted to the vehicle 10. As such, the conditions required to satisfy a type of impact of the event can be dynamically adjusted and customized, changing parameters of the application server. application 14, and wirelessly transmitting the modified parameters to vehicle 12. An asset operator can leverage the capacity of the mobile asset application server 14, as well as the capacity of the mobile asset information link 38 and the your mobile asset, to implement a number of central aspects of the operator and / or system capacity. These centric aspects of the operator (oriented operator) are directed to enable efficiencies, conveniences and functionality related to, for example, the operation of the mobile asset 12 or the performance of the operator's designated tasks, such as performance / optimization / customization of the operator. asset, education / assistance and training and / or providing task / workflow efficiency implementations, examples of which are described in greater detail below. Operator's authorization The wireless communication system can be used to facilitate the control of the authorization of the mobile asset operator and / or the operator's license / certification. Under this arrangement, the movable asset operator is required to make a valid entry into the system before a corresponding movable asset 12, for example, a fork lift conveyor, can be operated.
In order to successfully record mobile assets 12, the system entry operation can take into account any number of factors, conditions and circumstances, examples of which are described>
"5 in more detail below.
Referring to Fig. 8, a block diagram illustrates a sequence of entry into the exemplary system, including corresponding activities of the pre-entry server in the system.
Before a user can register on the movable asset, for example, a forklift conveyor 12A, the user must be included in a list of authorized users associated with that movable asset (forklift conveyor 12A in the current example). The list of authorized users can be provided for mobile asset 12A by the mobile asset application server 14, which forms, modifies, maintains or otherwise supports authorized user lists.
The mobile asset application server 14 can form or niodify lists based on an initiated process, or the mobile asset application server 14 can periodically form or moclify authorized user lists, such as based on the detection of predetermined events, including changes in the status of operators, mobile assets, etc., based on predetermined intervals, or based on other conditions or circumstances.
Examples of lists of generation and distribution of authorized users for corresponding mobile assets 12 are described in more detail here.
To form a list of authorized users for the forklift conveyor 12A, the mobile asset application server 14 can process through a list of operators, just as it can be maintained in a database, table or other suitable format stored within of data resource 16 associated with the mobile asset application server 14. For example, application server 14 can consider each user in a user list at 102, such as examining the next user in a user list- of being an authorized user for a given mobile asset 12, an operator may be required to satisfy certain predetermined needs and / or conditions. "5 For example, the mobile asset application server 14 can consider factors, such as the location of the mobile asset, in determining whether a given user should be considered an authorized user for a corresponding mobile asset. As an example, a warehouse can include a linked area that a given user may be authorized to work in. If a mobile asset 12 is located in the linked area, then the user may not be an authorized user Alternatively, if the same mobile asset is outside the linked area , then the user may be an authorized user. As another example, a user may not be authorized to drive a forklift conveyor on a loading dock. Therefore, that user may be an authorized user, unless the corresponding mobile asset be at the loading dock.
Alternatively, there can be multiple sites within an enterprise and a user can only be authorized in one location on the specific site. Thus, a user who is authorized to operate a fork lift truck at site 1 (see Fig. 2, for example) cannot be authorized to operate the same fork lift truck or the same type of fork lift truck at sites 2 -n. With yet other examples, a user may be authorized to operate only specific types, classes, etc., of movable assets 12. As an example, a user may be authorized to operate seated forklift forklifts balanced from sitting, but not driving forklifts . Therefore, that user can be an authorized user only on lists associated with balanced fork lift truck conveyors. Furthermore, a user can be authorized only for specific mobile assets within a given type or class of mobile asset.
As an example, a user may be authorized to operate a specific fork lift truck conveyor, which is identified by a specific unique identifier, such as a serial number.
Therefore, that "5 user would only be an authorized user for a list associated with the
. corresponding fork lift truck conveyor having the associated serial number.
Other factors, such as time, day, daA etc., can also be considered.
For example, the end of a job exchange could automatically trigger a workflow that would cause mobile asset application server 10 to form a new list of authorized asset users to select mobile assets 12 (or all), having lists of authorized users corresponding to users working on the new change.
This updated list can then be automatically communicated to the corresponding mobile assets 12. As yet another example, lists of 15 authorized users can be adjusted based on the obtained / updated certifications, training, etc.
As shown, a check is carried out on 104 to see if any (any) license (s) / certificate (s) for that authorized user are (are) required and, if required, if (ARE) ARE still valid (s). In this regard, the mobile asset application server 14 can maintain a License / Identification file that tracks licenses / certifications and their expiration dates (or range of valid dates) for each user.
Therefore, the server software can verify that each operator license / setting is valid (where applicable) by consulting the appropriate file (s). If a selected user is an otherwise authorized user, but their license (s) / certification (s) have expired, an appropriate workflow can be triggered at 106, such as by sending an e-notification. -mail or otherwise generating news of license / certificate expiration.
In addition, the operator having an expired (or non-
existing) can be deleted from the updated list of authorized users.
In this regard, application server 14 can also monitor license / certificate expiration dates and trigger workflows, such as for license / certificate renewal, where the expiration date is within a "5 predetermined date range , so that appropriate actions can be taken to allow such expirations.
The system can also check other parameters, events, conditions, etc., examples of which are described above.
If validity checks are met at 104, the user is added to a user list for forklift 12A at 108. A check is performed at 110 to determine whether all users have been checked.
If there are more users to check against their certifications, the process circuits go to 102, to consider the next user.
Rather than forming a new list, the server software can alternatively alter existing authorized user lists, such as based on changes to user licenses / certificates, operator characteristics, asset characteristics or other factors, as more fully observed on here.
If all users are considered, the appropriate updated list of appropriate users is transmitted by application server 14 to fork lift truck 12A at 112. For example, as schematically illustrated, a list of authorized users 114 is transmitted wirelessly from the server application number 14 for forklift truck 12A.
The extent to which the list of authorized operators is updated will depend on numerous factors of the specific implementation of the system.
For example, application server 14 can update the list maintained by forklift conveyor 12A only when the prior list of authorized users changes.
Thus, if a user is removed from the list of authorized users, that user will be removed from the
List maintained by forklift forklift carrier 12A the next time application server 14 successfully updates forklift forklift 12A with the new authorized user list in 112. "5 As an alternative, the forklift interface controller
. wireless communications 50, from the mobile asset information link 38 of the forklift forklift conveyor 12A, may, from time to time, communicate with the mobile asset application server 14, to request updates to your list approved asset operators. Furthermore, the mobile asset information link 38 can receive new authorized user lists that replace the existing authorized user list, or the mobile asset application server 14 can transmit changes only to the corresponding authorized user list. , in which case, the wireless communications interface controller 15 can modify its newly stored authorized user list based on data received from the mobile asset application server 14. Notably, in an exemplary implementation, mobile asset 12A only stores a list of authorized users, despite the fact that the mobile asset application server 14 may have considered numerous factors in determining which of those authorized users is for that mobile asset.
At some point after the forklift conveyor 12A has been programmed with a list of authorized users, an operator may be required to provide an operator identification.
Therefore, the operator can display system entry information at 120, such as by entering a personal identification number (PIN) or other appropriate system entry information.
The system input information can be input, for example, using controls 42 (as shown in 'Figs. 5A and 5B) that interact with the input / output control module
45. The system input information, received by the input / output control module 45, is transmitted to the interface controller 50, where it can be processed for the list of authorized users stored, for example, in the memory of the interface controller 50 . "5 As an alternative, the operator can use a fob that
. · Interacts with device reader 43 described with reference to Fig. 5A or the operator may present a keyless entry fob at 120 that interacts with fob reader 82 described with reference to Fig. 6 (if provided). In this configuration, the fob reader 82 transmits the input information in the 10O system to the interface controller 50, such as via the CAN bus or other mobile asset network system 68, via an input 64 coupled to the input monitoring module / output 48 of the mobile asset information connection device 38, or via another suitable input to interface controller 50. Otherwise, other techniques, including teenologies 15 of biometric input, can be used to transmit input information into the system with the interface controller 50. When an entry into the system is received, the interface controller 50 checks whether the 'system entry information displayed identifies an operator who is authorized to operate the fork lift conveyor 20 at 122. For example, the The interface controller 50 can compare the received identification information, such as an operator ID, with the list of authorized user IDS operator for the mobile asset I2A by application serviclor 14- Interface controller 50 can still time and record the attempted system entry, regardless of whether the attempt to enter the system was successful or failed.
If the attempt to enter the system has failed, interface controller 50 may provide an error message at 124, such as writing a suitable message to monitor 41. The attempt to enter the Hacassada system may also be recorded for the purpose of logging. Dice.
At some convenient time, the forklift conveyor 12A transmits the operator identification information and the tag for successful attempts to enter the system (and, optionally, Nacassada's) to the application server 14 and 126. For example, as schematically '5 illustrated, a file of attempts to enter system 128 is transmitted from the
. forklift conveyor 12A to application server 14.. In addition, the system continues to process at 130, for example, for. implement other functions, as explained more fully here- As mentioned above, the mobile asset application server 14 IO keeps track of each mobile asset user and the corresponding mobile assets that each user is authorized to operate.
The authorization of the mobile asset application server 14 can be contingent on a user having one or more valid (non-expired) license / certification, or based on any number of other factors, including asset location, asset class / type, 15 serial number of asset, day, time, date and other factors.
As yet another example, mobile assets can be allocated to areas, specific locations, tasks or other criteria and users can be authorized for those mobile assets only if the user is also associated with the same criteria. 20 In addition, positioning and other technologies can be used by the mobile asset application server 14 to determine the location of a level asset 12, in order to be able to assess the criteria associated with the application order.
Thus, even for the inexpensive mobile asset 12, an operator can be authorized under a first set of 25 conditions and unauthorized under a different set of conditions.
As an alternative to the above, logical decision, for example, environmental conditions, location, time, etc., can be evaluated by the interface controller 50 or by other logical processing of the forklift conveyor 12A or by the information link device 38 , or the logical decision can be shared between application server 14 and / or mobile asset processing capability 12. If an asset operator's license / certification expires, it is tracked by the server software controlled by the application server of ' 5 mobile asset 14, then the mobile asset application server 14, on an appropriate occasion, updates the list of authorized users corresponding to the affected mobile assets. This can automatically disable access. 'asset operator with the mobile assets affected by the detected license / set expiration and the associated update of the authorized users of the 10 corresponding mobile asset information linking device 38 of the corresponding mobile asset 12. As noted above, the application server 14 can form authorization lists based on operator ID, mobile asset / grouping ID and license / certification / training and other appropriate conditions. Once the application server 14 determines the list, only the corresponding IDS operator needs to be transmitted wirelessly for each corresponding mobile asset. Thus, from the side mobile asset, only the required parameter can be whether or not the operator ID is present in your local list of authorized users. 20 Once registered within mobile asset 12, the asset operator may be able to operate mobile asset 12 when necessary, or procedures may be required, such as completion and a checklist, as described in more detail here. Even though an operator is successfully registered on a mobile asset 12 for 25 operation, the wireless communications interface controller 50 can automatically record that the operator has hung up, for example, where monitored asset activities are unemployed for a specific period of time or where it was determined that the operator left the vehicle.
Numerous techniques can be used to detect the operator's exit.
For example, the system can monitor traction, hydraulics and other mobile asset parameters and determine periods of inactivity.
In addition, sensors can be provided on the seat and in other appropriate locations on the mobile asset, which can be used to determine whether or not the operator is still on the mobile asset. m In addition, the wireless communications interface controller 50 can be programmed, for example, via the mobile asset interface, such as using controls 42, or by the mobile asset application server 14, to allow a mobile asset 12 is temporarily "locked" for 10 a specific amount of time.
For example, an asset operator may temporarily lock a movable asset 12 to reserve that asset before the asset operator is ready for immediate use of the asset.
As another example, a movable asset may be temporarily closed, for example, by a supervisor or maintenance person, to designate the asset as being "unavailable". Pre-Use Inspection Checklist / Inspection may be desired or required, such as before using a movable asset 12 or on other appropriate occasions.
Typically, the inspection process is carried out using a checklist
20 based on paper, it directs the user to check specific enumerated items in the list.
Therefore, the particular checklist may be different for each type of furniture that is implemented.
In an illustrative implementation, after an operator has successfully registered with a material handling vehicle, as described more fully here, the operator is required to complete a checklist having a plurality of checklist items before the system decide whether to enable the material handling vehicle for normal operation, for example, by presenting a series of checklist items to the operator, via monitor 41 or 70, verbally or otherwise.
The operator can respond to items on the list. and record the appropriate results via the controls 42 provided in the mobile asset information link 38. This approach to an electronic checklist can be used to ensure that mobile assets 12, '5 such as vehicle handling vehicles materials, be inspected for
· Proper operation, to identify the need for repairs, to enable ^ maintenance alerts, etc. A mobile asset 12 can be blocked during operation. or reduced operational functionality based on a failure to complete the verification list.
A NOVEL asset 12 can also be blocked in operation or reduced in functionality of operation as a result of one or more responses provided for the checklist.
In addition, an employer strike may remain in effect until a determination has been obtained that the asset is in proper operating condition. 15 For example, where the movable asset comprises a forklift or other material handling vehicle, the checklist may be presented to the asset operator in the form of question entries, statements, status or other appropriate formats that refer to the pre -operation and operation of the forklift.
The checklist items can also address problems related to the work environment, work processes, the operator, etc.
As some illustrative examples, the operator may be asked to visually inspect a forklift for signs of structural damage, leaks, operation of components such as the horn, brakes, steering, hydraulic controls, etc. 25 Referring to Fig. 9, in an exemplary implementation, a checklist operation starts at 152. The checklist operation can take place automatically, such as after the operator has successfully registered with mobile asset 12. The checklist items can be generated on the mobile asset application server 14, in case the checklist items are transmitted wirelessly to the mobile asset information link device 38 of the corresponding mobile asset 12 and are stored on the interface controller 50 or other suitable storage location within the "Mobile asset 38 information link device" or otherwise within the mobile asset electronics 12. & Based on a predetermined interval, the items on the m verification can be changed at 154. For example, controller 0p interface 50 can reorder checklist items. Alternatively, the mobile asset application server 14 can reorder sort / change the items in the checklist 10 and wirelessly transmit the revised checklist items to the corresponding mobile asset 12. Thus, the operator can be presented with the checklist items that appear in a different order of time in times. The items on the checklist can be reordered, 15 mixing randomly or otherwise changing their order or sequence. As another example, items on the watch list can be changed by change, if an "ok" condition is expressed as a positive or negative condition. For example, on one occasion, the checklist item might ask, "Hydraulics working properly " On a next occasion, the checklist item may ask, "Hydraulic leak " The answer for each checklist item is saved in
158. Along with the recorded response, a time stamp or other metadata can be recorded. A check is then made, in 160, if all 25 items on the checklist have been presented to the operator. If not, the operating circuits go back to 156, to present the next checklist item to the operator. If all items on the checklist are presented to the operator, a decision is made in 162 whether each item on the checklist has been handled properly. If the checklist answers are all ok, then an appropriate action is implemented in 164, such as clarification on the checklist screen and / or enabling the corresponding mobile asset 12 for full operation, if mobile asset 12 does not. is already fully enabled "5 made possible.
For example, if an evaluation of the results of the list of
4. check for a fork lift conveyor indicates that the fork lift conveyor is suitable for operation, the ~ truck can be enabled for nonnal operation and the checklist results can be transmitted wirelessly to a computer, for example, the application server 14. A. Alternatively, if a checklist item response indicates that a problem may exist, an action is implemented in 166. The precise action may depend on the nature of the checklist item that indicates a problem .
For example, if the checklist item refers to a "charged battery" and the operator answers "no", because the battery is less than fully charged, mobile asset 12 can be enabled for full operation and a workflow operation can be initiated to schedule an appropriate occasion at a battery change / recharge station.
Like other illustrative examples 20, mobile asset 12 may be invalidated or otherwise reduced in purpose until the problem detected is corrected, if justified by the nature of the checklist responses.
As mentioned above, on a suitable occasion, the checklist responses, recorded in 158, are transmitted to a computer, for example, the mobile active application server 14, for storage, automatic generation of checklist reports , data analysis, etc.
In an exemplary implementation, a single checklist item can be reserved for presentation at the end.
For example, the checklist operation, regardless of the order of most items,
you can always end by asking if the asset is in condition for operation with a required yes / no answer. Furthermore, the system can store questions and expected answers. If the response provided by the operator is not the expected response, the unexpected response is also "5 stored.
As another illustrative example, the checklist may ask specific questions to check whether or not the operator can demonstrate that they are adequately trained to operate that mobile asset 12. As an example, if the mobile asset comprises a forklift conveyor 10 & A checklist item may ask "What is the maximum load capacity " Such a checklist question would require the operator to know the answer, or at least be trained to locate and read a capacity plate or other designated mark provided on the mobile asset 12. Any other questions that may be asked that require the operator to demonstrate knowledge of specific characteristics of the mobile asset 12 to be operated. Thus, as the operator works with different types of mobile assets, the items on the checklist can be used to verify that the operator knows and understands the characteristics of each mobile asset 12, or knows where to look to find the appropriate information. In this regard, an incorrect answer 20 may or may not affect the operator's ability to use the mobile asset.
12. For example, a wrong answer to a checklist question can be logged back to the mobile asset application server 14 to trigger an appropriate workflow, such a start of additional operator training. For example, an operator who misses the answer (s) for the checklist item may require a recap training activity, which can be automatically or manually triggered based on an appropriate workflow. The number of wrong answers, the equation of wrong answers or any other measure necessary to trigger a workflow and / or disable the operation of the mobile asset may be based on any number of factors that the specific application may dictate. checklist may be required on a per operator / per-shift basis, so as an example, three different asset operators can register on the mobile asset nismo 12 in a "5 tumo and each has to perform the inspection of the list verification.
0 - However, if an asset operator registers from outside mobile asset 12 and then registers within the same stock, the checklist may not be required. Alternatively, the inspection of the checklist can be configurable based on a predetermined number of hours, once 10 the previous checklist has been carried out, or based on other parameters, conditions, rules, etc. As another exemplary implementation, the time taken to complete the checklist can be determined. For example, the interface controller 50 in mobile asset 12, or the application server in 15 mobile asset 14, can analyze, at 162, the time stamp associated with each checklist response recorded at 158 and compare the time with a corresponding "start of checklist" time stamp recorded at 152, which designates an occasion when the checklist operation started- From this analysis, a conclusion can be drawn as to 20 if the operator is consuming a quantity appropriate time to complete the checklist, or if the operator is consuming an inappropriate amount of time to complete the checklist. Downtime periods can also be recorded, as well as intervals between responses for given checklist items. 25 As an example, appropriate action. can be performed if the asset operator co-completes the checklist (or a checklist item) in a way that is determined to be inappropriate, for example, by taking a predetermined action, if it is determined that the items on the checklist they were asked from outside a predetermined time range (window), such as completing the checklist very quickly or very slowly.
For example, a time reference can be established to initiate a start time for the checklist operation and the time required to respond to items on the "5 checklist can be recorded.
A determination can then be made as to whether the
N - time required to respond to items on the Check List is within a predetermined time range.
Correspondingly, a predetermined action can be taken if it is determined that the items on the watch list have been answered from outside the predetermined time range, 10 for example, a predefined suitable time window.
Thus, a mobile asset, which has been made fully operational based on an entry in a user's system, can block, if the checklist is not completed within a designated configurable time range.
In this exemplary configuration, mobile asset 12 can be fully operational after successful entry into the operator's system.
However, after a recommended time, if the checklist has not been completed with satisfaction, then mobile asset 12 can be disabled, such as disabling mobile asset 12 by sending the appropriate command to enable / condition the vehicle's power 52 Mobile asset 12 20 may alternatively be reduced in functionality or other appropriate action may be taken.
For example, mobile asset 12 can continue to remain operational, however, a bell, horn, light or other alarm can be implemented, such as via the monitoring input / output module 48, until a supervisor turns off the alarm.
In addition, or as an alternative, interface controller 50 may send a message to the mobile asset application server 14 to initiate a workflow, such as sending an email or otherwise generating a notification that the checklist was not completed properly.
As yet another example, the interface controller 50, in a material handling vehicle, can also communicate with vehicle components via the vehicle network system 68, to reduce vehicle functionality, for example, to limit or restrict speed of operation, forklift operations, etc. "5 Additionally, a predetermined period of time may m. Be provided for the operator to complete or otherwise redo the checklist, if it is determined that the operator has not completed the checklist properly. Thus, a period of deferral or change to redo the checklist can be presented to the IO operator 'responsible for the expected situations. For example, an operator who starts a checklist can be interrupted from completing the checklist. In this arrangement, the operator is given a chance to redo the checklist, starting again, summarizing the checklist operation, or treating the material in other ways deemed appropriate.15 In an exemplary implementation, the results of the checklist are transmitted wirelessly to the asset application server mobile
14. Thus, the mobile asset application server 14 can still allow integration of existing workflows or the creation of new workflows to automatically send email to designated personnel based on 20 answers to checklist questions. . Therefore, proper maintenance plus inspection workflows, list d, and verification reporting workflows and another task related checklist can be started automatically or manually by the mobile asset application server 14. 25 According to an aspect of the present invention, the language in which the checklist is displayed can be varied to accommodate the operator's language preference, for example, based on a language preference associated with the operator's system entry identification. For example, checklist items can be entered on the mobile asset application server 14 in a plurality of different languages- When an operator enters the system on a mobile asset 12, based on preferences associated with the operator ID, the appropriate language can be selected. As an example, interface controller 50 on "5 the asset can transmit the operator ID to the mobile asset application server 14. In response to it, the mobile asset application server 14 can» respond to the interface controller 50 with checklist items that »are appropriate for the type of mobile asset to be operated, in a language understood / selected by the asset operator corresponding to the 10 registered in the operator ID. Any number of languages can thus be supported. Alternatively, interface controller 50 can suggest the user a language preference before implementing the checklist operation In this regard, messages can be stored within a memory device in the mobile asset in multiple languages. mobile asset application server 14 can preload the checklist of a corresponding mobile asset 12 in two or more language choices, for example, so that determinations Language s can be made on the mobile device, such as based on an entry identification in the operator's system.
Pre-t / so inspection checklist / checklist As cited in more detail here, according to aspects of the present invention, the mobile asset information link 38 can be integrated into the network system of existing mobile asset 68 25. Therefore, smart checklist monitoring can be implemented. Referring to Fig. 10, a flowchart illustrates an exemplary approach to implementing an intelligent checklist operation.
The checklist operation starts at 172 and a corresponding "checklist start" time stamp can be generated.
As mentioned above, the start of checklist 172 can be triggered when an operator registers on mobile asset 12, such as a fork lift conveyor, where that operator has not previously registered "5 on the same truck within the current work shift or in b - another designated time frame.
The checklist can optionally be changed, randomized, etc., as described above with reference to Fig. 9, and the checklist begins the process.
The next checklist item is presented to the operator at 174. For example, the checklist 10, which can be stored in the memory of interface controller 50, can write the next checklist item on monitor 41 ( in the designated language) and wait for an answer to the checklist item, via controls 42 of the corresponding input / output module 45. The answer to the checklist item is recorded, at 176, 15 along with optional time marks read other metadata, if desired.
For at least one of the items in the checklist, an operator response check is performed.
For example, mobile asset 12 can be interrogated to determine whether the operator has, in fact, performed verification or otherwise appropriately assessed the subject of the checklist item shown in 178. Correspondingly, a decision is made in 180 as to if the checklist item was actually executed- If it is determined that the checklist item has been executed, then an optional checklist ok action can be implemented in 182, such as providing an acknowledgment on the monitor 41, or taking other actions, if necessary.
Alternatively, appropriate action can be taken if it is determined that the checklist item has not been performed in 184. Exemplary actions in 184 may "comprise instructing the operator to complete the checklist item,
sending an email or other workflow indicating the failure to
'And run the item on the vernacular list, touching an alanne, cainpainha, luz or flickering a light recording the event, etc.- A verification is done in 186 as to whether all items in the Checklist have been completed.
If not, the operation circuits return to the next item in the "5 checklist for the operator in 174. If the checklist has been completed, the process continues in 188, performing tasks, as described more completely here, for example, performing the checklist evaluation and subsequent processing described in 162, 164 and 166 with reference to Fig. 9. 10 As an example, in a typical material handling vehicle checklist , for example, a forklift checklist, an operator response check for at least one of the items on the checklist can be performed by interrogating at least one component of the material handling vehicle to determine if the operator fulfilled a corresponding checklist item.
Thus, the operator may be asked to verify that the steering is functioning properly.
To answer this question properly, the operator may be required to actually operate the forklift's steering.
Under this arrangement, a processor provided within interface controller 50 or otherwise integrated within the material handling vehicle may interrogate Vehicle Control Module 74 or another appropriate module of the mobile asset control system, such as sending a message is sent to VCM 74 through the CAN barrier or another mobile asset network system 68 suitable to verify that 25 the operator currently performed the test, for example, operated the steering in a manner in accordance with the requirements of the verification list.
In addition, the processor can verify the accuracy of the operator's responses and take appropriate action when necessary.
As another example, if the checklist item requires the user to test the hydraulic system, after receiving the response from the operator eni 176, the processor can interrogate the hydraulics control module 78 to determine whether the operator has properly used the hydraulics. an appropriate way to formulate a response to the corresponding checklist item.
"5 Thus, the operator may be asked to verify that the steering is working properly. To answer this question properly, 6 the operator may be required to actually operate the steering of the fork lift truck. In this arrangement, a processor provided within the controller. interface 50, or otherwise integrated into the material handling vehicle 10, can interrogate Vehicle Control Module 74 or another appropriate module of the mobile asset control system, such as sending a message to VCM 74 via the bus CAN or another suitable mobile asset network system! 68 to verify that the operator actually performed the test, for example, operated the steering in a manner according to the requirements of the checklist item. processor can check the accuracy of operator responses and take appropriate action when needed. As another example, if the checklist item requires the user test the hydraulics after receiving the operator's response at 176, the processor can interrogate the hydraulics control module 78 to determine if the operator has appropriately used the hydraulics in an appropriate manner, to formulate a response to the checklist item corresponding. Furthermore, verification that the checklist item has been completed does not necessarily require detecting the actual operation of mobile asset 12. For example, if a checklist item is provided to check hydraulic fluid levels or temperature battery, then an operator response check can be performed by communicating with the corresponding component to electronically verify that the response to the selected checklist item, with respect to measurement or reading, has been answered correctly. provided within the interface controller 50, or otherwise integrated into the material handling vehicle, you can obtain readings from sensors, ealibers and other vehicle resources to verify that the operator's response was appropriate. "5 In addition, inconvenient codes, conditions error codes and other error codes. - system diagnostics that are generated by the material handling vehicle can be checked to verify the operator's responses to the checklist items. The examples above are inherently illustrative. Thus, any checklist item that can be verified by sensors, controllers and other components of mobile asset 12 can be interrogated or otherwise analyzed to verify that the operator has performed the checklist items properly. As yet another example, on detection that the operator has not properly performed the checklist item request, the processor provided within the interface controller 50, or otherwise integrated into the material handling vehicle, can send a message to the mobile asset application server 14 or other network component, such as it can be integrated into a local workflow to inform an administrator, supervisor, etc., that the checklist is not being properly performed.
Therefore, the operator can be asked on the checklist to operate the hydraulics, check the Heios, check the hour meter, battery charge, stop lights, fluid levels, etc. Due to the integration and communication of appropriate components in the mobile asset system, for example, as described with reference to Fig. 6, the mobile asset knows when each checklist question is being requested and may be able to intelligently determine, depending, for example, on the nature of the question and the measurement capacity of the mobile asset 12, whether the operator actually performed the test, and may even be able to determine whether the answer reported by the operator is likely to be the correct answer.
In yet another illustrative and exemplary implementation, the processor provided within interface controller 50, or otherwise integrated into the material handling vehicle, knows when each "5 question on the checklist is being requested and the nature of that and · question. As such, an action taken at 184 may be to refuse to recognize the response entered by the operator, if mobile asset 12 determines that the - operator had not performed the test, for example, if the checklist item asks the operator to check .the lifting capacity of the fork 10 of a mobile asset 12, such as a fork lift conveyor, the system may refuse to recognize the response entered by the operator until the fork lift conveyor processor feels that the forks have been lifted according to the test conditions of the checklist item, so the checklist operation can use operator response verification 15 or to refuse to proceed to the next checklist item until the answer in question indicates that the checklist item has been executed. Check List Override Sequence In addition, a predetermined system entry sequence can be multiplied where the asset operator is not required to escalate through the checklist procedure. For example, a cancellation code can be established so that the mobile asset 12 becomes fully operational and functional only upon entry into the system. In this arrangement, mobile asset 12 can have a predefined time interval, 25 in which it is operational only for a predetermined period of time, or other appropriate termination events can be triggered to limit the scope of the cancellation. Additionally, the vehicle's functionality may be limited by cancellation, for example, the operation may be limited to steering and traction control, etc. Annulment can be provided,
for example, where a time-sensitive operation is to be performed, such as moving mobile asset 12. Mobile asset monitoring Each mobile asset 12 can record and mark in time events, "5 measurements and other related parameters With a key mobile asset, which ., · Can be transmitted by the corresponding mobile asset 12 to the mobile asset application server 14. As an illustrative example, the interface controller 50 of the mobile asset information link device 38 can collect and record data related to the mobile asset , such as values of force measurement, use of system input, displacement / speed parameters, hydraulic uses, oil quality measurements, load measurement, air temperature measurements, oil temperature and / or other measurements of key active component teniperature, etc. Diagnostics for program error correction, inconvenient codes, location tracking information and other information checks or otherwise associated with each mobile asset 12 can also be collected and temporarily stored by interface controller 50. On an appropriate occasion, when transceiver 46 is in data communication with the mobile asset application server 14, the information collected it can be appropriately transmitted to a suitable storage location, such as a data resource 16, which can be maintained by the mobile asset application server 14.
The mobile asset application server 14 can use the collected data to perform any number of analyzes related to the asset. For example, the mobile asset application server 14 can monitor or otherwise analyze the data collected from each mobile asset 12 to determine appropriate preventive maintenance programs. This can allow, for example, advanced maintenance predictions to be implemented based on unusual extreme activity cycles or other parameters. In addition, collected data can be analyzed to reveal information related to the operation. For example, by analyzing the number of pallets moved, total lift operations performed, distance shifted by each mobile asset 12, etc., changes can be "5 implemented in the workflow to maximize operational efficiencies.
6. Numerous other examples are described in more detail here. In some examples, wireless communication via. computing environment 10 may not be possible with selected mobile assets 12, because that selected mobile asset 12 is outside the transmit / receive range 10 with at least one access point 20, due to environmental interference, etc. As such, each mobile asset 12 includes sufficient memory, as can be provided in the interface controller 50, to temporarily store the collected information that is generated during the use of the mobile asset 12, and appropriate provisions can synchronize the collected information. for each mobile asset 12 and the corresponding mobile asset application server 14. Thus, the mobile asset communication server 14 does not require continuous communication with each mobile asset 12, Impact Measurement As noted above, depending on mobile asset 12, it can 20 it is desirable to implement customizable impact detection and appropriate post-impact actions, such as blocking operations after mobile asset stops. For example, with reference again to Fig. 6, interface controller 50 can track minor impacts using appropriate impact sensors 60 and a corresponding monitoring input / output module 48. So, if a predetermined event associated with the vehicle materials handling comprise detecting an impact on a material handling vehicle, the processor, for example, provided by interface controller 50 or otherwise integrated in the material handling vehicle, can be configured to respond to the detected impact by classifying the severity of the desired impact and wirelessly transmitting the impact information to the server computer, if it is determined that the impact detected has exceeded at least a predetermined impact condition.
The processor may also probe at least one vehicle component via the material handling vehicle's network system 68 to determine the extent of any damage that may have been caused by a detected impact that has exceeded predetermined impact conditions.
In addition, the information can be transmitted to the server computer 10 in relation to the impact failure where the information is obtained through the network system 68 of the vehicle handling material of the vehicle components.
The impact information obtained can still be evaluated and an action can be taken on the material handling vehicle based on the estimated impact information. In an illustrative example, interface controller 50 can compute or otherwise analyze the "severity" of impacts, such as to distinguish between lesser impacts and greater impacts.
One strategy may be to block the mobile asset in detecting a greater impact and / or detecting a predetermined number of minor impacts. 20 In a detected impact that exceeds predetermined impact conditions, an alarm, such as a bell, horn or light can be activated, via the monitoring input / output module 48, until a supervisor turns off the alarm.
A message can also be transmitted to the mobile asset application server 14, so that a
25 appropriate action can be taken.
In addition, as mentioned above, in the detection of an impact, the processor, provided inside the interface controller 50 or otherwise integrated in the material handling vehicle, can probe for active components, via the CAN bus or other network system appropriate mobile asset 68 to determine whether or not the vehicle is still operational. Under certain situations, the mobile asset can be interrupted, disabled or otherwise stopped. The mobile asset may also be able to distinguish a low threshold impact, as mentioned above, in which case, tracking of minor incidents can simply be "recorded / recorded without initiating an alarm. Furthermore, as mentioned above, the a · system can be configured to allow a predefined number of low impact thresholds within a predefined set of parameters, eg if an operator within a single displacement experiences a number of impacts having thresholds that exceed the low impact threshold and 10 that number of impacts exceed a predetermined number of low impacts deemed acceptable, appropriate responsive actions can be implemented.
Where a mobile asset 12 has adequate processing capacity, as in the interface controller 50, shock measurement 15 can be intelligent, so that the system learns what is normal and what is not normal for given applications or intended uses , for example, to modify predetermined impact conditions used to assess detected impacts. For example, a fork lift conveyor on a loading dock, which pushes in and out of the trailers to collect, dump or otherwise move cargo, may experience a different level of ordinary and expected shocks. relative to a comparable forklift conveyor that only operates on one level and relatively paves smooth concrete. The shock measurement system can also be trained to recognize the distinction between types of impacts, such as via impact signatures. To distinguish impacts, interface controller 50 or another suitable mobile asset processor may establish a signature for the detected impact, which is compared with sampled or otherwise determined impact data. A histogram can then be generated or other processing tools can be used, so that the impact can be more precisely characterized.
Such information can be transmitted again to the application server 14, which can use the information to create personalized impact thresholds, signatures and other information related to the impact. The "5 mobile asset applications 14 server can also transmit personalization data W · of impact threshold to corresponding material handling vehicles, via the associated information link device 38, through the material handling vehicle's custom program. , as more fully observed here. 10 In an illustrative embodiment, an alarm is initiated on the mobile asset 12 upon detection of a sufficient impact condition. To disable the alarm, an acknowledgment and disconnect signal must be presented to the interface 50, for example, by an administrator or supervisor who must introduce the appropriate disconnect signal 15, such an input introduces an appropriate response, using the controls 42 associated with the input / output control module 45. The operator can then to operate mobile asset 12, assuming that mobile asset 12 is suitable for operation. In an alternative arrangement, the supervisor may be required to return to mobile asset application monitor 14 and disconnect 20 mobile asset 12 by continued operation, such as turning off a blocked flag or other suitable information flag. In this arrangement, the mobile asset application server 14 communicates with the interface controller 50 of the corresponding mobile asset, via the asset transceiver 46, to identify that a blocking condition has been properly undone on the mobile asset application server. 14. Once the blocking condition is undone, interface controller 50 restores the mobile asset for operation, just as via the vehicle's strength allows conditioning of module 52. The supervisor can also note impact information, for example , write metadata to a server database (carrier or server) with reference to the impact, such as adding comments that describe the nature of the impact or other facts that may be relevant to the incident. Multi-axis accelerometers, for example, xy, "5 accelerometers are commonly used as impact sensors, see The 60-impact sensor (s) shown in Fig. 6 for material handling vehicles «With the g-force emitted from accelerometers being commonly working conditions
W monitored impact. An accelerometer can generate more x-y analog impact representative of the g-forces supported by a vehicle, to which the accelerometer is fixed. An exemplary use of an accelerometer is to monitor analog time based on output signals and pass signals through circuits contained in the peak that capture analog x-y values as static voltage levels. These voltage levels are compared to threshold voltages in comparator circuits. If the voltage levels l5 of the circuits contained in the peak exceed their corresponding threshold voltages, then an impact output is generated and sent to a monitoring system on board the vehicle or via a wireless connection to a remote monitoring system, such as as the mobile asset application server 14. Since all g-force monitoring takes place within 20 time domains, impacts on all fire frequencies are weighted to them, so that the monitoring system is unable to discern differences in the impact parameters, such as force or displacement, that is, a collision at a pole observes the same when acting through a floor joint or other insignificant impact. Therefore, inconvenient impact alarms are often generated. To reduce inconvenient impact alarms in impact measurement systems without major changes to impact measurement hardware, some form of time domain analysis could be performed to assess the severity of an impact. Regrettably, time domain analysis would require analog data (time history) to be captured so that weighted and parametric analysis can be applied. Such an analysis requires substantial processing to be carried out, and current crash sensors typically do not have "5 processing capacity and in vehicle processors today would require e · excessive bandwidth for this analysis. Instead of performing time domain analysis, on the meter
With the impact of the present application, the threshold analyzes of the outputs of an impact measurement accelerometer are supplemented with the detection of 10 simultaneous rapid changes of momentum or mechanical energy of the material handling vehicle. Such changes in momentum or mechanical energy of material handling vehicles are referred to here as "impulses". Thus, momentum (jp) or mechanical energy, based on mass (m) and speed (v), that is, (p = rnv), is also considered together with g-forces detected by an accelerometer exceeding one (ns) predetermined (s) start. When a moving object experiences a sudden change of moment, a rapid transfer of mechanical energy occurs. A force external to the system (here the system is a material non-manipulation vehicle) has to change with the system to quickly change its mass or speed. With respect to material handling vehicles, since the mass of a vehicle during an impact must remain constant, the speed of the vehicle must change abruptly during an impact of significance. Therefore, a rapid change in speed is used to legitimize a felt impact when an accelerometer signal exceeds a pre-established threshold (s). In this way, a large percentage of inconvenient impact alarms can be eliminated without requiring major changes to the impact measurement hardware. In an exemplary embodiment of this aspect of the present application, inconvenient impact alarms have been reduced somewhere between 70 ° and 6 ° and 80 ° /). Reference is now made to Figs. 17 and 18 which together form a block diagram of an exemplary impact measurement system that can be used independently as an independent "5 impact measurement system and / or can be used with a tank cap system. It is for, - be understood that the operations illustrated in Figs. 17 and 18 can be performed in a different order than illustrated: As illustrated, signals from sensor 60, g-force values X and Y are read from an accelerometer xy in blocks 300 , 302. In block 304, vehicle speed is received from a speed sensor on top of the vehicle in block 304. A variety of speed sensors can be used in the impact measurement system of this application, including, for example, an encoder, a speed differential, calculation of distance traveled or other speed measurement arrangement known or to be developed.
15 Vehicle acceleration is then calculated in block 306. Vehicle acceleration (VA) can be determined by differentiating the speed of the carrier using a variety of techniques, including a "two point differentiator" in which the vehicle's speed vehicle is measured periodically, for example, every 100 milliseconds. For a two-point differentiator, the speed of the most recent transporter is subtracted from the speed of the immediately preceding transporter, to find a speed difference that is used as the acceleration value of the vehicle. The detection of carrier acceleration using a variety of techniques can be used in the impact measurement system 25 of the present application. In block 308, a determination is made as to whether the material handling vehicle has a load sensor or not. If a load sensor is present, the load weight is received from the load sensor in block 310; if not, in block 312 the load weight is set to a value desired by the customer who owns the material handling vehicle.
The load weight can be measured using load cells, hydraulic pressures of suspension / tilt cylinders or other load weight sensors can be used.
Some load weight sensors can produce "5 erroneous load weights that must be accommodated.
For example,
,. hydraulically controlled conveyor components can be moved to traverse limit positions and, if hydraulic pressure is used - to measure load weight, erroneously high load weights can be indicated.
To prevent such weight sensors from generating false impact alarms, the measured load weight is set or limited to a customer selectable maximum load weight value.
The customer's established load weight can be selected from zero to a maximum weight that is to be transported by the material handling vehicle.
The selection of a zero or maximum weight limit, or something in between, depends on how the client wants to impact to be measured or recorded.
If the maximum weight limit was selected, the vehicle would always be perceived as being fully loaded and therefore some minor inipacts from a slightly loaded carrier might not be reported.
On the other hand, if zero weight were selected, the vehicle would always be perceived to be empty and, therefore, some significant impacts of a heavily loaded carrier might not be reported.
The gross vehicle weight (GVW) is calculated in block 3 14, using the measured load weight, which can be a fixed load weight equal to the customer's maximum selectable load weight value in 25 some examples, as mentioned above, or the customer's selected load weight value.
As shown in block 3 16, the impulse value, that is, moment change or mechanical energy of the material handling vehicle, is calculated using GVW and acceleration values.
More panicularly, the value
*
of ilnplllso (I) is calculated based on the gross vehicle weight and acceleration and the following equation can be used to do so: j [£ GVW * VA * O, 146 Ib-sec Where 0.146 is a constant] that converts the value of impulse
"5 in pounds-second units.
K The accelerometer X and Y signals x-y are compared with a selectable g-force threshold threshold of block 3 18. While different. Limits could be used for g-force X and g-force Y, in an exemplary embodiment, the same threshold limit for g-force was used for both X-force and X-force.
If neither the g-force value X nor Y exceeds the g-force limit threshold, impact measurement resumes at block 300. If the g-force X or Y exceeds the g-force limit threshold, the calculated pulse value is compared with a customer selectable pulse limit value in block 320. If the calculated pulse value exceeds the limit of 15 pulse value, an impact alarm is generated in block 322 and the appropriate vehicle action is taken at block 324. For example, as mentioned above, the vehicle can be blocked or an alarm, such as a bell, horn or light can be activated, for example, via monitoring input / output 48 in Fig. 6, until a supervisor turns off the impact alarm. 20 Also in block 320, an impact alarm can be generated in response to the g-force X and / or the g-force Y exceeding the g-force limit (s) of the unaccompanied vehicle.
The use of g-force values alone ensures that impact alarms are generated when the vehicle is unaccompanied and therefore not in motion.
An unaccompanied condition of vehicle 25 can be determined in a variety of ways.
For example, when a vehicle remains at rest, that is, zero speed (0), for a predetermined period of time, such as 5 seconds, coupled with a brake request; vehicle controls, including foot switches, hand sensors, choke, hydraulics, and the like, remain inactive for a predetermined period of time, such as 5 seconds; operator presence switches are inactive; and any other parameters of the measured carrier that are active for vehicle movement / operation can be monitored for inactivity to determine when a vehicle "5 is unaccompanied.
M In an exemplary embodiment, the measurement system.
of impact illustrated in Figs. 17 and 18 started every 100 milliseconds. Other initiation regulation periods are contemplated for use in the system of the present application. The impact measurement system of the present application also keeps track of events occurring within two adjacent 100 millisecond time periods of system operation to ensure that impact alarms are properly generated. For example, if a g-force X and / or a g-force Y exceeds the corresponding one. g-force limit in a system operation time period of 100 15 milliseconds and, due to the delay time that can be found in the system, a corresponding pulse exceeds the impulse limit in an adjacent period d, and operating time of the 100 millisecond system, as long as both the g-force limit and the impulse limit are both exceeded within a predetermined period of time, for example, 100 20 milliseconds, an impact alarm is generated. As mentioned above, shock measurement can be smart, - so that nonnal and abnormal shocks can be learned. As an example of intelligent shock measurement, employing the impact measurement system of the present application, the selection of a pulse signal limit 25 for the material handling vehicle may comprise selecting an initial pulse signal limit for the vehicle material handling vehicle and then start the material handling vehicle around an installation where the material handling vehicle is to be used. Impact signals generated, while triggering the material handling vehicle, can be monitored and a selected impulse signal limit, which is higher than the initial impulse signal limit if impact signals are generated during typical vehicle activation handling materials.
Of course, this impulse signal limit can be "5 fine tuned through extended vehicle operation, including the
. · Measurement of inipact.
Also, since an impulse signal limit is determined for nominal or typical operations, numerous other impuko signal lumens can be taken available in the vehicle.
For example, three levels of impulse signal limits can be made available for selection regarding the 10 installation in the vehicle: 1) the normal or typical impulse signal limit; 2) an aggressive impulse signal line, which is greater than the typical or typical impulse signal limit; and 3) a conservative non-pulse signal limit, which is less than the normal or typical impuko signal limit.
Detection of Appropriate Output 15 The mobile asset information link 38 and corresponding mobile asset application server 14 can also be used to track the actions of the asset operator, which can be used to gain insight into the operator's techniques and habits .
For example, if an operator leaves a mobile active correspondent 12 in which that operator 20 is registered without making an appropriate asset exit, such data can be recorded.
As an example of a fork lift conveyor, if the operator leaves a parked conveyor without adjusting the parking fork, the fork lift conveyor can automatically adjust the parking brake, such as by issuing appropriate commands implemented via the CAN bus or from another mobile asset network system 68. Numerous other automatic actions can also alternatively be implemented.
In addition, interface controller 50 can record the event and communicate such information to the corresponding mobile asset application server 14, which can generate reports, etc., indicating such improper output.
Numerous techniques can be used to detect the operator's exit.
For example, the system can monitor traction, hydraulics and other mobile asset parameters and determine periods of inactivity. "5 Additionally, sensors can be provided on the asset and / or other appropriate locations on the mobile asset that can be used to determine whether or not the operator is still on the mobile asset. m
Online Reference Materials and Other Data Referring to Fig. 11, a mobile asset, illustrated with fork forklift carrier 12B 12B, can further explore the ability of its mobile asset information link device 38 to provide online manuals. line and other reference materials for a user of the mobile asset interface.
These reference materials can be related to the fork lift truck 12B, such as a material handling vehicle operator's manual, the manual for an accessory or peripheral component, an action plan or guidelines followed on the website or any other materials appropriate reference points that may be of interest to the operator while on the asset interface.
In this regard, it may be inconvenient to store such 20 materials in the memory of the mobile asset, in the memory of the wireless communications interface controller 50 or in another appropriate module- Thus, the mobile asset application server 14 can access the reference materials 190 of its database 16 and provide the materials requested for the user, via the corresponding mobile asset information connection device 38. The user of the active interface, for example, a monitor and / or input / output controls of the forklift conveyor 12B, you may not need the entire reference, or the memory of the mobile asset may be insufficient to store the entire reference.
As such, the mobile asset application server 14 can transmit only a relevant portion 190A of a given reference 190 to a corresponding mobile asset user. The mobile asset application server 14 can also control the distribution of reference materials using the identification "5 of entry into the operator's system, or other security measures, to 0 · verify that the asset user is authorized to review the requested reference material Such control can be used to prevent the distribution of conditional business information to which the mobile asset application server 14 can access As an example, an asset operator 10 can be able to access manuals of training, company policies, regulations, etc., but do not report productivity or other types of management information, however, a supervisor can register with the mobile asset application server 14 from a mobile asset interface and obtain such information 15 As yet another example, the fork stacking conveyor 12B may be in need of technical assistance The manufacturer can therefore send a representative manufacturer's repair amount to service the forklift conveyor
12. The manufacturer's repair representative, while on the asset interface, 20 can register with the mobile asset application server 14 and order reference materials 190. In addition, the manufacturer's repair representative may require patented information, such as as can be seen in technical references and documents from the patented manufacturer. In this arrangement, after presenting the appropriate identification or otherwise following appropriate security measures, the mobile asset application server 14 initiates a request through the network 32 for the manufacturing server 30 to obtain the required reference materials 190A from the database. manufacturer data 34. Confidential or proprietary information can then be transmitted to the forklift conveyor interface.
In this regard, and in general, the various aspects of the present invention can implement any appropriate data encryption / decoding, encryption / decryption of protected transactions and other measures where desired, for example, by the nature of the data being transcribed.
"5 In accordance with various aspects of the present invention, the system can further guarantee that the most relevant and / or updated reference information is provided to the asset interface user. For example, the operation of an aspect may be dependent on a software version and / or if a particular or peripheral accessory is also included in the fork fork carrier 12B The mobile asset application server 14 can store this appropriate information, or fork fork carrier 12B can provide such relevant information for the mobile asset application server 14 when ordering the appropriate reference material 15 For example, assume that a repair representative is repairing forklift 12B forklift conveyor control handling. Interface controller 50 can re-recognize a request for reference material belonging to the control handling and can communicate with other system components t forklift forklift 20 via the CAN bus or other suitable vehicle network system 68 to identify quantities and / or other relevant aspects of the control handling software version, which are transmitted to the mobile asset application server 14 to ensure that the correct reference material is provided. 25 Interactive Training Mobile asset 12 can also leverage the capacity of the mobile asset application server 14 and a corresponding mobile asset information link device 38, installed on or otherwise integrated with a mobile asset 12, to provide adaptive or interactive operator training. In this regard, mobile asset 12 can monitor and record the way in which an operator uses its controls and aspects and, where appropriate, suggest new and appropriate means to perform certain tasks. Mobile asset 12 can also detect when an operator "5 is trying to perform an illegal operation or an operation that is not allowed, such as K - as trying to use two conflicting aspects simultaneously, trying to operate a load handling aspect when the assault is on one. inappropriate position, attempting an operation with a selected aspect while moving in the wrong speed range, etc. In this arrangement, the error can be pointed out and possible solutions or alternatives can be provided, for example, via the monitor 41 , 50 or otherwise In this regard, the mobile asset information link 38 can be used to record the activity of the operator to send the activity information to the mobile asset application server 14 to request training materials 15 , such as reference manuals, etc., of the mobile asset application server 14, when specific circumstances require.
Mobile asset 12 can also provide a visual and / or audible indication that reveals the operator when the asset is being used inappropriately, for example, by flashing a light, making a horn or bell, etc. As an alternative, a visual or audible signal can be provided to indicate that mobile asset 12 is being used in an appropriate (or optimized) manner.
Instruction. Driver Training and Education The asset display can provide a 25 "warning of the day" or "did you know" message style at appropriate times to promote operator training and interaction. For example, if the mobile asset information link device 38 recognizes that an operator uses a specific sequence of commands or controls to implement certain functions, such as communicating with vehicle system components via a CAN bus or other system of a suitable mobile asset network 68, the system can suggest additional operational efficiencies or alternative means of accomplishing a given task. Also, if an operator rarely or never uses specific mobile asset aspects or features, the system can "5 suggest those aspects or features to the operator. In order to provide &. Suggestions, the mobile asset information link device 38 can consult locally stored information, or relevant information can be exchanged with the mobile asset application server 14 to obtain appropriate training information, so the user is dynamically trained while at the mobile asset 12 interface.
Additionally, oEline training can be implemented. For example, the mobile asset information link 38 may present the asset operator with a series of instructions for operating the mobile asset, such as during periods of inactivity. In addition, the information link device mobile asset 38 may be able to interact with the mobile asset to demonstrate a hnplementation of instructions.
For example, based on the recorded use of aspects of the vehicle by the operator, the system can implement training for a particular vehicle aspect. Based on the interaction between the processor 20 provided within the interface controller 50, or otherwise integrated into the material handling vehicle, and at least one component through a material handling vehicle network system 68, the vehicle can automatically demonstrate the aspect being trained in, to the operator, when the operator is in an operative working position within the vehicle.
The system can also test the operator for an aspect being taught by monitoring communications through the material handling vehicle network system 68 to record the use of the operator relevant to the aspect being taught. As such, the system can ensure that the operator is executing the lesson properly by checking that the component is responding appropriately to the aspect being taught.
Thus, by integrating training materials provided by the mobile asset application server 14, the mobile asset information link device 3 8 can interact with components of the "5 active" system, via the CAN bus or another network system. mobile asset 68 Q · appropriate, to control aspects of the asset to implement the statements The asset operator can then be presented with an opportunity to test the knowledge just taught by implementing the control sequence corresponding to the set of instructions provided. Mobile asset information connection device 38 can monitor the actions implemented by the asset operator and suggest corrections and other actions, so that the operator successfully performs master skills related to the operation of the mobile asset, providing training instructions that can supplemented by appropriate connections for a corresponding operator and / or manual training, which may be required. displayed on the mobile asset display.
Custom Work Environment In accordance with various aspects of the present invention, a custom mobile asset work environment can also be performed. In this regard, the processor provided within the interface controller 50, or otherwise integrated into the material handling vehicle, can implement at least one customization function in the material handling vehicle based on the incoming system input information, such as wirelessly transmitting information between the mobile asset application server 14 and the material handling vehicle, via transceiver 46, and interacting with at least one component of the material handling vehicle through the vehicle network system. material handling 68. For example, at least one aspect of the material handling vehicle can be reconfigured according to the customization parameters. A personalization function can comprise a personalization operation of a material handling vehicle component according to any number and / or type of preferences defined by the operator. "5 For example, an operator can adjust the seat position, A · aspects of the program or other suitable capacity, and these" adjustments "can be saved and associated with the operator's registration in the identification, for example, of a" profile " appropriate, which can be stored in the local memory of interface controller 50 and / or the mobile asset application server 14. Therefore, when the operator registers with the mobile asset (or similar mobile asset), the customized settings are automatically remembered and implemented.As another illustrative example, an operator may be able to configure the monitor to show or hide these layers of detail.15 Therefore, an operator may want a clean and sparse display on the instrument panel, while another operator may want to see more details on the monitor, or see superfluous information, such as personal portraits, etc. New operators or trainers may also have training profiles in which the system can periodically display the time taken by operators 20 to perform certain tasks, instructions, warnings, etc. The system can also provide statistics and / or other feedback on operator efficiency and / or improvements, so that new operators can actively monitor whether they understand their assigned tasks, the use of mobile assets 12, and confirm that they are developing their skills in an appropriate target pace.
As yet another example, operator messages can be programmed in numerous languages. For example, the mobile asset information link 38 may be able to wirelessly load operator messages in any number of language formats.
The loaded operator messages can then be reprogrammed in flash memory, etc. As such, when new operator menus, features, messages and / or languages become available over time, these new features can be automatically integrated into the mobile asset information connection device 38. As an example, a profile operator can be used to select an appropriate language for displaying
Commands, operator messages, etc. Alternatively, the operator may be prompted to select a desired language format, such as when entering the system or during an initialization process.
10 Thus, for example, the display language can be reconfigured, the seat height, seat angle, seat position, macro controls, performance characteristics and other parameters related to the mobile asset can be automatically configured in a single entry in the system . In addition, personalized recommendations, 15 relevant messages and other information of a personalized nature, such as a personalized display, can be presented to the operator with bse in a known entry ID in the system and corresponding profile.
According to aspects of the present invention, the system can obtain customized adjustments selected from an operator by at least one of a specific material handling vehicle or by a specific type of material handling vehicle, for example, where the location has a Kota of material handling vehicles. The customized settings are stored on the application server 14, so that 25 when the operator registers in a material handling vehicle, for which preferences have been saved, at least one of the specific material handling vehicle or the type of material handling vehicle that the operator is registered with is identified, and the operator's preferences are obtained for the associated material handling vehicle.
In addition, as noted above, communications via the material handling vehicle network bus can be performed to "configure the material handling vehicle for operation according to operator preferences received from application server 14." 5 Automation /, 4Tare / Repetitive assistance
K m Mobile asset 12 can leverage its reading and wireless communication capabilities to assist the operator in repetitive tasks. Per
For example, the mobile asset information linker 38 can assist the operator in completing a pre-use checklist, 10 by automatically triggering the checklist question and wirelessly recording / transmitting the checklist responses. As another illustrative example, a "macro learning" function can be implemented. In this arrangement, an asset operator can learn a skill associated with moving asset 12, such as a 15 maneuver, control sequence, etc., and save that skill as a macro. This macro can then be shared, via the mobile asset application server 14, with other mobile assets / asset operators, and can be archived on the mobile asset application server 14 for storage and to save a backup copy. On each. the operator initiates a macro storage, the processor provided inside the interface controller 50, or otherwise integrated in the mobile asset, interacts with the electronics of the mobile asset system and / or with the mobile asset application server 14 for perform the recorded steps as part of the macro event. This allows a wide range of transfer techniques and promotes the exchange of knowledge. Environmental Regulators In certain environments, restrictions may be imposed on asset operations, such as how long an operator can stay in an extreme environment. The mobile asset information connection device 38 can detect such circumstances and then start an adjustment, so that the operator does not have to manually keep track of such time. The mobile asset can demonstrate agreement affected by the remedial action, such as leaving the environment, or provide an indication to the operator of "5 that time has expired, such as sounding a horn, alarm or providing another indicator, such as via the input / output of 48 monitoring and a
M properly controlled output device. In addition, reports can be generated using the data gathered and stored by the corresponding mobile asset application server 14 for the event data of the 10 environmental regulator collected by a corresponding mobile asset information link device 38, which was subsequently communicated to the mobile asset application server 14.
Performance Tuning The integration of the components of the mobile asset information link 15 into the control system of a corresponding mobile asset 12 can be used to implement the "performance tuning" of the mobile asset 12. A nominal performance power can be received from the application server 14 to the operator registered in the corresponding material handling vehicle. In response to it, instructions are transmitted from the processor, provided within interface controller 50 or otherwise integrated into the material handling vehicle, to at least one material handling vehicle component via the network bus of the material handling vehicle to select, limit, disable or limit the performance of at least one aspect based on the rated performance power associated with that operator.
As an example, it is assumed that mobile asset 12 comprises a material handling vehicle. As noted above, the mobile asset application server 14 stores a list of authorized operators, which can also include a license / certification control aspect that makes sure that each operator who is otherwise authorized to operate the mobile asset maintains a valid and updated operator license. In accordance with this aspect of the present invention, performance data is also "5 associated with each automated user.
ny Referring to Fig. 12, in an exemplary implementation, "performance tuning" can be used as a way to order «authorized and licensed / certified operators according to experience and skill, and to adjust the characteristics of the asset mobile 12 in this way.
10 For example, operator performance ratings, such as Pl, P2 and P3, can be used to differentiate authorized operators, where P3 can correspond to an initiator, P2 can correspond to a skilled intermediate operator and Pl can correspond to an operator advanced skillful. When an authorized operator's performance rating 15 is improved, the mobile asset can unlock or otherwise enable advanced aspects, modify aspects and capacity of the mobile asset and / or otherwise regulate one or more characteristics of the operation to match the capacity of the operator. operator. Correspondingly, mobile assets 1 2 can disable advanced aspects, limit capacity, change performance capacity, etc., to relatively decrease orderly / skilled operators. For example, an experienced Pl operator may be able to drive a mobile asset 12 at a higher speed, perform certain functions simultaneously, etc. relative to a corresponding beginner P3 operator. Any other number of sorting systems can be provided to implement such performance tuning. Operator qualification can be based on numerous factors, including, for example, licenses, certifications, years of experience of the currently maintained operator. In addition, the classification can be based on the actual monitored measurements of the operator's capacity. As mentioned above, the mobile asset information link device 38 may be able to monitor and record aspects of the mobile asset operation and wirelessly transmit that information to the network, for example, to the mobile asset application server 14. As such, the metrics used to "5 assess and determine the skill of the operator can be based on the event
. · Actual and other data collected by a corresponding mobile asset information linking device 38. For example, if an operator disengages impact sensors 60 a predetermined number of times, or when
. moving at certain speeds, the corresponding performance rating 10 can be regulated.
This example was meaningful by way of illustration and not by limiting the many approaches to integrating the actual operator's performance / usage capacity information into a performance ordering determination.
Dependent Area of Demarcated Area and Position
15 The integration of the components of the mobile asset information link device, in the corresponding mobile asset control system 12, still allows operation dependent on asset position.
An illustrative example of such a position-dependent operation is the "demarcated area" implementation, which can be used to create "fences" that restrict, 20 direct, guide or otherwise affect the navigation of mobile asset 12. As an example, a device can be provided in a material handling vehicle that is used to determine a position of the material handling vehicle. The processor provided within interface controller 50 or otherwise integrated in the material handling vehicle 25 is configured to implement at least one function on the material handling vehicle wirelessly transmitting the obtained position relative to the information between the application server 14 and the material handling vehicle, via transceiver 14, so that the position of the material handling vehicle material handling is determined.
In addition, the processor interacts with at least one component of the material handling vehicle to perform a predetermined action in response to receiving a command from the application server 14 based on the determined position of the material handling vehicle. The action can "5 comprise, for example, at least one of a avoidance maneuver or a · speed reduction in response to the material handling vehicle. In addition, the action can be dynamically selected based on at least one condition current operation of the material handling vehicle 10 Referring to Fig. 13, a demarcated area capacity is illustrated, assuming that a fork lift truck is moving down a lane below 202. At some points in the previous time , a demarcated area 204 is installed by the mobile asset application server 14 to secure an area of lane 202. The mobile asset application server 14 15 transmits information relating to demarcated area 204 to the corresponding asset information link device forklift conveyor 38 mobile 38. Interface controller 50 can also interact with other forklift conveyor systems through a CAN bar or other suitable mobile asset network system 68, so that the 12D forklift transponder automatically implements an evasive maneuver, manually instructs the operator to perform an evasive maneuver or take other appropriate action to avoid the area of the forklift. demarcated area204.
For example, the fork lift truck 12D 25 may include a position determination device or other capacity 206, in order to be able to determine the position of the mobile asset relative to the demarcated area 204. The position information can be transmitted to the server of mobile asset application 14, depending on the particular implementation, such as to implement the fork lift truck conveyor, to trigger the transmission of the demarcated area information and / or for other suitable applications. Thus, providing this example, workers can stay in the vicinity of demarcated area 204. As such, the mobile asset application server 14 can identify the presence of workers and "5 can transmit such information to the forklift conveyor m · 12D, including instructions to slow down near demarcated area 204, etc. - As another illustrative example, it is assumed that moisture is identified on the floor of a local area, or that an overflow, rubble '10 or unwanted material is located in a mobile asset displacement path. The appropriate information regarding the positioning of the overflow is transmitted to the mobile asset application server 14, which creates a demarcated area 204 around that designated area. This demarcated area 204 is transmitted from the mobile asset application 14 to 15 one or more of the mobile assets 12, for example, via the mobile asset information link 38 in each movable asset 12. In this arrangement, when a fork lift conveyor 12D advances to, or otherwise approaches the area encircled by demarcated area 204, the fork lift conveyor 12D can sound the operator 20 by sounding a horn , activating a forklift 12D conveyor may implement an evasive maneuver or otherwise perform a remedial action, such as automatically driving around the area and / or avoiding the area that has been demarcated, or reducing the speed of the forklift conveyor 12D, or take other appropriate actions.
25 In addition, the particular corrective action can be intelligently selected, based on the operation characteristics of the fork lift 12D conveyor. For example, an appropriate response for a demarcated area 204, such as a wet floor, can be based on the speed of the fork lift conveyor, the load carried by the fork lift conveyor, if the fork lift conveyor 12D is moving to forward or backward, operator skill (performance rating), etc. Thus, for example, a slow forklift truck moving without load "5 may react differently than a forklift truck W · carrying a significant load on its fork. be implemented, as will be described in another example below.
In addition, certain workflows can be automatically implemented. For example, if an overflow or other unwanted environmental condition is detected by an asset operator, or where the mobile asset application server 14 otherwise creates a demarcated area 204, an e-mail message or other flow process work can be started for the appropriate personnel, such as the maintenance department 15 to perform general cleaning operations. After correcting the condition that triggered the creation of the demarcated area 204, the mobile asset application server 14 can "remove" the demarcated area 204, such as by sending an appropriate message to the relevant mobile assets 12 at an appropriate time. 20 A demarcated area 204 can also be used to limit or prohibit a mobile asset 12 from a specific area. For example, in "a connected warehouse, if an operator is not properly authorized to drive in a certain region, a demarcated area 204 can be created to prevent mobile asset 12 and the corresponding from moving in unauthorized regions. In this example, the type of movable asset and or the identification of the particular operator can be used as factors to consider whether the delimited area 204 affects the particular movable asset or not .. Similarly, delimited areas 204 can be located in areas where the operation of the asset should be avoided For example, a first delimited area 204 may prohibit reach conveyors from entering a loading dock area, but allow certain fork lift trucks to travel to and from unimpeded cargo docks.
However, a second bounded area 204 can be positioned at the edges of a loading dock or at
"5 an area that has an unsuitable surface to prohibit
0 · fork lift truck conveyors to enter such areas.
Again, factors such as the load carried by the mobile asset, the speed of the mobile asset, the type of asset, operator ID, etc., can be used in determining the way in which the demarcated area is implemented with respect to 10 a mobile asset 12. The effectiveness of the position-dependent asset operation, for example, the creation of delimited areas 204, may be contingent on the accuracy of the positioning of the asset in the network system.
In a first example, a mobile asset 12 does not need to be equipped with a separate 15 position determining device 206 by itself.
Instead, a particular site may have a plurality of wireless access points 20. In this arrangement, the mobile asset application server 14 may be able to determine which particular wireless access point 20 is communicating with, for example. example, recognizing a MAC address or other unique identifier for each access point 20. In addition, the mobile asset application server 14 can know the location of each access point 20. So, Mmgulation techniques can be used to identify the position of the asset based on a measure of the relative signal strength of a signal transmitted by a selected mobile asset 12 received at various access points 20. Alternatively, other positioning technologies can be used.
For example, the position determination device can be implemented as a global positioning system (GPS). For example, a GPS system can be implemented as one of the optional controllers / modules / devices 80 described with reference to Fig. 6. Also, unique labels, for example, LABEL A,
LABEL B and LABEL C, as shown in Fig. 13, can be distributed around a work area.
In this arrangement, the position determining device 206 may comprise a suitable label reader.
Knowing the most recent tag that was detected / read and "5 knowing the locations of the tags, a positioning system can deduce the position of the mobile asset.
So, in the example above, the area. delimited 204 can be associated with a position corresponding to - LABEL C, and an evasive maneuver can be implemented by detecting that the fork lift truck 12D is somewhere between LABEL 10 B and LABEL C.
As an example, Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) tags can be used to detect position.
In this arrangement, RFID tags can be strategically located around the corresponding location where each tag is associated with a new position.
A suitable RFID detector, implemented as the position determining device 206, for example, one of the optional controllers / modules / devices 80, described with reference to Fig. 6, can be used to read each RFID tag found.
The position information of the reading tags can be determined in the active 20 by the interface controller 50, or tag data can be transmitted to the mobile asset application server 14 for position determination.
The accuracy of such a system can be adjusted by varying the number of labels and the spacing between labels in place.
Furthermore, perimeter sensors and other similar technologies can be used in combination with a suitable active reader to check position information.
Any number of other arrangements can alternatively be used, as long as the asset position is determined within the tolerance range dictated by the specific application.
According to various aspects of the present invention, information related to the vehicle position can be maintained through a predetermined time window and data can be recorded during vehicle operation through the time window, obtaining information from at least one vehicle component via the network bus of the "5 material handling vehicle.
Upon detection of a trigger event, an event report can be transmitted wirelessly to the server. applications 14, to preserve the information recorded through the window, such as capturing position information during a period, can include at least one of just before the event, just after the event, or both before and 10 after the event.
Updating / Modernizing Aspect According to other aspects of the present invention, a predetermined event can be detected, which is associated with a request for a sofhvare version change of at least one mobile asset component, such as a mobile vehicle component. material handling that is coupled to a corresponding vehicle network bus.
Thus, a software version change can be implemented wirelessly, receiving a software change from the mobile asset application server 14 that is directed to a vehicle component 20 selected for the material handling vehicle's network bus. , and reprogramming the selected vehicle component based on the software version received by communicating with the material handling vehicle component via the network bus.
Thus, for example, in the implementations where the signal wire connection device 25 is connected to the CAN bus or in another suitable vehicle network system 68, advanced aspects can be implemented.
Transceiver 46 can serve as an input to mobile asset 12, so that any upgradeable / reprogrammable software component of the asset can wirelessly receive software modifications and other reprogramming instructions.
For example, updates to a vehicle control program or other aspect of software-controlled mobile assets can be transmitted wirelessly to the asset via the mobile asset information link 38. The processor provided within the controller "5 of interface 50 or otherwise integrated into the mobile asset can then interact with the components of the appropriate system, via the CAN bus or another suitable network system 68, to implement the software update, for example, an update review , route, or other modification.
If the asset is in operation at the time of receiving the sohware, 10 the associated reprogramming insti- tutions may be temporarily stored, for example, by interface controller 50, until such time as is appropriate for the reprogranization activity.
Referring to Fig. 14, a software update 212 can be transferred to a mobile asset 12 of the mobile asset application server 15, which can load the updated software 212 on the network of an average laptop computer.
Alternatively, software update 212 may originate from a remote server 30, for example, a manufacturer may transmit the software update to the mobile asset application server 14 over network 32. 20 Additionally, certain aspects of an asset mobile 112, for example, a material handling vehicle, can be controlled, configured or otherwise communicated with the processing devices associated with the corresponding enterprise 26 or remote intercompany server 30. This can enable, for example, a manufacturer of a peripheral component, etc., to configure, reset, adjust, modify or otherwise control or interact in real time (or close to real time) with the associated component, peripheral, or other aspect of a corresponding mobile asset 12 through of the wireless network, via a corresponding mobile asset information link device 38. Mobile Link Device / Mobile Asset Link upgradeable so / iWare Referring to Fig. 1 5, as discussed in more detail here, the wireless communications interface controller 50 includes a 213 "5 processor in communication with memory 214. Memory 214 may include a instruction automatic execution sector 215 for flash reprogramming of endings e. capacity associated with the mobile asset information linker. 38 and for restartability.
The memory 214 of the interface controller 50 may also include a separate application area 216 which also has an automatic instruction execution area 217. According to aspects of the present invention, when performing flash programming, the application area 216 can be erased.
In this arrangement, the automatic execution sector of the 215 application is used to update the programming in the application area 216 with a software update 212. The software, in the application area 216, can also be used to delete the execution sector. automatic installation 215, in order to replace automatic instruction execution with updated information, such as an updated instruction automatic execution loader.
For example, software update 212 may include an automatic execution area 20 of instruction 217 in its code, so that the system can replace the code for the automatic instruction execution sector 215 with a new instruction automatic execution loader. provided in the new instructional execution code 217, which is included with a corresponding software update 212. As such, attenuations and capacity are not limited to the particular implementation of the instructional execution area of the interface controller 50 in any given occasion.
Intelligent Diagnostics Checklist If a mobile asset 12 experiences an error during a workday or other designated working period, an operator can use the mobile asset information link 38 to invoke an inspection checklist who may be able to identify the cause of the failure.
In this regard, the mobile asset information link 38 can serve as an interface and interact with the "5 mobile asset components via the CAN bus or other appropriate mobile asset network system 68, and with enterprise servers, as well as third party servers, such as manufacturer servers over one or more network connections.
As such, checklist diagnostics
. intelligent, as well as event triggering diagnostics, can be implemented based on the information derived from Iocahnente in the asset, as well as based on the information transmitted over the wireless network.
Task Integration The wireless communication capabilities of the various aspects of the present invention can also enable firota control to connect to task related activities, such as integration into the Warehouse Control Software (WMS). In this regard, the wireless system can serve as a conduit between the WMS application and the operator, in order to facilitate targeted selection, provide routes for drivers, provide information for exception handling, such as where a SKU is not located. in an anticipated location, or perform functions, such as directing the operator in other considerations related to the WMS.
In addition, the mobile asset application server 14 can mix data related to the mobile asset into the WMS data for product integration and asset monitoring.
Integration can be further enhanced by integrating application server 14 with other enterprise applications.
As an example, if a WMS system informs an asset operator where to collect and place a load of items, the mobile asset information link 38 and corresponding input devices, such as a tag reader, etc., can be used to record and / or check the Iocais from where the operator collects and places the load. Appropriate data can be sent to the WMS system, for example, via the mobile asset application server 14, to ensure that tasks are being carried out in accordance with the WMS guidelines. In addition, the mobile asset information link device "5 may be able to understand the WMS instructions for the asset operator. Therefore, the mobile asset information link 38 may be able to provide feedback to the operator. of assets, to indicate that the appropriate loads are being handled and that cargo movements and other activities are being carried out correctly. Also, any amount of appropriate workflows can be triggered based on the usage data recorded by the information link device mobile asset 38.
Paging The mobile asset information link 38 can also be used to receive targeted messages for specific mobile assets 12. For example, the mobile asset application server 14 can be used to advance or otherwise originate pages, instant messages or other communications for specific mobile assets and / or asset operators. The mobile asset application server 14 identifies .20 how to properly relay the message to the intended recipient, for example, by asset operator, asset identification, etc. The received message can be displayed on monitor 41, 50, played through a speaker, etc.- The mobile asset application server 14 can also receive responses and retransmit these responses to the message sender- In addition, messages can be broadcast on groups of asset and / or asset operators, and the mobile asset application server 14 can track the status of transmitted messages.
As an example, when an operator signs up for an activQ, the wireless communications interface controller 50 can transmit the operator ID and relevant tracking information, such as the corresponding asset ID, to the mobile asset application server. 14. Knowing the operator ID and corresponding asset ID, instant messaging systems can be manipulated. Also, the mobile asset application server 5 can be used to implement and / or integrate with a presence and quality system in a mobile asset environment. That is, when the operator moves around a mobile environment, the mobile asset application server 14 can be used to track that operator.
Thus, as an example, the position information can be received for a plurality of material handling vehicles from the application server 14. The application server 14 can select one of the material handling vehicles, whose position is closest to a designated location based on the received position information, and wirelessly transmit a message from the messenger to the selected one of the material handling vehicles, such as to issue a task related request or otherwise transmit information.
Work Area Detection / Referring to Fig. 16, in another example implementation, tags can be provided for asset operators and other workers who may be in the work environment. Using a suitable tag reader 220 embedded in mobile asset 12E, or data collected by fixed position tag readers 220, the mobile asset application server 14 can track not only mobile assets and asset operators, but others in proximity to mobile assets. Thus, data can be undermined, which is directed towards understanding the relationships between mobile assets and other workers. Knowing the Ioalization of people and the location of mobile assets, a local operator may be able to associate labor costs in local areas and products within the facility.
This makes it possible for the asset manufacturer to provide services, such as optimization decisions.
In addition, knowing the locations of people in proximity to mobile assets 12, such as equipping such people 5 with appropriate tags and providing fixed location readers and / or mobile assets to equip 12 with corresponding readers, the mobile asset 14 and / or mobile asset 12 application server can implement appropriate actions and create smart decisions.
For example, the operator of a forklift conveyor may be a highly skilled driver, but may be working in a tight working environment.
Thus, one or more control or operational parameters, for example, top speed of the fork lift truck conveyor, can be adjusted to accommodate the environment and its surroundings.
In this regard, sensors, such as soil sensors, surface change sensors, ultrasonic sensors and other technologies, can be used, in addition to or in place of labels, to implement control of the working environment and / or parameter adjustments of a mobile asset 12. The tags, such as RFID tags, can be integrated into the protector or other equipment used by asset operators and other workers in the working neighborhood.
This can also enable automatic or non-automatic entry into the system for the mobile asset prior to the operation of the mobile asset 12. Tags, such as those using RFID technologies, can also be integrated into the mobile asset components and accessories.
For example, if an operator is required to use professional equipment, a tag can be incorporated into that professional equipment.
Therefore, the tag is read to verify that the operator is properly attached to, etc. For example, if the operator is not attached to appropriate professional equipment, control of mobile asset 12 may be disabled or performance may be altered in a way that provides an appropriate working environment for the user.
In addition, warnings such as signals or other information can be transmitted to the operator, as well as the mobile asset application server 14 to 5 to record the event.
For example, if a user "has Lúllã cage located on the forks of a fork lift conveyor, but the cage is not properly fixed and the operator tries to raise the forks, the mobile asset can detect, via the tag or other detection technology appropriate, that the cage is not properly fixed and installed and take 10 other appropriate action.
As such, the maximum allowable height of the forks may be limited and / or fork-lift operations may be disabled.
In addition, "a message can be sent back to the mobile asset application server 14 indicating that the operator attempted to implement the activity. 15 In addition, tags can be installed across an area covered by mobile assets 12, such as shelves at the ends of walkways in a warehouse environment.
When a mobile asset 12 is moving down the path, an asset tag reader can read the tags.
Thus, for example, based on an acknowledgment that a corresponding label is at the end of a passage, the asset can use this information to implement automatic speed adjustment, etc.
In addition, the mobile asset tag reader 12 can inform the mobile asset application server 14 of its location.
The mobile asset application server 14 can thus track the location of 25 each of the mobile assets 12. Knowing the location of each mobile asset 12, the mobile asset application server 14 can send messages to redirect selected mobile assets 12 based on known locations of other mobile assets 12, such as for workflow control.
As an example, a "hot spot" can be identified by detecting numerous mobile assets 12 in a small area of an installation. This can trigger a workflow that renames tasks for one or more of the mobile assets 12, such as by a WMS system, so that each mobile asset 12 can function more efficiently.
5 Weight Measurement A mobile asset 12, such as a material handling vehicle, may be able to measure the operator's weight. For example, certain mobile assets, such as a fork lift truck, having a main body and mast or tower, can measure back pressure in the hydraulic system, for example, using a suitable transducer. The mobile asset application server 14 can use this information to create smart decisions. As an example, the weight measured on the fork lift conveyor can be used to confirm that the operator record in the system is the real person corresponding to the identity of the user entering the system, such as comparing the weight measured to a previously stored weight. Although not conclusive, a weight measurement scheme can provide an overall check against the input operator ID.
Environmental Integration 20 Additionally, smart accessories can be integrated into the work environment and brought in communication with a mobile asset information link device 38, via the mobile asset application server 14. For example, when a level 12 asset approaches from a dark corner of an arniazéin, the mobile asset application server 14 that is tracking the location of mobile asset 12 can send messages to other smart devices within the facility to assist the asset operator, such as instructing smart lights to automatically turn on while items are being selected. Similarly, the mobile asset application server 14 can instruct the smart light fixtures to switch off after the mobile asset is driven out of the area.
MOBILE ASSET ACCESSORIES A 38 mobile asset information connection device can also be integrated with digital cameras, weight detection and 5 other accessories attached to assets.
As an example, in a warehouse operation, during an unloading operation, when mobile &
fork lift trucks are moving in and out of a semi-tractor or other suitable location, sensors related to the operation of the fork lift trucks can check the weight of the pallets 10 on the fork lift trucks.
Weights can be transmitted to the mobile asset application server 14, which can compare each received weight measurement against an expected or anticipated weight range for the reed.
In addition, cameras can be used to take pictures of the condition of the merchandise before it is received and / or leave the warehouse for quality and control purposes and to document the damaged merchandise for statistical data.
The image data can be automatically transmitted to an appropriate computer system server, via the corresponding mobile asset information link 38. 20 Thus, confirmation, inspection and other similar aspects can be integrated with receiving departments, shipping departments or other appropriate operations.
Thus, collected information, digital images and other relevant data can also be transmitted wirelessly to the mobile asset application server 14. 25 An Active User of the Asset Interface The asset interface can also be used by an asset worker. intra-enterprise that is not an asset operator, such as an administrator or supervisor, etc.
As quoted in an example. provided above, if an operator is involved in a collision or other activity that triggers impact detectors, an administrator may be required to shut down or otherwise rehabilitate the device for operation. As such, the wireless communication interface controller 50 can recognize a user identification code like that of a supervisor and provide access to certain aspects, parameters, menu items, etc. when specific tasks require it, which would otherwise be hidden from the asset operator. The supervisor can also use the asset interface to perform tasks, such as checking operator statistics or performing other tasks. Therefore, screens and information that are of importance to an authorized non-operator user, such as a floor administrator, can be adapted to help that person complete their work, so that the asset operator can be registered again. and get back to work relatively quickly.
A third party Authorized Asset Interface user 15 A third party, such as a maintenance, service or technical repair, may be required to perform service repairs, planned maintenance, diagnostics and other activities associated with a mobile asset 12, thus requiring interface interaction of asset. Under this arrangement, the wireless wire interface controller 50 can interact with monitor 46, 52, mobile asset application server 14 and / or remote server 30 to provide appropriate information for the third user. Again, the information available to a third user of the asset interface is probably different than the information required by an asset operator. In this regard, the information required by the third user 25 can be transmitted wirelessly to the corresponding asset of a network resource, for example, the mobile asset application server 14. In addition, in some instances, the required information may not be of general knowledge for the enterprise. Instead, the required information may comprise, for example, proprietary information that is not publicly disclosed. Where a system, such as that described with reference to Fig. 3, is implemented, the appropriate material can be safely transmitted to the particular mobile asset 12 of a trusted third party server 30. For example, a manufacturer of mobile asset 12 can 5 maintain a server 30 that is communicably connected to enterprise 26, via network 32, such as Intemet. A service representative performing repairs on behalf of the asset manufacturer may be able to request the appropriate repair information from the remote server 30 of the mobile asset interface, for example, in a manner analogous to that 10 described with reference to Fig. 10. A appropriate information is sent from the reInoto server 30 to the mobile asset application server 14, where the information is safely relayed to the appropriate mobile asset 12. In this arrangement, the rest of enterprise 26 may not have access to the requested patented data.
15 The service technician may also be able to automatically order the appropriate required parts, even from resources outside the enterprise, by initiating a service order or parts with the remote server 30. In addition, the mobile asset application server 14 can also actualim "intrapreneurial maintenance recordings, inventories of 20 adjusting parts, etc., all from the mobile asset interface. -Mixed The wireless communications interface controller 50 can also interact with the wireless asset application server 14 on occasions appropriate to provide an asset operator with performance statistics 25. For example, an operator may wish to look at performance metrics and other data that are related to the mobile asset or the operator's assigned tasks. ão Fijcada The enterprise may also implement one or more intra-enterprise interfaces. Typically, these interfaces are o used to interact with the mobile application server 14 to derive the rear end types of operations, such as to configure the wireless communication system and / or to configure 5 mobile asset information link devices 38 for communication
K through the wireless network, to generate reports, statistics and other usage information, etc. Therefore, one or more observations from the instinct panel can be provided for personalized control of mobile assets, to summarize data that are of interest to the operator of the enterprise, 10 management, supervision or other appropriate level.
Asset Maintenance Programs The mobile asset application server 14 can accumulate asset usage information, for example, from the collected mobile asset data, as more fully described here, to automatically 15 generate advance maintenance notifications, start flow such as sending maintenance alerts and / or emails to designated people, pre-order repair parts, etc. As an example, a preventive maintenance count regulator can be started on the mobile asset application server 14 for 20 various aspects of each mobile asset 12, such as driving, lifting, traction, etc. This information can be linked back to mobile asset 12 via wireless communication with the corresponding mobile asset information link 38, which can implement an appropriate action, such as turning on a light on a monitor that tells the operator or 25 maintenance person that scheduled maintenance is due. This can also trigger a workflow operation that sends an email to the Tainbéni maintenance department, so that planned asset maintenance can be properly implemented. In addition, the information link device 38 can be used to implement a "lock" or "end-label" operation to temporarily take the corresponding vehicle out of operation, until planned maintenance, required service, etc.- can be performed. properly implemented.
As an example, processor 50 may engage with vehicle power enabling / conditioning 52 to implement a "block" in response to the appropriate receiver of a suitable message. . Alternatively, processor 50 may disable or limit specific aspects. vehicle, such as communication commands with the appropriate vehicle control modules via the vehicle's network bus.
Thus, the controller 50 can disable the use of the vehicle's forklift trucks, but enable traction control, so that the vehicle can be driven to a suitable location for the required maintenance.
For example, a planned maintenance application may call for a transporter to be repaired at a certain time.
However, 15 this occasion may coincide with an occasion when receiving lanes are full due to the entry inventory.
As such, the system can observe not only intrinsic data collected from mobile assets 12, via the mobile asset information link 38 of mobile assets, but also data, trends and other broad business flow usage patterns 20 enterprise detected, mined, provided or otherwise made available to the mobile asset application server 14. Interacting with the mobile asset application server 14, maintenance information can be programmed into a server software handling control module .
For example, a maintenance task schedule 25 can be established based on the appropriate parameters, such as usage and / or time.
Thus, for each mobile asset tracked, each component can have a single inspection interval, so that brakes can be adjusted for a first predetermined number of hours between scheduled and hydraulic maintenance can be regulated for a different number of hours between maintenance scheduled, etc.
In addition, preventive maintenance history listings and other maintenance related reports can be generated.
This can be useful, for example, to determine the usage percentage 5 versus early usage reports. The operator's time spent on the machine versus the real time spent working »can also be estimated. Thus, operator hours versus equipment hours can be measured. Using this and similar data, a local operator can analyze anticipated usage and balance anticipated usage with actual recorded usage. This allows adjustments to be made to the control over the assets of the enterprise.
Report The mobile asset application server 14 can be pre-configured to provide reports for control and analysis of areas, 15 such as equipment use, operator licensing / certification, equipment checklist and preventive maintenance. The mobile asset application server 14 can also install a mobile asset instrument panel, which can comprise, for example, a customized interface that allows controls to monitor key performance indicators (KPI), 20 and to achieve visibility paper-based content measurement of important real-time business metrics. The instrument panel information can thus be used to monitor and analyze events in support of actions taken to improve and optimize a corresponding business, for example, presenting a "life" view of the current status of the 25 monitored events, questioning KPIs and then transmitting the KPI data values through the instrument panel components, such as gauges, indices, and other visual metaphors, such as reports, diagrams, graphs, visual tree representations, etc.
Smaller venture operators may not have the time,
ability or ability to analyze data collected by the mobile asset application server 14. As such, these operators may choose to share some or all of the collected data with a trusted third party, for example, by transmitting the data to the remote server 30 5. In this regard, a trusted third party can understand the asset manufacturer who can understand the data and provide Hota selection and control information, maintenance information, etc.
W In general, exemplary information that can be useful to a supervisor can understand, for example, who is registered in mobile assets 12, how long these operators are actually using mobile assets 12, how many jobs are being carried out as a time of use of the mobile assets 12, where the mobile assets 12 are in place, when the mobile assets 12 are in proper maintenance, when the maintenance can be scheduled in a way that minimally interrupts 15 other activities related to. work, etc. From an enterprise perspective, it is possible to monitor labor costs that can reduce the cost of ownership for a corresponding fleet of mobile assets 12 maintained in one location. For example, data mined from the mobile asset application server 14 can reveal 20 how long each operator is currently performing lifting operations, steering operations, the distance the mobile asset is being triggered, and other asset operation characteristics. This data mining can assist the local operator in optimizing the local layout, selecting the most appropriate mobile asset for the activities implemented on site, 25 and / or performing other optimizations. For example, being a lightweight mobile asset 12 is approaching the weight limits of your fork lift trucks, an analysis of data collected by the mobile asset application server 14 can recognize these events and recommend that these tasks be redistributed to another asset mobile 12 at Hota that has the most adequate capacity for these tasks.
The locaj operator can also interact with the mobile asset application server 14 to install operator authorization, which can be based on factors such as location, types of mobile assets, 5 license / certifications, numbers in the asset series, time, day, date, etc.
D A user can also interact with the server.
mobile asset application 14 to implement the paging system as described more fully here. For example, from a mobile asset application server software dialog box, a user 10 selects the mobile asset and or mobile asset operator to be paid for. The user then represents the message in an appropriate dialog box and the mobile and application server software distributes the message to the mobile active (s) via the mobile asset information link 3 8 associated with the appropriate mobile asset (s) being paid for. 15 A mobile asset application server administrator 14 may also be able to block mobile assets 12, for example, for suspended operation of a selected mobile asset 12 for a prescribed period of time or until the supervisor releases that mobile asset 12 back. for the fleet. This can be useful, for example, to ensure that maintenance and 20 other routine repairs are done, or to implement other defined tasks - For example, a system supervisor can enter a lock command in an appropriate dialog box, and select an asset operator, group of asset operators, mobile asset or mobile asset group to be blocked. The mobile asset application server 14 25 sends a blocking message to all mobile asset information linking devices 38 to effect the desired blocking transaction. The block can then expire, such as after a predetermined period of time, or the supervisor can manually initiate a corresponding process to previously release the mobile active (s)
blocked (s) / operator (s). Training Recommendations Data from the mobile asset application server can also be analyzed to determine available training needs 5. For example, by monitoring recorded data, such as the time a user operates a mobile asset, if there was any inefficiency in - operating the asset, if there were recorded impacts, etc., specific training recommendations and needs can be implemented. Workflow Planning 10 A mobile asset information link device 38 in combination with the mobile asset application server 14 can also be used to predict and / or recommend mobile asset related workflow, such as when a fork lift truck must be brought for battery charging, For example, the mobile asset information link device 3 8 can monitor the battery charge and inform the application server 14 that a battery charge will be required with a predetenninated range of time. Application server 14 can monitor peak times when all mobile assets are active / inactive etc., and a program can be created that creates a sequence of mobile assets for battery charging or replacement to improve workflow. Intercompany Interface Depending on the implementation, an enterprise may allow a trusted third party to connect to the mobile asset application server 14 and / or to specify the mobile asset information link 25. For example, the remote server 30 illustrated in Fig. 3 and 4 can communicate with the mobile asset application server 14 via the network
32. In this regard, data that is deemed appropriate can be shared with stakeholders. For example, it may be advantageous for enterprise 26 to share data that may be of interest to the mobile asset manufacturer, or to the peripheral asset component / manufacturer, as suggested by the illustrative examples described more fully here.
A Remote Service Diagnostic Tool 5 The mobile asset application server 14 can be used to enable a remote service diagnostic tool. For example, a predetermined event can be detected that is associated with an error in the operation of a material handling vehicle. The processor of interface controller 50 can be configured to initiate a remote diagnostic check of at least one component of the material handling vehicle, and information can be gathered that is related to at least one condition of the material handling vehicle, communicating the information gathered through the material handling vehicle network bus. The information related to the error event can be transmitted wirelessly between the application server 14 and the material handling vehicle, via transceiver 46, transmitting the accumulated information to the application server 14, transmitting the accumulated information by the application server to a remote third server for remote service diagnostics and receiving a message back to the server computer from the third server corresponding to the remote service diagnostics. A mobile asset manufacturer, for example, remotely diagnoses a problem, understands the results and corrects the problem with the most appropriate personnel. This may comprise, for example, implementing a software update, correction or assembly, by transmitting the correction electronically to the mobile asset by automatic installation, as described more fully here. You may also understand sending appropriate diagnostic data to service representatives so that they can conduct part of the correction at the site of a repair, or to select the most appropriate personnel to send to the site to implement the repair or other asset activity.
The manufacturer can also only be positioned to analyze the data collected for preventive, diagnostic and / or anticipative maintenance and to repair by monitoring the mobile asset for symptoms that may result in eventual problems that need to be addressed. - Therefore, by providing appropriate details of asset performance back to your manufacturer, proactive steps can be taken.
Remote Installation and Configuration 10 If a mobile asset 12 comprises upgradeable software, hardware programming, etc., the mobile asset information link 38 can be used as a remote installation tool that allows a third party to remotely access the asset mobile 12. For example, an asset manufacturer or asset component / peripheral manufacturer can remotely communicate with the mobile asset 1 2 to perform "updates and corrections and other maintenance related to the software related to the information link device 38" and / or for software related to asset components remotely In addition, purchased updates can be enabled by unlocking remotely or otherwise 20 enabling software aspects of mobile asset components 12 as part of the corresponding update plan .
Remote Monitoring Service As a trusted third party, like the mobile asset manufacturer, you can also take a proactive approach to providing monitoring services 25 with respect to asset operation. For example, if an impact or other relevant event is detected involving a mobile asset 12 from the remote server 30, such as via a message received from a corresponding mobile asset application server 14, an appropriate action can be taken. This appropriate action may include, for example, notifying a project manager of the identity of the asset involved in the impact, recording data, triggering workflows, etc.
In addition, if the impact causes damage to the asset, a manufacturer's representative may be better positioned to advise on the extent of the damage and take proactive measures, such as preparing a maintenance order and pre-ordering replacement parts needed to retake the asset. back to satisfactory operating conditions.
The manufacturer may also be able to compare the data collected from a particular enterprise 26 and provide indicators, directly or indirectly, of where the asset operators of that enterprise 26 are underperforming compared to similar workers from other enterprises 26, exceeding the performance of similar workers from similar undertakings 26, etc.
The trusted trustee, such as the asset maker, can also monitor asset usage, such as where planned maintenance programs have been established, so that the enterprise administrator does not have to make the appropriate service calls when the mobile assets are ready for maintenance.
Instead, the manufacturer will already know when the appropriate maintenance thresholds have been met and implement the appropriate maintenance strategy.
Such an approach may also enable new business models to determine rental rates for mobile assets 12. For example, rental fees may be charged for hours of use, distance traveled, pounds raised, etc.
Me / Product time / Life monitoring In addition, maintenance recordings and other information »pertaining to asset use, which are shared between enterprise 26 and the manufacturer, can provide manufacturer-specific data, such as duration test data component in the real world.
The mobile asset application server 14 can also be used to mine ergonomic data, usage data, wear data and other relevant information that is of interest to the asset manufacturer.
For example, by monitoring the use of aspects, that is, which aspects are being used and the order and sequence in which aspects of the various monitored mobile assets are being used, it may be possible to infer ergonomic considerations to enable the network signal. feedback drive and new product development.
For example, a control or aspect that is implemented but never used, can be eliminated from future models.
Alternatively, it can be learned that a control is not being used or is underused due to the inconvenience of an ergonomic resting point.
This can trigger a network signal or reimplement these aspects in more friendly ergonomic implementations.
Based on any number of factors including, for example, system entry ID codes and associated metadata, mobile asset sensors 12 and other extrinsic sources of information, the mobile asset application server 14 can be used to mine ergonomic indicators of mobile asset operator characteristics.
In a single example, each user has metadata stored on the mobile asset application server 20 · 14, which is associated with their system entries.
These metadata may comprise, for example, whether or not the operator is male or female, the height and / or weight of the operator and / or any specific physical characteristics of the operator.
Each time the operator registers for the asset, the mobile asset application server 14 gains information that it can be 25 analyzed to determine the use of the mobile asset from an ergonomic perspective.
Operator metadata can be correlated, mined and otherwise analyzed in relation to the collected data, such as how long each operator drives certain switches, initiating certain control sequences and performing other operation tasks.
m An enterprise expert or a trusted third party, such as the mobile asset manufacturer, may be able to mine data collected by the mobile asset application server 14 to perform a flow analysis where a background plan is mapped from outside and recommendations or 5 changes to the WMS system can be suggested after the operator of the + enterprise. This can affect patterns of direction of the mobile asset, location layout, etc. Thus, the asset manufacturer can become active in improving the efficiency of its customers.
As another example, if a mobile asset 12 is being overused 10, such as a high capacity fork lift conveyor being detected as only nominal lifting weights, the manufacturer can be in a single position to recommend that the location change the type of lift. mobile asset 12 used for the types of tasks identified. In another example, including the capacity of each mobile asset 12, 15 such as size, speed, lifting capacity, etc., recommendations can be provided to the local operator that will affect the way in which the location is organized in order to raise the resistances of mobile active c-ada 12 in their particular working environment.
Yet another example, knowing and understanding the 20 jobs being carried out by mobile assets 12 in one location, the asset manufacturer can analyze the data and use the specialized knowledge and penetration not available to operators, to recommend the purchase of accessories and / or optional products that can simplify, reduce the cost of, or otherwise enable more conscious implementation of the identified tasks 25 performed by the mobile assets 12, Certj / ícada Replacement Part Labels RFID or other suitable equequet technology it can be used in combination with the wireless capability integrated into the wireless mobile asset system in numerous ways to provide enhanced features and capacity.
As an illustrative example, components of mobile asset 12 can be identified with an RFID or other suitable tag.
If maintenance requires the component to be replaced, the mobile asset control electronics can verify that the label on the replacement component 5 meets certain quality conditions and is thus suitable for operation.
This
. it can be used to gain a criterion for components, such as wear parts that require periodic replacement and can be used to ensure that components are being replaced with appropriately qualified replacement parts.
The information collected from tag readings 10 can be transmitted to the mobile asset application server 14 and / or the data can be transmitted to the remote server, such as the manufacturer's remote server 30, for data analysis.
Having thus described the invention of the present application in detail and with reference to its forms of realization, it will be evident that 15 modifications and variations are possible without departing from the scope of the invention defined in the appended claims.

权利要求:
Claims (14)
[1]
1. Method for monitoring the operation of a vehicle, characterized by the fact that: it detects an application of force occurred in the vehicle; 5 calculate a vehicle moment change; determine whether the momentum change and the application of force occurred within a predetermined period of time with each other; and «generate an impact signal indicating that the momentum change and the application of force occurred within the predetermined period of time.
[2]
2. Method to detect impacts in a material handling vehicle, characterized by the fact that it comprises: monitoring g-forces applied to the material handling vehicle; 15 compare g-forces applied to the material handling vehicle with a selectable g-force threshold value; determining a gross vehicle weight for the material handling vehicle; determine the acceleration of the vehicle handling 20 materials; calculating an impulse signal based on said gross vehicle weight of the material handling vehicle and said material handling vehicle acceleration; select a pulse signal limit for the material handling vehicle; comparing said pulse signal of the material handling vehicle COI11 said pulse signal limit; and generating an impact signal when g-forces applied to the material handling vehicle exceed said selectable g-force threshold value and said impulse signal exceeds said impulse signal limit.
[3]
3. Method, according to claim 2, characterized by the fact that monitoring g-forces applied to the material handling vehicle 5 comprise: at least installing an accelerometer in the material handling vehicle; and receiving g-force signals generated by said at least one accelerometer.
[4]
Method according to claim 3, characterized in that the assembly of at least one accelerometer in the material handling vehicle comprises mounting at least one accelerometer to a main body of the material handling vehicle.
[5]
5. Method, according to claim 3, characterized in that the assembly of at least one accelerometer in the material handling vehicle may involve mounting at least one accelerometer to one of a mast or a material handling vehicle tower.
[6]
6. Method, according to claim 2, characterized by the fact that it still comprises: determining if the material handling vehicle is stopped; and generating an impact signal when g-forces applied to the material handling vehicle exceed said selectable g-force limit threshold value and the material handling vehicle is stopped.
[7]
Method according to claim 2, characterized in that it determines a good vehicle weight for the material handling vehicle comprises: determining a service weight for the material handling vehicle;
[8]
determine a load weight for the material handling vehicle; and adding said service weight and said load weight to determine said gross vehicle weight. 8. Method, according to claim 7, characterized by the fact that it further comprises limiting said weight of vehicle to a predetermined maximum value. +
[9]
9. Method, according to claim 2, characterized in that the determination of the acceleration of the material handling vehicle comprises: determining the speed of the material handling vehicle; and perform a three-point differentiation of said material handling vehicle speed. 15
[10]
10. Method, according to claim 2, characterized by the fact that calculating an impulse signal comprises multiplying said gross vehicle weight by said material handling vehicle acceleration and by 0.146.
[11]
ll. Method according to claim 2, characterized in that it selects an impulse signal limit for the material handling vehicle comprises: selecting an initial impulse signal limit for the material handling vehicle; activate the material non-manipulation vehicle around a facility where the material handling vehicle is to be used; monitor impact signals generated while triggering the material handling vehicle; and selecting a pulse signal limit that is higher than said initial pulse signal limit if the pulse signals are generated during typical driving of the material handling vehicle.
[12]
12. Method, according to claim 2, characterized by the fact that it also comprises storing information referring to at least one of g-forces, impulse signals and impact signals on board the material handling vehicle.
[13]
13. Method according to claim 2, characterized in that it comprises both transmitting information relating to at least one of the g-forces, impulse signals and impact signals to a remote receiver.
[14]
14. Method, according to claim 2, characterized by the fact that it also comprises disabling the operation of the material handling vehicle based on said impact signal.

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法律状态:
2020-10-13| B06U| Preliminary requirement: requests with searches performed by other patent offices: procedure suspended [chapter 6.21 patent gazette]|

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2021-01-26| B11B| Dismissal acc. art. 36, par 1 of ipl - no reply within 90 days to fullfil the necessary requirements|

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2021-11-23| B350| Update of information on the portal [chapter 15.35 patent gazette]|

优先权:

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申请号 | 申请日 | 专利标题

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US12/569384|2009-09-29|

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US12/569,384|US10600256B2|2006-12-13|2009-09-29|Impact sensing usable with fleet management system|

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PCT/US2010/050634|WO2011041351A2|2009-09-29|2010-09-29|Impact sensing usable with fleet management system|

---