Crane Lowering Guidance Using a Attachable Camera Module for Driver Vision Support

TL;DR

This paper presents a novel attachable camera system for cranes that provides real-time visual guidance during load lowering, aiming to improve safety by overcoming visibility limitations faced by operators.

Contribution

The study introduces a compact, attachable camera module with real-time image processing for crane load guidance, enhancing safety and operational efficiency.

Findings

Feasibility of real-time image streaming confirmed

System effectively provides visual guidance during load lowering

Potential to improve construction site safety

Abstract

Cranes have long been essential equipment for lifting and placing heavy loads in construction projects. This study focuses on the lowering phase of crane operation, the stage in which the load is moved to the desired location. During this phase, a constant challenge exists: the load obstructs the operator's view of the landing point. As a result, operators traditionally have to rely on verbal or gestural instructions from ground personnel, which significantly impacts site safety. To alleviate this constraint, the proposed system incorporates a attachable camera module designed to be attached directly to the load via a suction cup. This module houses a single-board computer, battery, and compact camera. After installation, it streams and processes images of the ground directly below the load in real time to generate installation guidance. Simultaneously, this guidance is transmitted to and monitored by a host computer. Preliminary experiments were conducted by attaching this module to a test object, confirming the feasibility of real-time image acquisition and transmission. This approach has the potential to significantly improve safety on construction sites by providing crane operators with an instant visual reference of hidden landing zones.