Active Arm Adapter for Vehicle Lift with Adjustable Frame Retaining Assembly
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Solution Overview
Problem
Frame-engaging vehicle lifts require multiple adapters to accommodate different vehicle frames, leading to inefficiencies in installation, productivity, and cost due to the need for various adapters for unibody, pinch weld, and truck frames with slick undercoatings, which can slip off or not engage properly.
Innovation Solution
An adjustable arm adapter with a retractable ear assembly that automatically transitions between configurations to suitably engage various vehicle frames, including truck frames with slick undercoatings and unibody frames, without the need for adapter changes, using a mechanism that pivots or translates to accommodate different frame geometries.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple adapters are used to accommodate different vehicle frames, then adaptability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The adapter assembly is designed with a universal platform assembly that can accommodate multiple vehicle frame types (unibody, pinch weld, and truck frames) through a single integrated structure. The platform assembly includes a pad support surface with multiple pad positions and an adjustable frame retaining assembly that can be configured for different frame geometries, eliminating the need for multiple separate adapters.
Solution Approach 2:
The frame retaining assembly incorporates adjustable and movable components including ears that can be repositioned along the platform, a retractable ear assembly that can extend or retract based on frame type, and a pad assembly that can be adjusted vertically and horizontally. This dynamic adjustability allows the same adapter to suitably engage different vehicle frames without requiring multiple static adapter designs.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple adapters are installed and replaced for different vehicle types, then adaptability is improved, but productivity decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The single adapter assembly serves multiple functions by accommodating unibody frames, pinch weld frames, and truck frames with slick undercoatings through its adjustable components. The universal design eliminates the need to install and replace different adapters for different vehicle types, allowing technicians to service multiple vehicle types with one adapter assembly.
Solution Approach 2:
The adapter assembly is pre-configured with multiple adjustment capabilities and retainer positions that can be quickly repositioned between vehicle types. The ears and frame retainers are designed to be easily adjusted to predetermined positions for different frame types, reducing the time required to adapt the adapter for different vehicles compared to complete adapter replacements.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple adapters are used for different vehicle frames, then adaptability is improved, but loss of time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The universal platform assembly with adjustable components allows a single adapter to replace multiple specialized adapters, eliminating the time required to remove and install different adapters for different vehicle types. The adapter can be quickly reconfigured for different frames using the adjustable ears and frame retainers.
Solution Approach 2:
The dynamic adjustment mechanisms including movable ears, retractable assemblies, and adjustable pad positions enable rapid reconfiguration of the adapter for different vehicle frames. These movable components can be quickly repositioned without requiring complete adapter removal and reinstallation, significantly reducing the time loss associated with adapter changes.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Enables efficient and cost-effective lifting of multiple vehicle types with a single set of adapters, reducing installation time and eliminating the risk of damage or improper engagement, thereby enhancing productivity and adaptability.
Implementation Method 1
an adjustable frame retaining assembly coupled with the platform assembly. The adjustable frame retaining assembly includes a retractable ear assembly that is configured to pivot or translate to transition between an extended configuration and a retracted configuration
Implementation Method 2
an adjustable frame retaining assembly coupled with the platform assembly. The adjustable frame retaining assembly includes a retractable ear assembly that is configured to pivot or translate to transition between an extended configuration and a retracted configuration
Data Source
AI summary
A vehicle arm adapter that includes a base member, a platform assembly coupled to the base member, and an adjustable frame retaining assembly coupled with the platform assembly. The base member can selectively couple with a lifting arm of a vehicle lift. The platform assembly includes a vehicle engagement surface. The platform assembly can engage and lift a vehicle in coordination with the vehicle lift. The adjustable frame retaining assembly includes a first retractable assembly and a second retractable assembly that are both capable of actuating between an extend configuration and a retracted configuration. The first and second frame retaining assemblies can cooperate to contain a first subset of vehicle frames in the extended configuration. The first and second frame retaining assemblies are prevented from retaining a second subset of vehicle frames in the retracted configuration.