Actuating Support Rack for Refuse Vehicle Side Loading Arm
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing support racks for side loading arms of refuse vehicles deform over time due to repeated use during over road travel, losing their ability to effectively support the arm.
Innovation Solution
An actuated support rack with an over-center actuating mechanism, featuring a cylinder and linkage, that locks the side loading arm in position using a pin and biasing bracket, ensuring secure support during transportation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If a simple interference fit connection is used between the rack and arm, then the device complexity is reduced, but the reliability deteriorates over time due to deformation from repeated use
Solution Approach 1:
The connection mechanism transitions from a static interference fit to a dynamic locking system that can switch between locked and unlocked states. The actuating mechanism with pin and bore provides a deterministic locking position that maintains reliability while allowing controlled movement when needed.
Solution Approach 2:
The biasing bracket automatically returns the support member to the locked position after actuation, providing self-resetting functionality. This eliminates the need for manual resetting and ensures the rack maintains its supportive function without external intervention.
2Ease of operation
If the support rack is designed to be movable for arm removal, then the ease of operation is improved, but the stability during over road travel deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The support member is designed as a dynamic component that can pivot between a stable locked position during travel and a movable unlocked position for arm removal. The actuating mechanism enables easy transition between these states while maintaining stability in the locked position.
Solution Approach 2:
The rack system is divided into separable components (support member, actuating mechanism, biasing bracket) that can be independently controlled. This segmentation allows the support member to be selectively locked or unlocked without affecting the overall rack structure, enabling easy arm removal while maintaining travel stability.
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
The solution provides a durable and long-lasting support for the side loading arm, maintaining its functionality during over road travel by locking the arm in place and absorbing shock loads, thus preventing deformation.
Implementation Method 1
A biasing bracket is coupled with the frame to receive the actuator mechanism in the locked position
Implementation Method 2
The actuating member further comprises a cylinder and a linkage to move the support member between the first and second positions
Data Source
AI summary
A support rack for a side loading arm of a refuse vehicle has a frame to secure with the refuse vehicle. A support member is pivotally coupled with the frame. The support member receives the side loading arm. An actuating mechanism is coupled between the frame and the support member. The actuating mechanism moves the support member between a first and a second position. In the first position, the support member is in a locked position which locks the side loading arm in position with the support rack during over road traveling conditions. In the second position, the support member is in an unlocked position to enable the side loading arm to move away from the support rack.