Actuator Assembly Encapsulation for Paving Machine Hopper Spillage
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current paving machines have issues with material spillage due to large frame cut-outs behind hoppers, requiring excessive hydraulic force and prone to damage from pin failures, which affects construction efficiency and safety.
Innovation Solution
The design includes a sealed hopper assembly with an actuator assembly that uses retention assemblies to securely couple the actuator ends with the hopper frame and hoppers, encapsulating them within defined spaces to prevent spillage and reduce hydraulic force requirements, and incorporates a limit stop to prevent sudden drops.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a large frame cut-out is provided behind hoppers for coupling actuators, then the actuators can be coupled with hoppers, but material spills inside the front frame and engine compartment
Solution Approach 1:
The retention assembly encapsulates the actuator cylinder within a defined space formed by the retention assembly and hopper sidewall, creating a nested configuration where the actuator is contained within the hopper structure. This prevents material from accessing the actuator while maintaining coupling functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The retention assembly acts as a protective enclosure or shell that seals the actuator cylinder from the surrounding environment. This shell structure prevents material spillage while allowing the actuator to function within the enclosed space.
2Device complexity
If pins are used to connect actuators with hoppers and front frame, then the actuators can be coupled, but pin failure causes hopper to drop suddenly causing damage
Solution Approach 1:
The retention assembly provides a protective enclosure that cushions and contains the actuator cylinder. In case of pin failure, this pre-established protective structure prevents sudden hopper dropping and minimizes damage to actuators and hoppers by containing the failure consequences.
Solution Approach 2:
The retention assembly serves as an intermediary protective structure between the actuator and the external environment. It mediates the connection by providing both mechanical coupling support and failure protection, reducing direct exposure to harmful effects.
3Ease of operation
If actuators are connected through large cut-outs, then coupling is achieved, but excessive hydraulic lifting force is required
Solution Approach 1:
The retention assembly creates a nested configuration where the actuator cylinder is enclosed within a defined space. This structural integration improves force transmission efficiency by reducing energy loss through proper alignment and containment, thereby reducing the hydraulic force required for lifting.
Data Source
AI summary
A machine includes a chassis and a hopper assembly. The hopper assembly includes a hopper frame, at least one hopper, and an actuator assembly. The actuator assembly is adapted to move the at least one hopper between a raised position and a lowered position. The actuator assembly includes an actuator. The actuator includes a cylinder and a rod member. The actuator assembly also includes a first retention assembly adapted to couple the fixed end of the cylinder with the hopper frame and encapsulate the fixed end of the cylinder within a first space defined by the first retention assembly. The actuator assembly further includes a second retention assembly adapted to couple the movable end of the rod member with the at least one hopper and encapsulate the movable end of the rod member within a second space defined by the second retention assembly.