Articulated Device With Locking Means For Telescopic Extension
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Construction industry faces inefficiencies and increased costs due to the need for multiple devices and equipment to handle and support loads of varying sizes, particularly in combining excavation and lifting functions on construction sites, which requires specialized equipment and increases complexity and operational costs.
Innovation Solution
An articulated device with multiple parts that can operate in two modes: a conventional articulated mode and a telescopic mode, allowing for flexible use as both an arm for earth-moving equipment and a structural supporting element, featuring locking mechanisms that enable relative rotation or alignment of parts for extended reach and load handling.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple specialized devices are used to handle loads of varying sizes and perform different functions (excavation, lifting, aerial access), then the versatility and functional capability are improved, but the device complexity, operating costs, and site management complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The articulated device integrates multiple functions (excavation, lifting, aerial access) into a single multi-functional system. The device can operate in different modes by adjusting the articulation joints and locking mechanisms, allowing it to perform both conventional articulated arm functions and telescopic boom lift functions, thereby eliminating the need for multiple specialized devices
Solution Approach 2:
The device employs a nested structure where telescopic sections are arranged concentrically within each other. The articulated arms contain telescopic booms, and the locking means are integrated within the joint structures. This nesting allows for compact configuration when not in use and enables extended reach when deployed, reducing the overall equipment footprint while maintaining versatility
2Adaptability or versatility
If specialized equipment like aerial platforms or telescopic boom lifts are mounted to provide aerial access and material handling, then the operational capability for high-position work is improved, but the structural complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The articulated device is designed to perform both conventional excavation functions and aerial access functions using the same structural system. By activating the telescopic extension mechanism and adjusting the articulation angles, the device can reach high positions for aerial work, eliminating the need for separate aerial platforms or telescopic boom lifts
Solution Approach 2:
The device incorporates dynamic telescopic sections that can extend and retract along the longitudinal axis of the articulated arms. The locking means allow the device to transition between articulated mode (for excavation) and telescopic mode (for aerial access), providing dynamic adaptability without requiring separate static structures for each function
3Reliability
If the articulated device uses locking means to prevent relative rotation and enable telescopic extension, then the structural alignment and load handling capability are improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The locking means are integrated within the existing articulation joints of the articulated device rather than being added as separate external mechanisms. The same joint structure that enables rotation also incorporates the locking means for preventing rotation and enabling telescopic extension, thereby minimizing additional complexity while achieving reliable structural alignment
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2~4
Figure 5
AI summary
The device (11) comprises a first outer element (14') extending along a longitudinal axis (b) and a second outer element (16') hinged to the first outer element (14') for rotation relative to the latter about a first transverse axis (c) in a first operating condition of the device (11). The first and the second outer elements (14', 16') have longitudinal internal cavities (12) accommodating first and second inner elements (14''', 16''') which are hinged to each other for rotation relative to each other about a second transverse axis (c") parallel to, or coinciding with, the first transverse axis (c) when the device (11) is in the first operating condition. The device (11) further comprises locking means (34a, 34b) arranged to prevent relative rotation of the first and second outer elements (14', 16') and of the first and second inner elements (14''', 16'''), respectively, when said elements (14', 16', 14''', 16''' are aligned with each other along the longitudinal axis (b) and when the device (11) is in a second operating condition rotated 180° about the longitudinal axis (b) relative to the first operating condition. The first and second inner elements (14''', 16''') are slidable along the longitudinal axis (b) relative to the first and second outer elements (14', 16') when the device (11) is in the second operating condition.