Articulated Load Balancer for Precise Heavy Tire Positioning
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Solution Overview
Problem
Heavy machinery, such as earth-moving equipment, requires the installation of large and heavy tires, which are difficult to orient correctly using cranes due to their tendency to become angled, making precise positioning challenging.
Innovation Solution
An articulated vertical load balancer with an articulating assembly and support mechanism that maintains the center of gravity aligned during articulation, allowing for precise orientation and positioning of heavy loads using actuators and linkage assemblies.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a crane is used to lift and move heavy tires, then the tires can be suspended and moved, but the tires tend to become oriented at an angle relative to vertical making precise positioning difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The load balancer uses a counterweight mechanism to offset the weight of the tire, allowing the tire to be suspended vertically without requiring heavy crane operation. The counterweight creates a balanced system where the tire remains vertically oriented through its center of gravity alignment, eliminating the angling problem that occurs with traditional crane lifting.
Solution Approach 2:
The articulating assembly provides dynamic positioning capability, allowing the support assembly to move between vertical and angled positions while maintaining center of gravity alignment. This dynamic system enables precise orientation control during the tire changing process, combining the ease of movement with precise positioning control.
2Manufacturing precision
If an articulated vertical load balancer is used to maintain center of gravity alignment, then precise orientation is achieved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The load balancer is divided into distinct functional segments: an articulating assembly with multiple linkage components, a support mechanism for vertical movement, and a support assembly for securing the load. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function independently, making the complex system more manageable and easier to operate despite the increased number of parts.
Solution Approach 2:
The articulating assembly acts as an intermediary between the vertical support mechanism and the load support assembly. It mediates the transition between vertical positioning and angled positioning while maintaining center of gravity alignment, providing a controlled interface that simplifies the overall operation despite the mechanical complexity.
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 easy and precise orientation of heavy loads, such as tires, onto machinery by maintaining the center of gravity aligned, facilitating correct installation and removal processes.
Implementation Method 1
The actuator comprises a motor, a body, and a piston rod, and wherein the motor is operable to extend or retract the piston rod relative to the body
Implementation Method 2
The articulating assembly includes at least one linkage assembly interposed between the attachment member and the support assembly. The at least one linkage assembly includes an arm and an actuator where the actuator is selectively pivotable relative to the arm
Implementation Method 3
The load balance and the load together have a center of gravity. The center of gravity remains substantially aligned with the support mechanism during the articulation of the support assembly between the first position and the second position
Data Source
AI summary
A load balancer includes an articulating assembly connected with a support mechanism. The articulating assembly is connected to a support assembly where the support assembly is able to secure a load thereto. The articulating assembly articulates the support assembly and thereby the load between a first position and a second position. The articulating assembly includes at least one linkage assembly interposed between the attachment member and the support assembly. The at least one linkage assembly includes an arm and an actuator where the actuator is selectively pivotable relative to the arm. The load balance and the load together have a center of gravity. The center of gravity remains substantially aligned with an attachment to the support mechanism during the articulation of the support assembly between the first position and the second position.