Articulated Load Tester with Ball-and-Socket Joints
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing load testing devices for equipment and containers lack versatility in simulating actual loads and often require transportation to a facility for testing, failing to account for variations in attachment devices like slings, chains, and pad eye locations.
Innovation Solution
A load testing device with a main beam and pivotally connected load testing assemblies, including a ball and socket joint system for three rotational degrees of freedom, an adjustment beam, and hydraulic rams for even load distribution, allowing self-alignment and adaptation to different equipment configurations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If conventional load testing is performed at a facility with fixed anchoring equipment, then the testing can be performed with standardized procedures, but the device lacks versatility and requires transportation of equipment to the facility
Solution Approach 1:
The load testing device is designed with a main beam that can be configured with multiple load testing assemblies, each capable of independent adjustment. The system can adapt to different container types, sizes, and attachment configurations through the combination of adjustable spreader plates, variable positioning along the main beam, and multiple degrees of freedom in each assembly, making it a universal testing solution that can be deployed at various locations rather than requiring specialized facilities for each container type
Solution Approach 2:
The load testing system is divided into multiple independent load testing assemblies that can be individually positioned and adjusted along the main beam. Each assembly operates independently with its own spreader plate, hydraulic cylinder, and adjustment mechanisms. This segmentation allows the system to handle different container configurations and load requirements by activating only the necessary assemblies, reducing overall system complexity while maintaining versatility
2Reliability
If anchoring is used to replicate actual loads, then the container can be tested for certification, but the anchoring may not accurately replicate the actual loads the container will experience in service
Solution Approach 1:
Each load testing assembly incorporates multiple degrees of freedom through pivot points and rotational joints, allowing the spreader plates and load applying members to dynamically adjust their positions and orientations. This dynamic capability enables the system to automatically adapt to variations in attachment device locations and configurations, accurately replicating the actual loading conditions the container will experience in service rather than using fixed anchoring points
Solution Approach 2:
The system allows for changes in multiple parameters including the position of load testing assemblies along the main beam, the orientation and angle of spreader plates, the location of attachment points on containers, and the magnitude of applied loads. By enabling these parameter adjustments, the system can be configured to match specific service loading conditions for different container types and operational scenarios, improving the reliability of load testing results
3Productivity
If the container is transported to a testing facility, then standardized testing procedures can be followed, but the testing process becomes time-consuming and logistically complex
Solution Approach 1:
The load testing device is designed to be self-contained and self-configuring, with all necessary testing capabilities integrated into the mobile platform. The system can independently position its load testing assemblies, adjust spreader plate orientations, and apply required loads without requiring external facility infrastructure. This self-service capability eliminates the need to transport containers to specialized facilities, significantly reducing testing time and logistical complexity while maintaining standardized testing procedures
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 more accurate and versatile load testing that can be performed at any location, ensuring even load distribution regardless of variations in attachment devices, enhancing the reliability of load testing results.
Implementation Method 1
a spreader plate pivotally attached to the first ball to establish a first ball and socket joint enabling three rotational degrees of freedom about the first ball
Implementation Method 2
The load applying member is a ram extending from a hydraulic cylinder
Data Source
AI summary
A load testing device is provided, comprising a main beam and a pair of load testing assemblies operatively connected to the main beam. Each of the load testing assemblies includes a load applying member having a first ball at its terminal end; a spreader plate pivotally attached to the first ball to establish a first ball and socket joint enabling three rotational degrees of freedom about the first ball; a bracket pivotally connected to the spreader plate, wherein the bracket further includes a second ball extending toward the main beam; an adjustment beam pivotally attached to the second ball to establish a second ball and socket joint, and wherein the adjustment beam is slidably disposed relative to the main beam and lockable in one or more predetermined positions.