Articulating Load Balancer for Precise Heavy Tire Positioning
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Installing large and heavy tires on earth-moving equipment is difficult due to the challenge of orienting them correctly using cranes, which often result in tires being angled relative to vertical, making precise positioning challenging.
Innovation Solution
An articulating load balancer with a support mechanism and linkage assemblies that maintain the center of gravity aligned with a vertical axis during articulation, allowing for precise orientation and positioning of heavy loads.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a crane is used to lift heavy tires, then the lifting capability is sufficient, but the tire becomes oriented at an angle relative to vertical making precise positioning difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The load balancer employs an articulating assembly with multiple linkage assemblies that can dynamically adjust the orientation of the supported load. The articulating assembly includes first and second linkage assemblies with actuators that enable the support assembly to move between different positions and orientations, allowing the tire to be precisely positioned at any angle rather than being fixed in a single orientation like traditional cranes
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes the orientation parameter of the supported load by utilizing the articulating assembly's ability to articulate between different positions. The linkage assemblies can adjust the angle and position of the support assembly, thereby changing the orientation of the tire from vertical to angled or horizontal positions as needed for installation
2Adaptability or versatility
If a traditional crane suspends the load, then lifting is achieved, but the load cannot be easily oriented in the correct position for installation
Solution Approach 1:
The articulating assembly provides dynamic adaptability by allowing the support assembly to move between different positions and orientations. The linkage assemblies with actuators enable real-time adjustment of the load's orientation, making the system versatile enough to accommodate different installation requirements while maintaining ease of operation through controlled movement
Solution Approach 2:
The load balancer serves multiple functions: it can lift loads like a crane, but also articulate and position them precisely like a robotic manipulator. The articulating assembly with multiple linkage assemblies provides universal functionality that combines lifting, orienting, and positioning capabilities in a single system
3Weight of moving object
If heavy lifting machinery is used to move tires, then the lifting capacity is sufficient, but the installation process becomes more difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The system maintains sufficient lifting capacity for heavy tires while improving installation ease through the articulating assembly's ability to precisely position and orient the load. The linkage assemblies can articulate the support assembly to bring the tire into the correct position for installation, making the process easier compared to traditional cranes that only provide lifting capability
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.