Balanced support device
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing balanced support devices, such as those using springs, are complex, slow to adjust, and unsuitable for handling loads with varying weights, particularly in pick and place operations where significant force is required, leading to ergonomic issues and potential back injuries.
Innovation Solution
A balanced support device with a movable pivot point and a mechanism allowing horizontal and vertical movement, featuring a pulley system and adjustable counterweight, enabling easy adjustment and reduced operator effort, suitable for various applications including pick and place operations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If traditional spring balanced support devices are used, then the counteracting force is provided by a spring, but the device becomes complex and slow to adjust for different weights
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the static spring adjustment mechanism with a dynamic actuator system that can quickly and easily adjust the balance force electronically. The actuator is controlled by a control unit that receives weight input and automatically adjusts the counterbalancing force, eliminating complex mechanical adjustment mechanisms while maintaining adaptability to different weights.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent substitutes the mechanical spring-based adjustment system with an actuator-driven system. Instead of manually adjusting spring positions or tensions through complex mechanical linkages, an actuator (electrical, pneumatic, or hydraulic) is used to adjust the balance, controlled by a control unit that processes weight information and automatically positions the balance mechanism.
2Productivity
If traditional spring balanced support devices are used, then the spring counteracts the weight, but the adjustment process is slow and unsuitable for pick and place operations
Solution Approach 1:
The control unit is pre-programmed with weight information or receives it from a weighing device, allowing the actuator to be positioned in advance for the correct balance setting. This preliminary preparation enables rapid switching between different weights without manual measurement and adjustment, significantly reducing adjustment time for pick and place operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces slow mechanical adjustment mechanisms with fast-responding actuators controlled by electronic systems. The actuator can rapidly change the balance force in response to electronic signals, enabling quick adaptation to different weights without the inertia and mechanical complexity of traditional spring adjustment systems.
3Ease of operation
If the protruding arm is made rigid, then the structure is simple, but the support member cannot move toward and away from the frame for ergonomic operation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the protruding arm into multiple segments that can move relative to each other along the arm's length. This segmentation allows the support member to extend and retract toward and away from the frame by telescoping the arm segments, providing ergonomic flexibility while maintaining a relatively simple overall structure compared to complex mechanical linkage systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements a telescoping arm structure where one arm segment is nested within another, allowing the support member to move toward and away from the frame by extending or retracting the nested segments. This nesting approach provides the required mobility while minimizing structural complexity and space requirements.
4Weight of moving object
If the support device is designed for heavy loads, then it can handle building materials, but it requires significant operator force to operate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses an actuator to provide an active counterbalancing force that opposes the weight of the load and arm. The actuator is controlled to generate a force equal and opposite to the gravitational force on the load, effectively canceling out the weight and allowing the operator to move heavy loads with minimal effort, as if the load were weightless.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces passive mechanical counterbalancing mechanisms (such as heavy counterweights or complex spring systems) with an active actuator system. The actuator, controlled by a control unit, dynamically adjusts the counterbalancing force to match the load weight, providing ease of operation for heavy loads without requiring significant operator force or complex mechanical structures.
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
The device provides a simple, ergonomic, and efficient means to handle loads of varying weights, reducing operator effort and preventing back injuries by allowing intuitive and quick adjustments, making it suitable for diverse applications including logistics and construction.
Implementation Method 1
a vertical balance system directly or indirectly connected to the carriage for exerting an upwards force on the carriage for counteracting a weight of the mass
Implementation Method 2
These balanced support devices comprise an arm mechanism and a spring which counteracts a weight of mass
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention relates to a balanced support device, comprising: a wagon configured to move along a wagon rail, a frame connected to the wagon and extending over a vertical distance from the wagon, a rail connected to the frame and a carriage movably arranged on said rail, at least one protruding arm comprising a support member for supporting amass, wherein the protruding arm is pivotably connected to the carriage, wherein the protruding arm comprises multiple segments which are movable relative to one another in order to allow the support member to move toward and away from the frame, wherein the support member is mounted to the protruding arm via a rotary connection, allowing the support member including a mass to be rotated, and a vertical balance system for exerting an upwards force on the carriage for counteracting a weight of the mass, the arm and the carriage, wherein the vertical balance system is constructed and arranged to control said force in order to balance masses of different weights.