Ball-and-Socket Ram Joint for Angled Rescue Plate Positioning
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing hydraulic ram plates are limited in their ability to operate in confined spaces and at varying angles due to their fixed perpendicular attachment to the hydraulic ram, which restricts their effectiveness in accessing trapped victims in accidents.
Innovation Solution
A joint system comprising a ball and socket mechanism with multiple teeth and spike attachments allows the hydraulic ram plate to pivot and securely engage with surfaces at different angles, enhancing its operational flexibility in confined and angled spaces.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If the hydraulic ram plate is attached in a fixed position perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the hydraulic ram, then the attachment structure is simple and stable, but the ability to operate in confined spaces at varying angles is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the dynamics principle by replacing the fixed perpendicular attachment with a ball and socket joint that allows the hydraulic ram plate to pivot and adjust to various angles. The ball and socket mechanism enables dynamic positioning of the plate relative to the hydraulic ram, allowing operators to adapt the attachment angle to match different vehicle surface geometries and confined space requirements while maintaining structural stability through the spherical joint design.
2Ease of operation
If the hydraulic ram plate is attached in a fixed position, then the attachment mechanism is simple, but the effectiveness in accessing trapped victims in accidents is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The ball and socket joint enables dynamic adjustment of the hydraulic ram plate angle, allowing rescue operators to effectively access trapped victims in various accident scenarios by adapting the plate orientation to match the geometry of vehicle surfaces and confined spaces, thereby improving ease of operation without excessive complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The universal attachment mechanism with ball and socket joint allows the hydraulic ram plate to perform multiple functions by adjusting to different angles and positions, making it versatile for various rescue operations on different vehicle types and accident configurations, enhancing overall effectiveness while maintaining a relatively simple attachment structure
Data Source
AI summary
A joint for connecting an attachment to a hydraulic ram comprises a ball and a socket. The socket connected to the base top surface of the attachment and encompassing at least a portion of the ball. The ball may be connected to a stem which may comprise a hole which serves as a connection point between the joint and an end of a hydraulic ram.