Bolt-On Hoist Frame for Interchangeable Vehicle Bodies
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Solution Overview
Problem
Vehicles with interchangeable bodies face limitations due to welded hoist systems that are difficult to convert, prone to damage, and require outsourced welding, leading to downtime and increased maintenance costs, while also being restricted to a single body length and fixed angles, limiting their versatility.
Innovation Solution
A hoist system with a bolt-on subframe, hinge joint, and hydraulic cylinder that allows for modular adjustment and installation without welding, featuring low-friction materials and components for reduced wear and tear, enabling quick replacement and adaptation to various body sizes and capacities.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a welded hoist system is used to mount interchangeable bodies, then the hoist frame can be selectively elevated and inclined to allow body mounting, but the chassis is damaged by welding operations and the vehicle cannot be easily converted back to other uses
Solution Approach 1:
The hoist system is divided into separable components: a hoist frame that can be detached and replaced without welding to the chassis. The subframe remains welded to the chassis, while the hoist frame itself can be removed and reinstalled multiple times, isolating the welding damage to only the subframe-chassis connection point.
Solution Approach 2:
A subframe acts as an intermediary component between the chassis and the interchangeable hoist frame. The subframe is permanently welded to the chassis, while the hoist frame attaches to the subframe through non-permanent means (bolts, pins, or other removable fasteners), thereby protecting the chassis from repeated welding operations.
2Reliability
If a welded hoist system is used for interchangeable bodies, then the hoist can be securely mounted, but replacing a damaged hoist requires outsourced welding services and causes vehicle downtime
Solution Approach 1:
The hoist assembly is segmented into a permanent subframe (welded to chassis) and a removable hoist frame. This allows the hoist frame to be quickly swapped out by non-welding personnel, eliminating the need for outsourced welding services and reducing vehicle downtime significantly.
Solution Approach 2:
The vehicle operator or maintenance personnel can replace the hoist frame themselves using simple fastening mechanisms (bolts, pins, clips) without requiring professional welders. This self-service capability eliminates scheduling delays for outsourced welding and reduces vehicle downtime.
3Stability of the object's composition
If a welded hoist system is used, then the hoist frame can be fixed in position, but the system is restricted to a single body length and fixed maximum angle
Solution Approach 1:
The hoist frame is designed with dynamic adjustability features, including variable elevation angles and extendable/retractable components, allowing it to adapt to different body lengths and types while maintaining stable operation during each specific configuration. The fixed subframe provides a stable base, while the removable hoist frame provides the necessary flexibility.
Solution Approach 2:
The hoist frame is designed as a universal, multi-functional unit that can accommodate various body types through adjustable mechanisms. Different hoist frame configurations can be attached to the same subframe, allowing the system to handle different body lengths and angles without requiring custom-welded solutions for each application.
4Ease of repair
If repeated welding operations are performed to replace hoists, then damaged hoists can be replaced, but the chassis is further damaged and vehicle life is shortened
Solution Approach 1:
The hoist system is segmented so that only the subframe is permanently welded to the chassis, while the hoist frame itself is removable. This limits welding operations to a single location (subframe-chassis connection), preventing cumulative welding damage to the chassis and extending vehicle service life.
Solution Approach 2:
The subframe serves as a protective intermediary that absorbs all welding-related damage to the chassis. Once the subframe is welded to the chassis, it remains in place for the vehicle's lifetime, while damaged hoist frames are replaced by attaching new ones to the existing subframe, eliminating repeated welding to the chassis and preserving vehicle life.
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 hoist system enables flexible installation and adaptation to different vehicle bodies without damaging the chassis, reduces downtime, and allows for quick replacement, enhancing the vehicle's versatility and extending its service life.
Implementation Method 1
A hydraulic cylinder is connected to the subframe for displacing the linkage to raising the elevated end of the hoist frame
Implementation Method 2
A winch assembly is retained in the elevated end of the hoist frame and extending to the pivot end for raising the interchangeable body onto the hoist frame
Implementation Method 3
The linkage also includes a hinge joint member for raising the elevated end of the hoist frame
Data Source
AI summary
A hoist for raising and mounting an interchangeable vehicle body onto a vehicle chassis. The hoist includes a hoist frame having a pivot end and an elevated end for slidably supporting the interchangeable body. A subframe with a bolt-on assembly is provided for fixedly connecting to the vehicle chassis. A linkage connects the hoist frame to the subframe. The linkage also includes a hinge joint member for raising the elevated end of the hoist frame. A hinge assembly pivotally connects to the pivot end of the hoist frame. The hinge assembly has a bolt-on mounting bracket for fixedly connecting to the vehicle chassis. A winch assembly is retained in the elevated end of the hoist frame and extending beyond the pivot end for raising the interchangeable body onto the hoist frame.