Foot-Operated Braking and Steering Apparatus for Heavy Object Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional wheel assemblies struggle to effectively control the movement and stopping of large, heavy, and sensitive objects on uneven or non-planar surfaces, leading to instability and increased risk of collisions or damage.
Innovation Solution
A braking and steering control apparatus comprising an action arm assembly, control group, reaction arm, engagement spring assembly, and brake assembly, allowing users to safely stop and steer objects using foot-operated pedals, with components made from common materials to reduce assembly costs and complexity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If conventional wheel assemblies are used to move heavy objects on uneven surfaces, then the object can be moved across the surface, but the assembly becomes unstable and difficult to control
Solution Approach 1:
The wheel assembly incorporates a dynamic adjustment mechanism that allows the wheel float to adapt its position and orientation in response to uneven surface conditions. The linkage system enables the wheel assembly to dynamically compensate for surface irregularities, maintaining stability while moving heavy objects across varying terrains.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary control system consisting of linkages and adjustment mechanisms between the wheel assembly and the object. This intermediary system provides fine control over the wheel assembly's position and orientation, enabling precise control of heavy objects on uneven surfaces while maintaining system stability.
2Adaptability or versatility
If conventional wheel assemblies are used on surfaces with obstructions, then the wheel may encounter rocks, screws, and bolts, but the wheel tends to have difficulty crossing these areas
Solution Approach 1:
The wheel assembly employs dynamic adjustment capabilities through its linkage system, allowing it to adapt its configuration when encountering obstructions. The mechanism can dynamically adjust wheel position, angle, and contact force to navigate over rocks, screws, and bolts, making the system versatile for various surface conditions while maintaining ease of operation.
3Productivity
If heavy objects are moved using conventional wheel assemblies, then the objects can be transported, but the risk of tipping increases due to inherent instability
Solution Approach 1:
The patent incorporates a counterbalancing mechanism within the wheel assembly that provides stabilizing forces to counteract the tendency of heavy objects to tip. The linkage system and adjustable components create counterbalancing moments that offset the destabilizing effects of heavy loads, enabling efficient transport while minimizing tipping risk.
Solution Approach 2:
An intermediary control system with linkages and adjustment mechanisms is introduced between the heavy object and the wheel assembly. This system provides fine control over the center of gravity and weight distribution, enabling stable transport of heavy objects while maintaining high productivity through precise control of the loading and movement process.
4Force
If wheel assemblies are designed to handle heavy loads, then they can move large objects, but they do not function well on uneven and irregular surfaces
Solution Approach 1:
The wheel assembly employs dynamic adjustment mechanisms that allow it to maintain high load bearing capacity while adapting to uneven surfaces. The linkage system enables real-time adjustment of wheel position, angle, and contact force, allowing the assembly to handle heavy loads effectively across varying terrain conditions without sacrificing adaptability.
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 safe and efficient control of object movement, reducing the risk of collisions and damage by allowing precise stopping and directional control of heavy and sensitive objects on various surfaces without the need for machining or welding.
Implementation Method 1
engagement spring assembly
Implementation Method 2
brake assembly is structured and arranged to engage the surface and prevent movement of the apparatus and the object on the surface
Data Source
AI summary
A braking and steering control apparatus to help a user stop, secure and move an object across a surface. The apparatus is particularly useful for securing and moving objects that are moveably supported on the surface by a wheel assembly, such as a caster, carriage and wheel float. The apparatus attaches to or is integral with a wheel assembly, an object or an item associated with the object. The apparatus has a wheeled action arm assembly, a reaction arm and a plurality of levers, links and pedals that are pivotally connected to the action arm assembly and reaction arm that allow the user to select whether the apparatus will allow safe, easy movement of an object or whether the object will be safely and effectively secured on a surface. The user selects the braking or steering operation and operates the controls using one of his or her feet.