Machine Bucket Assembly Geometric Ratio Optimization

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing machine bucket assemblies lack optimal performance due to variations in geometric parameters, affecting loadability and operational efficiency in material handling tasks.

Innovation Solution

A machine bucket assembly design featuring a kinematic reaction point with specific geometric ratios and angles between its sections, including a curved middle section, a cutting edge plane, and strategically positioned spill guards, to enhance loadability and operational efficiency.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Productivity

If conventional bucket assembly designs are used with varying geometric parameters, then manufacturing flexibility is maintained, but loadability and operational efficiency deteriorate

Engineering Contradiction:
ImproveloadabilityVSAvoidgeometric parameter specification
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies parameter changes by specifying precise geometric ratios (first length to second length between 0.95-1.05) and specific angle ranges (first angle α between 17.8°-23.8°, second angle β between 23.0°-29.0°) to optimize the bucket assembly's loadability and operational efficiency. This transforms the conventional variable-parameter design into a controlled parameter range design that balances performance optimization with manufacturing feasibility.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

2Productivity

If the middle section is made curved to enhance material flow, then material handling efficiency is improved, but manufacturing complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvematerial handling efficiencyVSAvoidmiddle section fabrication
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements spheroidality by configuring at least a portion of the middle section with a curved geometry. This curvature is specifically designed to enhance material flow and handling efficiency within the bucket assembly, allowing material to move more smoothly from the bottom section to the top section during loading and transport operations.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #14Spheroidality (Curvature)

3Ease of operation

If the first length to second length ratio is optimized to 0.95-1.05 for balanced center of mass, then operational efficiency is improved, but manufacturing precision requirements increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveoperational efficiencyVSAvoidlength ratio tolerance
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSManufacturing precision

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies parameter changes by defining a specific ratio range (0.95-1.05) for the first length to second length, which positions the center of mass to enhance operational efficiency. This range-based specification balances the need for precise center of mass control with practical manufacturing capabilities, allowing some tolerance while maintaining performance benefits.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

4Loss of substance

If spill guards are strategically positioned to reduce material spillage, then material retention is improved, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvematerial spillageVSAvoidspill guard configuration
Core Design Contradiction:
Loss of substanceVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies preliminary action by strategically positioning spill guards at specific locations on the bucket assembly before material loading occurs. This preventive configuration of spill guards at predetermined positions reduces material spillage during operation without requiring complex active control systems or additional operational steps.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Data Source

PatentUS8015734B1Machine bucket assembly
Publication Date: 2011.09.13 CATERPILLAR INC
  • US8015734B1 patent drawing
  • US8015734B1 patent drawing
  • US8015734B1 patent drawing

AI summary

A machine bucket may include an upper pin hole and a lower pin hole. The machine bucket may also include a bottom section. A distance between the lower pin hole and a tip of the bottom section may have a first length. The machine bucket may also include a top section. A distance between the lower pin hole and a tip of the top section may have a second length. A ratio of the first length to the second length may be equal to a value between approximately 0.95 and 1.05. The machine bucket may further include a middle section located between the bottom section and the top section. At least a portion of the middle section may be curved.