Cable Car Ground Transfer Using Removable Coupling Supports
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing systems for transporting loads and persons at height are limited by the functionality and convenience of use, as cars are bulky and unusable when detached from the cable, arrival/departure stations are difficult to access, and the systems are inconvenient due to morphological and weather conditions.
Innovation Solution
A system with removable hooking and coupling means allows cars to transition between ground and suspended movement, using movable supports with motor-driven wheels and guidance/shifting mechanisms, enabling flexible and dynamic movement between stations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If cars are bound to the cable for transportation at height, then the cable transport system can function properly, but the cars become unusable and difficult to move when released from the cable
Solution Approach 1:
The car is designed with dynamic adaptability to function in two distinct operational modes: suspended on the cable for aerial transport and on the ground for terrestrial movement. The car transitions between these modes through removable coupling mechanisms that allow it to be detached from the cable and supported by movable ground-based supports, enabling versatile operational flexibility.
Solution Approach 2:
The car serves multiple functions by being capable of both aerial transport via cable suspension and ground-based movement via movable supports. This multi-functionality allows the same car to be used for different types of transport operations, increasing its utility and reducing the need for separate equipment for different transport modes.
2Productivity
If arrival/departure stations are positioned at height for cable transport, then the cable system operates efficiently, but the stations become difficult to reach due to morphological characteristics and weather conditions
Solution Approach 1:
The system incorporates both aerial and ground-level operational dimensions. While the cable transport operates at height for efficient aerial movement, the movable supports can transition to ground level for station access, allowing users to board and alight from the car at ground level before being lifted to the aerial route, thus combining the advantages of both dimensions.
3Strength
If cars are designed as bulky structures for cable suspension, then they can safely carry loads and persons at height, but they become difficult to move on the ground when released
Solution Approach 1:
The car system is segmented into modular components: the car itself for load carrying, removable coupling mechanisms for attachment/detachment, and movable supports for ground-based movement. This segmentation allows the car to be coupled with appropriate support structures depending on the operational phase, enabling both aerial and ground mobility without compromising structural integrity.
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
Enhances the flexibility and usability of the system by allowing cars to move on the ground and at height, improving accessibility and convenience while maintaining a low-cost solution.
Implementation Method 1
movable supports (15) moved by movement means (6) onto the ground, wherein the movement means comprise motor-driven wheels
Data Source
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AI summary
The system (7) for the transportation of loads and/or persons at height comprises at least one car (1) defining at least one cab (2) for the transportation of loads and/or persons, and comprises: - cable transport means (4) of the car (1) adapted to move the latter suspended at height; - movement means (6) of the car (1) onto the ground.