Chassis Alignment Assembly for Modular Silo Erection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for handling and blending oilfield materials in hydraulic fracturing processes are inefficient, particularly in aligning and erecting modular silos on mobile support structures, leading to challenges in space utilization and material distribution.
Innovation Solution
A chassis alignment assembly with a jacking assembly and outrigger system that allows for vertical displacement of wheels and frame movement, enabling precise alignment and erection of modular silos on mobile support structures, facilitating controlled material flow and efficient blending.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Volume of moving object
If modular silos are transported horizontally on a chassis and then erected vertically, then space utilization is improved, but alignment precision between the silo and mobile support structure deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The chassis alignment assembly performs preliminary alignment actions before the silo erection process. The jacking assembly pre-positions the chassis at the correct location, and the outrigger assembly pre-aligns the chassis orientation with the mobile support structure. This preliminary positioning ensures that when the silo is erected from horizontal to vertical position, the alignment precision is maintained despite the space-efficient horizontal transport approach.
Solution Approach 2:
The alignment system incorporates dynamic adjustment capabilities through the jacking assembly and outrigger assembly. The jacking assembly can vertically displace the chassis to fine-tune positioning, while the outrigger assembly can adjust the chassis orientation. These dynamic adjustments allow the system to achieve precise alignment after the static horizontal transport, resolving the contradiction between space utilization and alignment precision.
2Manufacturing precision
If the chassis is raised vertically to align with the mobile support structure, then alignment is improved, but the complexity of the support system increases
Solution Approach 1:
The support system is segmented into distinct functional modules: the jacking assembly for vertical displacement, the outrigger assembly for orientation adjustment, and the wheel assembly for horizontal movement. Each module performs a specific alignment function, making the overall system more manageable despite the increased complexity. This segmentation allows for easier operation and maintenance while achieving the required alignment precision.
Solution Approach 2:
The chassis alignment assembly integrates multiple functions into a unified system. The jacking assembly not only raises the chassis but also provides stable support during alignment. The outrigger assembly both adjusts orientation and provides lateral stability. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate dedicated components, thereby managing the overall system complexity while achieving precise alignment.
3Manufacturing precision
If the outrigger frame extends beyond the chassis end, then alignment capability is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The outrigger assembly extends the alignment capability into a new spatial dimension by projecting the frame beyond the chassis end. This extension provides an additional leverage point and alignment reference that improves alignment capability without requiring complex internal mechanisms within the chassis itself. The extended frame acts as a mechanical lever that amplifies alignment precision while adding minimal structural complexity.
Data Source
AI summary
This disclosure introduces chassis alignment assemblies for aligning a chassis with a support structure. An example implementation includes a chassis having first wheels, a jacking assembly coupled to the chassis and having second wheels, and a jacking actuation member operable to vertically displace the second wheels relative to the chassis to engage the ground and raise the first wheels off of the ground such that the jacking assembly supports an end of the chassis. Another example implementation includes a chassis, having first wheels, and an outrigger assembly having: a frame movable between transport and alignment orientations; second wheels; and an outrigger actuation member operable to move the frame relative to the chassis.