Collection Device with Removable Base and Remote Latch
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current collection devices are inadequate for handling large or heavy materials, particularly in constrained spaces like construction sites, as they often require manual transfer and lack efficient dumping mechanisms, especially when access by forklifts or disposal trucks is difficult.
Innovation Solution
A collection device with a releasable bottom, featuring a latch and actuator controlled remotely, allowing for secure attachment and easy release of the base, enabling efficient dumping of materials without manual intervention.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Quantity of substance
If larger containers are used to handle heavy materials, then the capacity to hold heavy materials is improved, but the ability to access and dump materials in constrained spaces deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The container is divided into two main segments: a removable base and an enclosure. This segmentation allows the container to be transported as a complete unit for stability and capacity, yet the base can be separately removed for dumping materials in constrained spaces without requiring full container removal or manual handling of materials.
Solution Approach 2:
The base transitions from a static, permanently attached state to a dynamic, removable state through the latch mechanism. When the latch is engaged, the base remains fixed for stable transport; when the latch is released, the base can be removed to enable material dumping, providing adaptability to different operational contexts.
2Device complexity
If manual transfer of materials is used, then the requirement for specialized equipment is reduced, but the labor intensity and time consumption increase
Solution Approach 1:
The container performs the dumping function itself through the removable base mechanism, eliminating the need for external equipment like forklifts or cranes to remove materials. The system serves its own dumping needs by simply removing the base, significantly reducing labor intensity and time consumption compared to manual transfer methods.
3Strength
If the base is permanently attached to the enclosure, then the structural integrity is improved, but the ability to release and dump materials deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The base attachment system transitions from static (permanently attached) to dynamic (removable) through the latch mechanism. The latch provides a strong, secure connection during transport to maintain structural integrity, but can be easily released when material dumping is required, providing both strength and adaptability.
Solution Approach 2:
The permanent attachment is replaced with a segmented attachment system where the base and enclosure are separate components connected by the latch. This segmentation maintains structural integrity when connected while enabling easy separation when needed, resolving the contradiction between strength and adaptability.
4Ease of operation
If remote actuation is implemented, then the safety and ease of operation are improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The manual mechanical operation of the latch is replaced with an automated actuator system that can be controlled remotely. This substitution provides safe remote operation capability while the actuator integrates compactly with the existing latch mechanism, minimizing the increase in overall device complexity.
Data Source
AI summary
A collection device can include an enclosure defining a top opening and a bottom opening; a latch coupled to the enclosure and configured to selectively secure a base to the enclosure proximate to the bottom opening; and an actuator coupled to the latch, the actuator controlled remotely and configured to open the latch and thereby release the base.