Compact Vacuum Material Handler Onboard Engine Independence
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing vacuum material handlers are limited in application due to dependence on high-pressure hydraulic fluid from the excavator for operation and cannot be easily transferred between equipment while maintaining a grip on large and heavy materials like pipe or flat stock.
Innovation Solution
A compact vacuum material handler with an onboard engine powering both the vacuum pump and hydraulic pump, integrated fork lift lugs, and a design that allows operation independent of the excavator's hydraulic supply, enabling transfer between different equipment types.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If the vacuum material handler uses external hydraulic power from the excavator to operate the rotator and vacuum pump, then the device complexity is reduced, but the adaptability and ease of transfer between equipment is worsened
Solution Approach 1:
The vacuum material handler is designed with its own onboard engine that can power both the vacuum pump and hydraulic pump, making it universally adaptable to different equipment platforms (excavators, overhead cranes, forklifts) without requiring external hydraulic power sources. This multi-functionality resolves the contradiction by enabling transfer between equipment while maintaining operational capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The system separates the power source (onboard engine) from the material handling functions (vacuum pump, hydraulic pump, rotator), allowing the vacuum material handler to operate independently of external hydraulic systems. This segmentation enables the device to be transferred between different equipment types while maintaining its operational independence.
2Weight of moving object
If the vacuum material handler is designed to be compact with integrated components, then the weight and size are reduced, but the power availability for operating both vacuum pump and hydraulic pump is worsened
Solution Approach 1:
The onboard engine is directly coupled to power both the vacuum pump and hydraulic pump through integrated drivetrain connections, consolidating the power source within the compact frame. This merging of power functions into a single onboard engine provides sufficient power for both systems while maintaining a compact design that reduces overall weight compared to having separate power sources.
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 the handling and transfer of large, heavy materials between various equipment types without the need for external hydraulic power, reducing costs, weight, and size, while maintaining a secure grip on the material.
Implementation Method 1
The vacuum pump is in fluid communication with a vacuum reservoir. The vacuum reservoir is in fluid communication with a large suction cup structure located beneath the frame typically called the pad.
Implementation Method 2
The hydraulic pump powers the rotator. By coupling the output shaft of the drive engine to the input shaft of the vacuum pump and then having an output shaft on the vacuum pump which in turn is coupled to the input shaft on the hydraulic pump provides the ability to mount and power both the vacuum pressure and the hydraulic power with the same engine onboard the frame of the vacuum handler.
Data Source
AI summary
An improved vacuum material handler having an onboard drive engine powering a vacuum pump and a hydraulic pump. The vacuum material handler also having a frame with integrated forklift lugs.