Composite Work Machine Handrail Assembly for Corrosion and Vibration
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing metal handrail assemblies on work machines corrode quickly, interfere with electronic communications, are heavy, require frequent maintenance due to vibration-induced loosening, and have a short lifespan due to mechanical failure and fatigue.
Innovation Solution
A handrail assembly composed of plastics material, particularly glass reinforced plastic, with elastomeric damping elements and secure attachment mechanisms to minimize corrosion, vibration, and interference with electronic systems, featuring a durable and lightweight design.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If metal handrail assemblies are used, then structural strength is achieved, but corrosion resistance deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies composite materials by using glass reinforced plastic (GRP) for the handrail assembly components. This composite material combines the strength benefits of glass fibers with the corrosion resistance and durability of plastic, eliminating the corrosion issues inherent in metal assemblies while maintaining structural integrity.
2Strength
If metal handrail assemblies are used, then structural strength is achieved, but interference with electronic communications occurs
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the metal mechanical system with a plastic (glass reinforced plastic) system. This substitution eliminates the electromagnetic interference that metal handrails generate with electronic communications while maintaining the necessary mechanical strength through the composite material's inherent properties.
3Strength
If metal handrail assemblies are used, then structural strength is achieved, but weight increases
Solution Approach 1:
The use of glass reinforced plastic creates a composite material structure that has a high strength-to-weight ratio. The plastic matrix provides lightweight properties while the glass fibers reinforce the structure to achieve the necessary strength, resulting in a handrail assembly that is both strong and lightweight compared to metal alternatives.
4Strength
If metal handrail assemblies are used, then structural strength is achieved, but maintenance frequency increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a durable plastic handrail assembly that, while not disposable in the traditional sense, is designed to be maintenance-free for its entire service life. The glass reinforced plastic construction resists corrosion, vibration damage, and environmental degradation, eliminating the need for periodic maintenance, painting, or replacement that metal handrails require.
Solution Approach 2:
The composite material construction inherently resists the factors that cause metal handrails to deteriorate - corrosion, vibration fatigue, and environmental damage. This results in a structure that maintains its integrity over time without requiring maintenance interventions.
5Strength
If metal handrail assemblies are used, then structural strength is achieved, but vibration resistance deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The glass reinforced plastic composite material has inherent vibration-damping properties. The plastic matrix absorbs and dissipates vibration energy, while the glass fibers provide structural reinforcement. This combination creates a handrail assembly that is more resistant to vibration-induced loosening and fatigue compared to metal assemblies.
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
The plastic handrail assembly is corrosion-resistant, lightweight, and vibration-isolated, reducing maintenance needs and extending the assembly's lifespan while ensuring operator safety without interfering with machine communications.
Implementation Method 1
a plurality of first elastomeric damping elements, where a first elastomeric damping element is sandwiched longitudinally between each support member second end and its respective support plate
Data Source
AI summary
A handrail assembly for a work machine is provided. The handrail assembly comprises at least one generally horizontal rail member and a plurality of generally vertical tubular support members (4). Each support member (4) has a first end attached to the at least one rail member, and a second end which is open. A plurality of support plates (10) each have a first portion adapted to be attached to the work machine and a second portion adapted to be attached to the second end of one of the tubular support members (4). A plurality of attachment means attach the second end of each support member (4) to a respective support plate (10). The assembly further comprises a plurality of first elastomeric damping elements (106), where a first elastomeric damping element is sandwiched longitudinally between each support member second end and its respective support plate (10).