Articulated Conductor Arm Linkage for Dynamic Rail Power Pickup
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing power systems for large mobile industrial machines face challenges in deploying and retracting electrical connectors safely and efficiently, particularly in remote and uneven environments, and there is a need for systems that can quickly connect and disconnect from overhead power conductors without compromising the machine's operability.
Innovation Solution
A movable conductor arm assembly with a proximal and distal portion, pivotably coupled to the mobile machine, allowing it to move between retracted and extended positions, and a control system that includes sensors and an electronic control module to manage the connector assembly's deployment and disengagement.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If overhead electricity-conducting lines are used to power industrial machines, then power delivery is reliable and continuous, but the system becomes impractical for machines with predetermined routes or uneven terrain and requires significant infrastructure investment
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a movable conductor arm assembly as an intermediary component that bridges the gap between stationary overhead power conductors and the mobile machine. This arm assembly with articulation joints allows flexible connection while maintaining reliable electrical contact, enabling power transfer without requiring fixed overhead line infrastructure throughout the worksite.
Solution Approach 2:
The conductor arm assembly is designed with multiple articulation joints that allow dynamic adjustment of the arm's position and angle. This dynamic capability enables the arm to adapt to uneven terrain and maintain contact with overhead conductors while the machine moves, combining the reliability of overhead power delivery with the versatility needed for varied terrain.
2Adaptability or versatility
If a retractable arm electrical delivery system is mounted to a heavy mobile machine, then the machine can access power at remote worksites, but the mounting may compromise the structural integrity or operability of the mobile machine
Solution Approach 1:
The electrical delivery system is segmented into a separate, self-contained movable conductor arm assembly that can be independently mounted to the machine. This segmentation allows the power delivery components to be attached at optimized locations without compromising the overall structural integrity of the heavy mobile machine, as the mounting points and attachment mechanisms are specifically designed for this purpose.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the conductor arm assembly is made extendable with multiple articulation joints, then the range of motion and adaptability to terrain increases, but the device complexity and potential failure points increase
Solution Approach 1:
The conductor arm assembly employs multiple articulation joints that provide dynamic range of motion while maintaining a relatively simple overall structure. Each joint is designed with straightforward mechanical components that allow the arm to adapt to various angles and positions without introducing excessive complexity. The joints enable the arm to navigate uneven terrain and maintain contact with overhead conductors through controlled articulation.
Solution Approach 2:
The system incorporates sensors and control mechanisms that provide feedback on the position and status of the conductor arm assembly. This feedback enables automated adjustment and monitoring of the articulation joints, ensuring proper operation while reducing the need for complex manual control systems. The feedback mechanism helps detect potential issues early and maintains optimal arm positioning.
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 safe and efficient connection and disconnection of mobile machines to power conductor rails, ensuring structural integrity and operability, with automated deployment and continuous testing for electrical presence, enhancing flexibility and safety in various terrains.
Implementation Method 1
a proximal portion including a first proximal end pivotably coupled to a mobile machine and a first distal end, and a distal portion including (i) a second proximal end pivotably coupled to the first distal end
Data Source
AI summary
A mobile machine power conductor linkage for receiving power from a power conductor rail assembly, comprising a movable conductor arm assembly. The movable conductor arm assembly may include a proximal portion including a first proximal end pivotably coupled to a mobile machine and a first distal end, and a distal portion including (i) a second proximal end pivotably coupled to the first distal end of the proximal portion and (ii) a second distal end extendable away from a side of the mobile machine. The side of the mobile machine may be located between a front end and a rear end of the mobile machine; and the movable conductor arm assembly may be movable between a retracted position and an extended position.