Integrated Control Arm Mechanism for Underground Load Handling
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing lifting devices and loading machines for underground applications, such as mining, face challenges in withstanding high loads and operating in limited spaces with complex and heavy constructions.
Innovation Solution
A lifting arrangement with a control arm and lift arm connected by a joint, allowing for rotational movement and actuation, reduces the number of components and weight, enabling efficient lifting and turning of loads with simpler actuating means, and can be mounted on a loading machine for improved load handling and space utilization.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If a complex and heavy construction is used to withstand high loads, then the strength and load-bearing capacity are improved, but the device complexity and weight increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple functions into a single integrated arm structure that performs both lifting and turning operations. The arm structure integrates the functions of traditional separate lifting mechanisms and turning mechanisms, reducing the number of components while maintaining the ability to handle high loads through its robust single-piece construction
Solution Approach 2:
The arm structure is designed as a multi-functional component that can simultaneously perform lifting, lowering, and turning operations. This universal structure eliminates the need for separate specialized mechanisms for each function, reducing overall device complexity while maintaining strength through its integrated design
2Strength
If a complex and heavy construction is used to withstand high loads, then the strength and load-bearing capacity are improved, but the weight increases
Solution Approach 1:
By merging multiple functional components into a single integrated arm structure, the patent eliminates the weight of separate mechanisms while maintaining load-bearing capacity through the robust design of the unified structure. The combined structure requires less material than multiple separate components would require
3Adaptability or versatility
If more components are used to achieve lifting and turning functions, then the functionality is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The arm structure is designed as a universal component that can perform both lifting and turning operations through its articulation capabilities. This multi-functional design maintains operational versatility while significantly reducing the number of separate components needed compared to traditional separate lifting and turning mechanisms
4Volume of moving object
If a compact construction is used to operate in limited spaces, then the volume is reduced, but the strength and load-bearing capacity may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs dynamic articulation joints that allow the arm structure to adapt its configuration based on operational needs. The articulated connections enable the compact structure to achieve optimal strength positions during lifting and turning operations, maintaining load-bearing capacity while preserving compact dimensions for limited space operation
Data Source
AI summary
A includes a control arm comprising a first link and a second link, a lift arm articulately connected to the first link by a first joint and a first actuating means articulately connected to the first link by the second joint. The second link and the lift arm are adapted to permit a pivotal connection with a loading means by a third joint and a fourth joint, wherein the lift arm is adapted to lift and lower the loading means and the first actuating means is adapted for actuating the control arm, by acting on the first link in at least a direction from the first actuating means, to achieve a rotational movement of the loading means around said fourth joint, when the loading means is connected to the control arm and to the lift arm. During action of the first actuating means on the first link in the direction from the first actuating means a decrease of a distance between the second joint and the third joint is achieved.