Convertible-Propulsion Telehandler for Emission-Free Range Flexibility

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing electric telehandlers face limitations such as insufficient battery autonomy for long-distance movement, additional costs for users due to the need for specialized equipment, and challenges in finding suitable recharging sources, especially in restricted environments.

Innovation Solution

A telehandler with switchable power supply configurations, allowing users to switch between fully electric and hybrid modes by inserting or removing electric batteries and a diesel-electric generator, respectively, enabling flexible operation in various environments.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Object-affected harmful factors

If electric telehandlers are used in restricted environments, then environmental compliance is improved, but battery autonomy becomes insufficient for long-distance movement

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveexhaust gas emissionVSAvoidbattery autonomy
Core Design Contradiction:
Object-affected harmful factorsVSDuration of action of moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The telehandler is designed with a universal power supply system that can accept both battery power (for emission-restricted zones) and diesel fuel (for long-distance travel). The vehicle can switch between electric motor and diesel engine propulsion modes, making it suitable for both environmentally sensitive areas and situations requiring extended range.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The power supply configuration is made dynamic and adjustable. Users can switch between fully electric mode and diesel-assisted mode based on operational requirements. The system allows real-time adaptation between different power sources to optimize for either emission compliance or travel autonomy depending on the work context.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

2Object-affected harmful factors

If dedicated electric telehandlers are purchased for restricted areas, then environmental compliance is improved, but user costs increase due to additional equipment

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveexhaust gas emissionVSAvoidnumber of machines required
Core Design Contradiction:
Object-affected harmful factorsVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

Instead of requiring separate electric and diesel telehandlers for different zones, this invention provides a single vehicle that performs both functions. The dual-power capability eliminates the need for companies to maintain multiple specialized vehicles, reducing capital expenditure and operational complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The invention merges two previously separate solutions (electric telehandler for restricted zones and diesel telehandler for general use) into a single integrated vehicle. By combining both powertrain systems in one machine, it eliminates the need for multiple vehicles while maintaining compliance with environmental regulations.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

3Duration of action of moving object

If battery capacity is increased to extend autonomy, then operational duration is improved, but vehicle weight and cost increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvebattery autonomyVSAvoidvehicle weight
Core Design Contradiction:
Duration of action of moving objectVSWeight of moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The system provides dynamic power supply options where the diesel engine can supplement battery power during high-demand periods or extend operational duration without requiring excessively large battery packs. This allows the vehicle to maintain reasonable weight while achieving extended autonomy through intelligent power management.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The diesel fuel tank provides pre-stored energy that can be converted to electrical power when needed. This preliminary energy storage in chemical form (fuel) allows the system to extend operational duration without carrying proportionally large battery capacities, thereby avoiding excessive weight increase.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

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 telehandler achieves extended operational autonomy, reduces user costs by eliminating the need for multiple machines, and allows operation in restricted areas without emission concerns, while maintaining versatility and efficiency.

Implementation Method 1

The telehandler (1) according to the invention may comprise at least one electric drive motor positioned at one of the axles

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElectromagnetic induction: Electromagnetic Induction

Implementation Method 2

The power supply means comprise the energy sources (200, 300) which, considered as a whole, electrically power at least the propulsion motor

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElectrochemical energy conversion: Battery (electricity)

Implementation Method 3

at least one electricity generator apparatus (300) designed to be inserted in one of the compartments (100) The electricity generator apparatus (300) may be designed for producing electricity by consuming fossil fuel

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElectromagnetic induction: Electromagnetic Induction

Data Source

PatentEP4122735B1Telehandler with convertible propulsion
Publication Date: 2025.01.22 MANITOU ITALIA SRL
  • EP4122735B1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP4122735B1 patent drawingFigure 2
  • EP4122735B1 patent drawingFigure 3

AI summary

Described is a telehandler (1) equipped with at an electric propulsion motor and with several containment compartments (100) for housing means (200, 300) for powering the motor. A compartment (100) is provided with an access opening to allow a user to insert or extract a source of electricity (200, 300) included in the power supply means. A plurality of electric batteries (200) is made available, each designed to be inserted in one of the compartments (100). An electricity generator apparatus (300) is provided for insertion in one of the compartments (100). The telehandler (1) is equipped with the following alternative power supply configurations: a fully electrical configuration wherein the power supply means comprise only one or more electric batteries (200); and a hybrid configuration wherein the power supply means include the electricity generator apparatus (300).