Container Cover Arm Assembly With Internal Spring-Pulley Torque
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional cover systems for open-topped containers rely on torsion springs, which are limited by width regulations and lack sufficient torque to consistently move the cover system, necessitating a solution that generates the required torque while maintaining a compact package dimension.
Innovation Solution
The cover system employs a force mechanism with a resiliently compressible element, such as a compression spring or gas spring, connected to a cable and non-circular pulley, which stores energy during arm movement and releases it to move the arm, allowing for efficient cover deployment and retraction.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Force
If multiple spiral springs are provided to increase torque, then the torque characteristics improve, but the width of the spring pack and cover system increases beyond government regulations
Solution Approach 1:
The force mechanism is contained within the hollow arm structure of the cover system. The compression spring and cable assembly are nested inside the hollow arm, eliminating the need for external spring packs and reducing the overall width of the cover system while maintaining sufficient torque generation capability
Solution Approach 2:
The patent utilizes a compression spring (mechanical elasticity) as the resiliently compressible element to generate force. The spring is contained within a hydraulic or pneumatic damper assembly that provides controlled force output to move the cover system, replacing multiple external spiral springs with a single compact internal mechanism
2Ease of operation
If torsion springs are used to propel the arms, then the cover system can move between positions, but the springs are exposed to harsh environments underneath the vehicle reducing reliability
Solution Approach 1:
The force mechanism is extracted from the harsh underbody environment and relocated to a protected position. The compression spring and cable assembly are housed within the hollow arm structure that is positioned above the vehicle frame, shielding the resiliently compressible element from exposure to road debris, water, and extreme temperatures
Solution Approach 2:
A cable acts as an intermediary between the compression spring and the arm mechanism. The spring remains contained within the hollow arm, while the cable transmits the force to move the cover, allowing the spring to operate in a protected environment while still achieving the desired mechanical action
3Area of stationary object
If the resiliently compressible element is contained within the hollow arm, then the package dimension meets width regulations, but the mechanism complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The hollow arm structure serves multiple functions: it provides structural support for the cover system, contains the force mechanism (compression spring and cable assembly), and protects the resiliently compressible element from environmental damage. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate components and simplifies the overall design despite the internal complexity
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
This configuration provides the necessary torque to move the cover system effectively while adhering to government width regulations, enhancing the cover system's operational efficiency and reducing the risk of spring failure due to reduced compression requirements.
Implementation Method 1
The force mechanism is configured to store energy based on the movement of the hollow arm, and to release the stored energy to move the arm
Data Source
AI summary
An arm assembly for a cover system includes a force mechanism associated within a hollow arm of the assembly that includes a resiliently compressible element, such as a compression spring or gas spring, connected to one end of a cable. The opposite end of the cable is fastened to a non-circular pulley mounted to the container body, so that the cable is wound around the pulley as the arm pivots relative to the container body. As the arm pivots in a stowed direction, energy is stored by the compressible element, and releasing the stored energy causes the arm to pivot toward an extended or deployed position.