Cover System Force Mechanism for Width-Constrained Containers
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional cover systems for open-topped containers rely on torsion springs that are limited by width regulations, requiring multiple springs to achieve sufficient torque, which increases the system's width and restricts its torque characteristics.
Innovation Solution
A cover system utilizing a force mechanism with a resiliently compressible element, such as a compression spring, and a cable or wire that winds around a pulley to generate torque, allowing for adjustable force profiles and compliance with width regulations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Force
If multiple spiral springs are used to achieve sufficient torque, then the torque capability is improved, but the width of the spring pack increases beyond regulatory limits
Solution Approach 1:
The patent places the spiral spring inside a hollow arm structure, nesting the spring within the arm's internal cavity. This allows the spring to be contained within the existing width envelope of the cover system rather than extending the width, thereby achieving sufficient torque without violating width regulations.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention transitions from using multiple springs arranged side-by-side (increasing width in one dimension) to using a single spring positioned vertically within the hollow arm (utilizing the vertical dimension). This dimensional shift allows the spring pack to fit within regulatory width limits while maintaining adequate torque capability.
2Area of stationary object
If a single spiral spring is used to reduce width, then the width compliance is improved, but the torque capability becomes insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The motor performs preliminary action by winding the cover onto the roller and pre-loading the spiral spring before the cover is deployed. This pre-loading stores potential energy in the spring, enabling a single spring to generate sufficient torque during cover deployment without requiring multiple springs.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent modifies the spring's operational parameters by pre-compressing it with the motor before deployment. This parameter change (pre-compression) allows a single spring to deliver the necessary torque impulse during cover movement, compensating for the reduction in spring quantity.
3Area of stationary object
If torsion springs are placed underneath the vehicle to achieve compact packaging, then the width is reduced, but the springs are exposed to harsh environmental conditions
Solution Approach 1:
The spiral spring is nested within the hollow arm structure, which serves as a protective housing. This nesting arrangement shields the spring from harsh environmental conditions (moisture, debris, extreme temperatures) while maintaining the compact width profile of the cover system.
Solution Approach 2:
The hollow arm acts as an intermediary protective structure between the spiral spring and the harsh external environment. It provides mechanical protection and environmental isolation while transmitting the spring's torque force to drive the cover mechanism.
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 system effectively generates the necessary torque to move the container cover while maintaining a compact package dimension, adhering to governmental width regulations and enhancing the torque profile of the arm assembly.
Implementation Method 1
a resiliently compressible element, such as a compression spring
Implementation Method 2
The base includes a pulley about which the cable is wound as the arm pivots relative to the base
Data Source
AI summary
An arm assembly for a cover system includes a force mechanism contained within a hollow arm of the assembly that includes a resiliently compressible element, such as a compression spring, with a cable or wire extending through the element. The cable is fastened at one end to an end cap that bears against one end of the compression spring. The opposite end of the cable is fastened to a base mounted to the container body. The base includes a pulley about which the cable is wound as the arm pivots relative to the base. As the arm pivots and the cable winds about the pulley, the end cap bears against the spring to compress the spring.