Cross-Support Assembly Vision Axis for Construction Machines

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Solution Overview

Problem

The existing lift arm cross members in construction machines obstruct the operator's view during lifting operations, especially when the lifting arms are not in the highest or lowest position, limiting visibility and operational efficiency.

Innovation Solution

A cross-support assembly with a cross tube or truss framework that includes openings, such as through holes or strategically positioned trusses, to provide an axis of vision for multiple lifting positions, enhancing the operator's view while maintaining structural stability and supporting loads.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Strength

If a solid cross-support assembly is used to connect lifting arms, then structural stability and load-bearing capacity are improved, but operator's view and visibility are obstructed

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveload-bearing capacityVSAvoidoperator's view obstruction
Core Design Contradiction:
StrengthVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The cross-support assembly is segmented into a truss framework consisting of multiple discrete members (vertical posts, horizontal beams, diagonal bracing) rather than a solid continuous structure. This segmentation creates gaps and openings that allow visibility through the assembly while maintaining structural integrity through the truss design.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The cross-support assembly adopts a porous/open framework structure with intentional voids and openings formed by the truss configuration. This allows light and vision to pass through the assembly from multiple angles while the remaining structural elements maintain sufficient strength to support lifting loads.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #31Porous materials

2Object-affected harmful factors

If openings are added to the cross-support assembly to improve visibility, then operator's view is improved, but structural stability may be compromised

Engineering Contradiction:
ImprovevisibilityVSAvoidstructural stability
Core Design Contradiction:
Object-affected harmful factorsVSStability of the object's composition

Solution Approach 1:

The assembly is divided into multiple truss members that work together to distribute loads. The segmented structure with vertical posts, horizontal beams, and diagonal bracing creates inherent stability through geometric triangulation while allowing visibility through the spaces between members.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The cross-support assembly combines multiple structural elements (vertical posts, horizontal beams, diagonal bracing) into a composite truss system. This composite structure achieves both visibility (through the open framework) and structural stability (through the combined action of all members working together to resist loads).

Inventive Principle:
Principle #40Composite materials

Data Source

PatentEP3864224B1A cross-support assembly extending between and connecting two generally parallel lifting arms of a working machine
Publication Date: 2025.03.26 VOLVO CONSTRUCTION EQUIPMENT AB
  • EP3864224B1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP3864224B1 patent drawingFigure 2
  • EP3864224B1 patent drawingFigure 3

AI summary

The invention relates to a cross-support assembly (10) extending between and connecting two generally parallel lifting arms (120) of a working machine (100). A front end (136) of the lifting arms (120) is connectable with an implement (130). A back end (135) of the lifting arms (120) is pivotably connectable with a front unit (116) of the working machine (100). The cross-support assembly (10) provides an axis of vision (12) through the cross- support assembly (10) for at least two different lifting positions of the lifting arms (120) by having an opening (14) in the cross-support assembly (10).