Demountable Superstructure Coupling With Integrated Locking and Lifting
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing construction vehicles with demountable superstructures face issues of complex and costly securing mechanisms, susceptibility to failure, and inefficient operation, particularly due to manual locking systems with play and friction-based retention, which compromise operational safety and flexibility.
Innovation Solution
A construction vehicle with a base vehicle and a demountable superstructure features a linear drive unit that functions as both an unlocking/locking and lifting device, allowing for active tensioning and lifting, reducing complexity and enhancing operational safety and flexibility by ensuring secure coupling without play, even with wear.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If manual locking mechanisms are used to secure the superstructure at four points, then the superstructure is locked securely, but the system becomes costly and cumbersome with high device complexity
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the locking function and lifting function into a single drive unit. The drive unit includes a coupling element that performs both locking the superstructure to the base vehicle and lifting the superstructure, eliminating the need for separate locking mechanisms at multiple points.
Solution Approach 2:
The drive unit is designed as a multi-functional component that can both lock/secure the superstructure and lift/lower it. This universal component replaces multiple specialized mechanisms, reducing overall system complexity while maintaining security and functionality.
2Ease of operation
If multiple securing mechanisms with tension cables and return springs are used, then semi-manual actuation is achieved, but the construction becomes complex and prone to failure
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the actuation function, locking function, and lifting function into a single integrated drive unit. This eliminates the need for separate tension cables, return springs, and multiple actuators, simplifying the construction while maintaining semi-manual or automated operation capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The drive unit serves as a universal component that handles both securing and lifting operations through a single actuation mechanism, reducing the number of parts and potential failure points while improving ease of operation.
3Device complexity
If passive friction-based retention is used to hold the superstructure, then the system is simple, but operational safety is compromised due to play and friction limitations
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines active mechanical locking with lifting capability in a single drive unit, replacing passive friction-based retention. The active locking mechanism provides secure, play-free attachment while the integrated lifting function ensures controlled operation, significantly improving operational safety.
4Device complexity
If a single linear drive unit performs both locking and lifting functions, then design complexity is reduced, but the drive unit must handle multiple functions simultaneously
Solution Approach 1:
The drive unit is designed as a universal component capable of performing multiple functions: locking the superstructure through coupling elements, lifting the superstructure, and providing active tensioning. This multi-functional design reduces overall system complexity while maintaining the necessary adaptability for different operational requirements.
Data Source
AI summary
A construction vehicle includes a base vehicle and a skip superstructure with a tipping unit. The base vehicle comprises a driver unit, and an articulated steering system with an articulation. The vehicle comprises a coupling unit on the vehicle for coupling and uncoupling a demountable superstructure. The demountable superstructure comprises one or more coupling elements for coupling the demountable superstructure to the base vehicle.