Equipment Docking Apparatus with Clamping Mechanism for Upright Storage
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Solution Overview
Problem
Portable construction equipment such as soil compaction rammers and vibratory plates are prone to tipping over during transport and storage, posing safety risks and space inefficiencies, as they are typically stored upright but lack secure holding mechanisms.
Innovation Solution
A docking mechanism with clamping apparatuses, including stationary and movable clamp flanges, base plates, and lateral retainer springs, secures equipment in an upright position, preventing tipping and offering optional theft protection through a locking system.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Volume of moving object
If portable construction equipment is stored in an upright position to save space and prevent fluid leakage, then storage efficiency is improved, but the equipment becomes unstable and prone to tipping over
Solution Approach 1:
A docking apparatus with clamping mechanisms acts as an intermediary between the equipment and the storage environment. The apparatus includes stationary and movable clamp flanges that engage with the equipment base, providing lateral and vertical restraint to prevent tipping while allowing upright storage.
Solution Approach 2:
The docking apparatus is divided into separate functional components: a base plate for mounting, stationary clamp flanges for lateral restraint, movable clamp flanges for vertical restraint, and a locking mechanism. This segmentation allows each component to address specific stability requirements.
2Volume of moving object
If heavy equipment is manually manipulated into upright position for storage, then storage efficiency is improved, but severe back strain and safety risks occur
Solution Approach 1:
The docking apparatus is prepared in advance with movable clamp flanges that can be positioned to receive equipment. The spring mechanism is pre-loaded to provide automatic engagement force, eliminating the need for manual positioning effort.
Solution Approach 2:
The spring-loaded clamp mechanism automatically engages with the equipment when placed on the docking apparatus, providing self-servicing functionality that reduces manual manipulation. The lateral retainer arms with springs automatically position themselves to provide lateral restraint.
3Stability of the object's composition
If a secure holding mechanism is added to prevent equipment tipping, then equipment stability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple restraint functions are merged into a compact docking apparatus: lateral restraint through stationary clamp flanges, vertical restraint through movable clamp flanges, and lateral positioning through retainer arms. These functions are integrated on a single base plate structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The spring mechanisms provide adjustable restraint forces that can be modified by changing spring tension or selection. The locking mechanism allows transition between locked and unlocked states, changing the restraint parameters as needed.
4Reliability
If a locking apparatus is added to prevent theft, then security is improved, but device complexity and manufacturing cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The locking mechanism serves multiple functions: it secures the movable clamp flange in the closed position, prevents unauthorized removal of equipment, and can be integrated with the existing clamp structure. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate security devices.
Data Source
AI summary
Aspects of the present invention relate to systems, methods and apparatus for securing equipment to a structure. Some aspects relate to an apparatus with clamp flanges and a clamping mechanism that engages a piece of equipment and secures the equipment from tipping or other movement relative to an attached structure such as a vehicle bed, storage container or display platform. Some aspects relate to an actuating clamp arm working in conjunction with a lateral retainer spring arm to effectuate a clamping action on the equipment to be secured.