Extendable Frame Vehicle with Electro-Hydraulic Lift
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing extendable frame vehicles face limitations in versatility, safety, and stability due to their short wheelbase, which restricts load capacity and maneuverability, especially on uneven terrain and steep inclines, and lack adaptive features to adjust to varying operating conditions.
Innovation Solution
The development of an extendable frame work vehicle with an adjustable wheelbase, independently driven wheels, and an electro-hydraulic system incorporating sensors and a microprocessor controller, allowing for variable weight distribution, multiple steering modes, and attachments for enhanced safety and versatility, including GPS and load leveling capabilities.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Stability of the object's composition
If the wheelbase is extended to improve stability and load capacity, then the vehicle becomes less maneuverable and requires a longer steering radius
Solution Approach 1:
The wheelbase is made dynamically adjustable rather than fixed. The system can extend the wheelbase when stability is needed (during lifting operations or on uneven terrain) and retract it when maneuverability is required (during transport or tight space operations). This dynamic adaptation resolves the contradiction by allowing the vehicle to optimize its geometry for the current task.
Solution Approach 2:
The wheelbase is divided into separable segments that can be independently positioned. The front and rear wheel assemblies can be moved relative to each other along the frame, allowing the wheelbase length to be adjusted in discrete steps. This segmentation enables the vehicle to transition between compact (for maneuverability) and extended (for stability) configurations.
2Reliability
If the wheelbase is extended to increase load capacity, then the vehicle requires more space for operation and transport
Solution Approach 1:
The wheelbase length is dynamically adjusted based on the load being carried. When heavy loads are present, the system extends the wheelbase to improve stability and load capacity. When loads are light or during transport, the wheelbase is retracted to minimize the space required. This dynamic adjustment resolves the contradiction between load capacity and space requirements.
3Ease of operation
If traditional steering systems are used to maintain simple control, then the wheels cause excessive wear and tear on the work site surface
Solution Approach 1:
The leveling system automatically senses and compensates for uneven ground surfaces without requiring operator intervention. Sensors detect the inclination of the ground, and the system automatically adjusts the wheel positions or frame orientation to maintain a level operating platform. This self-service capability eliminates the need for manual steering adjustments that cause surface damage while keeping the control interface simple.
Solution Approach 2:
The traditional mechanical steering system that directly transfers operator input to wheel rotation is supplemented or replaced with an electro-hydraulic or electro-mechanical steering system. This new system uses sensors and actuators to control wheel position, allowing for smoother, more precise movements that reduce surface disturbance while maintaining simple operator controls through electronic interfaces.
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 vehicle achieves improved stability and safety by enabling greater load capacities and adaptability to various terrain conditions, allowing for safer operation on slopes and uneven surfaces, while also reducing the need for multiple machines by combining functions in a single unit.
Implementation Method 1
a true vertical motion of the lift member 21, the telescoping lift arms 84 are enabled to overcome the binding that normally occurs with conventional design
Implementation Method 2
the size of the load that can be safely moved may be compromised by the relatively short wheelbase of the conventional skid steer vehicle
Data Source
AI summary
An extendable frame work vehicle offering enhanced versatility, safety and effectiveness. The vehicle includes an adjustable frame with front and rear portions that extend or retract with respect to each other. The front portion is supported by a first pair of wheels and said rear portion is supported by a second pair of wheels. Each wheel is independently driven and steered. The vehicle also includes an engine mounted on the rear portion of the frame. Incorporated into the vehicle is an electro-hydraulic assembly which enables extension and retraction of the adjustable frame. The assembly includes a sensor-responsive microprocessor controller, at least one hydraulic pump, at least one hydraulic drive motor and at least one valve network.