Container Handler Fork Assembly Vertical Adjustment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current container handlers with fixed fork tines struggle to engage and safely load/transport containers of varying heights and orientations due to the inability to automatically adjust the tine position, leading to inefficiencies and safety issues.
Innovation Solution
A fork assembly with a carriage and actuator system that allows the fork tines to translate vertically within a frame, enabling automatic adjustment of their position to accommodate different container configurations, utilizing hydraulic actuators integrated with the existing hydraulic system of the container handler.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If fixed fork tines are used in the container handler, then the structural simplicity is maintained, but the ability to accommodate containers of varying heights and orientations is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the dynamics principle by transforming the fixed fork tines into a movable carriage system that can translate vertically along guide rails. The carriage is actuated by a hydraulic cylinder that moves it between an upper position and a lower position, enabling the fork assembly to adapt to containers of varying heights and orientations while maintaining operational simplicity through automated actuation.
2Adaptability or versatility
If a movable carriage with actuator is added to the fork assembly, then the adaptability to different container configurations is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies universality by designing the carriage to perform multiple functions: it carries the fork tines, translates vertically to adjust tine position, and can be actuated by the existing hydraulic system. The carriage structure itself serves as both a mounting platform and a positioning mechanism, reducing the need for separate adjustment devices and minimizing overall system complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies self-service by integrating the carriage movement directly into the fork assembly's existing hydraulic actuation system. The hydraulic cylinder that actuates the carriage uses the same fluid power infrastructure already present in the container handler, allowing the system to adjust tine positions automatically without requiring additional independent power sources or control systems.
3Stability of the object's composition
If the carriage is designed to move parallel to the frame, then the structural stability is maintained, but the range of motion is constrained
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dimensionality change by orienting the carriage movement along the vertical dimension (parallel to the frame's vertical axis) rather than horizontally. The carriage translates up and down along guide rails that are vertically oriented, allowing the fork tines to reach different heights on containers while maintaining lateral stability and proper engagement geometry.
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
Enables efficient and safe engagement with a variety of container types, improving operational efficiency by allowing automatic adjustment of tine positions to match the specific height and orientation of container handling structures.
Implementation Method 1
at least one actuator coupled between the frame and the carriage, wherein the at least one actuator is movable between a first position and a second position
Data Source
AI summary
Container handlers including improved fork assemblies. One embodiment includes a vehicle having a chassis and a hoist apparatus pivotably coupled with the chassis. The hoist apparatus is movable between a stowed position and an extended position with respect to the chassis. The hoist apparatus further includes a pivotable fork assembly. The fork assembly comprises a frame and a carriage movably coupled with the frame. One or more tines are coupled with the carriage. At least one actuator is coupled between the frame and the carriage and is operative to move between a first position and a second position. Movement of the at least one actuator from the first position toward the second position causes the carriage to move substantially parallel to the frame.