Fork-Mounted Bucket With Roller Engagement Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing designs for machine attachments, such as buckets and forks, require labor-intensive and time-consuming processes to switch between different work implements, like buckets and forks, which hampers efficiency in work environments like forestry mills where frequent changes are needed.
Innovation Solution
A bucket design with a pair of opposing side members, a collecting member, and an engagement portion featuring a pocket that allows easy attachment and detachment from fork tines, enabling simultaneous use of both bucket and fork without the need for constant reattachment, utilizing rollers to minimize damage and facilitate secure engagement.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If a bucket is attached to a fork for transport, then the bucket can be moved between locations, but the bucket cannot be used for collecting material and the fork must be removed to use the bucket
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the fork and bucket into a single integrated assembly where the bucket is permanently mounted on the fork carrier. This merging eliminates the need to separate and reattach implements, allowing the system to maintain both fork and bucket functionality simultaneously. The fork carrier holds the bucket in a retracted position during fork operations and can extend the bucket for collection operations without requiring implement changes.
Solution Approach 2:
The integrated fork-bucket assembly provides multi-functionality by enabling the same machine to perform both fork operations (transporting poles) and bucket operations (collecting wood chips and debris) without removing implements. The system universally handles different material types and operational modes through a single combined attachment that can be positioned and configured for various tasks.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the bucket is detached and reattached frequently, then the bucket can be used for different tasks, but labor and time are wasted on reattachment processes
Solution Approach 1:
By merging the bucket attachment system with the fork carrier, the patent creates a permanent integration that eliminates repeated attachment and detachment operations. The bucket remains secured to the fork carrier through the engagement portion with rollers and pockets, maintaining task flexibility while eliminating time-consuming reattachment processes.
3Reliability
If the bucket engages directly with the fork tines, then secure attachment is achieved, but damage to the load can occur
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces rollers as intermediary elements between the bucket engagement portion and the fork tines. These rollers provide a smooth, rounded contact surface that secures the bucket to the fork carrier while preventing direct rigid engagement that could damage loads. The rollers act as mediators that maintain attachment security while reducing harmful mechanical stresses on the load.
Data Source
AI summary
Machines are often used to collect and transport materials in a work environment. One of the more common methods of collecting and transporting materials is with a fork having tines. Another common instrument attached to a machine for collecting and transporting materials is a bucket. The present disclosure describes a bucket that engages the tines of a fork, and therefore can be used with a machine that already has a fork attached. The present disclosure also engages with tines of multiple lengths, meaning that the same bucket will engage with forks from different machines. The bucket has first and second side members; a collecting member extending between the first and second side members; and an engagement portion having an engagement surface and a pocket.