Fork Roller Mechanism for Load Protection and Quick Attachment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing fork designs for machines like fork lifts and backhoes are inefficient and labor-intensive when switching between using a fork for transporting loads and a bucket for collecting debris, as they require frequent disconnection and reconnection, and can cause damage to materials due to sharp tips.
Innovation Solution
A tine design with a roller near its tip that is rotatably coupled to the base member, allowing for easy attachment of a bucket without disconnecting the fork, and minimizing damage by directing loads onto the tine without sharp points.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If a traditional fork design with a sharp tip is used, then the fork can effectively transport poles and loads, but the sharp tip may damage materials by scratching or gouging them
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the physical parameter of the tine tip from sharp to rounded, eliminating the harmful scratching and gouging effect while preserving the fork's ability to transport poles and loads effectively
2Productivity
If a traditional fork design is used, then the fork can transport loads, but switching to a bucket requires removing and reattaching the fork, which is time-consuming and labor-intensive
Solution Approach 1:
The patent designs the fork with a universal interface system that allows the same fork to accommodate multiple work implements including buckets, clamps, and other attachments without removal, enabling the fork to serve multiple functions while maintaining load transport capability
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements a nesting mechanism where the bucket or other attachments can be positioned within or alongside the fork structure, allowing quick attachment and detachment without fully removing the fork from the machine, thus reducing switching time and labor
3Ease of operation
If an angled tine design is used, then the tine can climb away from the machine, but the bucket cannot rest flat on the tine requiring fork removal
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs adjustable and movable components in the tine design that allow the angle and position to be dynamically changed or adapted, enabling the tine to accommodate buckets in a flat-resting position while retaining the ability to climb away from the machine when needed
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 labor-saving operation by allowing seamless transition between fork and bucket use, reducing material damage and labor costs, while accommodating different tine lengths with a single bucket.
Implementation Method 1
a roller rotatably coupled between the first and second side walls; where the roller is located adjacent to the top surface
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. The tines of a conventional fork may damage the materials being collected by the machine. Tines are also difficult to attach other work implements to. The disclosed apparatus facilitates collecting material with less resultant damage to the material. The disclosed apparatus also simplifies the connection of other work implements to the machine, in particular, a bucket, by not requiring that the fork first be removed from the machine to attach the bucket. The tine has a base member with a distal end; a roller rotatably coupled to the base member proximate to the distal end; and a part of the roller is elevated above the base member.