Fork Holder Support Tilt Mechanism With Vertical Linear Actuator
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing forklift fork support systems face challenges with large actuator sizes and power requirements, limited space utilization, and the need for reliable, easily replaceable components.
Innovation Solution
A novel apparatus using linear electric actuators and innovative frame connections, such as guiding and sliding means, allows for compact and efficient operation of fork supports with reduced power requirements, enabling tilt and lateral translation of forks.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Force
If conventional actuators with comparable force are used to achieve fork tilt movement, then the required force is sufficient, but the actuator size becomes too large and cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent reorients the actuator from a horizontal mounting configuration to a vertical mounting configuration. This dimensional change allows the actuator to be positioned within the vertical space of the fork support structure, dramatically reducing the horizontal space requirements and allowing standard-sized actuators to be used without increasing overall system footprint.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs a dynamic connection mechanism between the actuator and the fork support structure, allowing the actuator to move from a fixed horizontal position to a vertical position during operation. This dynamic reconfiguration enables the system to achieve the required tilt movement while maintaining compact dimensions.
2Stability of the object's composition
If conventional fork support structures are used, then structural stability is maintained, but space utilization is limited and structure complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a nested configuration where the actuator is vertically positioned within the fork support structure's existing vertical space. The actuator rod moves within the confines of the support structure, effectively nesting the actuating mechanism within the available space rather than requiring additional external space.
Solution Approach 2:
The fork support structure is divided into distinct functional segments: the vertical support column, the horizontal fork carrier, and the vertically mounted actuator. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized independently for its specific function while maintaining overall structural stability and compact space utilization.
3Measurement precision
If complex actuator systems are implemented to achieve precise fork control, then control precision is improved, but device complexity and power requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces complex mechanical linkage systems with a direct-acting linear actuator mounted vertically. The actuator's rod connects directly to the fork support, eliminating the need for complex intermediate mechanical linkages, gears, or cam mechanisms while maintaining precise control capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent extracts the essential function of fork tilting from a complex multi-component mechanical system and isolates it to a single linear actuator. By removing unnecessary intermediate components and focusing on the core function, the system achieves precise control with reduced complexity.
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 apparatus optimizes space usage, reduces actuator force needs, and ensures a reliable, simple structure with standardized components, enhancing maneuverability and load handling efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
The apparatus comprises first actuator means suitable for actuating, in rotation, the second frame with respect to the first frame. The first actuator means comprise at least one linear electric actuator of commercial type
Implementation Method 2
The means for connecting the second frame to the first frame comprise guiding means and sliding means, configured for obtaining a substantially vertical arrangement of the first actuator means within the apparatus
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3
AI summary
An apparatus (1) for operating the fork holder supports of forks (2;2a,2b,2c,2d) of a manually or automatically driven forklift, comprising a first frame (4) slidable within a vertical upright of said forklift. The first frame comprises connection means (15) for a second frame (11), which supports the connection means, configured for allowing a rotation of the second frame with respect to the first frame, and first actuator means (8) for rotating the second frame with respect to the first frame. The connection means comprise guiding means (9, 10) and sliding means (12, 13), or a cam element (44), which allow a substantially vertical arrangement of the first actuator means within the apparatus; in addition, the first actuator means comprise at least one linear electric actuator of commercial type, or a trapezoidal screw actuator, or a worm screw actuator with recirculating ball nut.