Fork-Less Refuse Vehicle Attachment Assembly for Multi-Tool Switching
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing refuse vehicles lack a versatile and efficient system for easily switching between different attachments, such as containers, forks, and plows, limiting their adaptability for various waste collection and handling tasks.
Innovation Solution
A refuse vehicle system with a lift assembly and attachment assembly that allows for fork-less coupling of attachments like container and fork attachments, enabling easy switching and adaptation for different waste collection tasks.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If traditional fork-based attachment systems are used, then structural simplicity is maintained, but adaptability and ease of switching between different attachments is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The attachment assembly is designed with a universal interface that can accommodate multiple types of attachments including containers, forks, and plows through a single standardized mounting system, eliminating the need for fork-based attachments and enabling one attachment assembly to serve multiple functions
Solution Approach 2:
The attachment system is segmented into modular components with standardized interfaces, allowing individual attachments to be independently selected and exchanged based on specific task requirements while maintaining compatibility with the lift assembly through consistent mounting points
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple attachment types are supported, then operational versatility is improved, but attachment switching time increases
Solution Approach 1:
Attachments are pre-configured with standardized mounting interfaces that align with the attachment assembly, allowing for quick connection and detachment without requiring complex alignment procedures or multiple adjustment steps, thereby reducing attachment switching time
3Ease of operation
If fork-less attachment is implemented, then ease of operation is improved, but structural complexity of attachment interface increases
Solution Approach 1:
The attachment interface employs a universal mounting system with standardized apertures and engagement points that simplifies the attachment process across different attachment types, eliminating the need for fork-based mechanisms while maintaining operational simplicity through consistent interface design
Data Source
AI summary
A refuse vehicle system includes refuse vehicle with a lift assembly and a carry can. The lift assembly includes a pair of lift arms, one or more first actuators configured to pivot the pair of lift arms, an attachment assembly coupled to ends of the pair of lift arms, and one or more second actuators. The carry can is coupled to the attachment assembly. The carry can includes a refuse container and an attachment interface coupled directly to a rear wall of the refuse container. The attachment interface includes a first mounting interface and a second mounting interface spaced from the first mounting interface. The first mounting interface and the second mounting interface are configured to engage with the attachment assembly to couple the carry can to the lift assembly with a fork-less attachment.