Forklift Container Interface With Pivoting Latch for Safe Discharge
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Solution Overview
Problem
Large containers are difficult to maneuver and pose hazards during tilting and emptying due to their shape and the design of forklifts, making safe and efficient discharge operations challenging.
Innovation Solution
An interface apparatus with a base, frame, actuation unit, and latching mechanism that allows for pivoting and secure attachment of containers to vehicles, enabling safe and controlled tilting and discharge.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Volume of moving object
If large containers are used for waste disposal and storage, then capacity is improved, but maneuverability deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an interface apparatus as an intermediary between the forklift and the large container. This apparatus includes a base that engages with the forklift and a frame that attaches to the container, enabling the forklift to safely maneuver and tilt the container without direct contact between the forklift forks and the container.
Solution Approach 2:
The interface apparatus is divided into separate functional components: a base portion that interfaces with the forklift, a frame portion that attaches to the container, and a latching mechanism that secures them together. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized for its specific function while working together as a system.
2Productivity
If containers are tilted for discharge, then discharge efficiency is improved, but safety deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The interface apparatus serves as a mediator that enables controlled tilting of the container. The frame and latching mechanism work together to secure the container at the desired tilt angle, allowing safe discharge operations while preventing uncontrolled movement or accidental discharge.
Solution Approach 2:
The latching mechanism includes a movable portion that can transition between latched and unlatched states. This dynamic feature allows the system to adapt to different operational requirements - securing the container during transport and allowing controlled tilting during discharge.
3Reliability
If latching mechanism is added to secure container, then safety is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The latching mechanism is designed to automatically engage and disengage based on the relative movement between the frame and base portions. The movable portion responds to operational forces, providing secure attachment during transport and automatic release during discharge without requiring additional actuators or complex control systems.
Data Source
AI summary
An interface apparatus for coupling a vehicle to a container, has: a base engageable by the vehicle; a frame connected to the base and detachably securable to the container, the frame pivotable relative to the base for pivoting the container from a lifting position to a discharging position for discharging the container; an actuation unit between the frame and the base; and a latching mechanism for removably attaching the container to the apparatus, the latching mechanism including a first portion secured to the frame and a second portion securable to the container, the first portion movable relative to the second portion in a mating direction having a component normal to the ground from a disengaged configuration in which the first portion is detached form the second portion to an engaged configuration in which the first portion is received within the second portion.