Forklift Load Handling Device Tool-Free Mounting System
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing mounting systems for load handling devices on industrial trucks, such as forklifts, are complex and prone to losing the counter-lock, requiring tool-based installation and posing challenges in securing the load handling devices effectively.
Innovation Solution
A simplified mounting system where the locking element can be inserted laterally into the open receiving mouth of the locking element without tools, featuring a spring-loaded securing element that automatically engages in recesses of the receiving carrier, and a dual-function operating lever that serves as both the carrier for the counter-lock and the locking mechanism, ensuring secure hold without the need for separate components.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a separate counter-lock is used to secure the securing element, then the load handling device can be securely held, but the mounting becomes complex and the counter-lock can be lost
Solution Approach 1:
The operating lever is designed to integrate multiple functions: it serves as the carrier for the counter-lock, the actuator for the locking mechanism, and the structural element that transmits force. By merging these previously separate components into one integrated lever, the patent eliminates the need for separate counter-lock installation while maintaining secure holding of the load handling device.
Solution Approach 2:
The operating lever is designed as a multi-functional component that simultaneously performs: (1) carrying the counter-lock, (2) actuating the locking mechanism to engage/disengage the securing element, and (3) providing structural support. This multi-functionality reduces the total number of parts and simplifies the mounting process while ensuring reliable operation.
2Reliability
If traditional mounting systems are used, then secure connection is achieved, but tool-based installation is required and workload increases
Solution Approach 1:
The securing element is spring-loaded to automatically engage with the receiving carrier when the operating lever is actuated. The system uses its own spring force to complete the locking action without requiring external tools or additional manual intervention, making the installation process self-service and tool-free while maintaining secure connection.
Solution Approach 2:
The securing element is designed with spring loading that allows it to dynamically move between engaged and disengaged states. The spring force provides automatic engagement when the operating lever is actuated, enabling tool-free installation while ensuring reliable secure connection during operation.
3Reliability
If multiple separate components are used for mounting, then secure holding is achieved, but the risk of losing components increases
Solution Approach 1:
The counter-lock is integrated into the operating lever as a single unified component. Since the counter-lock and operating lever form one piece, there is no separate counter-lock that can be lost. The integration eliminates the risk of component loss while maintaining the secure holding function through the unified structure.
4Reliability
If complex mounting systems are used, then secure connection is achieved, but assembly time and workload increase
Solution Approach 1:
The mounting system is segmented into modular components: the operating lever with integrated counter-lock, the spring-loaded securing element, and the receiving carrier with positioning recesses. This segmentation allows for simple, tool-free assembly where components are easily attached in sequence without complex procedures, reducing assembly time while ensuring secure connection.
Solution Approach 2:
The securing element is pre-spring-loaded during manufacturing to provide automatic engagement force. The operating lever is pre-designed with the counter-lock integrated, eliminating the need for separate counter-lock installation. These preliminary preparations enable quick, tool-free assembly while maintaining secure connection without requiring complex on-site procedures.
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
This solution allows for tool-free assembly, reduces the risk of losing the counter-lock, and provides a reliable, secure hold of the load handling devices, enabling easy adjustment and positioning without the complexity of traditional systems.
Implementation Method 1
By spring loading of the securing element in the downward direction, this can automatically engage in various recesses of the receiving carrier and thus secure the position
Data Source
Figure 1~3
Figure 4~10
Figure 11~13
AI summary
The truck has a load pick-up device i.e. lift fork, with fork arms and an upper hook for supporting the load pick-up device on a part of a pick-up carriage in a mounted condition. A retaining element (7) is attached to the upper hook for stopping the movement of the load pick-up device in a holding position, where the retaining element is held on the upper hook by a lock part (9) and has an open catch mouth (11) for the lock part. The retaining element is inserted into a bore in the upper hook, and the lock part is inserted into the catch mouth of the retaining element.