Frangible Tab Control System for Dump Link Damage Prevention

Resolve Bottlenecks,
Find Innovative Solutions
Generate Solutions

Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional dump truck systems with tilt and dump links face issues when improperly operated, as they can apply large forces that may damage the dump link, and existing solutions do not adequately prevent damage while ensuring safe operation.

Innovation Solution

A control system featuring a tab pivotally connected to a structure via a coupling member, with a frangible member holding the tab in place, which breaks under excessive force, allowing the tab to pivot and prevent damage to the dump link by disabling the external system when a large force is applied.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Object-affected harmful factors

If a frangible member is used to hold the tilt tab in place, then damage to the dump link is reduced, but the system cannot detect or control excessive force application

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedamage to dump linkVSAvoidsystem safety control
Core Design Contradiction:
Object-affected harmful factorsVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent incorporates a sensor that detects the position of the tilt tab and provides feedback to a control system. When the tilt tab moves beyond a predetermined position indicating excessive force, the sensor triggers an alarm or shuts down the hydraulic system, preventing damage while providing active monitoring and control feedback.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

Solution Approach 2:

The patent introduces a control system as an intermediary between the mechanical components and the operator. This intermediary monitors system parameters, detects abnormal conditions through sensors, and automatically responds by controlling hydraulic valve operation or activating alarms, bridging the gap between mechanical force application and system protection.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Object-affected harmful factors

If the tilt tab is allowed to pivot freely to prevent damage, then the dump link is protected, but the device cannot control external systems under excessive force conditions

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedamage to dump linkVSAvoidexternal system control capability
Core Design Contradiction:
Object-affected harmful factorsVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The patent employs dynamic control where the system's behavior changes based on operating conditions. During normal operation, the tilt tab functions freely to control the dump link. When excessive force is detected through sensor feedback, the control system dynamically adjusts by shutting down hydraulic functions or activating alarms, allowing the system to adapt its control capability based on the operational state.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The control system automatically monitors and protects itself by detecting when the tilt tab indicates excessive force and automatically shutting down hydraulic functions or activating alarms without requiring external intervention, enabling the system to self-regulate and prevent damage while maintaining control capability within safe operating parameters.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Data Source

PatentUS9649968B2Control system
Publication Date: 2017.05.16 STELLAR IND INC
  • US9649968B2 patent drawing
  • US9649968B2 patent drawing
  • US9649968B2 patent drawing

AI summary

Disclosed is a control system that may include a tab pivotally connected to a structure, a coupling member pivotally connected to the structure, and a device operatively connected to the tab via the coupling member, wherein the device is configured to control an external system. Disclosed also is a vehicle that may include a first device and a control system. The control system may include a tab pivotally connected to a structure, a coupling member pivotally connected to the structure, a frangible member connecting the tab and the coupling member to the structure, and a second device operatively connected to the tab via the coupling member, wherein the second device is configured to control the first device.