Telescoping Grain Bin Lifting for Crane-Free Expansion
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing portable grain bins require the use of standard cranes for expansion and collapse, which is impractical and inefficient for farmers operating at remote locations.
Innovation Solution
A lifting system for portable grain bins that allows for automatic expansion and collapse without the need for cranes, utilizing telescoping cylindrical sections with an interlocking mechanism and hydraulic/electric motors to raise and lower the bin sections.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a standard bin crane is used to expand and collapse the grain bin, then the bin can be reliably expanded and collapsed, but the system becomes complex and requires specialized equipment that is impractical for remote locations
Solution Approach 1:
The grain bin is divided into telescoping cylindrical sections that can be independently manipulated. The lifting system is segmented into multiple lifting assemblies distributed around the bin perimeter, allowing incremental expansion and collapse without requiring a single complex crane system.
Solution Approach 2:
The bin sections lift and interlock themselves through the lifting system without external crane assistance. The automatic interlocking mechanism allows sections to self-align and secure to each other during expansion, and self-lower during collapse, eliminating the need for operator intervention with heavy equipment.
2Adaptability or versatility
If telescoping cylindrical sections with automatic interlocking are used, then the bin can expand and collapse without cranes, but the interlocking mechanism becomes complex
Solution Approach 1:
The telescoping cylindrical sections are designed so that one section nests within another during collapse, similar to nested dolls. The interlocking mechanism uses nested components that engage and disengage automatically as sections move relative to each other, providing secure connection during expansion while allowing easy separation during collapse.
Solution Approach 2:
The interlocking mechanism is designed to be dynamic rather than static, automatically engaging and disengaging based on the relative position and movement of the telescoping sections. This allows the same mechanism to provide secure locking during expansion while facilitating easy separation during collapse without requiring complex control systems.
3Productivity
If the bin is designed to be expandable and collapsible, then transport efficiency is improved, but the lifting system becomes more complex than traditional fixed bins
Solution Approach 1:
The lifting system is designed with multi-functional lifting assemblies that can perform multiple operations: lifting bin sections during expansion, supporting the bin during transport, and assisting during collapse. This universal design reduces the need for separate specialized equipment while maintaining all required functions.
Solution Approach 2:
The lifting system is pre-configured on the bin structure itself, with lifting assemblies and support legs already in position before transport. This preliminary arrangement eliminates the need for complex assembly or external equipment during field operations, as the lifting capability is already integrated and ready for use.
Data Source
AI summary
An expandable and collapsible grain bin is provided, comprising: two telescoping cylindrical sections, an upper bin section and a lower bin section, the two telescoping cylindrical sections adapted to automatically interlock with one another when the grain bin is in an expanded position; a first lifting system for lifting the upper bin section until the upper bin section automatically interlocks with the lower bin section and lowering the upper bin section when collapsing the grain bin for storage or transport; and a bin cover attached at or near the top of the upper bin section for enclosing the grain bin.