Grappling Assembly Dual Pivot Axis Adjustment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional grappling assemblies for utility equipment are limited by fixed pivot axes, restricting the width of the jaws' opening and the grasping force, requiring multiple actuating cylinders, and necessitating the use of different assemblies for varying sizes and forces, which is costly and time-consuming.
Innovation Solution
A grappling assembly with a first and second claw that rotate about different pivot axes, secured by fasteners, allowing adjustable positioning and operation with a single actuating cylinder, eliminating the need for complex linkages and multiple cylinders.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Force
If a fixed pivot axis is used to secure the upper and lower claws, then the structure is simple and stable, but the opening width and grasping force are limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the dynamics principle by making the pivot axis position adjustable rather than fixed. The coupling opening and mating opening allow the pivot axis to be repositioned along the longitudinal axis of the lower claw, enabling dynamic adjustment of the opening width and grasping force characteristics to match different work requirements.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple actuating cylinders are used to move the grappling jaws, then the grasping capability is improved, but the device complexity and manufacturing cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the universality principle by designing the lower claw to perform multiple functions: it acts as both the lower gripping element and as a linkage component that translates the motion of a single actuating cylinder into coordinated movement of both claws. The coupling opening and pivot axis configuration enable the lower claw to serve as a mechanical advantage lever, eliminating the need for separate actuation mechanisms for each claw.
3Manufacturing precision
If different grappling assemblies are purchased for different structure sizes, then the grasping precision is improved, but the cost and time for equipment changes increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the dynamics principle by enabling dynamic reconfiguration of the pivot axis position along the longitudinal axis of the lower claw. This allows the operator to adjust the opening width and mechanical characteristics of the grappler to match different work requirements, eliminating the need for multiple fixed-size grappling assemblies.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies the segmentation principle by dividing the lower claw into multiple functional segments: the body portion, the coupling opening with multiple positions, and the pivot axis. This segmentation allows independent adjustment of the pivot axis position while maintaining the structural integrity of the lower claw, enabling flexible adaptation to different work requirements.
4Force
If a complicated linkage is used to connect the grappler to the boom assembly, then the grasping force is improved, but the device complexity and manufacturing time increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the merging principle by combining the lower claw with the linkage function. The lower claw itself serves as the linkage element that connects the actuating cylinder to the upper claw, eliminating the need for separate linkage components. The coupling opening and pivot axis configuration integrate the linkage function directly into the claw structure, reducing overall device complexity while maintaining mechanical advantage.
Data Source
AI summary
A utility system may include at least one moveable arm, and at least one grappling assembly connected to the moveable arm. The grappling assembly includes an upper claw, a lower claw, and fasteners to pivotally secure the lower claw to the upper claw. The upper claw includes lower grasping surfaces and coupling openings. The lower claw includes upper grasping surfaces and mating openings. Each mating opening is axially aligned with one of the coupling openings. The upper and lower claws rotate about the fasteners at first pivot axes when the fasteners are retained within first coupling openings of the upper claw and within the mating openings of the lower claw. The upper and lower claw rotate about the fasteners at different, second pivot axes when the fasteners are retained within second coupling openings of the upper claw and within the mating openings of the lower claw.