Gripper System for Automated Waste Bin Handling
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Solution Overview
Problem
Front loading waste collection vehicles lack the capability to efficiently and automatically lift and empty smaller waste bins and recyclables, often requiring separate vehicles and causing damage to bins due to inadequate gripping mechanisms.
Innovation Solution
A gripper system is integrated into the fork assembly of front loading waste collection vehicles, featuring movable arms with belting that securely grasp and lift waste bins, allowing for automated emptying into the vehicle's hopper without dropping or damaging the bins.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a fork assembly is used to lift waste containers, then commercial waste containers can be loaded, but smaller waste bins and recyclables cannot be efficiently collected
Solution Approach 1:
The fork assembly is segmented into a stationary fork and a movable gripper arm. The gripper arm can independently move to grasp smaller waste bins, while the main fork assembly continues to handle commercial containers. This segmentation allows the system to adapt to different container sizes without sacrificing the efficiency of handling larger containers.
Solution Approach 2:
The fork assembly is enhanced with a gripper system that provides multi-functionality. The same fork assembly can now handle both commercial waste containers and smaller waste bins, recyclables, and other materials. This universal capability eliminates the need for separate vehicles and improves overall productivity.
2Productivity
If manual gripping methods are used for smaller bins, then collection can occur, but bin damage occurs due to inadequate gripping mechanisms
Solution Approach 1:
The gripper arm incorporates a soft, flexible gripping surface specifically designed for contacting waste bins. This localized quality change from hard fork surfaces to soft gripping surfaces prevents damage to the bins while maintaining effective grip. The soft surface adapts to the bin's shape and prevents crushing or scratching.
Solution Approach 2:
The gripper arm uses a flexible, soft material for its gripping surface, which can conform to the shape of waste bins and apply distributed force. This flexibility prevents point loads that would cause damage, while still providing sufficient friction and mechanical interlocking to secure the bin during lifting.
3Reliability
If separate vehicles are used for different waste types, then specialized collection can occur, but equipment allocation efficiency decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The enhanced fork assembly provides universal capability to handle multiple types of waste containers and materials. A single vehicle equipped with this multi-functional system can perform the work that previously required multiple specialized vehicles, improving equipment allocation efficiency while maintaining reliable collection capabilities for different waste types.
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
The gripper system enables a single vehicle to collect both commercial waste containers and smaller bins, reducing the need for multiple vehicles and preventing damage by providing a secure, flexible grip that prevents slippage and crushing.
Implementation Method 1
each of the at least two opposite movable arms comprising belting attached to a side opposite the fork tube
Data Source
AI summary
The disclosure describes a novel approach of utilizing a front loading waste collection vehicle. A gripper system is added to the fork tube of a front loading waste collection vehicle. The gripper system allows a front loader to lift and dump waste bins into the truck's hopper for the collection of trash, recyclables and/or other materials.