Gutter Forming Machine With Interchangeable Moulds
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing gutter construction machines are complex and require multiple units for different gutter configurations, making it impractical to use a single machine for varied gutter shapes, as each machine is designed for specific configurations.
Innovation Solution
The equipment features interchangeable moulds and hoppers with hydraulic extensions and adjustable components, allowing for different gutter configurations by modifying the mould and hopper attachments, and using hydraulic cylinders for inclination and length adjustments, ensuring a smooth finish.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a single machine is designed for a specific gutter configuration, then the machine structure can be simplified, but it cannot construct different gutter configurations
Solution Approach 1:
The machine is divided into separable functional modules: a base unit with runners and hydraulic system, and interchangeable mould-hopper assemblies. Each mould-hopper assembly can be detached and replaced to construct different gutter configurations, allowing versatility without requiring the entire machine to be redesigned for each configuration.
Solution Approach 2:
The base machine unit is designed as a universal platform that can work with multiple types of mould-hopper assemblies. The standardized interface and hydraulic system allow a single base unit to construct various gutter configurations by simply changing the mould-hopper assembly, achieving multi-functionality without proportionally increasing overall complexity.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple machines are designed for different gutter configurations, then each machine can be optimized for its specific task, but the quantity of equipment required increases
Solution Approach 1:
One universal base machine unit can perform multiple gutter construction tasks by interchangeably mounting different mould-hopper assemblies. This eliminates the need to maintain separate specialized machines for each gutter configuration, reducing the total number of machines required while maintaining the ability to construct various gutter types.
Solution Approach 2:
The interchangeable mould-hopper assemblies can be quickly detached and replaced on-site, allowing the same machine unit to be reused for different projects. Rather than deploying multiple dedicated machines, the system allows rapid reconfiguration and reuse of the same equipment resource.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the mould and hopper are fixed to the runners, then the structure is simpler, but it cannot accommodate different gutter shapes
Solution Approach 1:
The mould and hopper are integrated into a single interchangeable assembly that attaches to and detaches from the runners. This segmented design allows the mould-hopper unit to be replaced as a complete module, providing gutter shape adaptability while keeping the attachment mechanism relatively simple and standardized.
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
Enables the construction of various gutter configurations using a single machine, providing a perfect smooth finish without pores by allowing for interchangeable parts and adjustable attachments, accommodating different trench irregularities and gutter shapes.
Implementation Method 1
the runners are equipped with a hydraulically-actuated rear longitudinal extension to provide additional support in certain circumstances by increasing and/or decreasing the length of the runners
Implementation Method 2
The side fitted to each runner for the attachment of the mould, and forming the side of the hopper, is connected to the runner using hinges and a set of hydraulic cylinders enabling variation of the inclination to a greater or lesser extent toward the exterior of said side
Implementation Method 3
Said concrete is vibrated with the use of hydraulic vibrators fitted to the sides of each runner for this purpose
Implementation Method 4
This enables the hydraulic cylinder connecting the movable part of the closure to raise and lower the latter over the level of the moulded gutter
Data Source
AI summary
A device for concreting and molding gutters includes runners configured to slide over ground. A mold forms the concavity of a gutter and a hopper, with a closure for pouring of concrete into a trench previously excavated in a form of the gutter. The runners have an extendable, rear extension configured to be raised and lowered by a hydraulic cylinder, with the runners further including sides. The sides forming lateral parts of a concreting hopper and a means of attachment for vibrators for vibrating the concrete. The mold includes a structure for attachment to the sides of the runners and to an arm of a backhoe or tow machine, with the mold structure complemented by plates, attached using hinges to the structure of the mold and using pipe turnbuckles, enabling variation of inclination of the mold.