Handling Machine Drop-Off Mechanism for Power Module Removal

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Solution Overview

Problem

Handling machines with large power modules require significant electrical power and mass, making it difficult for operators to move them to a deposit position without additional machinery, which may not be available.

Innovation Solution

Equipping handling machines with a drop-off mechanism that allows the power module to be moved from an initial position to a deposit position using a circular translational movement, maintaining the module's orientation and enabling it to rest on or above the ground surface.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Power

If the power module mass is increased to provide significant electrical power, then the electrical power output is improved, but the ease of moving the power module deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveelectrical power outputVSAvoidease of moving power module
Core Design Contradiction:
PowerVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The handling machine uses its own power and mechanical systems to move the power module, eliminating the need for external assistance machinery. The drop-off mechanism is integrated into the handling machine itself, allowing it to autonomously position the power module for maintenance.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The power module is designed as a separate, removable component that can be independently moved from the handling machine. This segmentation allows the power module to be detached and repositioned without moving the entire handling machine, facilitating maintenance operations.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

2Ease of operation

If another handling machine is used to move the power module, then the ease of moving the power module is improved, but the device complexity and availability requirements deteriorate

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveease of moving power moduleVSAvoidavailability of additional machinery
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The handling machine is equipped with an integrated drop-off mechanism that enables it to move and position its own power module without requiring external machinery. This self-service capability eliminates the need for additional equipment availability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The drop-off mechanism is merged with the handling machine's existing structure, combining the power module removal function with the machine's own mechanical systems. This integration ensures the functionality is always available as part of the machine's standard equipment.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

3Ease of repair

If the power module is moved to a deposit position for maintenance, then the ease of repair is improved, but the loss of time deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveaccessibility for maintenanceVSAvoidtime for power module removal
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of repairVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The drop-off mechanism is pre-configured and ready for operation, allowing the power module to be quickly removed and positioned for maintenance. The mechanism is designed to enable rapid deployment without requiring complex setup procedures.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The drop-off mechanism provides dynamic positioning capability, allowing the power module to be moved to various positions including ground level for maintenance access. This dynamic adjustment enables maintenance personnel to work efficiently without time-consuming repositioning operations.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Data Source

PatentEP4410736B1Handling machine comprising a power module and a mechanism for removing the power module
Publication Date: 2025.10.15 MANITOU BF SA
  • EP4410736B1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP4410736B1 patent drawingFigure 2
  • EP4410736B1 patent drawingFigure 3

AI summary

[Handling machine (101; 201; 301; 401) comprising: - a chassis (2) movable relative to the ground surface (S); - a power module (30) for supplying electrical power to the handling machine; and - a dropping mechanism (40) configured to move the power module (30) in a dropping motion, the dropping motion bringing the power module (30) from an initial position, in which the power module is above the ground surface (S) in a vertical direction (ZZ) of the handling machine, to a dropping position, in which the dropping motion includes a circular translational motion, and the dropping position is located lower than the initial position in the vertical direction (ZZ) of the handling machine.