Handling Vehicle Vertical Rod Storage

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing handling vehicles for drilling machines require ample maneuvering spaces and are not adaptable to reduced spaces, uneven surfaces, or the type, number, size, and weight of drilling rods/pipes, and they complicate rod handling operations due to horizontal storage compartments, limiting mobility and necessitating traditional lifting means for reinforcement pipes.

Innovation Solution

A self-propelled handling vehicle with a compact design, featuring a self-propelled frame, articulated arm, modular handling device with clamps, and a storage compartment that can be coupled, lifted, and oriented vertically or horizontally, allowing for flexible positioning and handling of drilling rods/pipes and reinforcement pipes without traditional lifting means.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Volume of moving object

If a horizontal rod storage compartment is used, then the vehicle can transport rods, but the overall dimensions and maneuvering spaces increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improverod storage capacityVSAvoidmaneuvering space
Core Design Contradiction:
Volume of moving objectVSArea of stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent transitions from horizontal rod storage to vertical rod storage, changing the spatial dimension of the storage compartment. This dimensional change allows the vehicle to maintain rod storage capacity while significantly reducing the horizontal footprint and maneuvering space requirements.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent inverts the conventional horizontal storage arrangement by implementing vertical storage with rods positioned upright. This inversion fundamentally changes the vehicle's dimensional requirements, reducing the area occupied while maintaining storage volume.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #13The other way round (Inversion)

2Volume of moving object

If a horizontal storage compartment is used, then rods can be stored, but the handling operations become complex

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvestorage capacityVSAvoidhandling operations
Core Design Contradiction:
Volume of moving objectVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

By changing from horizontal to vertical storage, the patent simplifies the handling operations. The vertical arrangement with adjustable support arms allows for more straightforward loading and unloading mechanisms compared to horizontal storage, reducing operational complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

3Area of stationary object

If the vehicle is positioned at the side of the drilling machine, then reduced spaces are required, but traditional lifting means are needed for reinforcement pipes

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvework spaceVSAvoidlifting means
Core Design Contradiction:
Area of stationary objectVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements a universal handling system with an articulated arm and adjustable clamps that can handle both drilling rods and reinforcement pipes. This multi-functional approach eliminates the need for separate traditional lifting means, allowing the vehicle to perform multiple functions with a single integrated system.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent employs dynamic, adjustable support arms and clamps that can adapt to different object types and weights. This dynamic system replaces static traditional lifting means, providing flexibility to handle various loads including reinforcement pipes without requiring additional specialized equipment.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Data Source

PatentEP3230549B1Handling vehicle for transporting, handling, loading and collecting drill rods and/or pipes and/or tools
Publication Date: 2020.03.11 COMACCHIO SRL
  • EP3230549B1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP3230549B1 patent drawingFigure 2~2a
  • EP3230549B1 patent drawingFigure 3~3a

AI summary

The invention is a handling vehicle (1) for transporting and handling, in general, drilling rods/pipes (A, B) and/or tools and/or reinforcement pipes, particularly suited to serve one or more drilling machines (M), comprising at least one storage compartment (2, 3, 4, 5) for one or more of said drilling rods/pipes/tools and at least one arm (8) for coupling said at least one storage compartment (2, 3, 4, 5) to said vehicle (1), wherein said coupling arm (8) allows the selective coupling and uncoupling of said storage compartment (2, 3, 4, 5).