Hinged Track Loader Bucket for Trench Digging
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Solution Overview
Problem
Track vehicles used in agriculture and construction lack a versatile bucket attachment that can efficiently dig trenches without requiring additional specialized equipment, while maintaining the standard functionality of a bucket for earthmoving.
Innovation Solution
A bucket attachment for track vehicles is modified by dividing it into a detachable and fixed portion connected by a hinge, with a hydraulic cylinder allowing the detachable portion to rotate downwards for trench digging, enabling the bucket to function as a conventional bucket when not in use.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a standard bucket attachment is used for track vehicles, then the bucket can effectively move earth and debris, but it cannot dig trenches or ditches
Solution Approach 1:
The bucket is divided into two separate portions: a fixed portion that remains attached to the track vehicle and a detachable portion that can be rotated downward to form a trench-digging configuration. This segmentation allows the bucket to perform both standard earthmoving and specialized trench digging functions using a single attachment.
2Productivity
If specialized trench-digging equipment is purchased, then trench digging can be performed efficiently, but additional equipment cost is incurred
Solution Approach 1:
The modified bucket attachment provides multi-functionality by enabling both standard earthmoving operations and efficient trench digging with a single piece of equipment. The detachable portion can be rotated to create a trench-digging configuration, eliminating the need to purchase separate specialized trench-digging equipment while maintaining productivity.
3Productivity
If an excavator is used to dig trenches, then trench digging is possible, but it is more time-consuming and less effective
Solution Approach 1:
The bucket configuration is made dynamic through the rotatable detachable portion that can be positioned in different orientations. When rotated downward, it creates an efficient trench-digging configuration that allows the track vehicle to dig trenches quickly and effectively, significantly reducing the time required compared to using a less optimized excavator configuration.
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 trench digging without specialized equipment, maintaining the bucket's standard earthmoving capabilities, and allowing for efficient creation of channels for water runoff or irrigation.
Implementation Method 1
a hydraulic cylinder allowing the detachable portion to rotate downwards
Data Source
AI summary
Trench digging and carrying with the same bucket attachment present on one track vehicle, the created dual functionality saves both time and expense by doing on-site what would normally be required to be done with two separate vehicles and additional manpower. The bucket attachment is especially advantageous when used in areas with limited space. Another advantage is that the modification can be adapted to bucket vehicles of various sizes.