Hydraulic Load Bearer Locking Mechanism for Collision Damage Prevention
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing load handling devices face issues with high costs, damage from collisions with obstacles, and stress on the working machine due to play in the locking mechanism and shock loads, leading to downtime and increased maintenance costs.
Innovation Solution
A hydraulically adjustable, lockable, and braced load handling device with a hydraulic working element and a controller that uses sensors and actuators to precisely position and lock the extension device, eliminating play and preventing damage from collisions by prestressing the system and incorporating pressure monitoring for safety.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a hydraulic cylinder with spring-loaded bolt locking mechanism is used, then the extension beam can be positioned and locked, but the system is rigid and susceptible to damage from collisions with obstacles
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a cushioning element between the extension beam and the base frame that absorbs impact energy during collisions with obstacles. This cushioning mechanism prevents the rigid transmission of collision forces to the locking mechanism and hydraulic cylinder, thereby protecting the system from damage while maintaining positioning reliability during normal operation.
2Reliability
If a spring-loaded bolt locking mechanism is used, then the extension device can be locked in position, but play in the lock causes acceleration and braking forces that stress the spreader and load suspension
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the traditional spring-loaded bolt mechanical locking mechanism with a hydraulic locking system. The hydraulic cylinder provides continuous positional adjustment and locking without mechanical play, eliminating the acceleration and braking forces that occur with mechanical bolt engagement and disengagement. This substitution maintains reliable locking while significantly reducing shock loads on the spreader and load suspension.
3Reliability
If an independent locking system with control is used, then the extension beam can be securely locked, but additional control costs and system complexity are incurred
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the locking function with the hydraulic positioning system itself. The hydraulic cylinder that positions the extension beam also serves as the locking mechanism by maintaining continuous hydraulic pressure to hold the beam in position. This integration eliminates the need for a separate mechanical locking system and its associated control, thereby maintaining reliability while reducing overall system complexity and control costs.
Data Source
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AI summary
The device has two supporting parts (1) that are moved relative to one another, and a hydraulic operating element (3) with two work chambers (4), where the operating element is firmly connected with one of the supporting parts and is supported in the other supporting part. The operating element adjusts the supporting parts relative to one another by moving. An actuating element is connected with the work chambers of the operating element, where a controller provides the actuating element such that one of the work chambers is connected with a tank line.