Underfloor Collection Container Insertion Column Design

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing underfloor collection containers are limited by their design, making them difficult to handle and inefficient in terms of space utilization, as they are primarily suited for suction emptying and struggle with weight distribution and handling when transitioning between use and maintenance positions, leading to uneconomical volume usage and restricted usability.

Innovation Solution

The underfloor collection container is redesigned with a movable insertion column divided into a supporting frame and an insertion chute, where the support frame is firmly connected to the lower part for stable lifting, and the chute is pivotable about an upright hinge axis, allowing for easy operation and optional emptying methods without bearing the weight of the chute.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If the upper section of the throw-in column is made heavy with functional installations, then the structural stability and functionality are improved, but the handling and operation become significantly more difficult

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvestructural stabilityVSAvoidhandling of throw-in column
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The throw-in column is divided into a stationary lower section and a movable upper section that can pivot independently. The hinge connection allows the upper section to be moved separately from the lower section, enabling operators to handle the lighter upper portion without moving the entire heavy column structure.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

2Strength

If the lower section of the throw-in column is designed as a high collar, then the structural support is improved, but the collection space utilization decreases due to unused volume around the heaping cone

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvestructural supportVSAvoidcollection space utilization
Core Design Contradiction:
StrengthVSVolume of stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

The lower section of the throw-in column is made movable and can be pivoted out of the way during filling operations. This dynamic design allows the collection space to be fully utilized without the permanent obstruction of a fixed high collar, while still providing structural support when needed.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

3Ease of operation

If the throw-in column is designed for easy manual handling, then the ease of operation is improved, but the structural stability and load-bearing capacity deteriorate

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemanual handlingVSAvoidstructural stability
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSStability of the object's composition

Solution Approach 1:

The throw-in column is segmented into a heavy stationary lower section that provides structural stability and a lighter movable upper section that is easy to handle. The hinge connection between sections allows each to fulfill its primary function independently.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The hinge connection acts as an intermediary between the stationary lower section and the movable upper section. It transfers minimal forces while allowing independent movement, enabling the heavy lower section to remain stable while the upper section is easily operable.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

4Device complexity

If the underfloor collection container is designed for suction emptying only, then the device complexity is reduced, but the adaptability and versatility deteriorate

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveemptying mechanismVSAvoidemptying options
Core Design Contradiction:
Device complexityVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The movable lower section of the throw-in column serves multiple functions: it provides structural support when in position, can be pivoted out of the way to allow bottom emptying access, and enables both suction emptying and mechanical emptying options without requiring complex additional mechanisms.

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

Data Source

PatentEP2514689B2Insertion column of a subterranean collection container
Publication Date: 2020.02.12 BAUER PATRICK
  • EP2514689B2 patent drawing

AI summary

The container has a collection chamber, an upwardly targeted feeding tube, a plenum extending over the ground, and a filling opening. The tube is movably inserted into the filling opening. A throw-column (1) comprises a support frame (3) and the feeding tube leading to the insertion chute (5) hinged to the frame. The lower portion of frame is raised and is connected to throw-column such that the throw-column is divided uprightly. The frame and chute are arranged side by side such that partial cross-section of throw-column is formed in support frame.