Modular Laser Module Service Shelf for Single-Tech Handling
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
The heavy weight of laser system modules makes them difficult to install and remove safely without mechanical assistance, requiring multiple personnel or inefficient resource use, especially when servicing field locations with varying module heights.
Innovation Solution
A modular service shelf that can be attached at different heights within the laser system, allowing modules to be slid onto it for safe handling and storage, enabling a single technician to service modules efficiently by distributing the weight and allowing internal storage within the system.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If multiple personnel are used to service heavy laser modules, then safety and correctness of module handling is improved, but resource efficiency and cost increase due to requiring several technicians
Solution Approach 1:
A mechanical assistance device is introduced as an intermediary between the technician and the heavy laser module. The device includes a support structure with adjustable height and a lifting mechanism that enables a single technician to safely handle modules weighing over 100lbs, eliminating the need for multiple personnel while maintaining safety standards
2Ease of operation
If adjustable lifting mechanisms or tables are used to service modules at different heights, then ease of servicing is improved, but device complexity and resource requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The support structure incorporates an adjustable height mechanism that can be dynamically repositioned to match the location of laser modules within the rack system. This dynamic adjustment capability allows the same simple device to service modules at any height without requiring complex specialized equipment for each height level
Solution Approach 2:
The lifting device is designed as a universal tool that can service laser modules at any height within the rack system. The adjustable support structure and standardized lifting mechanism allow a single device to perform multiple functions across different module locations, eliminating the need for height-specific equipment
3Productivity
If heavy laser modules are installed high in the rack system, then space utilization is improved, but difficulty of installation and removal increases due to height and weight
Solution Approach 1:
The mechanical assistance device serves as an intermediary that bridges the gap between the technician and high-mounted heavy modules. The device's support structure can be positioned at elevated rack levels, and the lifting mechanism provides the necessary mechanical advantage to install and remove modules from high locations without straining the technician
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3
AI summary
A laser module service shelf is generally presented. In some embodiments, a laser system includes a rack including a stack of slots to support a plurality of laser modules in first positions within the rack, wherein the rack comprises a pair of struts extending at opposite sides of an opening in the rack through which the laser modules may pass, and a module service shelf attachable to the struts to support a weight of one of the laser modules in a second position that is cantilevered from the rack in alignment with the opening and one of the slots, wherein the module service shelf comprises a plurality of detachable sections. Other embodiments are also disclosed and claimed.