Lift Interface Device for Container Maneuvering
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Large containers used for waste disposal and bulk material transport are difficult to maneuver due to their size and the high cost associated with motorization of each container unit.
Innovation Solution
A lift interface device that couples a vehicle to a container through a passage under the container, featuring a base, a pivotable frame, and an actuation unit, allowing the container to be raised and tilted for easier maneuvering, with a hydraulic cylinder and pump for actuation, and connector tabs for secure attachment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If each container is motorized to facilitate maneuvering, then ease of operation is improved, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
A vehicle acts as an intermediary device between the operator and the container. The vehicle equipped with a lift interface device engages with the container through a passage underneath, providing maneuvering capability without requiring motorization of the container itself. This mediator approach allows the container to remain simple while achieving ease of operation through the vehicle's motorization and control systems.
2Device complexity
If a vehicle with lift interface device is used to transport containers, then device complexity is reduced, but ease of operation may worsen due to coupling/decoupling requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The lift interface device is pre-configured on the vehicle with alignment features and connector positioning that facilitate automatic or semi-automatic coupling. The device includes preliminary alignment mechanisms that guide the connector tabs into proper engagement positions, reducing the operational complexity of coupling and decoupling operations despite the additional interface requirements.
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 efficient and cost-effective maneuvering of large containers by reducing the need for individual motorization, allowing multiple containers to be transported with a single vehicle, while ensuring stability and safety during operation.
Implementation Method 1
an actuation unit to rotate and hold the frame relative to the base at desired orientations... the actuation unit comprises a hydraulic cylinder with a hydraulic network and pump
Implementation Method 2
a frame positioned over the vehicle and connected to the base with at least a rotational joint adjacent to a leading end of the lift interface device, such that the frame is movable from a coupling orientation to a raised orientation
Data Source
AI summary
A lift interface device for releasably coupling a vehicle to a container, the vehicle of the type engaging the container through a passage under the container, the lift interface device comprises a base adapted to be secured to the vehicle. A frame is positioned over the vehicle and connected to the base with at least a rotational joint adjacent to a leading end of the lift interface device, such that the frame is movable from a coupling orientation to a raised orientation, the frame comprising at least one support surface for supporting the container when the frame is rotated toward the raised configuration, and a container connector at a trailing end of the lift interface device adapted to be used for releasably connecting the container to the frame when the frame is rotated toward the raised configuration; and an actuation unit to rotate and hold the frame relative to the base at desired orientations between the coupling orientation and the raised orientation.