Lift Truck Load Handler Compact Guide Structure
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing load-handling apparatuses for lift trucks are not compact and have a high weight, which affects their strength, load-carrying capacity, and turning radius.
Innovation Solution
A compact load-handling apparatus with a reduced depth dimension, utilizing parallel guides and hydraulic actuated piston cylinders, where each load-handling arm is moveably supported by one guide of each pair, and connection elements that only influence the vertical height, providing maximum strength and minimal space usage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If a frame is used to connect the back sides of the guides, then the load-handling apparatus achieves structural strength, but the depth dimension and weight of the apparatus increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent removes the traditional frame structure that connected the back sides of the guides. Instead, the guides are designed to be directly connected to the lift carriage, extracting the unnecessary frame component while maintaining structural integrity through the guide-carriage connection arrangement.
Solution Approach 2:
The connection between guides and lift carriage is arranged such that connection elements extend primarily in the vertical direction rather than increasing the depth dimension. This dimensional reorientation allows structural connection without compromising the compact depth profile of the load-handling apparatus.
2Strength
If a frame is used to connect the back sides of the guides, then the load-handling apparatus achieves structural strength, but the weight of the apparatus increases
Solution Approach 1:
The frame structure is completely removed from the design. The guides serve as the primary structural elements that connect directly to the lift carriage, eliminating the need for additional frame components and their associated weight.
Solution Approach 2:
The guides perform multiple functions: they provide structural support, guide the movement of load-handling arms, and serve as the connection interface with the lift carriage. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate frame structures, reducing overall weight.
3Strength
If connection elements protrude beyond the depth of the guides, then the structural connection is strengthened, but the compactness of the apparatus is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
Connection elements are oriented to extend primarily in the vertical direction rather than increasing depth. This reorientation of the connection dimension allows strong structural attachment while maintaining a compact depth profile that matches the guide dimensions.
Solution Approach 2:
The connection elements are strategically positioned and dimensioned to provide sufficient connection strength at specific locations without extending beyond the guide depth. The local connection geometry is optimized to achieve adequate strength within the constrained depth envelope.
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
The solution results in a lighter, more compact load-handling apparatus with improved load-carrying capacity and reduced turning radius, while maintaining optimal viewability for the operator.
Implementation Method 1
at least two oppositely directed and hydraulic actuated piston cylinders
Data Source
Figure 1
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AI summary
A load-handling apparatus (1) adapted to be mounted on an elevatable lift carriage of a lift truck. Such a load-handling apparatus comprises at least four parallel guides (5, 7, 9, 11) making up a first pair (13) of parallel abutting guides(5,7) and a second pair(15) of parallel abutting guides (9, 11), at least two oppositely directed and hydraulic actuated piston cylinders (25, 27), wherein at least two load-handling arms (3) are connectable to said hydraulic actuated piston cylinders for moving said load-handling arms over said guides to and from each other for engaging a load. Each load- handling arm is moveably supported by one guide of each pair. In addition, the second pair is spaced of said first pair with a distance defined by connection elements lying between the first and the second pair in such a way that said connection elements only influence one dimension of the load-handling apparatus. This influence of said connection elements defines a viewing window between said first and second pairs and said connection elements through which a first side of the load-handling apparatus can be viewed from a second side of the load-handling apparatus.