Lifting Apparatus With Stopper-Defined Upper Clamp Limit
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing lifting apparatuses for works on conveyor lines are complex, increasing costs and reducing workability due to the need for multiple driving sources and limited layout flexibility, making it difficult to operate the work from behind the apparatus.
Innovation Solution
A lifting apparatus with an upper and lower clamping unit, guided by a common rail mechanism, where the upper unit is stopped by a stopper before the lower unit reaches its downward limit, allowing for simpler operation and reduced need for multiple driving sources, utilizing self-weight for clamping and additional mechanisms for enhanced clamping force and safety.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If multiple driving sources are used to lift and hold/release the work, then the lifting and holding functions are achieved, but the mechanism becomes complicated and cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the lifting and holding/release functions into a single driving mechanism. The upper clamping unit is lifted by the driving mechanism, and when it reaches the lower limit position, the stopper automatically engages to hold the work. To release, the upper clamping unit is simply lifted again to disengage the stopper. This eliminates the need for separate holding mechanisms and reduces overall system complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The stopper mechanism automatically engages and disengages based on the position of the upper clamping unit during lifting movement. The system uses the lifting motion itself to trigger the holding and release actions, without requiring additional driving sources or complex control systems. The gravity and mechanical interaction between components provide the holding function autonomously.
2Reliability
If multiple driving sources are used for lifting and holding, then the work can be securely held, but the workability and operational access from behind the apparatus is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
By merging the holding function into the lifting mechanism itself, the patent simplifies the overall apparatus structure. This reduction in mechanical complexity creates more open space around the apparatus, particularly from the rear side, allowing operators better access to works for loading, unloading, and monitoring operations without interfering with complex mechanism movements.
3Reliability
If a complex mechanism is used for lifting and holding, then the functions are comprehensive, but the layout space for operation machines is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The integration of holding and lifting functions into a single mechanism reduces the spatial footprint of the lifting apparatus. With fewer separate components and mechanisms required, more layout space is available above and around the apparatus for positioning operation machines and for the movement of works during processing operations.
Data Source
AI summary
This invention provides a lifting apparatus which holds a work by clamping the work vertically, and lifts the work. The lifting apparatus includes upper and lower clamping units, a guide mechanism which guides lifting movements of the upper and lower clamping units, a driving mechanism which drives the lower clamping unit to lift along the guide mechanism, and a stopper which is set so that the upper clamping unit is stopped before the lower clamping unit reaches a downward movement lower limit during the downward movement of the units, and which defines a downward movement lower limit of the upper clamping unit.