Lifting Device Coupling Unit with Adjustable Locking Means
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing lifting devices for motor vehicle assemblies are cumbersome to align, leading to increased maintenance time due to awkward operation of the coupling unit, which hampers efficient dismantling and removal of vehicle components.
Innovation Solution
A lifting device with a coupling unit featuring a first locking means that can be adjusted between a locking and unlocking position, allowing for easy alignment and adaptation to different motor vehicle assemblies, combined with a support unit that can be detached for compact operation and precise positioning using adjustable support arms and coupling adapters.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If the coupling unit is made adjustable for alignment on the support arm, then the adaptability to different motor vehicle assemblies is improved, but the device complexity increases due to the locking means mechanism
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling unit is designed to be longitudinally displaceable on the support arm, transforming a static connection into a dynamic adjustable one. This allows the coupling unit to be positioned at different locations along the support arm to accommodate various assembly configurations, resolving the contradiction between adaptability and complexity by implementing a simple linear displacement mechanism rather than a complex multi-degree-of-freedom system
Solution Approach 2:
The locking means is designed to rapidly transition between locked and unlocked states, enabling quick adjustment of the coupling unit position. The cam mechanism allows the operator to quickly release the locking action, move the coupling unit to the required position, and re-lock it, thereby achieving high adaptability without requiring complex adjustment procedures that would increase operational complexity
2Productivity
If the coupling unit is made easily operable for quick alignment, then the productivity is improved, but the reliability of positioning may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The locking means replaces a complex mechanical adjustment system with a cam-based locking mechanism that provides rapid locking and unlocking action. The cam geometry is designed to convert a simple rotational or linear motion into a secure locking action, achieving both quick operation and reliable positioning without requiring complex mechanical systems
Solution Approach 2:
The locking means is designed to engage positively with the support arm at predetermined positions, providing pre-established secure locking points. The cam mechanism is configured to engage with corresponding features on the support arm in advance, ensuring that once locked, the coupling unit maintains its position reliably without requiring additional stabilization mechanisms
3Ease of operation
If the support unit is made detachable for compact operation, then the ease of operation is improved, but the strength of connection may be reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The lifting device is segmented into detachable components: the support unit can be detached from the load-carrying unit. Each segment is designed with standardized connection interfaces that provide secure attachment when connected, allowing the device to be configured as a compact single-unit system or an extended multi-unit system depending on the application requirements, thus achieving ease of operation without compromising connection strength
Data Source
Figure 1
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AI summary
The invention relates to a lifting device for a motor vehicle assembly, comprising a load-bearing unit having a crane hook receptacle or being detachably connectable to a connecting body of a support unit, with at least one support arm pivotable about a longitudinal axis of the load-bearing unit, and a coupling unit arranged longitudinally displaceably on the support arm for detachably connecting the support arm to the motor vehicle assembly. To provide a lifting device that allows reliable positioning of a coupling unit relative to a support arm and is also easy to operate, the coupling unit is provided with a first locking means that is adjustable between a locking position that positively secures the coupling unit to the support arm and an unlocking position that releases the coupling unit for longitudinal displacement.