Loader Frame Assembly with Extendable Legs for Rear-Mounted Loaders
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Solution Overview
Problem
Self-loading log trucks face limitations in payload capacity and work area due to traditional cab-mounted and rear-mounted loader configurations, with cab-mounted loaders restricting reach and rear-mounted loaders causing uneven weight distribution and increased wear on suspension.
Innovation Solution
A loader frame assembly with support members and legs that allow a rotatable loader to encompass a larger work area while maintaining a standard payload on a shorter vehicle bed, enabling better weight distribution and increased flexibility in loader configurations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Area of stationary object
If the loader mounting apparatus is moved to the rear of the truck bed to enlarge the work area, then the work area is increased, but the weight distribution becomes unbalanced and places excessive weight on the rear axles
Solution Approach 1:
The loader system is divided into separate functional components: the loader itself, the mounting apparatus, and the support legs. This segmentation allows the mounting apparatus to be positioned at the rear for maximum work area while the support legs extend forward to distribute weight toward the center of the truck bed, resolving the weight distribution problem while maintaining the enlarged work area benefit.
2Area of stationary object
If the loader mounting apparatus is placed further behind the rear axles to accommodate a longer truck bed, then the work area is increased, but the wear and tear on the suspension increases and payload capacity is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The support legs act as intermediary structural elements between the loader mounting apparatus and the truck bed. These legs provide additional support points that distribute the loader's weight load, reducing the stress concentration on the rear suspension system and allowing the mounting apparatus to be positioned optimally for work area without compromising suspension durability.
3Quantity of substance
If the loader is mounted directly behind the cab to maintain payload capacity, then the payload capacity is maintained, but the work area is limited to the sides of the truck bed
Solution Approach 1:
The support legs extend in the longitudinal dimension of the truck bed, allowing the loader mounting apparatus to be positioned at the rear where it can access the entire length of the truck bed for loading operations. This dimensional extension enables the loader to work along the full length of the bed rather than being constrained to side-area operations only, thereby expanding the effective work area while maintaining payload capacity.
Data Source
AI summary
A loader frame assembly is provided which comprises a support member adapted to mount a loader thereto and first and second legs each having first and second ends. The first ends are connected to the support member and the second ends are adapted for connection to a vehicle. The legs are spaced apart such that they partially define an open area such that a load can extend through the loader frame assembly. The frame assembly adapted for a rear-mounted loader vehicle, in cooperation with a rotatably mounted loader, can encompass a work area that includes the vehicle bed, the area adjacent to each side of the vehicle bed, and the area behind the vehicle bed. Due to the open area, the loader frame assembly also can work in cooperation with vehicle configurations including vehicles equipped with pushing and dumping functionality, dosed compartments, and towed devices.