Mast Coupling Assembly Load Distribution
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current coupling assemblies for mobile drilling machines do not adequately account for and distribute loads from the mast, leading to inefficiencies in drilling operations, particularly with axial, horizontal, or eccentric axial loads.
Innovation Solution
A mast coupling assembly with a pair of opposing legs, each featuring a second pivot aperture for coupling the mast and a second lock aperture for locking the mast in position, which includes a support portion coupled to the axle, allowing for better load distribution and ease of machining.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If current coupling assemblies are used with pivot points, then the mast can be pivotably mounted, but the loads from the mast are not properly accounted for or distributed
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling assembly is divided into multiple legs (at least a pair of opposed legs) that independently support and distribute loads from the mast. Each leg can be separately positioned and configured to optimize load distribution across different axes, resolving the contradiction by segmenting the load-bearing function into discrete structural elements.
Solution Approach 2:
The coupling assembly incorporates multiple legs extending in different spatial dimensions to distribute loads across horizontal, vertical, and eccentric axial directions. This dimensional approach allows the structure to handle multi-directional forces from the mast effectively, improving reliability without excessive complexity.
2Reliability
If the mast and A-frame structure are designed for proper load distribution, then axial, horizontal, and eccentric axial loads are accounted for, but the structure becomes difficult to machine
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling assembly is segmented into multiple legs with standardized components including pivot apertures and lock apertures. This segmentation allows each leg to be manufactured as a separate, simpler component that can be easily machined, then assembled to form the complete load-distributing structure.
Solution Approach 2:
Each leg of the coupling assembly is designed as a universal component that can handle multiple types of loads (axial, horizontal, eccentric axial) through its geometric configuration and aperture arrangement. This multi-functionality is achieved through simple, manufacturable geometry rather than complex machining operations.
3Adaptability or versatility
If a single lock aperture is used, then the mast can be locked in position, but multiple drilling positions cannot be accommodated
Solution Approach 1:
The locking mechanism is segmented into multiple discrete lock apertures (at least two) positioned at different locations along the leg. Each aperture corresponds to a specific drilling position, allowing the mast to be locked at multiple predetermined positions. This segmentation provides position versatility while keeping each individual aperture simple in design.
Solution Approach 2:
The lock apertures are pre-positioned at specific locations on the legs to correspond to desired drilling positions. This preliminary arrangement of locking points allows for quick position changes without requiring complex adjustment mechanisms, as the appropriate lock aperture is already in place for each drilling position.
Data Source
AI summary
A drilling machine is disclosed. The drilling machine may include a mast and a machine frame. The mast may include a mast frame, a movable drill head assembly, a first pivot aperture, and a plurality of first lock apertures each corresponding to a different drilling position of the mast. The machine frame may include an engine, a ground engaging assembly having an axle, and a mast coupling assembly having at least a pair of opposed legs, each leg including at least one plate. The at least one plate of each leg may include a second pivot aperture positioned to align with the first pivot aperture to pivotably couple the mast to each leg. The at least one plate may also include a second lock aperture positioned to align with each of the first lock apertures and receive a lock pin for locking the mast in a drilling position.