Mechanical Pressure Control for Load-Handling Device Grippers
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing load-handling devices, such as clamp-equipped vehicles, face challenges in controlling gripping pressure to prevent paper-roll ovalization during handling, as existing solutions either damage the rolls or require costly complex electrical systems.
Innovation Solution
A fully mechanical pressure control apparatus with a pressure-sensing actuator assembly and interrelated movable members that adjust gripping pressure based on the weight of the load, using hydraulic actuators and a pressure control assembly to maintain optimal gripping pressure.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If electrical sensors and controllers are used to monitor and adapt clamping force, then gripping pressure control is improved, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces electrical sensors, controllers, and data processors with a purely mechanical pressure control system. The lifting actuator itself serves as the sensing element, and mechanical linkages transmit pressure information to the gripping pressure regulator, eliminating the need for complex electrical circuitry while maintaining reliable gripping pressure control.
Solution Approach 2:
The lifting actuator performs multiple functions: it not only provides lifting force but also serves as the pressure sensing element. The mechanical linkages serve dual purposes by both transmitting motion and conveying pressure information to the gripping pressure regulator, reducing overall system complexity.
2Force
If lifting pressure increases to lift load greater distances, then lifting capability is improved, but gripping pressure increases proportionally which may damage the roll
Solution Approach 1:
The patent separates the control of lifting pressure and gripping pressure into independent systems. The gripping pressure regulator is controlled by a dedicated pressure-sensing actuator that monitors only the gripping pressure, allowing lifting pressure to vary with load weight while gripping pressure remains independently regulated to prevent roll damage.
Solution Approach 2:
The pressure-sensing actuator assembly acts as an intermediary between the lifting actuator and the gripping pressure regulator. It translates lifting pressure into corresponding gripping pressure adjustments through mechanical linkages, ensuring gripping pressure remains proportional to actual load weight rather than lifting pressure.
3Length of moving object
If clamps are moved up along the mast to lift rolls greater distances, then lifting capability is improved, but lifting pressure increases which causes proportional increase in gripping force
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic gripping pressure regulation that adapts to the actual load weight regardless of clamp position on the mast. The pressure-sensing actuator continuously monitors lifting pressure and adjusts gripping pressure dynamically through mechanical linkages, ensuring gripping force remains appropriate for the load weight rather than increasing with lifting distance.
4Reliability
If sliding detection is used to control clamping pressure, then gripping pressure control is improved, but paper-roll damage occurs during sliding movement
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary gripping pressure before the lifting operation begins, using the pressure-sensing actuator to pre-regulate clamping force based on expected load weight. This prevents the need for reactive sliding detection during lifting, eliminating paper-roll damage while maintaining appropriate gripping pressure control throughout the operation.
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 effectively prevents paper-roll ovalization by mechanically computing and adjusting gripping pressure in real-time, reducing the risk of damage and eliminating the need for costly electrical systems, ensuring safe and efficient handling.
Implementation Method 1
a pressure-sensing actuator assembly for being placed in pressure communication with the lifting and tilting actuators and adapted to be actuated by the pressure exerted on the lifting and tilting actuators
Implementation Method 2
pressure controlled gripping, lifting and tilting actuators
Data Source
AI summary
A control for a load-handling device including a gripper for handling a load and being connected to pressure controlled gripping, lifting and tilting actuators The control including a pressure-sensing actuator assembly, a gripping pressure regulator and pressure control assembly. The pressure-sensing actuator assembly being is placed in pressure communication with the lifting and tilting actuators. The gripping pressure regulator regulates the gripping pressure. The pressure control assembly includes interrelated movable members for interacting with the pressure-sensing actuator assembly and for acting on the gripping pressure regulator. The pressure-sensing actuator is adapted to sense the weight of the load from the pressure of the lifting and tilting actuators and to communicate this pressure to the pressure control assembly. Thereby, interacting with the pressure control assembly as to cause to latter to so act on the gripping pressure regulator as to provide a suitable gripping pressure in response to the weight of the load.