Mobile Trash Compactor Roller with Independent Drives
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing trash compactors are heavy and not adaptable for field use, as they rely solely on the weight of the compaction roller for compaction and lack the ability to effectively shred waste, limiting volumetric reduction.
Innovation Solution
A trash compactor and pulverizer with a compaction roller having independently driven sections, supported by a self-propelled vehicle with a hydraulic system and boom, allowing for controlled downward force and effective shredding of waste.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If the compaction roller relies solely on its own weight for compaction, then the roller can be simple in structure, but the roller becomes very heavy (3000+ lbs) and is not adaptable for field use
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the anti-weight principle by using the self-propelled vehicle's hydraulic system to generate downward force that counteracts the need for heavy roller weight. The vehicle's boom and hydraulic cylinder provide the necessary compaction force, allowing the roller to be much lighter than traditional standalone compactors while maintaining or improving compaction effectiveness.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements universality by making the compaction roller a multi-functional attachment that can be mounted on various self-propelled vehicles with hydraulic systems. The roller serves both as a compaction device and can be integrated with shredding mechanisms, making it adaptable for different field applications and vehicle platforms rather than being a dedicated single-purpose heavy device.
2Productivity
If the compaction roller is mounted on tracks for servicing multiple containers, then the roller can service multiple containers, but the roller remains very heavy and cannot effectively shred waste
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies universality by designing the roller as a versatile attachment that combines compaction and shredding functions and can be mounted on various self-propelled vehicles. This multi-functional design allows the system to service multiple containers effectively without requiring excessive weight, as the vehicle platform provides the necessary mobility and force.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses the self-propelled vehicle as an intermediary between the operator and the compaction/shredding operation. The vehicle serves as a mobile platform that delivers both the operational force and the mobility needed to service multiple containers, allowing the roller attachment itself to remain lighter while achieving the desired productivity.
3Productivity
If the compaction roller cannot control its position in the middle of the container, then the roller structure can be simple, but the volumetric reduction is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by making the roller position adjustable and controllable rather than fixed. The roller can be positioned anywhere along its travel path within the container, and its rotation can be controlled independently. This dynamic positioning capability, enabled by the hydraulic drive system, allows operators to optimize compaction at specific locations including the middle of containers, significantly improving volumetric reduction efficiency.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements segmentation by dividing the roller into independently driven sections that can rotate at different speeds and directions. This segmentation allows different portions of the roller to be controlled independently, enabling precise positioning and targeted compaction of waste materials at various locations within the container, including the middle sections that were previously difficult to reach.
4Productivity
If the compaction roller uses a single rotation direction, then the drive system can be simple, but the waste shredding effectiveness is poor
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies segmentation by dividing the roller into multiple independently driven sections that can rotate in different directions. This segmentation of the drive system allows the roller to effectively shred waste by creating opposing rotational forces that tear and compact materials, while each section can be controlled independently through the hydraulic system. The center section can rotate in the same direction as outer sections for compaction, or in opposite directions for enhanced shredding.
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 reduces the weight requirement for the compaction roller by utilizing a self-propelled vehicle to apply downward force, and the independently driven sections enable effective shredding and better compaction, increasing volumetric reduction efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
a compaction roller adapted to be supported from a plate mounted on a boom of a self-propelled vehicle capable of exerting a downward force on the roller
Data Source
AI summary
A mobile trash compactor and pulverizer with a light weight compaction roller. The compaction roller has support discs in which a main shaft is supported and between which is mounted an over shaft concentric with the main shaft. An inner drum is mounted on the over shaft and flanking outer drums are mounted on the main shaft with drum support rings. A disc wheel mounted on a disc support ring caps the ends of the main shaft. A reversible drive is attached to the main shaft and another independent reversible drive is attached to the over shaft. The support discs, drum support rings and disc support rings have a rim, spokes and a hub with apertures between the spokes that facilitate maintenance.