Modular Ballast Fastening for Soil Compactor Weight Distribution
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing soil compaction systems lack flexibility in ballast weight distribution and handling, particularly in allowing the use of sand and water as ballast, leading to inefficient load operation and handling challenges.
Innovation Solution
A machine weight regulation system comprising modular ballasts and a fastening system that enables the use of various weights, including sand and water, with improved load distribution between axles, featuring tie rods, fastening plates, and fasteners for secure attachment and easy handling.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If modular ballast systems are used with complex fitting mechanisms, then ballast can be securely fastened to the compactor, but production complexity and manufacturing costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The ballast system is divided into modular units that can be independently attached and detached. Each ballast unit has its own fastening mechanism, allowing them to be segmented and reconfigured based on specific compaction needs without requiring a complex integrated fitting system.
Solution Approach 2:
The ballast units are designed with universal fastening features that can be attached to various positions on the compactor chassis. The same ballast module can serve multiple functions and be positioned differently depending on the load distribution requirements, eliminating the need for position-specific complex fittings.
2Ease of operation
If ballast center of gravity is located above forklift forks, then ballast can be loaded onto the compactor, but handling becomes complicated and forklift forks may jam
Solution Approach 1:
The ballast units are designed with lateral cuts or notches that provide lateral support surfaces for the forklift forks. This dimensional change from vertical support to lateral support allows the forks to engage the ballast at a lower point, preventing jamming while maintaining loading capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The lateral cuts on the ballast units act as intermediary contact surfaces between the forklift forks and the ballast body. These intermediaries provide stable engagement points that prevent direct fork-to-ballast top contact, eliminating the jamming issue while maintaining ease of loading.
3Device complexity
If fixed ballast configurations are used, then compactor structure is simplified, but flexibility in weight adjustment and load distribution is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The ballast system transitions from a fixed configuration to a dynamic, adjustable configuration. Ballast units can be added or removed based on the specific compaction requirements, allowing the compactor weight to be dynamically adjusted without changing the basic compactor structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The system allows changing the total ballast weight and distribution parameters by adding or removing individual ballast units. This enables adjustment of weight parameters to match different soil types and compaction specifications while maintaining a simple underlying compactor structure.
4Ease of operation
If only solid ballast types are used, then handling and storage is simplified, but versatility in ballast type selection is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The fastening system and ballast unit design are made universal to accommodate multiple ballast types including solid blocks, sand-filled containers, and water-filled bladders. The same attachment mechanism works with different ballast materials, providing versatility without complicating the handling system.
Solution Approach 2:
The system allows changing the physical state and material parameters of the ballast by accepting solid blocks, granular sand, or liquid water in different container configurations. This enables selection of optimal ballast type for specific applications while maintaining consistent handling procedures through standardized units.
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention relates to machine weight regulation system which comprises one or more ballasts (1); a fastening system (2); and a machine (3) containing a housing; capable of carrying a plurality of types of extra weight.