Modular Compactor Frame Segmentation for Adaptability

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing compactor designs lack flexibility and efficiency in adapting to various applications due to fixed configurations, which limits their ability to provide optimal compaction force and coverage.

Innovation Solution

A modular frame arrangement comprising a central ballast section and multiple interchangeable motive sections with wheels, allowing for customizable configurations based on application requirements, with coupling arrangements to secure the sections together.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If a fixed configuration is used for compactors, then the structural design is simple, but the adaptability to various applications is limited

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveadaptability to various applicationsVSAvoidframe configuration complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The compactor frame is divided into modular sections that can be independently configured and assembled. The frame assembly includes multiple motive sections with different wheel arrangements and a central ballast section, allowing customers to select and combine specific sections based on application requirements. This segmentation enables adaptability without requiring completely different fixed configurations for each application.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The modular frame sections are designed with universal coupling arrangements that allow the same basic components to serve multiple functions across different applications. The motive sections can be interchangeably assembled with the central ballast section, creating a universal platform that adapts to various compaction needs through different section combinations rather than requiring application-specific fixed designs.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Adaptability or versatility

If multiple unique compactor models are constructed for different applications, then the adaptability is improved, but the manufacturing and storage costs increase

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveapplication-specific configurationsVSAvoidconstruction and storage costs

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

By segmenting the compactor into standardized modular sections, the manufacturer produces a limited set of reusable components rather than building entirely unique models for each application. The motive sections and central ballast section are manufactured as standard units that can be combined in various configurations, reducing the number of unique parts that need to be constructed and stored.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The modular design allows motive sections to be easily removed, exchanged, and reused across different compactor assemblies. Instead of discarding entire compactor models when application needs change, specific motive sections can be discarded or recovered and reassembled with different ballast sections or other motive sections to create new configurations, reducing overall manufacturing and storage requirements.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #34Discarding and recovering

Data Source

PatentUS9469947B2Modular compactor frame construction

Publication Date: 2016.10.18 CATERPILLAR PAVING PROD INC

AI summary

A modular compactor includes a frame assembly having a first motive section including at least one first wheel, a second motive section including at least one second wheel, and a central ballast section including ballast. The ballast provides weight to the frame assembly to provide a desired compacting force. A first coupling arrangement secures the first motive section to the central ballast section, and a second coupling arrangement secures the second motive section to the central ballast section.