Modular Lifting Device for Compressor Installation
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing technologies face challenges in efficiently transporting and installing compressors for magnetic resonance tomographs, particularly in narrow and difficult-to-access service chambers, due to the weight and size of the compressors, which complicates maintenance and replacement processes.
Innovation Solution
A device comprising a divisible container with removable side elements and a multipart lifting device that can be disassembled for transportation, allowing the compressor to be securely fastened and lifted, and featuring adjustable brackets and reduced-friction surfaces for easy handling and secure positioning, enabling single-person operation and minimizing space requirements during installation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a standard lift truck is used to transport and install the compressor, then the compressor can be moved into position, but the equipment required is bulky and cannot access narrow service chambers
Solution Approach 1:
The lifting device is divided into multiple modular components including a base unit with hydraulic lift, adjustable support elements, and fastening mechanisms. These segmented parts can be assembled in the narrow service chamber space, eliminating the need for bulky external lift trucks while maintaining lifting capability for the 130 kg compressor.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the compressor is transported in a fixed container, then the compressor is protected during transport, but the container cannot be easily accessed or adapted to different compressor sizes
Solution Approach 1:
The transport container features dynamic, adjustable elements including side walls that can be moved or removed, and internal bracing structures that can be reconfigured. This allows the container to adapt to different compressor sizes and shapes while maintaining protection during transport, and enables easy access by removing or repositioning side walls rather than opening fixed panels.
Solution Approach 2:
The container is designed as a universal transport solution that can accommodate various compressor models and sizes through adjustable internal structures and removable components. The same container serves both protective transport function and provides access mechanisms, eliminating the need for different containers for different compressor types.
3Productivity
If multiple people are required to handle the compressor, then the compressor can be safely managed, but the maintenance process requires more personnel and time
Solution Approach 1:
The lifting device incorporates self-stabilizing features including adjustable support legs that automatically position themselves, hydraulic systems that self-regulate, and fastening mechanisms that self-lock. These self-service characteristics allow a single maintenance person to safely operate the device without requiring additional personnel for stabilization or assistance, thereby improving maintenance efficiency.
4Reliability
If a custom container is designed for each compressor type, then the compressor fits perfectly, but packaging costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
A single universal container design with adjustable and reconfigurable elements replaces the need for multiple custom-designed containers for different compressor types. The container maintains reliable protection through adaptable internal bracing and positioning systems, significantly reducing packaging material costs by eliminating the need to manufacture and store multiple container variants.
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 device facilitates efficient and cost-effective replacement of compressors by allowing single-person operation, reducing the need for bulky lift trucks, and ensuring secure transportation and installation of compressors of varying sizes, thereby simplifying maintenance and reducing packaging costs.
Implementation Method 1
The side element (4) forming the bottom surface of the container (1) is designed with a reduced-friction surface coating
Data Source
AI summary
A device for transporting and installing a compressor is provided. The device includes a container serving to receive the compressor, with at least one removable planar side element, as well as a multipart lifting device which may be disassembled into its individual parts for transportation, and may be arranged in the container and after assembling the individual parts is designed such that the compressor may be fastened to the lifting device and may be lifted by means of the lifting device.