Modular Lifting Device for Confined Spaces
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing lifting devices for vehicles are either expensive or difficult to use in confined spaces, making them unsuitable for home garages or small shops with limited space.
Innovation Solution
A mobile and modular lifting device comprising a detachable front and rear module, with an actuator assembly that moves the wheel assemblies between lowered and raised configurations, allowing for flexible use and storage in limited spaces.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If traditional lifting devices are used, then vehicles can be lifted effectively, but the devices are expensive and difficult to use in confined spaces
Solution Approach 1:
The lifting device is divided into separate front and rear modules that can be detached from each other. The front module includes a truck with support arms and wheel assemblies, while the rear module contains the actuator assembly and additional wheel assemblies. This segmentation allows each module to be independently stored or deployed, reducing overall complexity and enabling use in confined spaces where the full device cannot be accommodated.
Solution Approach 2:
The device features movable and adjustable components including detachable modules, movable support arms that can be positioned under different parts of the vehicle, and wheel assemblies that can be raised and lowered. The actuator assembly dynamically adjusts the height of the rear wheel assemblies, allowing the device to adapt to various lifting requirements and confined space constraints.
2Area of stationary object
If lifting devices with fixed structures are used, then lifting function is provided, but they occupy excessive space and cannot be stored in limited spaces
Solution Approach 1:
The device is segmented into front and rear modules that can be separated and stored independently. When not in use, each module can be compactly stored in its respective location, significantly reducing the storage space requirement compared to a fixed结构的 lifting device. The lifting capability is maintained when the modules are connected and deployed.
Solution Approach 2:
The modular design allows the front and rear modules to be nested or stored in a compact configuration when not in use. The support arms can be retracted, and the wheel assemblies can be positioned in a compact state, enabling the device to occupy minimal storage space while maintaining full lifting capability when deployed.
3Ease of operation
If cumbersome support members are used, then vehicle lifting is achieved, but they prevent free movement of mechanics' creeper board
Solution Approach 1:
The support structure is segmented into multiple independent wheel assemblies (front, intermediate, and rear) that can be selectively positioned and adjusted. This segmentation allows the support members to be distributed along the vehicle length, providing lifting capability while leaving the center area clear for mechanics' creeper board movement. The detachable front and rear modules further enable flexible configuration of the support structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The wheel assemblies are designed to be movable and adjustable in position and height. The actuator assembly dynamically positions the rear wheel assemblies, and the support arms can be adjusted to support the vehicle at optimal points. This dynamic capability allows the support members to be positioned to minimize obstruction to mechanics' access while maintaining reliable vehicle lifting.
Data Source
AI summary
A lift for lifting a vehicle above a ground surface comprising an elongated front module insertable under the vehicle and a rear module extending longitudinally from the front module. The front module includes a truck supporting four support arms usable for supporting the vehicle and a pair of front wheels assemblies. The rear module includes a head frame, an actuator assembly mounted to the head frame and a rear wheel assembly. The actuator assembly is operatively coupled to the front and rear wheel assemblies to selectively raise and lower the head frame and the truck by moving the front and rear wheels relative to the truck and head frame.