Modular Load Edge Bracket for Refuse Trucks
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing refuse trucks require customization to accommodate variations in collection mechanisms and load height preferences, leading to inefficiencies and increased manufacturing complexity.
Innovation Solution
The design incorporates a modular, detachable rear load edge bracket system with adjustable mounting options, allowing for flexible configuration to accommodate different tipper mechanisms and load heights, enhancing adaptability and manufacturability.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If the truck is customized to accommodate variations in collection mechanisms and load height preferences, then the adaptability and operational efficiency are improved, but the manufacturing complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The load edge is divided into a modular bracket assembly that can be detached and replaced. The bracket is segmented into mounting portions and a load edge portion, allowing independent replacement of the load edge without replacing the entire bracket structure. This segmentation enables customization of load edges for different collection mechanisms while using a standardized bracket mounting system, thus improving adaptability without proportionally increasing manufacturing complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The bracket assembly is designed with universal mounting capabilities that can accommodate multiple types of collection mechanisms and tipper configurations. The mounting portions include multiple mounting locations and orientations, allowing the same bracket structure to serve multiple functions and adapt to various operational requirements. This universality reduces the need for completely custom-designed brackets for each application.
2Productivity
If customization is performed to meet specific operational needs, then the operational efficiency is improved, but the manufacturing time and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple load edge portions are pre-configured with different geometries and mounting arrangements during manufacturing. These pre-configured portions are designed to match specific collection mechanism types and load height requirements. By preparing these variations in advance, the system can quickly swap between configurations without requiring complex on-site customization, thus improving operational efficiency while maintaining manageable manufacturing processes.
Solution Approach 2:
The bracket assembly is designed to be detachable and reconfigurable, allowing dynamic adaptation to different operational needs. The mounting portions can be quickly repositioned or replaced to change the load edge configuration. This dynamic capability enables the truck to efficiently handle various collection scenarios without requiring permanent customization for each scenario.
Data Source
AI summary
A refuse collection vehicle includes a collection mechanism having a collection hopper which accommodates the collection of refuse by dumping into the collection hopper. A bolt-on load edge bracket is configured to be attached to a portion of the collection mechanism adjacent the collection hopper, is capable of defining an adjustable rear load edge based upon where the attachment is made. By using a separate bolt-on load edge bracket, the rear of the collection vehicle can be tailored to accommodate various load edge heights, and to allow several alternative tipper mechanisms to be the easily attached thereto.