Modular Saddle Mount Reducing Cab Vibration

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing methods for reducing vibration in heavy equipment cabs do not effectively utilize a detachable saddle mount and vibration isolators, nor do they address the natural frequency of the base frame to prevent resonance.

Innovation Solution

A modular saddle mount system that includes a modified frame cross member with detachable saddle mounts and vibration isolators, which adds mass to the frame to reduce natural frequency, and incorporates secondary retention devices to secure the cab during rollover events.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If a detachable saddle mount is used to retain vibration isolators, then the ability to reduce vibration and adjust height is improved, but the device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveadjustability of saddle mountVSAvoidcomplexity of saddle mount system

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The saddle mount system is divided into separate detachable components including the saddle mount itself, vibration isolators, and mounting blocks that can be independently assembled and disassembled. This segmentation allows for adjustability and versatility while maintaining manageable complexity through modular design.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The saddle mount incorporates adjustable elements that allow dynamic reconfiguration of the system. The detachable nature of the components enables the saddle mount to adapt to different operating conditions and height requirements, providing dynamic adjustability rather than a fixed structure.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

2Object-affected harmful factors

If mass is added to the frame cross member to reduce natural frequency, then vibration reduction is improved, but the weight of the frame increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvevibration and resonanceVSAvoidweight of frame cross member

Core Design Contradiction:

Object-affected harmful factorsVSWeight of stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

The natural frequency of the frame cross member is modified by changing its mass parameter. By adding mass to the frame cross member, the natural frequency is reduced, which helps avoid resonance with common vibration frequencies. This parameter change directly addresses the vibration reduction goal.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #35Parameter changes

Solution Approach 2:

Instead of permanently adding mass to the frame cross member, the invention uses detachable mounting blocks that can be attached to simulate added mass. This allows the frame to have increased effective mass for vibration reduction without permanently increasing the base frame weight, achieving the desired frequency modification with flexibility.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #26Copying

3Object-affected harmful factors

If vibration isolators are retained in the saddle mount, then cab vibration is reduced, but the complexity of the mounting system increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvecab vibrationVSAvoidcomplexity of mounting system

Core Design Contradiction:

Object-affected harmful factorsVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The vibration isolators are integrated into the saddle mount assembly, merging the vibration isolation function with the mounting function. This combination allows the saddle mount to simultaneously serve as both a structural support and a vibration isolation system, reducing cab vibration while managing complexity through functional integration.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The vibration isolators act as intermediary elements between the frame and the cab mounting. These isolators absorb and dampen vibrations before they reach the cab, serving as a mediator that protects the cab from vibration while allowing the mounting system to remain relatively simple in its overall structure.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

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 system effectively reduces vibration in heavy equipment cabs by adjusting the frame's natural frequency and preventing cab separation during rollover events, enhancing operational stability and safety.

Implementation Method 1

at least one vibration isolator (14, 16) retained by the modular saddle mount (12)

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectVibration isolation: Damping

Implementation Method 2

At least one isolator opening (52) is formed through the top saddle member (38) to receive a vibration isolator (14, 16)

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectMechanical retention: Mechanical Fastener

Data Source

PatentUS11840284B2Modular saddle mount with isolator retained in a frame for reducing vibration in heavy equipment cabs

Publication Date: 2023.12.12 ZOOMLION HEAVY IND NA INC

AI summary

A modular saddle mount retained with isolator in a frame for reducing vibration in heavy equipment cabs preferably includes a heavy equipment modified frame cross member, two modular saddle mounts and at least two vibration isolators. The modified frame cross member includes a frame cross member, two sets of opposed mounting blocks and two cutout filler plates. The two cutout filler plates are secured in first and second cutouts. Each opposed mounting block is secured to an outside of the frame cross member. The modular saddle mount preferably includes a saddle base member and a pair of fastening inserts. A fastening cutout is formed in each end of the saddle base member. The pair of fastening inserts are retained on an inside surface of the saddle base member at opposing ends thereof. At least one isolator opening is formed through the base saddle member to receive a vibration isolator.