Modular Tow Retrieval System for Mining Machines
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Solution Overview
Problem
Mining machines face limitations in tow retrieval due to permanent modifications and limited towing options, which restrict flexibility and efficiency, especially in dangerous environments where time is critical.
Innovation Solution
A mining machine frame with a primary tow plate that allows for interchangeable towing attachments, including a brake release mounting plate and tow hook attachment, enabling multiple towing configurations without modifying the frame structure, facilitating efficient and flexible tow retrieval operations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the mining machine frame is permanently modified with towing attachments, then the towing function is ensured, but the flexibility and adaptability of towing options are limited
Solution Approach 1:
The towing attachment is divided into separate modular components (towing attachment body, mounting plate, fastening devices) that can be independently assembled and disassembled. This segmentation allows different towing configurations to be assembled on the same machine frame without permanent modifications, resolving the contradiction between ensuring towing function and maintaining flexibility.
Solution Approach 2:
The towing attachment system transitions from a static permanent modification to a dynamic reconfigurable system. The mounting plate with multiple hole patterns and adjustable fastening devices enable the towing attachment to be positioned and configured in different locations and orientations on the machine frame, providing adaptability while ensuring reliable towing function.
2Reliability
If the mining machine frame is permanently modified with towing attachments, then the towing capability is provided, but the device complexity and manufacturing difficulty increase
Solution Approach 1:
The towing attachment is designed as a separate modular unit with its own mounting plate and fastening devices, independent of the machine frame structure. This segmentation simplifies the overall system by avoiding permanent frame modifications while providing complete towing capability through the attachable component.
Solution Approach 2:
The mounting plate incorporates multiple pre-configured hole patterns that replicate common towing attachment locations and configurations. This allows the same towing attachment to be quickly repositioned to different locations on the frame without requiring actual frame modifications, reducing device complexity while maintaining towing capability.
3Reliability
If the mining machine frame is permanently modified with towing attachments, then the towing function is ensured, but the time required for adaptation and retrieval operations increases
Solution Approach 1:
The mounting plate is pre-configured with multiple hole patterns and the fastening devices are designed for quick connection and disconnection. This preliminary preparation of the mounting infrastructure allows the towing attachment to be rapidly installed or repositioned during retrieval operations without requiring time-consuming frame modifications or complex assembly procedures.
Solution Approach 2:
The reconfigurable mounting system allows the towing attachment to be dynamically repositioned between different locations on the machine frame by simply moving and re-fastening the attachment to different hole patterns. This dynamic adaptability eliminates the time loss associated with permanent modifications while ensuring reliable towing function at the optimal location.
4Reliability
If the mining machine frame is permanently modified with towing attachments, then the towing option is fixed, but the flexibility for different retrieval vehicles and environments is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The towing attachment with its multi-pattern mounting plate is designed to be universal, accommodating different towing configurations and retrieval vehicle types. The same attachment can be mounted in multiple locations and orientations on the machine frame, providing flexibility to adapt to different retrieval vehicles (cranes, loaders, other mining equipment) and environmental conditions without requiring vehicle-specific or location-specific frame modifications.
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 solution provides enhanced flexibility and efficiency in tow retrieval operations, allowing for immediate adaptation to different environments and situations, ensuring safe and timely removal of disabled machines, even in hazardous conditions.
Implementation Method 1
Machines include a hydraulic brake system that is spring loaded and hydraulically disengaged. Specifically, springs maintain the brakes in an engaged mode until the activation of hydraulic pressure overcomes the force of the springs and releases the brakes.
Implementation Method 2
springs maintain the brakes in an engaged mode until the activation of hydraulic pressure overcomes the force of the springs
Implementation Method 3
Certain brake release systems include an independent brake circuit that is activated by the depressing of an activation piston. For example, when depressed, the activation piston charges the brake circuits with hydraulic pressure, releasing the spring applied, fluid release brakes.
Data Source
AI summary
A mining machine frame having a primary tow plate is disclosed, as well as a tow retrieval system for mounting to the primary tow plate of a mining machine frame. The tow retrieval system may include a brake release mounting plate configured for attachment to the primary tow plate of the mining machine frame. The tow retrieval system may also include a towing attachment also configured for attachment to the primary tow plate of the mining machine frame. The towing attachment may be further configured to receive a retrieval instrument during a towing operation.