Modular Unit Transporter With Extendable Coupling Capacity
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing transportation devices lack flexibility in accommodating varying numbers of utility modules, limiting user customization and efficiency in moving modular units on a worksite.
Innovation Solution
A mobile support device with a base and an extendable or pivotable extension, equipped with female couplers, allowing for adjustable length and positioning to accommodate one or multiple utility modules, and featuring wheels for mobility.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If the transportation device uses a fixed structure, then the manufacturing is simple, but the adaptability to different numbers of utility modules is poor
Solution Approach 1:
The transportation device is divided into a base and a separable extension component. The extension can be detached from the base, allowing the device to be configured in different states (with or without extension) to accommodate varying numbers of utility modules, thus improving adaptability without permanently increasing complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The extension is designed to be movable between extended and retracted positions relative to the base. This dynamic configuration allows the device to adapt its length and coupling capacity based on the number of utility modules being transported, resolving the contradiction between adaptability and structural simplicity
2Adaptability or versatility
If the extension is always extended, then the adaptability to multiple utility modules is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling mechanism is segmented into male couplers on utility modules and female couplers on the base and extension. This segmentation allows the extension to be independently coupled or decoupled from the base, providing flexibility in accommodating multiple utility modules without requiring a permanently complex structure
Solution Approach 2:
The extension can be stored within or alongside the base when not in use, similar to a nested doll configuration. This nesting approach minimizes the device's footprint and complexity when the extended capacity is not needed, while still providing full adaptability when the extension is deployed
3Ease of operation
If the device structure is simplified, then the ease of manufacture is improved, but the flexibility in length adjustment is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The extension is designed with simple movable connections to the base, allowing it to slide or pivot between positions. This dynamic but simple mechanism provides length adjustment flexibility without requiring complex manufacturing processes, as the movement relies on basic mechanical interfaces rather than sophisticated systems
4Productivity
If the device is designed for single utility module, then the device complexity is low, but the productivity for transporting multiple modules is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The base and extension are both equipped with male and female couplers, allowing them to function interchangeably as either a transporter or a utility module carrier. This universal design enables the device to efficiently transport multiple utility modules by creating a modular chain configuration, increasing productivity without proportionally increasing complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The coupling system is segmented into standardized male and female couplers that can be distributed across different components (base and extension). This segmentation allows multiple utility modules to be coupled in series, enabling efficient transport of multiple modules while maintaining relatively simple individual coupling mechanisms
Data Source
AI summary
A transportation device configured to detachably engage with units, such as modular units, is provided. The transportation device is configured to actuate between a closed position and an open position. One or more of the transportation device are is configured to couple to and help move one or more units, such as modular units in one or more of the open position and the closed position.