Motorcycle Engine Hoist Lateral Removal Mechanism

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional engine hoists are not suitable for motorcycle engines due to their design, which requires upward removal, and existing methods for lateral removal are time-consuming, risky, and pose safety concerns.

Innovation Solution

A specialized engine hoisting assembly with a ground-supporting frame, a horizontal boom, and lifting means that allows for safe and efficient lateral removal of motorcycle engines by connecting to the engine and supporting its weight, facilitating easy installation and removal without the need for excessive manpower.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If conventional automotive engine floor hoists are used, then engines can be removed upward, but such hoists are not suitable for motorcycle engines because the motorcycle's frame, gas tank and seat block the upward direction

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveadaptability to motorcycle engine removalVSAvoidease of engine removal
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The patent inverts the conventional upward removal approach by implementing a lateral removal system. The hoist assembly is positioned alongside the motorcycle and removes the engine in a lateral direction rather than upward, directly addressing the spatial constraints imposed by the motorcycle's frame, gas tank and seat.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #13The other way round (Inversion)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent transitions from vertical (upward) engine removal to horizontal (lateral) removal by repositioning the hoist assembly and changing the removal vector. This dimensional change allows the engine to be extracted through the side of the motorcycle where there is sufficient clearance, bypassing the obstacles in the upward path.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

2Adaptability or versatility

If the motorcycle is tilted on its side to remove the engine, then the engine can be accessed laterally, but this practice is time consuming and risks damaging the engine and motorcycle

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveability to perform lateral removalVSAvoidrisk of damage to engine and motorcycle
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent introduces a specialized hoist assembly with engine-contacting members as an intermediary device between the motorcycle and the removal process. This intermediary provides controlled, stable support for the engine during lateral extraction, eliminating the need to tilt the motorcycle and thereby preventing damage to both the engine and motorcycle.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent implements protective measures beforehand by using the hoist assembly to support and control the engine throughout the removal process. The engine-contacting members and structured support system prevent accidental drops or uncontrolled movements that could cause damage, cushioning against potential harm before it can occur.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #11Beforehand cushioning (Prior cushioning)

3Adaptability or versatility

If the motorcycle is tilted on its side for engine removal, then lateral access is achieved, but safety concerns arise such as being pinned or trapped underneath the motorcycle

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvelateral engine access capabilityVSAvoidsafety hazards to operator
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The hoist assembly serves as a safe intermediary that performs the dangerous task of lateral engine removal without requiring the operator to position themselves in hazardous locations. The mechanical system handles the heavy engine extraction, keeping operators at a safe distance from the motorcycle and eliminating pinching or trapping risks.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent implements a self-service mechanism where the hoist assembly autonomously performs the engine removal task through its powered or mechanically-assisted system. This eliminates the need for manual tilting operations and reduces human exposure to safety hazards by allowing the machine to service itself in the removal process.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

4Weight of moving object

If three men are used to lift the engine, then the heavy engine can be removed, but this requires additional manpower that may not be available

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveengine weight capacityVSAvoidindependence of operation
Core Design Contradiction:
Weight of moving objectVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces the manual mechanical system of three people lifting with a mechanical hoist assembly that uses mechanical advantage, hydraulic or electric power assistance, or a combination thereof. This substitution allows a single operator to control the removal of heavy engines, providing independence of operation while maintaining the ability to handle significant engine weights.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The hoist assembly acts as a mechanical intermediary that bridges the gap between the heavy engine weight and the capability of a single operator. The device translates small input forces into large output forces through mechanical advantage, allowing one person to effectively perform the work that would otherwise require three people.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Data Source

PatentUS10287140B2Motorcycle engine hoist
Publication Date: 2019.05.14 GRODAES DOUGLAS
  • US10287140B2 patent drawing
  • US10287140B2 patent drawing
  • US10287140B2 patent drawing

AI summary

An engine hoisting assembly for supporting an engine comprises a ground supporting frame, a substantially upright member having a longitudinal axis, a boom operably connected to the upright member, lifting means to selectively move the boom up or down along upright member's longitudinal axis and engine connecting means to operably connect the boom to the engine. The boom is maintained at a substantial horizontal orientation when lifting means selectively moves boom up or down.