Motorized Load Stabilizer for Ground Vehicle Load Stability
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional ground vehicles face challenges in load stability and center of mass distribution, particularly when transporting heavy or large loads, which can lead to tipping and require counterweights that increase the vehicle's weight and limit its mobility.
Innovation Solution
A lightweight load stabilizer system that includes a securing arm, support frame, and pad, actuated by a motor with a brake, which applies consistent pressure to the load without significantly affecting the vehicle's center of mass, using materials like metals for strength and lightweight metals or foams for the support frame and pad.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Stability of the object's composition
If a traditional counterweight is added to the ground vehicle to counteract weight distribution changes, then load stability is improved, but the vehicle's overall weight increases and mobility is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the counterweight function from the vehicle's permanent structure and replaces it with a removable, adjustable load stabilizer assembly. This allows the stabilizing function to be applied only when needed, eliminating the permanent weight penalty of traditional counterweights while maintaining load stability during operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The load stabilizer assembly is designed to be dynamically adjustable and removable, transitioning from a static counterweight system to a dynamic one. The assembly can be positioned at different locations along the vehicle and removed when not needed, allowing the vehicle to adapt its weight and stability characteristics based on operational requirements.
2Stability of the object's composition
If a wide turn radius is designed into the ground vehicle to reduce horizontal forces on the load, then load stability is improved, but the vehicle's maneuverability and productivity are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The load stabilizer assembly applies preliminary stabilizing forces to the load before significant horizontal forces occur during turning. By positioning the assembly to contact the load and provide counteracting forces, the system prevents instability rather than reacting to it, allowing sharper turns without compromising load stability.
3Ease of operation
If traditional lift systems are used to raise and lower loads, then lifting capability is achieved, but load stability during motion is not enhanced and height restrictions apply
Solution Approach 1:
The load stabilizer assembly serves multiple functions: it provides lifting assistance, enhances stability during motion, and allows for height adjustment without restricting the vehicle's operational capabilities. The assembly can be positioned at various heights and configurations to accommodate different load types and transportation requirements.
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
Enhances load stability during transport, allowing for higher speeds and sharper turns while reducing the need for counterweights, thus improving safety and mobility without increasing the vehicle's overall weight.
Implementation Method 1
The brake stops the motor when it experiences a torque equal to or greater than the torque threshold
Implementation Method 2
As the pad of the load stabilizer contacts the load and exerts a force on the load, the motor experiences a torque force
Data Source
AI summary
A ground vehicle for transporting loads comprises a load stabilizer to provide additional stability of the load during transport. The load stabilizer includes a securing arm coupled to a support frame that is coupled to a pad. The securing arm is also configured to movably mate with the ground vehicle. When a load is placed onto the ground vehicle, the load stabilizer is positioned so that the pad contacts the load to provide stability. The load stabilizer is positioned by actuating a motor, such as a stepper motor. The motor stops when it reaches a torque threshold placed on the motor through contact of the load stabilizer with the load. This mechanism allows for a lightweight load stabilizer that minimally affects the center of mass of the ground vehicle, while at the same time, provides a consistent load-stabilizing force that reduces the likelihood of damage to the load.