Oscillating Frame Transport Apparatus for Chimney Device Positioning
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing apparatuses for transporting devices along tall constructions, such as chimneys, fail to ensure precise positioning of devices like pilot flames due to non-constant shapes and tapered sections, leading to suboptimal functioning and maintenance challenges.
Innovation Solution
An apparatus with a rail system and an oscillating frame that allows for precise positioning of devices at the terminal portion of the construction, using a pulley and cam mechanism to adjust the frame's orientation and ensure correct alignment without requiring detailed rail design studies.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a carriage with wheels sliding on a vertical rail is used to transport devices along chimneys, then maintenance operations can be performed without operators going to the top of the chimney, but the correct positioning of the device at the terminal portion cannot be guaranteed due to non-constant shapes and tapered sections
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an oscillating frame that can rotate about a horizontal axis, transforming the static rail-carriage system into a dynamic one. The frame's ability to oscillate between operative and non-operative positions allows the device to be precisely positioned at the terminal portion while maintaining ease of operation through ground-based control. This dynamic adjustment resolves the contradiction by enabling both accessible maintenance and precise positioning despite varying chimney geometries.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent adds a rotational degree of freedom to the traditional linear rail system by introducing the oscillating frame mechanism. This dimensional change allows the device to accommodate non-constant shapes and tapered sections of the chimney while maintaining precise positioning capability. The frame's rotation about a horizontal axis creates a new dimension of adjustment that compensates for geometric variations in the chimney structure.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the rail configuration is designed to accommodate non-constant shapes and tapered sections, then detailed design studies are required, but optimal positioning of the device still cannot be ensured
Solution Approach 1:
Rather than designing complex static rails to accommodate varying chimney geometries, the patent employs a dynamic oscillating frame that can adapt its position. The frame's rotational capability allows it to compensate for non-constant shapes and tapered sections without requiring detailed design studies of each specific geometry. This dynamic approach provides both adaptability and positioning precision simultaneously.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the operational parameters of the transport system by introducing angular adjustment capability through the oscillating frame. Instead of fixing the rail geometry to match the chimney shape, the system allows the frame angle to vary, providing adaptability to different geometries while maintaining precise device positioning through controlled oscillation to predetermined positions.
3Measurement precision
If operators access the terminal portion of the construction for maintenance, then device positioning can be visually verified, but the operation becomes dangerous and expensive due to high height and strong flames
Solution Approach 1:
The oscillating frame mechanism enables self-verification of device positioning through its controlled oscillation to predetermined positions. The system inherently provides positioning accuracy through its mechanical design and control mechanism, eliminating the need for operator intervention at heights. The device positions itself correctly through the frame's oscillation, providing both safety and verification capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the manual visual verification method with a mechanical control system that automatically positions the device at predetermined locations. The oscillating frame's controlled motion substitutes for operator judgment and visual assessment, providing consistent positioning accuracy without exposing operators to dangerous conditions of height and strong flames.
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
Enables precise and efficient positioning of devices at the top of constructions, ensuring correct operation even on non-constant sections, reducing maintenance risks and costs by eliminating the need for operators to access high or hard-to-reach areas.
Implementation Method 1
using a pulley and cam mechanism to adjust the frame's orientation
Implementation Method 2
using a pulley and cam mechanism to adjust the frame's orientation
Implementation Method 3
an oscillating frame (18) rotatably connected to said carriage (9) by means of a hinge (19) having a horizontal axis of rotation (Y)
Data Source
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AI summary
The present invention relates to an apparatus for the transport of a device along a construction, which comprises a rail (4) which can be fixed to a construction (2) and a transport means (8), which is equipped with at least one carriage (9) slidably constrained to the rail (4) and is intended to carry a device (3) to be transported. Said transport means (8) comprises an oscillating frame (18), which is rotatably constrained to the carriage (9) by means of a hinge (19) and is intended to carry the device (3) fixed thereto. Moreover, the apparatus comprises orientation means (20) mechanically connected to the transport means (8) and configured to move, when the transport means (8) is brought to the service position at the terminal portion of the construction (2), the oscillating frame (18) to rotate between a non-operative position and an operative position in order to correctly position the device (3) at the terminal portion of the construction (2).