Interchangeable Pallet Jack Hitch for Power-Assist Propulsion
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing manual pallet jacks lack efficient and universally compatible power-assist devices that do not increase the size and interfere with steering, and there is a need for improved propulsion systems that can be retrofitted to various manual pallet jack models.
Innovation Solution
An interchangeable hitch mechanism with a tensioned piston assembly and actuation system that allows a power-assist device to couple to and propel different manual pallet jack models, featuring a distal hitch body with a mateable coupling structure and a pusher device coupling mechanism, enabling remote actuation and hydraulic release.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a manual pallet jack is designed to be compact and maneuverable, then it can navigate tight spaces and corners, but it cannot pull trailers or carry heavy loads requiring additional power
Solution Approach 1:
The hitch assembly transitions from a static component to a dynamic system that automatically adjusts its mechanical advantage ratio based on the trailer weight being pulled. The spring-loaded cam mechanism engages different gear ratios (first, second, and third ratios) as the trailer weight increases, allowing the pallet jack to adapt its pulling capacity dynamically without sacrificing its compact design
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes the mechanical advantage ratio parameter in response to varying trailer weights. The cam mechanism detects weight changes and automatically shifts between different gear ratios, transforming the hitch from a single-ratio component to a multi-ratio transmission system that optimizes force multiplication based on load conditions
2Device complexity
If a hitch assembly uses a single mechanical advantage ratio, then the structure remains simple, but it cannot accommodate varying trailer weights effectively
Solution Approach 1:
The hitch assembly incorporates a dynamic gear selection mechanism where the cam automatically engages different gear ratios based on the applied load. This transforms a static single-ratio hitch into a dynamic multi-ratio transmission system that adapts to varying trailer weights without requiring complex manual intervention
Solution Approach 2:
The cam mechanism automatically detects the trailer weight and selects the appropriate gear ratio without external control. The system self-regulates by engaging the first, second, or third mechanical advantage ratio based on the load, eliminating the need for manual gear shifting or complex control systems
3Manufacturing precision
If the cam mechanism is designed for high precision, then gear ratio selection is accurate, but manufacturing and assembly become more difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The cam mechanism achieves precise gear ratio selection through localized geometric features on the cam surface rather than requiring high precision throughout the entire component. Different sections of the cam profile correspond to different gear ratios, with precision concentrated only at the engagement points where the follower contacts the cam surface
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 efficient propulsion of manual pallet jacks with reduced user effort, allowing for universal compatibility across different jack models without steering interference, and facilitating remote control and hydraulic release for easy cargo handling.
Implementation Method 1
a variable ratio, spring-loaded cam mechanism that engages a first, second and third gear ratios as the weight of the trailer being pulled increases
Data Source
Figure 1A~1B
Figure 2A~2B
Figure 3A~3B
AI summary
The various embodiments disclosed herein relate to an interchangeable hitch mechanism that is coupleable to a pusher device. Other implementations relate to a pusher device having such an interchangeable hitch mechanism that can be removably coupleable to a manual jack pallet.