Pantograph Force Dampeners for Lateral and Torsional Loads
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Solution Overview
Problem
Pantograph assemblies in trolley-assist vehicles experience premature failure due to lateral and torsional forces from uneven terrain, which existing structural rigidity solutions fail to address effectively.
Innovation Solution
A pantograph assembly with a force dampener system comprising an upper section with an engagement mechanism and a deformable lower section to absorb forces, and a support frame to reduce torsional deformation, enhancing stability and reducing wear.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If structural rigidity is increased using rigid members and support legs, then the pantograph assembly can support its weight and maintain structural integrity, but it becomes vulnerable to lateral and torsional forces from uneven terrain causing premature failure
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the mechanical parameter of the support structure from rigid to flexible by introducing elastomeric material. The flexible support legs can deform elastically under lateral and torsional loads, absorbing energy and reducing stress concentrations that would otherwise cause premature failure in rigid structures.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs composite construction by combining rigid structural members with flexible elastomeric materials. The support legs consist of rigid structural components reinforced with elastomeric material, creating a composite structure that exhibits both strength and flexibility, thereby resisting lateral and torsional forces while maintaining structural integrity.
2Stability of the object's composition
If rigid support structures are used to maintain pantograph stability, then weight support is improved, but wear and tear increases due to inability to absorb dynamic forces from vehicle movement
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies beforehand cushioning by pre-installing elastomeric material in the support legs and pan base structure. This elastomeric material acts as a cushion that absorbs dynamic forces and shocks from vehicle movement before they can cause wear and tear on the rigid structural components, thereby extending service life while maintaining stability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent modifies the physical parameter of the support structure by replacing purely rigid materials with elastomeric material that has viscoelastic properties. This material can dissipate energy through hysteresis and internal friction, reducing the transmission of dynamic forces to structural components and minimizing wear while preserving stability.
3Ease of operation
If the pan head is designed to be freely movable for easy engagement, then ease of operation is improved, but lateral forces cause excessive movement and misalignment
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the mechanical parameter of the pan head mounting from rigid fixed positioning to flexible elastomeric mounting. The elastomeric material allows the pan head to move freely for easy engagement while providing restoring force to return the pan head to its proper alignment position, thereby maintaining both ease of operation and position stability.
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
The force dampener system effectively absorbs and stabilizes the pantograph assembly, reducing the likelihood of premature failure and wear from lateral and torsional forces, thereby extending its operational lifespan.
Implementation Method 1
at least a portion of the lower section comprises a deformable material, the engagement mechanism engages with a receiving section of the lower section when the pan head is in the lowered position, and the deformable material is configured to absorb at least a portion of energy imparted to the pan head
Data Source
AI summary
A pantograph assembly includes one or more force dampeners. When the pantograph is in a lowered position, the force dampeners absorb forces imparted onto the pantograph assembly by the movement of a work machine to which the pantograph assembly is installed. Additionally, in some examples, the pantograph assembly includes a support frame that provides structural rigidity to an A-frame.