Bearing-Mounted Pantograph Support Structure for Lower Stress
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Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional pantograph support structures in heavy-duty vehicles are heavy, costly, and subject to high stresses, which complicates their manufacturing and assembly, and does not efficiently manage stress distribution during vehicle movement.
Innovation Solution
A bearing-mounted pantograph support structure with a kickstand configuration, utilizing spherical bearing assemblies and a lateral frame to minimize stress and weight, allowing the pantograph to move between stowed and deployed positions without corresponding movement of the support structure, and featuring a simplified attachment to the chassis via bearing mount assemblies.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional pantograph support structures are used, then the pantograph can be supported and operated, but the structure becomes heavy, costly, and subject to high stresses
Solution Approach 1:
The support structure is divided into separate functional components: bearing assemblies are distinct from the leg frames, and the lateral frame is separated from the support legs. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized independently, reducing overall weight while maintaining reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
Spherical bearing assemblies are used at the junctions between leg frames and the lateral frame. The spherical geometry allows for multi-directional movement and stress distribution, reducing peak stresses on individual components while maintaining structural integrity with reduced weight.
2Reliability
If traditional pantograph support structures are used, then the pantograph can be supported, but manufacturing and assembly become costly and complex
Solution Approach 1:
The support structure is divided into separate functional components: bearing assemblies are distinct from the leg frames, and the lateral frame is separated from the support legs. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized independently, reducing overall weight while maintaining reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
Bearing assemblies serve as intermediary components between the leg frames and the lateral frame. These standardized bearing components simplify the connection interfaces, making manufacturing and assembly more straightforward while ensuring reliable stress transfer.
3Reliability
If traditional pantograph support structures are used, then the pantograph can be supported, but high stresses are generated during vehicle movement
Solution Approach 1:
Spherical bearing assemblies are used at the junctions between leg frames and the lateral frame. The spherical geometry allows for multi-directional movement and stress distribution, reducing peak stresses on individual components while maintaining structural integrity with reduced weight.
Solution Approach 2:
Bearing assemblies serve as intermediary components between the leg frames and the lateral frame. These standardized bearing components simplify the connection interfaces, making manufacturing and assembly more straightforward while ensuring reliable stress transfer.
4Weight of moving object
If the pantograph support structure is simplified, then weight and cost are reduced, but stress management during vehicle movement must be maintained
Solution Approach 1:
Spherical bearing assemblies are used at the junctions between leg frames and the lateral frame. The spherical geometry allows for multi-directional movement and stress distribution, reducing peak stresses on individual components while maintaining structural integrity with reduced weight.
Solution Approach 2:
The support structure utilizes spherical bearings that allow for angular movement and position changes. This parameter change capability enables the structure to adapt to vehicle movement and maintain optimal stress distribution with reduced material usage.
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
This configuration reduces stress and weight, simplifies assembly, and enhances the durability and visibility of the pantograph system, while allowing for easier maintenance and reduced component count, thereby improving the overall efficiency and longevity of the pantograph support structure.
Implementation Method 1
The first bearing mount assembly may be attached to the lower end of the first leg frame and may connect the first leg frame to the chassis. The first bearing mount assembly includes a first bearing assembly.
Data Source
AI summary
A vehicle may include a chassis, a motor, a pantograph, and a pantograph support structure. The pantograph may engage overhead wires and transmit electrical current to the motor. The pantograph support structure may include first and second leg frames, a lateral frame, and first and second bearing mount assemblies. The leg frames may include lower ends attached to the chassis. The lateral frame may be supported by the leg frames and disposed at upper ends of the leg frames. The lateral frame may support the pantograph. The first bearing mount assembly may be attached to the lower end of the first leg frame and may connect the first leg frame to the chassis. The second bearing mount assembly may be attached to the lower end of the second leg frame and may connect the second leg frame to the chassis.