Pin-On Excavator Boom Extension Without Repositioning
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Solution Overview
Problem
Mini-excavators often require repositioning to extend their reach, which is time-consuming and can damage the operating surface, particularly on sod.
Innovation Solution
A pin-on boom extension system for mini-excavators, comprising a top bar, bottom boom tube, pivot bars, and adjustment plates, allowing for quick and easy attachment to existing booms and attachments, with adjustable lengths and secure fastening mechanisms.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Length of moving object
If the mini-excavator repositions to extend reach, then the working area is expanded, but time is lost and surface damage occurs
Solution Approach 1:
The boom is divided into a standard boom portion and an extendable tube portion that can be independently added or removed. This segmentation allows the reach to be extended without moving the entire excavator, resolving the contradiction by providing length extension while avoiding repositioning time loss
Solution Approach 2:
The boom extension system is designed to be dynamically adjustable - the tube can be quickly attached or detached based on operational needs. This dynamic capability allows the system to adapt between extended and standard reach configurations without permanent modification, addressing both time efficiency and versatility requirements
2Length of moving object
If the mini-excavator repositions to extend reach, then the working area is expanded, but surface damage occurs
Solution Approach 1:
By segmenting the boom into modular components with an addable tube section, the system extends reach without requiring the excavator to move. This eliminates the harmful effect of surface damage that occurs during repositioning, particularly important when operating on sod or sensitive surfaces
Solution Approach 2:
The extension tube acts as an intermediary element between the standard boom and the attachment. This intermediate component provides the additional reach needed while keeping the excavator body stationary, thereby preventing surface damage that would result from moving the machine
3Length of moving object
If a boom extension is added, then the reach is extended, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The extension system is segmented into separate, standalone components (tube, securing pins, adjustment plates) rather than integrating complexity into the main boom structure. This modular approach extends reach while keeping each individual component relatively simple and the overall system easy to understand and maintain
4Reliability
If a secure fastening mechanism is implemented, then the reliability is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The adjustment plates with multiple aperture positions enable self-adjusting securement. The operator can select and engage apertures corresponding to different tube positions without complex mechanisms, achieving reliable attachment through a simple, intuitive system that serves itself through straightforward geometric alignment and pin engagement
Data Source
AI summary
A pin-on boom extension system for an excavator including a top bar, a bottom boom tube adapted to receive a free end of the excavator boom, the bottom tube including a first aperture aligned with a second aperture, a first securing pin adapted to extend through the first aperture and the second aperture, a first pivot bar secured to the bottom boom tube and to the top bar, the second pivot bar having the first end secured to the bottom boom tube and a second end secured to the top bar, a first adjustment plate extending from the first side of the bottom boom tube to the second side of the bottom boom tube, and a second adjustment plate extending from the first side of the bottom boom tube to the second side of the bottom boom tube.