Point of Applied Force Lift Structure for Single-Contact Handling
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for controlling and moving objects require a grasp or multiple points of contact, which can be cumbersome and inefficient, especially when handling heavy or irregularly shaped items.
Innovation Solution
A Point Of Applied Force Lift Structure (POAFLS) that allows for controlled movement with a single point of contact, featuring various attachment methods and surface designs to distribute force evenly, enabling comfortable handling and alignment with the object's center of gravity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If traditional grasp methods are used to control and move objects, then stability and control are achieved, but ease of operation deteriorates due to cumbersome and inefficient handling requiring multiple points of contact
Solution Approach 1:
The lift structure is divided into separate attachment means and contact surface components that can be independently positioned and configured. The attachment means can be located at different positions on the object while the contact surface is positioned optimally for user interaction, allowing independent optimization of each function.
Solution Approach 2:
The lift structure acts as an intermediary device between the user and the object. It provides a contact surface that translates user applied force into controlled movement of the object, mediating the interaction and making handling easier without requiring direct grasp of the object.
2Ease of operation
If force is applied to a single point on an object, then ease of operation improves, but control and stability worsen due to difficulty in managing heavy or irregularly shaped items
Solution Approach 1:
The lift structure is designed to align with the object's center of gravity, creating a balanced system where the applied force at the contact surface is efficiently transmitted to move the object's weight. This alignment provides mechanical advantage and maintains control stability during lifting and movement.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention adds a dimensional aspect by positioning the contact surface at a different location than the center of gravity. The contact surface can be positioned for optimal user access while the attachment means connects at points that maintain proper alignment with the center of gravity, solving both accessibility and control requirements.
3Ease of operation
If the contact surface is positioned away from the center of gravity for better accessibility, then ease of operation improves, but alignment with center of gravity deteriorates reducing handling efficiency
Solution Approach 1:
The lift structure separates the contact surface positioning from the attachment positioning. The contact surface can be positioned for optimal user accessibility while the attachment means connects at positions that maintain proper alignment with the object's center of gravity, allowing both requirements to be satisfied simultaneously.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention utilizes spatial separation by positioning the contact surface in one location for user access while the attachment means connects at different locations optimized for mechanical alignment. This dimensional separation allows independent optimization of accessibility and handling efficiency.
Data Source
AI summary
A structure which is designed such that its shape provides a surface where force may be applied to as little as a single point or surface of contact to establish control of the Point Of Applied Force Lift Structure (POAFLS) movement. This force combined with the gravity on and/or the inertia of the POAFLS provide comfortable control in 3 dimensions. The POAFLS primary use is achieved through its attachment to a secondary object. Through this, force applied to the POAFLS is translated through the POAFLS to the object to which the POAFLS is attached. Both the POAFLS and the secondary object have their movements controlled when the POAFLS is lifted, moved, or carried.