Pole Carrying Device with Adjustable Cradles
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Solution Overview
Problem
Transporting and maneuvering large poles and pipes at construction sites is labor-intensive and requires heavy equipment, as they are difficult to handle and move safely without overturning.
Innovation Solution
A pole carrying device with a main beam, wheels, adjustable cradles, and a kickstand that allows for secure transportation and maneuvering of poles or pipes, featuring inflatable tires and removable fastening mechanisms, enabling easy movement and safe handling by one or two workers.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If workers manually handle and move large poles and pipes, then they can transport the objects, but it requires much time and energy and is labor-intensive
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a carrying device as an intermediary tool between workers and poles/pipes. The device includes a frame structure with cradles that hold the poles, wheels for movement, and a handle for manual operation. This intermediary device amplifies the workers' capability to move heavy objects by distributing the load and providing mechanical advantage, thereby reducing the time and energy required compared to direct manual handling.
2Productivity
If heavy equipment is used to transport poles and pipes, then the objects can be moved more efficiently, but the device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The carrying device is segmented into distinct functional components: a frame structure for support, cradles for holding poles, wheels for movement, and a handle for operation. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized independently and assembled from standard parts, reducing overall complexity compared to using heavy specialized equipment. The device can be disassembled and stored easily, further simplifying its complexity profile.
Solution Approach 2:
The carrying device is designed with universal features that allow it to handle various types and sizes of poles and pipes. The adjustable cradles and frame configuration enable the same device to accommodate different loads without requiring specialized equipment for each object type. This multi-functionality reduces the need for multiple specialized devices, thereby reducing overall device complexity in the workspace.
3Ease of operation
If poles and pipes are transported without proper support structures, then movement is simpler, but the objects are difficult to handle and may overturn
Solution Approach 1:
The cradles serve as intermediary support structures between the poles/pipes and the carrying device frame. These cradles provide proper support and distribution of the load, preventing the poles from overturning or becoming difficult to handle. The cradles are positioned to contact the poles at appropriate points, creating a stable configuration that maintains reliability during transport while allowing the device to move easily when pushed or pulled.
4Reliability
If the carrying device is designed for secure fastening, then the poles are held safely, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The fastening mechanisms serve as intermediary components between the cradles and the poles. These mechanisms provide secure attachment without requiring complex structural modifications to the main frame. The fastening systems can be simple straps, clips, or adjustable brackets that attach to the cradles and wrap around or clamp the poles, providing reliable security while adding minimal complexity to the overall device structure.
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
Facilitates the safe and efficient transportation of poles and pipes, reducing labor and equipment needs, while preventing overturning and accommodating various sizes and types of elongated objects.
Implementation Method 1
The wheels may be inflatable tires
Implementation Method 2
at least one kickstand operably associated with the mean beam... placing the device at rest with the kickstand in contact with the ground
Data Source
AI summary
A pole carrying device and method of using the pole carrying device is disclosed, wherein the pole carrying device is designed to carry and maneuver poles or pipes in a safe and easily controlled manner. In one example, the pole carrying device comprises a main beam that is supported by a wheel assembly, wherein the wheel assembly comprises two wheels. Further, two cradles are mounted atop the main beam (e.g., one at each end) for holding the poles or pipes. The method of using the pole carrying device includes, but is not limited to, the steps of providing the pole carrying device in an at rest position, placing the poles or pipes atop the pole carrying device, and rolling the pole carrying device along the ground and thereby transporting the poles or pipes.