Portable Two-Post Lift Base Segmentation for Stability

Solution Overview

Problem

Existing portable automobile lifts with outwardly extending legs are difficult to transport and require substantial storage space due to their large bases, which hinder mobility and storage efficiency.

Innovation Solution

A portable two-post lift design featuring column bases without outwardly extending legs, utilizing base plates with anchor bolt receiving holes for secure attachment to a concrete slab during use and wheels for easy rolling during storage, along with a portable power unit mounted on a cart for easy transport and storage.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Stability of the object's composition

If large bases with outwardly extending legs are used to stabilize the lifting columns, then stability is improved, but transportability and storage efficiency deteriorate

Engineering Contradiction:

ImprovestabilityVSAvoidtransportability

Core Design Contradiction:

Stability of the object's compositionVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The base is segmented into a compact base plate that fits within the column footprint, separate from the stabilizing function which is achieved through anchor bolts engaging the concrete slab. This segmentation allows the base to remain small while still providing stability through the anchoring mechanism.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The outwardly extending legs are completely removed from the design. Instead, stability is achieved by anchoring the base plate to the concrete slab using anchor bolts, extracting the stabilizing function from the base structure itself and implementing it through a separate anchoring system.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #2Taking out (Extraction)

2Stability of the object's composition

If large bases with outwardly extending legs are used to stabilize the lifting columns, then stability is improved, but storage space requirements increase

Engineering Contradiction:

ImprovestabilityVSAvoidstorage space

Core Design Contradiction:

Stability of the object's compositionVSVolume of moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The base is segmented into a compact base plate that fits within the column footprint, separate from the stabilizing function which is achieved through anchor bolts engaging the concrete slab. This segmentation allows the base to remain small while still providing stability through the anchoring mechanism.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The outwardly extending legs are completely removed from the design. Instead, stability is achieved by anchoring the base plate to the concrete slab using anchor bolts, extracting the stabilizing function from the base structure itself and implementing it through a separate anchoring system.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #2Taking out (Extraction)

3Stability of the object's composition

If the lifting columns are permanently installed in a fixed position, then stability is improved, but portability deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:

ImprovestabilityVSAvoidportability

Core Design Contradiction:

Stability of the object's compositionVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The system transitions from a static permanent installation to a dynamic configurable system. The base plates can be positioned at various locations and anchored to the concrete slab, allowing the lift to be moved and reconfigured as needed while maintaining stability through the anchoring mechanism.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

Anchor bolts serve as an intermediary between the base plate and the concrete slab, providing a reversible connection that enables both stability during use and portability when needed. This intermediary component allows the system to switch between stable and portable states.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

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 design allows for efficient transportation and reduced storage space requirements, as the lift can be easily moved and stored without the need for extensive space, while maintaining stability and functionality through secure anchoring and hydraulic power.

Implementation Method 1

The power unit includes a hydraulic pump, motor, and reservoir mounted on a cart for easy transport and storage

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectHydraulic pump: Hydraulic Press

Implementation Method 2

The power unit includes a hydraulic pump, motor, and reservoir mounted on a cart for easy transport and storage

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectElectric motor: Linear Motor

Implementation Method 3

A rotary gear flow divider is also mounted on the cart and divides flow of hydraulic fluid between the lifting columns

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectHydraulic fluid flow division: Hydraulic Press

Data Source

PatentUS9150395B2Portable two post automobile lift

Publication Date: 2015.10.06 BENDPAK HOLDINGS LLC

AI summary

A portable automobile lift includes a plurality of portable lifting columns and a portable power unit. Each lifting column includes a column base, a post extending upwardly from the column base, a lifting carriage moveably mounted on a forward side of the post, and a hydraulic actuator connected to the lifting carriage for movement of the lifting carriage along the post. Each column base comprises a respective base plate connected to a lower end of the respective post. The base plate anchor bolt receiving holes extending therethrough for receiving respective anchor bolts. Each column base further includes a pair of wheels positioned to engage a ground surface rearward of the base plate for ease of portability of the columns. The lift also includes a safety lock assembly that automatically engages during upward movement of the lift to prevent unintentional lowering or falling of the lifting carriage.