Portable Vacuum Lifter System for Confined Spaces
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional vacuum lifters are not suitable for smaller equipment used in confined areas due to weight constraints that reduce the lifting capacity of the boom and make maneuvering impractical.
Innovation Solution
A compact and portable vacuum lifter system contained in a carrying case, which includes a vacuum pump, solenoid operated valve, and vacuum pad, allowing for flexible attachment to various host machines and enabling lifting capacities ranging from 150 lb to 2,500 lb.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional vacuum lifter components (beam, drive motor, vacuum pump, vacuum reservoir) are suspended from the boom, then the vacuum lifting function is achieved, but the weight of these components significantly reduces the lifting capacity of the boom
Solution Approach 1:
The vacuum lifter system is divided into separate components: the vacuum pump, drive motor, and reservoir are integrated into a portable case that can be positioned independently on the ground or mounted separately, while only the lightweight vacuum pad is suspended from the boom. This segmentation eliminates the weight penalty of heavy components hanging from the boom while maintaining full vacuum lifting functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
A flexible vacuum line acts as an intermediary connection between the portable vacuum pump case and the vacuum pad on the boom. This allows the heavy pump components to be positioned away from the boom suspension point while maintaining functional connection, effectively decoupling the weight burden from the lifting capacity.
2Reliability
If traditional vacuum material handler is designed for full size excavators and backhoes, then the vacuum lifting capacity is sufficient, but maneuvering in interior rooms or confined areas is not practical
Solution Approach 1:
The system separates the heavy vacuum pump components into a portable case that can be easily moved into confined areas, while the vacuum pad remains on the boom for lifting operations. This segmentation allows the pump to be positioned in accessible locations within confined spaces without requiring the entire system to be maneuvered through tight areas.
Solution Approach 2:
The vacuum line provides flexibility in positioning by allowing the pump case to be located in a different spatial dimension (on the ground or separately mounted) rather than being constrained to hang from the boom, enabling operation in confined areas where vertical space is limited.
3Ease of operation
If compact vacuum lifter components are placed in a portable case, then the system becomes maneuverable in confined areas, but the components must be temporarily secured to the host machine during operation
Solution Approach 1:
The portable case is designed with self-contained mounting features such as magnetic feet or quick-attach mechanisms that allow the case to be easily secured to the host machine or positioned on the ground without requiring complex external securing procedures. The case essentially secures itself to the work environment.
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 portable vacuum lifter system allows for efficient lifting and maneuvering of items in confined spaces without reducing the lifting capacity of the host machine, enhancing operational flexibility and practicality.
Implementation Method 1
Once in contact a valve is opened to create a vacuum between the pad and the surface of the item to be lifted
Implementation Method 2
The case may include magnetic feet for connection to the host machine or assembly
Data Source
AI summary
A portable vacuum lifter system having a power source, drive motor, vacuum pump and reservoir contained in a readily carriable case. The system also has a vacuum pad in fluid communication with the vacuum pump via a vacuum line and a solenoid operated valve. The system is removably mountable on a small host vehicle for use in confined areas.