Rack Lifter System for Glass Handling
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current glass transportation methods are inefficient, expensive, and pose risks due to the use of overhead cranes and single-purpose lifting systems that are not cost-effective or functional for multiple steps of production and transportation, with limitations on glass size, weight, and quantity.
Innovation Solution
A rack lifting system comprising a lifter with engagement members, vertical extension members, and a forklift connection, utilizing hydraulic cylinders and wheels for precise lifting and movement, allowing for efficient handling of glass racks and other materials.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If overhead cranes are used to load glass racks onto trailers, then the glass racks can be transported, but the process becomes dangerous, time-consuming, and expensive
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a forklift-mounted rack lifter as an intermediary device between the forklift and the glass rack. This lifter system with engagement members and vertical extension members enables direct lifting and transportation of racks, eliminating the need for overhead cranes and manual handling, thereby reducing loading time and costs while improving safety
Solution Approach 2:
The invention replaces the complex overhead crane mechanical system with a simpler forklift-based lifting system. The vertical extension members with engagement openings provide a mechanical advantage system that allows standard forklifts to perform lifting functions previously requiring specialized crane equipment, reducing time and operational complexity
2Reliability
If single-purpose lifting systems are used, then specific lifting tasks can be performed, but the systems are not cost-effective and cannot handle multiple steps of production and transportation
Solution Approach 1:
The rack lifter system is designed with universal engagement members that can interface with racks of various sizes and configurations. The vertical extension members can be adjusted to accommodate different lifting heights and rack weights, enabling a single system to handle multiple production and transportation steps without requiring specialized equipment for each task
Solution Approach 2:
The system incorporates adjustable and movable components including extendable vertical members and reconfigurable engagement openings. This dynamic design allows the lifting system to adapt to varying rack dimensions, weights, and positioning requirements across different production stages, maintaining reliability while achieving versatility
3Ease of operation
If traditional lifting methods are used, then glass racks can be moved, but the methods are limited in the different sizes of glass which a single method can accommodate
Solution Approach 1:
The engagement members feature multiple engagement openings positioned at different locations and orientations, allowing the same lifter system to securely handle racks containing glass of various sizes, shapes, and weights. This universal design eliminates the need for different handling methods for different glass specifications while maintaining ease of operation
4Force
If traditional lifting methods are used, then glass racks can be transported, but the methods have limitations on the weight and therefore amount of glass that can be moved at one time
Solution Approach 1:
The vertical extension members are powered by hydraulic cylinders that provide substantial lifting force capable of handling heavy glass racks. The hydraulic system can be controlled to extend and retract, enabling the lifter to accommodate varying rack weights and quantities of glass while maintaining safe operating limits, thus increasing the quantity of glass that can be moved at one time
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 system enhances efficiency and safety by enabling the secure and cost-effective transport of glass racks, reducing the need for expensive equipment and minimizing risks to both the glass and workers, while accommodating various glass sizes and weights.
Implementation Method 1
The at least one vertical extension member comprises hydraulic cylinders for extension
Data Source
AI summary
A rack and lifter system and method is described. The system includes a rack having at least a first engagement opening, and a lifter having at least a first engagement member and at least a first vertical extension member, wherein in use the at least a first engagement member interlocks with the at least a first engagement opening of the rack, and the at least a first vertical extension member extends to lift the interlocked lifter and rack, wherein the at least a first vertical extension member includes means for movement. The lifter may include a guiding-and-lifting member which lifts the lifter and guides the lifter into an interior space of the rack. The lifter may include a towing machine connection member which connects the lifter to a towing machine which positions the lifter within the rack and tows the connected lifter and rack.