Reel Handling Device with Adjustable A-Frame Assemblies
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for lifting, maneuvering, and moving large reels or spools of wound materials are cumbersome, often requiring cranes or forklifts, and result in strenuous manual handling, damage to the reels, and limited directional movement.
Innovation Solution
A device comprising a pair of pivotally connected angularly-oriented vertical support bars and a retractable member, allowing for adjustable positioning and zero-turn radius movement of reels, with integrated rollers for easy winding and unwinding, and the ability to be reused across various reel sizes and locations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Force
If cranes or forklifts are used to lift and move reels, then the lifting and moving capability is improved, but the device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The device divides the reel support function into multiple A-frame assemblies, each independently supporting one end of the reel. This segmentation allows the system to achieve heavy lifting capability through distributed support while keeping each individual assembly relatively simple and manageable in complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The A-frame assemblies are designed to be universal and adaptable to different reel sizes and weights. The same basic assembly configuration can handle various reel dimensions by adjusting the spacing between assemblies, eliminating the need for specialized equipment for different reel types and reducing overall system complexity.
2Ease of operation
If traditional manual handling methods are used, then the equipment cost is reduced, but the ease of operation deteriorates and physical strain increases
Solution Approach 1:
The device enables self-service operation where the reel's own weight and structure are utilized in the lifting mechanism. The A-frame assemblies leverage the reel's flanges and central bore for support, allowing the system to lift and maneuver heavy reels without requiring external heavy equipment or excessive manual effort.
Solution Approach 2:
The device introduces directional movement capability by allowing the reel to be pushed in any direction on the ground while supported by the A-frame assemblies. This adds a horizontal movement dimension that complements the vertical support function, enabling easy repositioning without manual rolling or complex positioning mechanisms.
3Adaptability or versatility
If fixed-size support structures are used, then the manufacturing precision is improved, but the adaptability to different reel sizes deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The device employs dynamic adjustability where the spacing and positioning of the A-frame assemblies can be modified to accommodate different reel sizes. This dynamic configuration allows the same structural design to adapt to various reel dimensions while maintaining manufacturing precision through standardized components and consistent geometric relationships.
Solution Approach 2:
The system achieves adaptability by changing key parameters such as the distance between A-frame assemblies and their positioning relative to the reel flanges. These parameter adjustments allow the device to work with different reel sizes without requiring different structural designs, maintaining manufacturing precision through controlled parameter variation rather than structural complexity.
4Productivity
If reels are moved by manual rolling on the ground, then the equipment complexity is reduced, but the productivity and movement efficiency deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The support structure is segmented into multiple independent A-frame assemblies that can be positioned at different locations along the reel. This segmentation allows the reel to be supported at multiple points simultaneously, enabling efficient movement and positioning without requiring a single complex support mechanism, thus improving productivity while managing complexity.
Data Source
AI summary
An apparatus for lifting, maneuvering, winding or unwinding reels comprising a pair of devices having an elongated retractable frame having a first end and a second end which are adjustable relative to one another; a first crossbar having two opposite ends, the first crossbar being mounted to a first end of the elongated retractable frame; a second crossbar having two opposite ends, the second crossbar being mounted to a second end of the elongated retractable frame; a first roller carrier mounted on the first crossbar; a second roller carrier mounted on the second crossbar, parallel to the first roller carrier, wherein the roller rotates axially about the roller carrier; and a means for adjusting the first and second end of the elongated retractable frame relative to one another so that the first and second ends of the elongated retractable frame are moved closer together and further apart.