Removable Fan Assembly for Leaf Collection on Refuse Vehicles
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing refuse collection vehicles are inefficient during the leaf collection season due to the need for dedicated leaf collection vehicles, which are expensive and require additional maintenance and storage, and existing solutions like the Labrie vehicle extend the vehicle length, impair performance, and separate compaction and collection processes.
Innovation Solution
A refuse collection vehicle is modified to include a fan assembly and leaf collection boom that can be easily attached and detached, allowing leaves to be collected and compacted within the existing hydraulic system, enabling simultaneous collection and compaction without extending the vehicle length, and converting back to a standard refuse collection vehicle when needed.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a dedicated leaf collection vehicle is used, then leaf collection function is specialized, but vehicle cost and maintenance requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies multi-functionality by enabling a single refuse collection vehicle to perform both refuse collection and leaf collection functions. The vehicle includes a removable fan assembly that can be attached to the receiving hopper to enable leaf vacuum collection, allowing the same vehicle to serve dual purposes throughout the year, thereby eliminating the need for dedicated leaf collection vehicles and reducing overall fleet costs.
2Adaptability or versatility
If a permanently mounted fan assembly is installed, then leaf collection capability is provided, but vehicle length increases and performance deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies segmentation by designing the fan assembly as a separate, removable component that can be attached to or removed from the receiving hopper. This modular approach allows the fan assembly to be segmented from the main vehicle body, enabling it to be installed only when needed for leaf collection, thereby avoiding permanent extension of the vehicle length and maintaining overall vehicle performance.
3Reliability
If compaction and collection processes are separated, then each function can be optimized, but operational efficiency decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies merging by integrating both leaf collection and compaction functions into a single operational process. The removable fan assembly is positioned within the receiving hopper such that leaves are vacuumed directly into the hopper where the packer device simultaneously compacts them. This combined operation eliminates the need for separate collection and compaction steps, significantly improving operational efficiency and productivity.
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
This solution provides a flexible and cost-effective way to handle leaf collection without additional vehicles, reducing maintenance and storage needs, while allowing for efficient leaf compaction and collection by a single operator from within the cab, enhancing operational efficiency and safety.
Implementation Method 1
a fan assembly mounted within the receiving hopper and a leaf collection boom attached to the fan assembly for vacuuming leaves
Implementation Method 2
leaf compaction can occur in the receiving hopper through the already existing hydraulically movable packer device
Data Source
AI summary
A leaf collection vehicle utilizing a vehicle body from a refuse collection vehicle having a receiving hopper, a storage compartment, a tailgate assembly, an operator cab and a packer mechanism for transferring refuse from the receiving hopper to the storage compartment, the refuse collection vehicle body being transformed into a leaf collection vehicle by removably installing a fan assembly within the receiving hopper, the fan assembly providing suction for gathering leaves, a suction hose removably attachable to the fan assembly for collecting and transferring leaves initially to the storage compartment and then to the receiving hopper, and a boom member for holding the suction hose, the boom member being operable from the cab compartment of the vehicle and being movable from a storage position along a side of the vehicle body to an operative position for gathering leaves.