Removable Gripping Device for Articulated Work Machine Arms

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Solution Overview

Problem

Articulated work machines, such as loader backhoes, face limitations with existing dipper arm teeth that can damage objects like metal pipes and wear out quickly in abrasive environments, necessitating a versatile and cost-effective solution for improved object manipulation.

Innovation Solution

A removable second gripping device is integrated with the dipper arm, featuring a resilient layer and adjustable gripping features, allowing secure object handling between the arm and attachment, while minimizing wear and damage.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If formed teeth are used on the dipper arm, then gripping capability is improved, but object damage occurs and teeth wear out quickly

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvegripping capabilityVSAvoidobject damage and wear

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The dipper arm is segmented into two gripping systems: fixed formed teeth for general purposes and removable gripping devices that can be attached or detached based on specific application requirements. This segmentation allows the system to adapt to different objects without causing damage.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The gripping parameters are changed by replacing the fixed formed teeth with removable gripping devices that have different surface characteristics. These removable devices can be made from materials with appropriate friction coefficients and surface textures suited for specific objects like pipes, preventing damage while maintaining gripping capability.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #35Parameter changes

2Ease of operation

If formed teeth are used on the dipper arm, then gripping function is provided, but replacement cost increases due to wear

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvegripping functionVSAvoidreplacement cost

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The gripping system is divided into the permanent dipper arm structure and removable gripping devices. When wear occurs, only the inexpensive removable devices need replacement rather than the entire dipper arm, significantly reducing replacement costs.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The removable gripping devices are designed as inexpensive, replaceable components that can be worn or damaged without affecting the main dipper arm structure. These cheap components protect the expensive dipper arm from wear.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #27Cheap short-living objects (Disposable)

3Adaptability or versatility

If a removable gripping device is added to the dipper arm, then versatility is enhanced, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveoperational versatilityVSAvoidstructure complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The gripping system transitions from a static fixed-teeth design to a dynamic configuration where removable gripping devices can be attached or removed based on operational needs. This dynamic adaptability enhances versatility without requiring complex permanent modifications to the dipper arm.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

Data Source

PatentUS8926257B2Gripping device for articulated work machine

Publication Date: 2015.01.06 BLUE LEAF I P INC

AI summary

A work machine includes a pivotable arm having a first gripping device formed therein, the arm operatively connected to an attachment for securing an object between the first gripping device and the attachment. A second gripping device is removably securable to the arm near the first gripping device, the second gripping device configured to at least partially secure an object between the second gripping device and the attachment.