Concrete Screed Drive System Maneuverability

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing concrete screeding technologies face challenges in maneuverability, weight, complexity, and emissions, particularly in high-rise and multi-level building projects, where they struggle to produce consistently level surfaces efficiently and safely.

Innovation Solution

A lightweight, maneuverable concrete screeding system with a drive assembly and leveling system that includes powered wheels for zero-radius turns, a steering handle for easy operation, and a control system with sensors for continuous leveling, powered by either internal combustion or electrical systems, reducing the need for hydraulic systems and emissions.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If traditional turret-type screeding systems are used, then screeding function is provided, but weight and device complexity increase significantly

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvescreeding functionVSAvoidsystem weight
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSWeight of moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent removes the complex turret mechanism from the screeding system, retaining only the essential screeding function through a simplified boom and screed head assembly. This extraction of unnecessary components directly reduces weight while maintaining core operational capability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #2Taking out (Extraction)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent replaces complex mechanical turret rotation systems with a simpler positioning system that uses GPS guidance and automated control to achieve precise screeding without requiring heavy mechanical rotation mechanisms.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

2Adaptability or versatility

If turret rotation mechanism is added, then maneuverability is improved, but device complexity and cost increase

Engineering Contradiction:
ImprovemaneuverabilityVSAvoidmechanical and electrical controls
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces mechanical turret rotation with an automated guidance system using GPS, sensors, and control algorithms to achieve maneuverability and adaptability without complex mechanical or electrical rotation controls.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The screeding system uses automated guidance and control to self-position and self-adjust, eliminating the need for complex manual control mechanisms while maintaining high maneuverability and adaptability to different site conditions.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

3Manufacturing precision

If hydraulic systems are used for leveling, then leveling precision is improved, but weight and device complexity increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveleveling precisionVSAvoidhydraulic system components
Core Design Contradiction:
Manufacturing precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces hydraulic leveling systems with electronic leveling mechanisms that use sensors, motors, and control systems to achieve precise leveling without heavy hydraulic components, reducing both weight and device complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

4Power

If internal combustion engine is used, then power availability is improved, but emissions and noise increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvepower availabilityVSAvoidemissions and noise
Core Design Contradiction:
PowerVSObject-generated harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The patent changes the power source from internal combustion to electric propulsion, fundamentally altering the energy conversion parameters to eliminate emissions and reduce noise while maintaining sufficient power for screeding operations.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

Data Source

PatentEP3864237B1Drive system for screeding concrete
Publication Date: 2024.05.15 LIGCHINE INT CORP
  • EP3864237B1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP3864237B1 patent drawingFigure 2
  • EP3864237B1 patent drawingFigure 3

AI summary

An apparatus for steering and driving a concrete screed having a frame and a screed head secured thereto includes a plurality of spaced drive wheels rotatably and pivotably secured to the frame at a plurality of points, and a steering member coupled to one or more of the drive wheels for controlling the directional orientation thereof.