Self-Propelled Vehicle Relocation Device for Assembly Lines
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing transporting devices for heavy wheeled vehicles in assembly lines are either costly and immobile, or while more portable, they require frequent repositioning and do not provide continuous movement throughout the production day.
Innovation Solution
A guided vehicle relocation device with a frame, drive mechanisms, a control panel, and a location sensor that allows for semi-autonomous directional control and automated movement of heavy wheeled vehicles, enabling continuous operation and path adherence without the need for extensive capital investment or frequent repositioning.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If a fixed chain system is used to transport heavy wheeled vehicles, then the ability to move multiple vehicles down the assembly floor is improved, but the capital cost increases and the system loses mobility to change layout
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the dynamics principle by making the transporting device mobile rather than fixed. The self-propelled dolly can be repositioned along the assembly floor as needed, allowing the system to adapt to different production layouts and requirements while maintaining continuous operation capability
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies universality by designing a single self-propelled dolly that can transport multiple different types of heavy wheeled vehicles (airplanes, construction vehicles, etc.). The dolly's universal design allows it to interface with various vehicle types while providing continuous transport capability
2Adaptability or versatility
If a friction plate with guide rails and winch system is used, then the capital cost is reduced and portability is improved, but the system requires frequent repositioning and does not provide continuous movement
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by equipping the dolly with self-propulsion capability through drive mechanisms. This allows the device to move continuously under its own power rather than requiring external winching and frequent repositioning, thereby maintaining both portability and continuous movement capability
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies self-service by making the dolly self-propelled. The drive mechanisms enable the dolly to transport vehicles autonomously without requiring external winching equipment or frequent manual repositioning, thus achieving continuous movement while maintaining portability
3Productivity
If a self-propelled dolly with drive mechanisms is used, then continuous movement capability is improved and adaptability is enhanced, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies segmentation by dividing the transporting system into modular components: a self-propelled dolly with drive mechanisms, a control system, and sensor systems. This modular approach manages complexity by allowing each component to be independently designed, maintained, and replaced
4Productivity
If extensive capital investment is made in fixed chain systems, then the transport capability is improved, but the operational flexibility and cost-effectiveness deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by replacing fixed infrastructure with mobile, self-propelled units. This allows the system to maintain high transport capability while gaining operational flexibility to adapt to changing production requirements without extensive capital investment in fixed installations
Data Source
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AI summary
A guided vehicle relocation device (10) has a frame (12). The frame (12) has an opening to allow one or more wheels (40) of a vehicle to enter an interior area of the frame (12). At least one drive mechanism is coupled to the frame (12). The drive mechanism (32) engages the wheel (40) of the vehicle, rotating the wheel (40) of the vehicle to move the vehicle. A control panel is coupled to the frame and to the at least one drive mechanism (32). The control panel (16) is used for controlling operation of the guided vehicle relocation device (10).