Single Point Lifting Structure for Work Machines
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing lift systems for work machines, such as small wheel loaders, often interfere with the cab during lifting operations, hindering operator access and safety.
Innovation Solution
A lift apparatus featuring a horizontally disposed lift frame with curved elongated members that attach to the machine frame, allowing for single-point lifting without obstructing the cab, and incorporating a mount with multiple bolt holes for versatile attachment to lifting devices.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Stability of the object's composition
If multiple lifting points on the machine frame are used, then the lifting stability is improved, but the lifting device complexity increases and interference with the cab occurs
Solution Approach 1:
The lifting system is segmented into a fixed base plate attached to the machine frame and a separate curved lifting member that can be positioned independently. This segmentation allows the lifting function to be achieved with a single attachment point while maintaining stability, as the curved member distributes the lifting forces along its arc length rather than requiring multiple discrete attachment points on the frame.
Solution Approach 2:
The curved lifting member acts as an intermediary between the single lifting attachment point on the machine frame and the cab. By positioning this curved member to clear the cab structure, it mediates the lifting action to avoid interference with the cab while still providing stable single-point lifting, eliminating the need for multiple attachment points that would increase device complexity.
2Device complexity
If a single point lifting structure is used, then the device complexity is reduced, but the lifting stability may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The lifting member is designed with a curved geometry that follows an arc path during lifting operations. This curvature allows the single lifting point to maintain stable contact with the machine frame throughout the lifting motion, distributing forces evenly along the curved path. The spherical/curved design provides inherent stability comparable to multiple rigid attachment points while maintaining the simplicity of a single lifting structure.
3Object-affected harmful factors
If the lifting structure is positioned to clear the cab, then the operator safety is improved, but the structural strength may be reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The lifting system employs an asymmetric design where the curved lifting member is positioned and oriented specifically to clear the cab structure. Rather than using a symmetric multi-point attachment system, the asymmetric single-point curved member achieves the necessary clearance while maintaining structural integrity through its optimized geometry and material distribution along the curved path.
Solution Approach 2:
The lifting member utilizes three-dimensional curved geometry to achieve cab clearance without compromising strength. By extending the lifting structure into the vertical and lateral dimensions through its curved arc design, it clears the cab space while distributing structural loads efficiently along its three-dimensional form, maintaining strength despite the positioning constraints.
Data Source
AI summary
In accordance with one aspect of the present disclose, a lift apparatus for a work machine is provided. The lift apparatus may have a horizontally disposed lift frame that has a mount on its top surface. The lift apparatus may further include a first elongated member having a first end and a second end. The first elongated member is vertically disposed and attached to a first side of the lift frame at the first end, and the second end includes a first attachment point for attaching to the work machine. The lift apparatus further includes a second elongated member that has a first end and a second end, the second elongated member is vertically disposed and attached to a second side of the lift frame at the first end, and the second end includes a second attachment point for attaching to the work machine.


