Snow Removal Arm With Dual Sweeping Elements
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional snow removal equipment, such as blowers and plows, are ineffective and labor-intensive for clearing snow from delicate airfield indicators like signs and lights, which requires a more efficient and safe method to maintain visibility during heavy snowfall.
Innovation Solution
A vehicle with an adjustable arm system featuring dual sweeping elements with radial and non-radial bristles, capable of rotating and extending to reach elevated objects, and equipped with a computer system for precise location tracking and automated operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If conventional snow blowers, plows or sweepers are used to remove snow from airfield indicators, then snow removal capability is improved, but the risk of damaging delicate indicators increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by using soft bristles specifically designed for delicate surfaces. The sweeping element incorporates bristles that are gentle enough to clean light fixtures and signs without causing damage, while still being effective at removing snow accumulation. This localized adaptation of cleaning tool properties allows the system to handle both fragile airfield indicators and snow removal requirements simultaneously.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary mechanism - a specialized sweeping element with bristles - that mediates between the snow removal function and the protection of delicate indicators. This intermediary component transfers the cleaning action in a controlled, non-damaging manner, allowing snow to be removed without direct contact from harsh mechanical elements that could damage the indicators.
2Object-affected harmful factors
If manual snow removal with hand shovels and brooms is used, then damage to indicators is minimized, but labor intensity and time consumption increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple functions into a single automated system. The vehicle combines snow blowing capability with a specialized sweeping element that has bristles for gentle cleaning. This integration allows the system to perform both aggressive snow removal and delicate indicator cleaning in one operation, eliminating the need for separate manual cleaning processes and significantly improving labor efficiency while protecting indicators.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements self-service through automation. The vehicle is equipped with sensors and control systems that allow it to autonomously navigate to indicators, position the sweeping element, and perform cleaning operations without human intervention. This self-service capability transforms manual labor into an automated process, dramatically reducing time consumption and labor intensity while maintaining gentle handling of delicate indicators.
3Illumination intensity
If elevated indicators are used to maintain visibility, then visibility during snowfall is improved, but snow and ice accumulation around them increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by performing snow removal before the accumulation becomes problematic. The system is designed to proactively clean indicators, preventing snow and ice buildup that would obstruct visibility. By acting in advance, the system maintains the visibility benefits of elevated indicators while preventing the harmful accumulation effect.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent ensures continuity of useful action through automated, repeated cleaning operations. The vehicle can systematically service multiple indicators along the airfield, maintaining continuous protection against snow accumulation. This ongoing cleaning action sustains the visibility function of elevated indicators by continuously removing snow before it interferes with their effectiveness.
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
The system allows for efficient and precise removal of snow from elevated objects, reducing labor and time while minimizing damage to indicators, and can be operated automatically using GPS and RFID technology for enhanced efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
a first shaft member rotatable about a first longitudinal axis, and a first set of bristles projecting away from the first axis along the first shaft member
Data Source
AI summary
A vehicle for removing an accumulation of particles comprises a vehicle body, a system configured to remove the particles in bulk, and an arm coupled to and extending from the vehicle body. The arm comprises a first sweeping element and a second sweeping element. Each sweeping element includes a shaft member rotatable about a longitudinal axis, and a set of bristles projecting away from the axis along the shaft member. The first and second longitudinal axes are a distance apart, and the sweeping elements define a concerted sweeping area. The arm may be movably coupled to the vehicle body and may be configured to move the sweeping element around the vehicle body by rotating the arm about a horizontal axis. When a sweeping element rotates in proximity to the ground, the longitudinal axis is substantially vertical. The vehicle may further include a computer system for tracking the location of an object.