Solar-Powered Electric Winch for Subsurface Refuse Bunker
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current subsurface refuse collection systems for side loading are heavy, difficult to transport, require frequent maintenance of underground hydraulic mechanisms, and cannot utilize alternative energy sources due to high power demands for opening and closing the system.
Innovation Solution
The system incorporates a cover with electric or electro-hydraulic cylinders powered by solar energy, allowing automated and remote operation, along with lateral movable arms and an internal platform for efficient collection and unloading using a side loading lifter, reducing the need for continuous maintenance and enabling the use of alternative energy sources.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional hydraulic mechanisms are used to open and close the underground system, then the system can operate, but the weight increases and maintenance requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces traditional heavy hydraulic mechanisms with a lighter electric winch system powered by solar panels. The winch uses a cable and pulley arrangement to open and close the underground system, eliminating the need for complex hydraulic pumps and reservoirs. This substitution significantly reduces system weight while maintaining operational reliability through the electric motor-driven winch mechanism.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the power source from hydraulic fluid pressure to electrical energy generated by solar panels. This parameter change allows the system to use a lighter electric motor instead of heavy hydraulic components, while the solar power provides sufficient energy to operate the winch for opening and closing the system.
2Reliability
If traditional hydraulic mechanisms are used, then the system can open and close, but maintenance needs increase continuously
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces hydraulic mechanisms with an electric winch system that has fewer moving parts and no hydraulic fluid to leak or degrade. The electric motor, cable, and pulley system require minimal maintenance compared to hydraulic pumps, valves, and seals. This substitution directly addresses the maintenance issue by eliminating the complex hydraulic infrastructure that requires continuous monitoring and servicing.
Solution Approach 2:
The solar-powered electric winch system is designed to be largely self-maintaining. The solar panels generate their own power without external input, and the electric motor system has inherent protection against overheating and overload. This self-service characteristic reduces the need for external maintenance interventions.
3Reliability
If high power is used to open the entire system, then the system can open reliably, but alternative energy sources cannot be used
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the energy parameter from requiring high instantaneous power to using continuous low-power solar energy accumulation. The winch motor is sized to operate efficiently at the lower power output of the solar panels, and the system timing is adjusted to allow sufficient duration for opening and closing operations. This parameter change enables the use of renewable solar energy while maintaining reliable system operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The system operates in periodic cycles where the solar panels continuously charge during daylight hours, and the winch operates periodically to open and close the system as needed. This periodic operation allows the solar energy to be accumulated and used efficiently, matching the power availability with the operational requirements without needing high instantaneous power capacity.
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 solution enhances the efficiency and sustainability of subsurface refuse collection by reducing the system's weight, maintenance needs, and allowing the use of renewable energy, while maintaining reliable operation through automated mechanisms.
Implementation Method 1
The system incorporates a cover with electric or electro-hydraulic cylinders powered by solar energy
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention describes a subsurface refuse system for side loading collection. It comprises an underground bunker (4), a refuse container (installed with lateral movable arms, a deposit input bin, one internal platform that supports temporarily the container and a cover with automatic opening and closing. All the movements are remotely operated. The container translates and is collected only with an automated side loading lifter installed in the truck.