Suction Excavation Tank Layout for Side Unloading in Tight Spaces
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing suction-based soil removal apparatuses occupy excessive space due to cylindrical filtration devices, limiting flexibility and efficiency in confined urban areas and requiring large vehicle passages, with unloading operations often restricted to the rear, which complicates delicate excavation work near pipes, cables, and in tight spaces.
Innovation Solution
A filtration device with a unique shape of two intersecting cylindrical compartments and a rotatable frame that allows lateral unloading, enabling the tank to be positioned outside the vehicle's footprint, and a partial vacuum unit integrated with an articulated suction arm for flexible operation in confined spaces.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Quantity of substance
If a cylindrical filtration device is used, then the filtration capacity is sufficient, but the space occupation is excessive
Solution Approach 1:
The filtration device is designed with nested cylindrical compartments where one cylinder is placed inside another, allowing the filters to be arranged in a compact nested configuration rather than requiring a large single cylindrical space. This nesting arrangement maintains adequate filtration capacity while significantly reducing the overall volume occupied by the filtration device.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from a traditional single large cylindrical filtration device to a multi-compartment nested cylindrical structure. By organizing filtration compartments in a nested dimensional arrangement rather than a single expansive cylinder, the design achieves sufficient filtration capacity within a reduced spatial footprint.
2Ease of operation
If the tank is positioned for rear unloading, then the unloading operation is simple, but the area occupied is very large
Solution Approach 1:
The unloading system is designed with dynamic positioning capabilities, allowing the tank to be rotated and positioned at multiple angles relative to the vehicle chassis. This dynamic arrangement enables unloading operations to be performed from the rear or from the side, reducing the required stationary area while maintaining operational simplicity through automated or assisted positioning mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The unloading function is segmented into multiple possible configurations (rear unloading, side unloading) rather than requiring a single fixed rear-positioned tank. This segmentation allows the system to adapt its unloading direction based on available space, reducing the overall area occupied while preserving ease of operation through standardized unloading mechanisms that work in multiple positions.
3Productivity
If a large vehicle is used for soil removal, then the suction capacity is sufficient, but the passage and parking in constrained spaces is difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The vehicle system is segmented into modular components including a compact chassis, a separable tank, and an integrated filtration device. This segmentation allows the suction apparatus to be configured in a space-efficient manner that maintains adequate suction capacity while enabling passage through and parking in constrained urban spaces that would be inaccessible to larger traditional vehicles.
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 provides increased filtration capacity, reduced space occupation, and flexible unloading capabilities, allowing efficient soil removal in urban areas without compromising suction performance, even in tight spaces, and can be operated by untrained personnel.
Implementation Method 1
a partial vacuum unit for a collection tank, to which the aspirated material is conveyed by associated suction means
Implementation Method 2
These apparatuses for removing soil, mud and the like by suction are generally provided with a filtration device, which is constituted by a box-like body with a tapering bottom for collecting the filtrate
Implementation Method 3
said tank being fitted on unloading means which are suitable to lift on one side said tank in order to empty it by gravity of the material accumulated therein
Data Source
AI summary
An apparatus for removal of material by suction, comprising, supported by the chassis of a truck, a partial vacuum unit for a collection tank, to which aspirated material is conveyed. The tank is fitted on an unloading device suitable to lift on one side the tank in order to empty by gravity the material accumulated therein. The unloading device comprises a frame rotatably coupled to the chassis by interposing a rotatable center bearing, provided with an actuation for actuating the rotation of the frame with-respect to the chassis. The frame has a base for connection to the center bearing, and a supporting structure for the tank is associated with the base. The structure is adapted for multiple movements for positioning and unloading the tank outside of the truck footprint.