Telescoping Chute for Roof Debris Removal

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current methods for roofing debris removal, such as using cranes for tall commercial structures and tarps for residential structures, are time-consuming, pose injury risks, and result in additional strain on workers, with risks of debris falling and damaging property or causing injury.

Innovation Solution

A telescoping chute apparatus connected to an aerial work platform that allows debris to be directed from the roof into a chute with a funnel-shaped end for easy entry and a half-tube end for exit, reducing the need for manual handling and minimizing the risk of debris falling, by guiding debris directly into a dumpster on the ground.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Productivity

If a crane and basket are used to remove debris from tall commercial structures, then debris can be transported from the roof to the ground, but the process becomes time-consuming and creates injury risks from crane cabling operation

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedebris removal speedVSAvoidtime required for debris removal
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The chute is divided into multiple telescoping sections that can be extended and retracted independently, allowing the system to adapt to different heights and positions while maintaining continuous debris flow path

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The telescoping chute acts as an intermediary device between the roof and ground, providing a direct gravity-fed pathway that eliminates the need for crane operations and manual handling intermediaries

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Ease of operation

If tarps are placed on the ground to receive debris from residential roofs, then debris can be collected, but workers must manually lift and transfer debris to dumpsters, increasing strain and injury risk

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedebris collection convenienceVSAvoidinjury risk from debris handling
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSObject-generated harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The chute system allows debris to move automatically under gravity from the roof opening directly into the dumpster, eliminating the need for workers to manually handle, lift, or transfer debris

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The telescoping chute serves as a gravity-fed intermediary pathway that connects the roof to the dumpster, allowing debris to flow continuously without manual intervention and eliminating the tarp collection step

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

3Productivity

If debris is thrown from the roof onto tarps or into baskets, then debris removal can be initiated, but free falling debris poses injury risks and damage potential

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedebris removal efficiencyVSAvoidinjury risk from free falling debris
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The telescoping chute provides a controlled intermediary pathway that guides debris from the roof opening through a structured channel to the dumpster, eliminating uncontrolled free falling and directing debris flow safely

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

The chute's segmented telescoping structure creates multiple controlled sections that manage debris flow progressively, preventing sudden drops and controlling the descent of debris through manageable segments

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

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 chute apparatus enhances safety and efficiency by eliminating the need for manual debris handling and reduces the risk of injury and property damage, allowing for direct and controlled debris disposal into a dumpster, thus improving the roofing debris removal process.

Implementation Method 1

The apparatus is configured for receiving debris via the first open end, allowing passage of debris via the channel from the first open end to the second open end

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectGravity: Gravitation

Data Source

PatentUS9555968B2Apparatus for facilitating roofing debris removal
Publication Date: 2017.01.31 SEATON SCOTT
  • US9555968B2 patent drawing
  • US9555968B2 patent drawing
  • US9555968B2 patent drawing

AI summary

An apparatus is disclosed for facilitating removal of debris from the roof of a construction location or other raised work site. The apparatus comprises a chute comprising multiple sections that may telescope to extend in length, where the chute is configured for implementation with a mobile platform.