Selective Clamping of Telescoping Assemblies for Slipform Paver Frame Width Control
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing slipform paving machines face challenges in controlling the telescoping extension of their frames, particularly in maintaining parallel alignment and efficient width adjustment, due to the complexity of coordinating multiple telescoping assemblies and the reliance on hydraulic rams for expansion and contraction.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of a controller system that monitors and controls the extension of telescoping assemblies using sensors and actuators, allowing for parallel arrangement of telescoping assemblies and the application of a common telescoping force, combined with the use of clamping devices and linear actuators to facilitate and lock the telescoping motion, enabling precise adjustment of the machine's width while moving.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple telescoping assemblies are used to adjust frame width, then the adaptability of the machine is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple telescoping assemblies (first and second telescoping assemblies) into a coordinated system where both assemblies move in unison to maintain parallel alignment of frame members. This merging approach allows the system to achieve width adjustment adaptability while reducing the complexity of coordinating independent assemblies, as they operate together as an integrated unit rather than separate controlled elements.
2Power
If hydraulic rams are used for telescoping expansion and contraction, then the power and speed of adjustment are improved, but the device complexity and control difficulty increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs hydraulic rams that serve multiple functions: they provide the necessary telescoping force for expansion and contraction, maintain parallel alignment of frame members, and can be controlled through a centralized system. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate mechanisms for each function, thereby reducing overall device complexity while maintaining high power and speed of adjustment.
3Manufacturing precision
If telescoping assemblies are arranged in parallel with common telescoping force, then the manufacturing precision of parallel alignment is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent utilizes an asymmetric arrangement where the first and second telescoping assemblies are positioned at different locations on the frame but are designed to move in a coordinated manner. This asymmetric positioning, combined with parallel arrangement, allows the system to achieve precise parallel alignment of side frame members while simplifying the control mechanism, as the assemblies naturally maintain alignment through their geometric relationship rather than requiring complex active control.
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
This solution allows for precise and automatic control of the telescoping extension, ensuring the side frame members remain parallel to the main frame, enhancing the efficiency and flexibility of width adjustments during operation, thereby improving the overall performance of the slipform paving machine.
Implementation Method 1
pushing or pulling the frame laterally. This collapsing or expanding force may be aided by hydraulic rams oriented perpendicular to the operating direction of the machine
Implementation Method 2
The clamping devices may be hydraulically actuated via hydraulic rams. the telescopic locks may comprise hydraulic ram linear actuators connected between the main frame and the side frame member, and the locking may be accomplished by hydraulically blocking such a hydraulic ram
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3~3A
AI summary
Methods of and apparatus for controlling relative telescoping extension or retraction of multiple telescoping assemblies is provided. The telescoping assemblies connect the main frame of a slipform paver to a side member of the slipform paver. Each telescoping assembly has a telescopic lock associated with the telescoping assembly. A common telescoping force is applied across the telescoping assemblies to widen or narrow the frame width of the slipform paver. Extension of the telescoping assemblies is monitored, and activation of the telescopic locks is controlled so as to determine which of the telescoping assemblies is allowed to telescope under application of the common telescoping force.