Telescoping Jib Assembly With Single-Cylinder Synchronization
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing knuckle boom loaders with jibs are heavy and require multiple hydraulic cylinders, leading to slow operation and complex assembly and maintenance.
Innovation Solution
A jib assembly with a single stroke cylinder and a regeneration valve system that allows simultaneous extension and retraction of inner and middle sections, using a timing chain for synchronization, and self-lubricating wear pads to enhance speed and reduce maintenance.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Speed
If multiple hydraulic cylinders are used to extend and retract the jib sections, then the jib can achieve extension and retraction function, but the operation becomes slow and the assembly complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple hydraulic cylinders into a single stroke cylinder that performs both extension and retraction functions. The single cylinder is configured with a piston rod that simultaneously connects to the inner section and middle section, allowing one cylinder to replace what would traditionally require multiple cylinders for coordinated movement of multiple sections.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs a regeneration valve in the hydraulic system to enable the single stroke cylinder to perform bidirectional movement. The regeneration valve allows hydraulic fluid to be recirculated in a way that enables the cylinder to extend and retract the jib sections efficiently, achieving fast operation with minimal hydraulic components.
2Ease of operation
If multiple hydraulic cylinders are used to control jib sections, then the jib can achieve simultaneous extension and retraction, but the assembly and maintenance becomes complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple control functions into a single stroke cylinder assembly. By combining the extension and retraction mechanisms into one integrated cylinder with a single piston rod connecting multiple sections, the design reduces the number of separate components that need to be assembled and maintained, while still achieving simultaneous movement of multiple jib sections.
3Strength
If traditional jib structures are used, then the jib can maintain structural strength, but the weight becomes excessive
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a nested section design where the inner section is positioned within the middle section, which is positioned within the outer section. This telescoping arrangement allows the jib to achieve full extension for reach while maintaining a compact, lightweight retracted configuration. The nested structure reduces the amount of material required compared to traditional non-nested designs, thereby reducing weight while preserving strength.
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 jib assembly achieves faster extension and retraction speeds, reduces weight and complexity, and lowers maintenance requirements, while maintaining strength and reducing grease usage.
Implementation Method 1
the regeneration valve being connected to the stroke cylinder via a first tube and a second tube
Implementation Method 2
a timing chain removably attached to the outer section and to an extreme external surface of the inner section, such that, when the stroke cylinder is activated, and the stroke cylinder extends the inner section and the middle section from the outer section, the timing chain synchronizes simultaneous extension of the inner section and the middle section from the outer section
Implementation Method 3
a pair of hose rollers removably attached inside the middle section to each one of two opposite middle section side walls, the hose rollers being configured to roll hoses into the inner section and the middle section when the jib assembly extends and retracts
Implementation Method 4
self-lubricating wear pads to enhance speed and reduce maintenance
Data Source
AI summary
A jib assembly and a method of operating a jib assembly are provided. The jib assembly comprises: an outer section having a hollow outer body; a middle section having a hollow middle body and positioned coaxially with the outer section and located partially inside the outer section; an inner section having a hollow inner body and positioned coaxially with the middle section, and located partially inside the middle section; and a stroke cylinder having a cylinder base and a piston end, the cylinder base of the stroke cylinder being connected to a base wall of the outer section and the piston end being connected to a tip portion of the inner section, and the stroke cylinder being configured to move simultaneously the inner section from inside of the middle section and to move the middle section from inside of the outer section.