Torsion Float Linkage for Multi-Directional Attachment Movement
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing motorized vehicle attachments lack a multi-directional float system that allows for freedom of movement, leading to issues such as digging into the ground or getting caught on obstacles due to fixed positioning and inadequate vertical and horizontal tilting capabilities.
Innovation Solution
A multi-directional float system with a linkage spring mechanism, including a first and second body connected by linkages with rotational springs and joints, allowing for vertical translation, side tilt, and forward tilt, providing adjustable and flexible movement.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a fixed position mounting system is used, then the attachment is stable and secure, but it digs into the ground or gets caught on obstacles like lips, manhole covers, or curbs
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by transitioning from a fixed rigid mounting to a dynamic floating mechanism using hydraulic cylinders. The hydraulic system allows the attachment to move vertically and tilt horizontally, enabling it to adapt to ground contours and obstacles. The float function permits the attachment to rise when encountering obstacles rather than dig in, while the tilt capability allows adjustment to follow ground slopes, thereby preventing ground damage and obstacle catching while maintaining operational reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the positional parameters of the attachment by introducing controlled movement in vertical and horizontal directions. The hydraulic floating mechanism adjusts the vertical position parameter, while the tilt mechanism adjusts the angular orientation parameters. These parameter changes enable the attachment to maintain optimal contact with varying ground surfaces without fixed rigid positioning, preventing damage from digging or obstacle catching.
2Ease of operation
If hydraulic arms are configured to float freely, then the attachment can move up or down, but the arms still move together causing digging into slanted ground
Solution Approach 1:
The patent adds another dimension of movement by introducing horizontal tilting capability in addition to vertical floating. While the hydraulic arms provide vertical movement freedom, the tilt mechanism enables the attachment to rotate horizontally around a longitudinal axis. This additional dimensional freedom allows the attachment to adjust its angle to match slanted ground surfaces, preventing the digging issue that occurs when only vertical movement is available.
Solution Approach 2:
The system enhances dynamics by combining vertical floating with horizontal tilting capabilities. The attachment can dynamically adjust both its height and angle independently, allowing it to follow complex ground contours including slopes and uneven surfaces. This multi-directional dynamic adjustment prevents digging into slanted ground while maintaining ease of operation through hydraulic control.
3Adaptability or versatility
If short horizontal forward-aligned shafts are used for tilting, then the attachment can tilt clockwise and counterclockwise, but it does not address free float in the vertical direction or forward tilting
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies universality by designing a mounting system that performs multiple functions: vertical floating, horizontal tilting, and forward tilting. The hydraulic floating mechanism provides vertical movement freedom, while the tilt mechanisms enable both clockwise-counterclockwise tilting and forward-backward tilting. This multi-functional system addresses all three movement freedoms (vertical translation and two horizontal rotations) that were previously unavailable or limited in existing attachments.
Solution Approach 2:
The system enhances adaptability through dynamic multi-directional movement capabilities. The attachment can independently adjust its vertical position, lateral tilt angle, and forward tilt angle, providing comprehensive adaptability to various ground conditions. This dynamic multi-axial adjustment system enables the attachment to maintain optimal contact with diverse surfaces while preserving ease of hydraulic operation.
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 system offers a large range of motion, configurability, and damping properties, enabling attachments to follow ground contours and reduce the risk of damage by allowing for adaptable and controllable behavior.
Implementation Method 1
The first coupling may include a rotational spring. The first end of the link element may be configured to rotate around a first rotational axis of the rotational spring.
Implementation Method 2
The first element may be configured to rotate around the first rotational axis, engage elastic elements inside the outer tube, and be attached to the link element.
Implementation Method 3
The second coupling may include a ball joint.
Implementation Method 4
The second coupling may include a ball joint and a sliding joint.
Data Source
AI summary
A multi-directional float system is disclosed. The system may include a linkage spring mechanism with a first set of linkages coupling a first body to a second body along a coupling axis. The first set of linkages may include a first linkage and a second linkage spaced apart along a lateral axis. Each linkage may include a link element with a first coupling at a first end and a second coupling at a second end. The first coupling may include a rotational spring with an outer tube and a first element inserted into the outer tube, configured to rotate around a first rotational axis and engage elastic elements inside the outer tube.