Traffic Cone Delivery Device Using Nested Drums and Helical Grooves
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing automated systems for delivering traffic cones are mechanically complex, slow, susceptible to interference, and have disadvantages when refilling the repository, particularly in large-scale construction scenarios.
Innovation Solution
A device comprising coaxially arranged outer and inner drums with a helix-shaped groove and blocking mechanism allows for efficient axial movement and storage of traffic cones, with an adjustable drive for rotating the drums to facilitate cone delivery and retrieval, and a placement device with grabbers for precise placement and pickup.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Extent of automation
If existing automated systems are used for delivering traffic cones, then the placement can be automated, but the system becomes mechanically complex and slow
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs nested drums where an inner drum is placed inside an outer drum, both rotating about the same axis. The cones are stored in the space between these nested drums, allowing compact storage and simple rotational delivery mechanisms without complex mechanical structures.
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of using complex mechanical arms or conveyors to deliver cones, the patent inverts the approach by using simple rotating drums where cones are delivered through their own axial movement and gravity, eliminating the need for complex delivery mechanisms.
2Extent of automation
If existing automated systems are used for delivering traffic cones, then the placement can be automated, but the placement speed decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The cones are designed with self-aligning features where the flange on the cone base automatically engages with the helical groove on the drum surface. This self-service mechanism eliminates the need for complex positioning systems and allows rapid delivery without slowing down the placement process.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent positions the drum rotation axis and cone delivery point to utilize gravity, allowing cones to move axially along the helical groove under gravitational force rather than requiring additional mechanical propulsion, thereby maintaining high placement speed.
3Extent of automation
If existing automated systems are used for delivering traffic cones, then the placement can be automated, but the system becomes susceptible to interference
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the cone storage and delivery system into independent rotating drums with simple rotational movement. This segmentation isolates potential interference points and allows the system to continue operating even if one drum experiences minor issues, improving overall reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses simple, robust drum structures with basic helical grooves rather than complex, precision-engineered mechanisms. These simpler components are less susceptible to interference and damage, and can be easily replaced if needed, enhancing system reliability.
4Extent of automation
If existing automated systems are used for delivering traffic cones, then the placement can be automated, but refilling the repository becomes problematic
Solution Approach 1:
The patent designs the drum structure with open access to the cone storage space between the inner and outer drums. This preliminary design consideration allows cones to be easily loaded into the repository during maintenance stops without requiring complex refilling mechanisms, making the refilling process simple and efficient.
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 enhances the efficiency and reliability of traffic cone delivery and retrieval, reduces material and weight, and minimizes the risk of cones getting stuck, while allowing for flexible orientation and operation in both horizontal and vertical directions.
Implementation Method 1
one of the inner and outer drum comprises a helix shaped groove at a side facing the other of the inner and outer drum
Implementation Method 2
The cones are then moved with at least an axial component by the groove which then serves as a screw
Implementation Method 3
with a vertical direction, gravity may assist in the movement of the cones
Data Source
AI summary
Device for delivering traffic cones that have a cone mantle that comprises a flange at its broadest end, comprising a repository for the traffic cones, comprising an outer drum and an inner drum, both arranged coaxially about the same length axis with respect to each other and mutually rotatable with respect to each other about said same axis wherein one of the inner and outer drum comprises a helix shaped groove at a side facing the other of the inner and outer drum, and the other of the inner and outer drum comprises a blocking, for at least partly prohibiting movement of a cone in the direction of the mutual movement of the inner and outer drum and a drive for mutually rotating the inner and outer drum.