Multi-Component Trunnion Block Assembly for Heavy-Load Floor Jacks
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Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional floor jacks with unitary trunnion blocks are prone to structural failure under significant forces and stresses due to the weakness at the point where trunnions and the end block are formed as a single unit, leading to potential shearing or fracturing when lifting heavy vehicles.
Innovation Solution
A multi-component trunnion block assembly is introduced, featuring separate trunnions coupled to a block via fasteners, providing additional strength by allowing lateral and directional forces to be transferred effectively to the lifting arm, enhancing structural integrity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If a unitary trunnion block is used, then the structure is simpler and easier to manufacture, but the structural integrity and strength are reduced under heavy loads
Solution Approach 1:
The trunnion block is divided into separate components: a main block body and multiple trunnions that are detachably connected. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized independently for strength while maintaining manufacturing simplicity. The trunnions can be separately forged or cast to achieve optimal grain structure and strength properties without complicating the overall manufacturing process.
Solution Approach 2:
The trunnion block assembly uses composite construction combining the block body with attached trunnion components. This composite approach allows different materials or heat treatments to be applied to different parts, optimizing the overall structural integrity under heavy loads while maintaining ease of manufacture through modular assembly.
2Device complexity
If a unitary trunnion block is used, then the device complexity is reduced, but the reliability under significant forces deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
By segmenting the trunnion block into a block body and separate trunnions, the design achieves improved reliability under significant forces. Each segment can be designed and manufactured to optimal specifications, and the assembly uses simple fastening mechanisms that do not significantly increase overall device complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The fastening mechanism acts as an intermediary that reliably connects the trunnions to the block body. This intermediary connection allows the separate components to function as a unified, reliable structure under heavy loads while maintaining manageable device complexity through standardized fastening methods.
3Strength
If separate trunnions are used instead of a unitary block, then the strength and structural integrity are improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The segmentation of the trunnion block into separate trunnions and block body improves structural integrity by allowing each component to be optimized for its specific mechanical demands. The complexity increase is minimized through the use of simple, standardized fastening mechanisms that easily attach the trunnions to the block.
Solution Approach 2:
Each trunnion and the block body can have different local qualities in terms of material composition, heat treatment, or geometric features optimized for their specific functions. This local optimization enhances overall strength while the modular nature keeps the assembly process simple and the overall device complexity manageable.
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention relates broadly to a floor jack and a multi-component trunnion assembly that transfers motion of a power unit to the lifting arm of the jack. The end block may include one or more trunnions that are coupled to the block. The trunnions may engage and be coupled to one or more connection plates coupled to the lifting arm of the jack. A hydraulic power unit, including at least one piston may be coupled to the trunnion block for lifting the lifting arm of the jack.