Synthetic Turf Roll Cart with Swivel Casters and Cradle Support
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing synthetic turf systems face challenges in efficient storage and handling, particularly in facilities that require frequent installation and removal of turf for different events, as they lack a robust and efficient system for transporting and storing rolled sections of synthetic turf.
Innovation Solution
A cart and rack storage and handling system is designed with a frame structure incorporating longitudinal and lateral members, swivel casters, and hitch balls, allowing for easy transportation and secure storage of synthetic turf rolls using forklifts and tow vehicles, and featuring a cradle system for supporting rolls to prevent damage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If synthetic turf is stored in rolls for frequent installation and removal, then adaptability for multi-purpose events is improved, but handling and storage efficiency deteriorates due to lack of proper equipment
Solution Approach 1:
The cart incorporates swivel casters that enable self-propelled movement, allowing the cart to service itself during transportation without requiring additional handling equipment or manual lifting, thereby improving handling efficiency while maintaining adaptability for event setup
Solution Approach 2:
The cart design with standardized frame dimensions and hitch ball configurations enables it to perform multiple functions: transporting turf rolls, being towed by various vehicles, and being maneuvered in storage areas, thus improving both adaptability and handling efficiency simultaneously
2Device complexity
If turf rolls are transported without proper support structures, then device complexity is reduced, but damage to turf rolls increases during handling
Solution Approach 1:
The support structure is segmented into multiple lateral members positioned at different heights and locations within the frame, with each segment providing localized support to different portions of the turf roll, preventing damage while maintaining overall structural simplicity
Solution Approach 2:
The lateral members act as intermediary support elements between the turf roll and the ground/external forces, distributing loads and preventing direct contact that could cause damage, thus protecting turf integrity without requiring complex active support systems
3Device complexity
If turf rolls are stored without proper drainage, then device complexity is reduced, but damage from water accumulation increases
Solution Approach 1:
The lateral members are positioned to create equipotential support surfaces that prevent water accumulation by ensuring proper grading and drainage paths, allowing water to naturally flow off the turf rolls without requiring active pumping or complex drainage systems
Solution Approach 2:
The drainage function is achieved through the basic geometric configuration of the lateral members and frame, allowing the structure to naturally drain water through gravity without requiring additional active drainage components, thus protecting turf from water damage while maintaining simplicity
4Device complexity
If manual handling of turf rolls is used, then equipment cost is reduced, but handling time and physical effort increase
Solution Approach 1:
The cart incorporates swivel casters that enable dynamic, easy maneuvering of heavy turf rolls, reducing the physical effort and time required for handling while maintaining relatively simple equipment structure compared to fixed or rigid transport systems
Solution Approach 2:
The design replaces manual lifting and carrying mechanics with a wheeled cart system that uses rolling friction (which is much lower than sliding or lifting friction), thereby reducing handling time and effort while keeping the equipment structure relatively simple
Data Source
AI summary
A cart for use with rolls of synthetic turf comprising a first and second spaced apart longitudinal members; first and second lateral members between the first and second longitudinal members, the lateral members having at least one hitch ball disposed thereon; a plurality of lateral members between the first and second longitudinal members with one or more having an opening sized to receive a fork on a forklift and a hitch ball disposed thereon; first, second, third and fourth swivel casters having at least one wheel and disposed inside a perimeter defined by the first and second longitudinal members and the first and second lateral member; and a support member having at least one curved surface to from a cradle for receiving the one or more rolls of synthetic turf.