Two-Element Hose Lifter Control for Preset Hovering Heights
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing hose lifters with manually operated vent valves often automatically retract to their end position, which is undesirable for maintaining a preset hovering height, and they lack an intuitive and cost-effective operating mechanism.
Innovation Solution
A one-handed operating device with a valve assembly featuring a pivotable valve flap controlled by two separate operating elements, allowing precise adjustment of the valve flap's opening angle, and a self-locking mechanism to maintain the hose at a preset length, eliminating the need for electrical power and reducing complexity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a manually operated vent valve is used to control the lifting hose, then the hose can be extended and retracted, but the hose automatically retracts to its end position which prevents maintaining a preset hovering height
Solution Approach 1:
The operating device is divided into two separate operating elements: a first operating element for extending the hose and a second operating element for holding the hose at a preset height. This segmentation allows independent control of extension and hovering functions, resolving the contradiction between ease of operation and device complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The valve flap is designed to be adjustable between different opening angles, enabling dynamic control of the venting function. This allows the system to transition between different operating states (extending vs. hovering) by adjusting the valve flap position, thereby maintaining hovering height while keeping the mechanism relatively simple.
2Ease of operation
If a separate locking lever is added to lock the trigger in a defined switching position, then hovering height can be maintained, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The function of maintaining hovering height is merged into the second operating element's control mechanism. By integrating the hovering control directly into the operating elements rather than adding a separate locking lever, the device achieves the desired functionality while minimizing structural complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The two operating elements serve multiple functions: the first element controls hose extension, while the second element controls both hovering and potentially other operations. This multi-functionality reduces the need for additional dedicated components like separate locking levers.
3Measurement precision
If electrical components are used for precise control, then control precision improves, but costs increase and complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The operating elements are designed to provide direct feedback to the operator through their mechanical structure and movement. This self-service feedback mechanism allows precise control of the valve flap opening angle without requiring electrical sensors, motors, or control systems, thereby maintaining control precision while avoiding electrical components.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces potential electrical control systems with a purely mechanical operating mechanism. The mechanical linkage between the operating elements and the valve flap provides inherent control precision through mechanical advantage and geometric relationships, eliminating the need for electrical components.
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
Enables intuitive and reliable operation with direct feedback, preventing uncontrolled retraction, and reduces costs by eliminating the need for electrical components, allowing ergonomic operation and efficient handling of loads.
Implementation Method 1
The lifting tube can be shortened by applying negative pressure to its interior and lengthened again by venting the interior space (i.e., by allowing air, in particular ambient air, to flow into the interior space)
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3
Figure 4a~4c
AI summary
The invention relates to an operating device (22) for a hose lifter comprising an end effector and a lifting hose, comprising a lifting hose connection (26) for flow connection with the hose interior of the lifting hose, an end effector coupling for coupling the end effector to the operating device, a valve assembly (36) for controlling flow connections, and an operating mechanism for actuating the valve assembly, wherein the valve assembly comprises a vent valve for venting the lifting hose connection (26), wherein the vent valve has a valve flap (50) which is adjustable between an open position and a closed position, wherein the operating mechanism comprises a first operating element (40) and a second operating element (42), wherein the first and the second operating elements are mechanically coupled to the valve flap in such a manner as tothat the opening angle of the valve flap can be adjusted by operating the first and/or the second control element.