Variable Footprint Container Handler Using Tractor-Driven Mobility
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing container handling apparatuses with variable footprints are bulky and heavy due to the inclusion of drive wheels and motors, which complicate design, increase weight, and hinder transportation on standard articulated trucks.
Innovation Solution
A container handling apparatus with a first column connected to a tractor's fifth wheel, utilizing idle ground support wheels and a connection arrangement that moves columns to reduce footprint, eliminating the need for drive wheels and motors, allowing the apparatus to be more compact, lightweight, and transportable.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If drive wheels and motors are included in the container handling apparatus, then the apparatus can move autonomously, but the footprint, weight, and complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The invention extracts the drive function from the container handling apparatus itself and transfers it to the tractor unit. The apparatus is equipped with only idle ground support wheels that have no drive mechanism, thereby eliminating motors and associated control systems. This extraction reduces the apparatus's footprint, weight, and complexity while the tractor's drive wheels provide the necessary movement capability when the apparatus is in the working configuration.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention makes the tractor unit universal by having it perform both the function of moving itself and the function of moving the container handling apparatus. The tractor's drive wheels serve dual purposes: propelling the tractor and providing propulsion for the apparatus when connected. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate drive systems in both the tractor and the apparatus.
2Ease of operation
If drive wheels with motors are integrated into the apparatus, then self-propulsion is achieved, but weight and device complexity increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The invention extracts the motor and control systems from the apparatus design entirely. The apparatus is equipped with simple idle ground support wheels that rotate freely without any drive mechanism. All propulsion functions are extracted and consolidated in the tractor unit, dramatically reducing the apparatus's mechanical complexity and eliminating the need for onboard motors, transmissions, and control systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The tractor unit provides self-service by using its own drive system to propel both itself and the attached container handling apparatus. The apparatus does not need its own propulsion system because the tractor's drive capability serves both functions, eliminating redundant systems and reducing overall complexity.
3Productivity
If the apparatus includes complete drive systems, then autonomous handling is possible, but transportation on standard articulated trucks becomes difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The invention extracts all drive system components from the apparatus that would prevent compact transportation. By removing motors, drive shafts, and associated machinery, the apparatus can be folded or reconfigured into a compact form that fits within the dimensions of standard articulated truck carriages. The autonomous handling capability is preserved through the tractor's propulsion system when the apparatus is deployed.
4Ease of operation
If motors and drive systems are included, then the apparatus can move independently, but design and construction time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The invention extracts the complex motor and drive system design requirements from the apparatus, leaving only simple idle wheel assemblies. This extraction dramatically simplifies the design process, reduces the number of components that need to be engineered and integrated, and shortens construction time. The independent movement capability is achieved through the simpler interface of connecting to the tractor's existing drive system.
Data Source
AI summary
A variable footprint handling apparatus (101) for handling containers (105) is described comprising: a first column (155) adapted to be associated with the fifth wheel (130) of a tractor (110), a second column (175) to which a first idle ground support wheel (180) is idly associated, a third column (200) to which a second idle ground support wheel (205) is idly associated, a lifting arrangement (240, 245, 250, 255, 260, 265, 270, 275, 280, 285) for lifting the container (105), and a connection arrangement (220, 230, 235) that connects the second column (175) and the third column (200) to the first column (155) and is configured to move at least one of the three columns with respect to another of the three columns between a first position, and a second position, wherein a footprint in plan of the apparatus in said second position is smaller than a footprint in plan of the apparatus in said first position.