Vehicle Coupler Hook and Stop for Single-Worker Equipment Relocation
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Solution Overview
Problem
The conventional arrangement of concrete grinders, pre-separators, and vacuums is labor-intensive, requiring two workers to relocate the equipment, leading to inefficient use of pre-separators and frequent vacuum filter replacements due to unfiltered large dust particles, which increases operating costs and discourages the use of pre-separators.
Innovation Solution
A coupler is designed to easily connect and move pre-separators and vacuums together, allowing one worker to relocate both while the other continues grinding, thereby increasing efficiency and encouraging the use of pre-separators to filter out 80-90% of large dust particles.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If conventional separate equipment arrangement is used, then equipment relocation requires two workers, but this increases labor intensity and reduces efficiency
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the pre-separator and vacuum into a single integrated filtration system with a unified frame structure. This merging allows one worker to relocate the entire combined equipment instead of two workers handling separate devices, directly resolving the labor intensity issue while maintaining full filtration functionality.
2Reliability
If pre-separator is not used frequently, then equipment simplicity is maintained, but large dust particles enter vacuum causing frequent filter replacements
Solution Approach 1:
The pre-separator and vacuum are merged into a single integrated unit where the pre-separator is positioned upstream of the vacuum within the same frame. This permanent integration ensures large particles are always filtered before reaching the vacuum, extending filter lifetime without requiring complex operational configurations or additional equipment.
3Productivity
If two workers are required for relocation, then equipment handling is manageable, but operating costs increase and efficiency decreases
Solution Approach 1:
By integrating the pre-separator and vacuum into one unified device with a common frame and combined wheels, the total equipment weight and footprint are optimized for single-person handling. This merging reduces the workforce requirement from two workers to one, directly improving productivity and reducing operational costs.
4Reliability
If pre-separator is integrated with vacuum, then filtration efficiency improves, but manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The pre-separator and vacuum are manufactured as an integrated unit with a unified frame structure, shared wheels, and combined mounting points. This approach consolidates multiple manufacturing processes into one cohesive production line, reducing overall assembly complexity compared to assembling and coordinating separate equipment pieces.
Data Source
AI summary
A method and apparatus are provided for coupling a first and second wheeled vehicle. The apparatus includes a first area with a stop to engage an undersurface of the first wheeled vehicle and a second area with spaced apart openings to receive wheels of the second vehicle. The apparatus also includes a hook member positioned between the first and second areas and including surfaces to engage a perimeter of the frame of the first wheeled vehicle. The method includes engaging a perimeter of the frame of the first wheeled vehicle with the hook member. The method further includes rotating the stop about an engagement point between the hook member and the frame of the first wheeled vehicle until the stop engages an undersurface of the frame. The method further includes positioning a pair of wheels of the second vehicle in the spaced apart openings.