Vehicle Loading Part Drone Connection Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing coupling systems for commercial vehicles, particularly those with autonomous drone units, face challenges in efficient space utilization and interference avoidance when the loading box is separated from the chassis frame, leading to excessive space occupation, especially in limited spaces like distribution centers.
Innovation Solution
An apparatus with a multi-locking structure featuring a connecting unit and a receiving unit, utilizing a shape memory alloy variable part that changes volume with temperature to enable secure connection and easy disconnection between the drone unit and the loading part, incorporating a bolt part for enhanced locking and a tapered variable part for efficient space management.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the loading box is separated from the chassis frame to lower its height for easier load transport, then the accessibility of loads is improved, but the space occupied by the loading box and outrigger increases excessively
Solution Approach 1:
The loading box is nested within the chassis frame structure when not in use, with the outrigger folded into a compact position alongside the frame. This nesting approach allows the loading box to be easily accessed when needed while minimizing the space occupied when stored, directly resolving the contradiction between accessibility and space occupation.
Solution Approach 2:
The loading box and outrigger are designed with dynamic positioning capabilities, allowing them to be extended or retracted based on operational needs. When loads need to be transported, the loading box can be lowered and extended for accessibility; when not in use, it retracts to minimize space occupation, thus resolving the static space constraint.
2Object-affected harmful factors
If the upper end of the frame and lower end of the loading box are excessively spaced apart to avoid interference when separated, then the avoidance of mutual interference is improved, but the space occupation increases
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of resolving interference through vertical spacing alone, the design incorporates horizontal dimension adjustments through the outrigger mechanism. The outrigger can extend horizontally to provide clearance and avoid interference between the loading box and chassis frame, thereby reducing the vertical space needed while preventing mutual interference.
Solution Approach 2:
The outrigger acts as an intermediary element between the loading box and the chassis frame, providing structural support and maintaining appropriate spacing to avoid interference. This mediator component allows the loading box to be positioned closer to the frame without causing mutual interference, thus reducing overall space occupation.
3Ease of operation
If a multi-locking structure with shape memory alloy is used to enable temperature-dependent connection and disconnection, then the ease of connection and disconnection is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The connecting apparatus utilizes shape memory alloy components that change their physical properties (shape and stiffness) in response to temperature changes. By applying heat, the alloy transitions from a deformed state to its original shape, automatically locking or unlocking the connection. This parameter-based control simplifies operation while the complexity is confined to the material level rather than requiring complex mechanical actuation systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The traditional mechanical locking system with multiple bolts and levers is replaced by a shape memory alloy-based locking mechanism. The thermal actuation of the alloy substitutes for complex mechanical operation, enabling easy connection and disconnection through temperature control rather than manual manipulation of multiple components, thus improving ease of operation while managing device complexity.
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
The apparatus provides a secure multi-locking effect between the drone unit and the loading part, allowing easy temperature-dependent disconnection and maintaining a high connecting force, thereby optimizing space usage and preventing interference.
Implementation Method 1
a variable part configured to surround outer surfaces of the extension part and the engagement part and to be changed in volume at a predetermined position depending on a temperature
Data Source
AI summary
An embodiment apparatus includes a loading part of a vehicle, a drone unit connected with the loading part and configured to apply a driving force of the vehicle, a connecting unit positioned on a lower side of the loading part and connected with a part of an upper side of the drone unit, and a receiving unit positioned on the upper side of the drone unit and corresponding to the connecting unit.