Vehicular Component Handling Apparatus for Mining Equipment
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing methods for removing, installing, and changing vehicular components in large vehicles, such as those used in the mining industry, are costly and pose safety risks due to the size of the components, leading to potential injuries and fatalities from incorrect handling and strain on operators.
Innovation Solution
A carrier device with a U-shaped chassis, a component handling device, and actuators for remote operation, which includes a coupling element to securely move and support large vehicular components, reducing manual strain and enhancing safety through controlled movement and support mechanisms.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If multiple specialized apparatus are used to remove, install, and change vehicular components, then the functionality and reliability are improved, but the device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple specialized apparatus (uncoupling device, receiving apparatus, positioning mechanism) into a single integrated component handling apparatus. This unified system performs multiple functions including uncoupling coupling elements, receiving the vehicular component, and positioning it for installation, thereby reducing the number of separate devices needed while maintaining comprehensive functionality and safety
Solution Approach 2:
The component handling apparatus is designed with multi-functional capabilities to perform various operations on large vehicular components. The apparatus can uncouple coupling elements, receive different types of components, position them accurately, and facilitate their installation or removal, making it a universal solution that replaces multiple specialized tools
2Ease of operation
If manual handling of large vehicular components is performed, then the ease of operation is improved, but the harmful factors and safety risks increase
Solution Approach 1:
The apparatus acts as an intermediary between the operator and the large vehicular component. It provides mechanical assistance through its structure (frame, support members, retaining arms) and automated functions (actuators, motors) to handle the component, thereby reducing the direct physical strain on the operator while maintaining operational control
Solution Approach 2:
The apparatus is designed to perform many operations autonomously or with minimal operator intervention. The actuators and motors automatically execute movements for uncoupling, receiving, positioning, and installing components, reducing the need for manual handling and thereby minimizing operator strain and safety risks
Data Source
AI summary
An apparatus for removing, installing and/or servicing a vehicular component, such as a wheel/tyre, a motor or the like, particularly for large mining and/or earthmoving equipment. The apparatus includes a carrier device (100) and a component handling device (200). The carrier device (100) enables the apparatus to be moved over a substrate surface, and is preferably a U-shaped chassis having a pair of outwardly extending arms (140), and at least three wheels (120,130). The component handling device (200) is removably coupled to the carrier device (100). The component handling device (200) includes a frame (270) of complementary shape to the chassis to support the lower portion of the vehicular component, and, a support element (210). At least one retaining arm (220) extends from the support element (210) to provide support to an upper end of the vehicular component.