Container Unloading With Vertical Lift And Rotating Frame
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing container loaders/unloaders occupy significant physical space during unloading, posing challenges in locations with limited space.
Innovation Solution
A container unloading apparatus with a vertical lift mechanism that transitions from a loading to an unloading position while maintaining a compact envelope space, utilizing a frame that moves vertically and rotates relative to a base, allowing efficient use of space.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Area of stationary object
If a conventional container loader/unloader is used, then container unloading function is achieved, but significant physical space is occupied during unloading
Solution Approach 1:
The apparatus employs a vertical lift mechanism that dynamically transitions the frame between a loading position (close to base) and an unloading position (raised and rotated). This dynamic positioning allows the system to occupy minimal space during storage/loading while providing full unloading functionality when needed, resolving the contradiction between compact space occupation and operational capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention introduces vertical movement and rotation dimensions to the traditional horizontal positioning of container handlers. By lifting the frame vertically and rotating it relative to the base, the system achieves compact horizontal footprint while maintaining full unloading function, effectively moving the operation into a different spatial dimension.
2Ease of operation
If the frame is raised vertically for unloading, then unloading access is improved, but the apparatus occupies more space during transition
Solution Approach 1:
The vertical lift mechanism provides controlled, dynamic transition of the frame between positions. The frame is raised vertically only when needed for unloading, then returned to a compact position near the base. This dynamic positioning minimizes the envelope space occupied during transition while maintaining excellent unloading access when the frame is in the raised position.
Solution Approach 2:
The apparatus separates the loading and unloading functions into distinct spatial positions. The loading function occurs when the frame is in the lower position near the base, while unloading occurs when the frame is raised and rotated. This segmentation allows the system to optimize for compact space during loading while providing full access during unloading, without the frame occupying intermediate space during transition.
Data Source
AI summary
An apparatus for emptying the contents of a container. The apparatus may include a base, a frame, and a vertical lift. The lift may include a drive portion fixed to the base and a linearly movable member pivotally coupled to the frame. The drive portion may be configured for driving the linearly movable member for movement relative to the base along a substantially linear axis. The lift may also include a pivot arm having a first end coupled to the base and a second end pivotally coupled to the frame. As the drive portion drives the linearly movable member along the substantially linear axis the frame moves upwardly and rotates relative to the base. The apparatus may include a base and a frame including an extension frame slidably movable between a non-extended position and an extended position. The apparatus may also include a conveyor disposed adjacent the extension frame.