Waste Container Coupling Head with Movable Gate Operator
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing devices for handling and emptying waste collection containers lack adaptability to operate interchangeably with different types of containers, as they are not capable of accommodating various handle and gate operator configurations, particularly those requiring either pulling or pushing mechanisms for operation.
Innovation Solution
A coupling head integrated with a crane arm, featuring a first holding member for gripping the container handle and a second holding member for interacting with the gate operator, along with a displacing mechanism, all controlled by a programmable unit that adapts to different container types by adjusting handle gripping and release positions, operator interaction, and gate opening and closing positions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If fixed fork configuration holding members are used to grip the container handle, then the structure is simple, but the adaptability to different container types is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The holding members are designed with movable elements that can change their configuration dynamically. The first holding member has movable gripping elements that can adjust to different handle positions, and the second holding member has movable pushing elements that can adapt to different gate operator positions, enabling the device to handle various container types without structural modification
Solution Approach 2:
The coupling head is designed as a universal device that can interact with multiple types of containers through its programmable control unit. The control unit stores multiple sequences for different container types and can automatically select and execute the appropriate sequence, making the same device structure adaptable to various container configurations
2Adaptability or versatility
If the device is designed for a specific gate operator configuration, then the operation is simple, but the versatility to handle different gate operator types is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The control unit receives feedback information about the container type and gate operator configuration, then automatically adjusts the operating sequence accordingly. This feedback mechanism allows the device to adapt to different gate operator types without requiring manual reconfiguration or complex operational procedures by the user
Solution Approach 2:
The control unit stores multiple pre-programmed sequences that represent different container and gate operator configurations. By copying and executing the appropriate pre-stored sequence based on the detected container type, the device achieves versatility while maintaining simple operation through automatic sequence selection
3Adaptability or versatility
If movable elements are added to the second holding member for pushing gate operators, then the adaptability to different gate operator positions is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The movable pushing elements of the second holding member are nested within the coupling head structure, allowing them to extend and retract as needed. This nesting arrangement enables the pushing function to be integrated into the compact coupling head without significantly increasing the overall device footprint or structural complexity
Data Source
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AI summary
The present invention relates to a device and method for handling and emptying waste collection containers comprises a coupling head (40) integrating a head structure (41) attached to the end of a crane arm integrated in a vehicle, bearing a first holding member (10) intended for holding a handle (1) of a container (3), and a second holding member (20) intended for holding a gate operator (2a, 2b) of a container, the second holding member being movable with respect to the first holding member, and the operators of the coupling head being controllable by means of a programmable control unit provided with at least a first and a second handling configuration, which are adapted, respectively, for handling a container with a gate operator of a first type (2a) and for handling a container with a gate operator of a second type (2b).