Autonomous Waste Semi-Trailer Engine and Tank Support
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing waste collection semi-trailers rely on diesel engines for lifting and compacting waste, leading to high energy consumption and operational costs, as well as inefficiencies in energy use and positioning of fuel tanks.
Innovation Solution
A semi-trailer equipped with an autonomous methane engine and optimized gas tank support system, allowing for independent operation from the tractor, using natural gas or LPG for lifting and compacting means, with secure and efficient tank positioning and release mechanisms.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Use of energy by moving object
If diesel engines are used for lifting and compacting waste in semi-trailers, then the lifting and compacting functions are achieved, but energy consumption and operational costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The waste collection system is divided into two independent power units: the tractor provides propulsion while the semi-trailer houses an autonomous diesel engine for lifting and compacting operations. This segmentation allows each unit to be optimized for its specific function, reducing overall energy consumption while maintaining productivity.
Solution Approach 2:
The semi-trailer is equipped with its own diesel engine and fuel tank, enabling it to independently power the lifting and compacting mechanisms without relying on the tractor's engine. This self-service capability eliminates the energy consumption associated with towing a non-autonomous trailer while maintaining waste collection efficiency.
2Device complexity
If fuel tanks are positioned in conventional locations in semi-trailers, then the structure is simple, but energy consumption increases and operational efficiency decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The fuel tank is repositioned from conventional locations to the rear section of the semi-trailer, utilizing previously underutilized space. This spatial reconfiguration optimizes the center of gravity and reduces the moment arm for the fuel weight, thereby decreasing energy consumption during lifting and compacting operations while maintaining structural simplicity.
3Use of energy by moving object
If autonomous engine is added to semi-trailer for independent operation, then energy consumption is reduced, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The diesel engine installed in the semi-trailer serves multiple functions: it powers the lifting mechanism, drives the compacting system, and can potentially provide auxiliary power for other trailer systems. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate power sources and minimizes overall system complexity despite the addition of the autonomous engine.
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 semi-trailer achieves low energy consumption and cost-effectiveness by utilizing an autonomous methane engine for lifting and compacting waste, ensuring efficient and economic operation.
Implementation Method 1
the engine for moving the lifting means 111a and the compacting means 111b is autonomous and powered by fuel, gas or LPG
Data Source
Figure 1a~1b
Figure 2a~2b
Figure 3~3b
AI summary
Semi-trailer (100) for waste collecting vehicles comprising: a collecting main body (110) able to be connected to a tractor of a waste collecting vehicle provided with an engine; waste lifting means (111a); compacting means (111b), placed at an end of the main body (110); a further engine able to move the lifting means (111a) and the compacting means (111b); and at least a support (102) to store tanks (101) containing gas or LPG, said support (102) comprising a first supporting element (102a) and a second supporting element (102b) shaped as an outer circumference of the tanks (101). Said tanks (101) comprise a first tank (101a) and a second tank (101b) horizontally placed into the first supporting element (102a) of each support (102), and a third tank (101c) placed over the second supporting element (102b), in a position such as to stand over the second tank (101b).