Wearing Edge Attachment System Isolates Metal Contact
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing snow plow blade systems face issues with uneven wear, metal-to-metal contact, and inadequate adaptation to varying road surfaces, along with challenges in easy replacement and eco-friendly disposal.
Innovation Solution
A removable wearing edge attachment system with a flexible means that isolates the wearing edge from metal contact, using a mounting assembly with a flexible element and fastening mechanism to accommodate uneven surfaces and allow independent movement, eliminating metal-to-metal contact and facilitating easy installation and replacement.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a traditional metal blade is used for snow removal, then the blade can effectively cut through snow and ice, but the blade suffers from extensive wear due to metal-to-metal contact with uneven road surfaces and obstacles
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a flexible element as an intermediary between the metal blade and the road surface. This flexible element acts as a mediator that absorbs the metal-to-metal contact, allowing the blade to maintain its cutting function while preventing direct wear through the use of a compliant material that deforms under load.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs a flexible element that functions as a thin film or shell between the rigid blade structure and the road surface. This flexible component conforms to uneven surfaces and obstacles, eliminating the need for rigid metal-to-metal contact while maintaining the blade's effectiveness in cutting through snow and ice.
2Strength
If a rigid blade is used to maintain structural strength, then the blade can withstand impact forces, but it cannot accommodate uneven road surfaces resulting in uneven and premature wear
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the blade system into distinct segments: a rigid blade portion that provides structural strength and cutting capability, and a flexible element that provides adaptability. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specialized function without compromising the other.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces dynamic characteristics to the blade system through the flexible element, which can deform and adapt its shape in response to uneven road surfaces and obstacles. This dynamic behavior allows the rigid blade to maintain its strength while the flexible portion accommodates surface variations.
3Stability of the object's composition
If the blade is permanently fixed to the vehicle for structural stability, then the attachment is secure, but replacement and disposal become difficult and costly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the attachment system into a permanent mounting structure and a removable blade assembly. The mounting structure remains fixed to the vehicle providing stable attachment points, while the blade assembly with its flexible element can be easily removed and replaced when worn, without requiring removal of the entire mounting system.
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 system reduces wear, enhances snow removal efficiency, and allows for eco-friendly disposal while maintaining contact with the road surface, reducing the risk of catastrophic failure and operational costs.
Implementation Method 1
a flexible means adapted to surround and engage a portion of the wearing edge
Data Source
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AI summary
A wearing edge attachment system including a mounting assembly having a first portion adapted to engage a support on a vehicle, and a second portion. The wearing edge attachment system further includes at least one wearing edge, a flexible means adapted to surround and engage a portion the wearing edge and a fastening means. The fastening means secures the flexible means and the wearing edge to the second portion of the mounting assembly.