Wheel Loader Joint Structure Simplification
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional wheel loader joint structures have a complex configuration and require enhanced strength, which is not adequately addressed by existing designs.
Innovation Solution
A simplified joint structure for wheel loaders comprising a lower member, an upper member with clearance, front joint members, and rear joint members, along with a wire harness for reduced production costs and improved voltage management, and a bracket system for supporting the engine hood, allowing for easy assembly and robust construction.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If a gate-shaped member with multiple plates and reinforcement plates is used for the joint structure, then the strength is ensured, but the configuration becomes complicated
Solution Approach 1:
The joint structure is divided into three functional segments: a lower member for basic connection, an upper member for additional support, and front/rear joint members for positioning. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function while simplifying the overall configuration compared to the conventional multi-plate gate-shaped design.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention merges the functions of multiple separate plates (gate-shaped member, front surface plate, reinforcement plates) into a more integrated structure where the lower member, upper member, and joint members work together as a unified assembly. This combining approach reduces the number of discrete components while maintaining structural strength.
2Strength
If the joint structure is made more robust to ensure strength, then the strength is improved, but the production cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of making the entire joint structure uniformly robust, the invention applies strength enhancement locally at critical locations. The upper member is positioned above the lower member with clearance, and front/rear joint members are added only where structural integrity is most needed, rather than using thick plates throughout the entire structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The joint structure employs a composite construction approach combining different member types (lower member, upper member, joint members) that can be manufactured from appropriate materials for their specific functions, optimizing both strength and manufacturing cost rather than using uniform high-strength materials throughout.
Data Source
AI summary
A working machine includes: a right side panel; a left side panel; and a joint structure configured to joint an upper portion of an intermediate portion of the right side panel and an upper portion of an intermediate portion of the left side panel to each other. The joint structure includes: a lower member configured to joint upper portions of the right side panel and the left side panel to each other; a upper member arranged above the lower member with a clearance kept from the lower member; a front joint member configured to joint a side of a front end of the upper member and a side of a front end of the lower member to each other; a rear joint member configured to joint a side of a rear end of the upper member and a side of a rear end of the lower member to each other.