Work Implement Sensor Mounting Cover for Damage Protection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional sensor mounting arrangements for construction machine work implements are susceptible to damage, lack durability, and are not cost-effective or retrofittable.
Innovation Solution
A sensor mounting system for construction machine work implements featuring a cover with a removably coupled sensor disposed within a hollow space defined by the implement's walls and plate member, secured by mechanical fasteners, allowing easy installation and protection from damage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If a sensor is coupled to the work implement using a welded mounting arrangement, then the sensor mounting is durable and strong, but the mounting arrangement presents durability risks and is not retrofittable or cost-effective
Solution Approach 1:
The mounting arrangement is divided into separate components: a mounting bracket that attaches to the work implement and a cover that protects the sensor. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized independently and enables easy installation and replacement without welding.
Solution Approach 2:
The welded mounting arrangement is replaced with a mechanical fastening system using bolts or screws. This substitution eliminates the need for welding while providing sufficient strength and allowing for easy disassembly and retrofitting.
2Ease of operation
If a sensor is mounted on the work implement, then the sensor can detect work implement type, but the sensor and mounting arrangement are susceptible to damage from material overflow or contact with obstacles
Solution Approach 1:
The sensor is nested within the hollow space of the work implement by positioning it on the cover that forms part of the hollow space boundary. This nesting protects the sensor from external damage while maintaining its operational functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The cover acts as an intermediary protective element between the sensor and harmful factors such as material overflow and obstacle contact. The cover shields the sensor while still allowing the sensor to detect work implement type information.
3Stability of the object's composition
If a welded mounting arrangement is used for the sensor, then the sensor is securely attached, but the arrangement is not retrofittable and costs more
Solution Approach 1:
The mounting system transitions from a static welded connection to a dynamic mechanical fastening system that can be easily assembled and disassembled. This dynamic approach enables retrofitting on existing work implements while maintaining stable sensor attachment during operation.
Data Source
AI summary
A work implement for a construction machine includes a collection member, a first side wall, a second side wall, and a plate member coupled to the collection member, the first side wall, and the second side wall. The collection member, the first side wall, the second side wall, and the plate member together define a hollow space. Further, at least one of the first side wall, the second side wall, and the plate member define an opening that communicates with the hollow space. The work implement further includes a sensor mounting system including a cover, a plurality of mechanical fasteners adapted to couple the cover with the work implement, and a sensor mounted on the cover. Upon coupling of the cover with the first side wall, the sensor is partially received within the hollow space.