Iron remover for cables

Abstract

An ice removal system for cables on bridges, consisting of: an adjustable ring-shaped stainless steel construction for cables of different diameters with a firm and stable hold, without slipping; at least six ball-bearing rubber wheels for smooth gliding along the cable without damaging its surface; an AC drive system with a 300 W AC motor to drive a gearbox that has a roller and all rollers are driven synchronously to ensure free movement; a fixed blade that is rigidly mounted on the machine and serves to scrape and push the ice away from the cable, when the device moves the cable upwards; and a remotely controlled system for switching on and off, raising and lowering, and torque operation to achieve the maximum ice removal flow in each case.

Description

TECHNICAL AREA

[0001] The present invention relates to ice removal devices and their technologies. More precisely, the present invention provides a control system for an ice removal device that enables remote control with precise movement via a wireless system. BACKGROUND

[0002] Ice buildup on bridge cables is a serious problem in cold climates, leading to additional structural stress, potential cable damage, and dangerous icefall. If left unchecked, ice accumulation can pose a serious safety hazard to vehicles, people, and the bridge structure itself. Various de-icing techniques have been employed to combat this phenomenon, but most are costly, time-consuming, or toxic. There is a need for a safe and effective method for the efficient de-icing of bridge cables.

[0003] Conventional ice removal methods have several disadvantages. Cable clamps are devices where mechanical tools are manually attached to cables and released to break the ice. However, this process is time-consuming and requires personnel to climb the bridge structure. Therefore, it is extremely dangerous and labor-intensive. Chemical de-icing agents such as salt solutions are widely used but damage bridge materials through corrosion and are environmentally unfriendly. Heating cables are an option but are energy-intensive and require significant installation effort. Manual removal with tools is also common but inefficient, time-consuming, and dangerous for workers. Therefore, there is a need for a device that eliminates the manual effort involved in removing ice from wires and cables. The present invention effectively overcomes the aforementioned problems, limitations, and disadvantages. GOAL OF THE INVENTION

[0004] The main objective of the present invention is to provide a reliable, efficient, and remotely controllable device for de-icing bridge cables. Manual scraping of ice, chemical de-icing, and de-icing of hot cables are traditional methods that are costly, dangerous, and environmentally damaging.

[0005] Another goal is to reduce the use of bridge structures and the climbing of bridges, thereby avoiding various safety risks. At the same time, the device is intended to be an effective de-icing agent.

[0006] Another goal is to provide a battery-powered device that glides over the cable with an interchangeable blade and scrapes off accumulated ice - a fast and efficient de-icing system. SUMMARY

[0007] The various embodiments of the invention disclose a remote-controlled de-icing machine that safely and efficiently removes ice from bridge cables. It consists of an expanding rubber ring with six rubber wheels that firmly encircle the cable. A gear-driven system with a 300 W AC motor moves the machine along the cable. A removable blade removes the ice. The ring can be expanded to accommodate cables of different diameters, thus enabling easy handling. It can be used repeatedly and across multiple cables, allowing it to be used for several cables or multiple devices simultaneously. Thanks to the wireless remote control, users can move and rotate the machine remotely without compromising their safety. The expansion port allows for the simultaneous power supply of multiple devices and is therefore scalable for large bridges.The invention is cost-effective and durable and contributes to the safety of bridges as well as to maintenance work under harsh winter conditions. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWING

[0008] The following illustration shows the structural and functional design of the ice removal device for cable bridges. This device is compact, detachable, and remotely controlled, and is specifically designed for the effective ice removal from bridge cables. Fig. Figure 1 shows a schematic representation of the device according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0009] The drawing shows the remote-controlled ice removal device and its main components. It consists of an ice scraper blade (1) for de-icing, a clamping device (2) for securing the blade, and a stabilizing rod (3). The adjustable stainless steel ring (4) for different cable diameters and the six rubber rollers (6) ensure smooth movement. The 300W AC motor (7) drives the gearbox (8), which in turn drives the rollers. The power cable (5) is connected to the bridge. An expansion port (9) allows the devices to share power for efficient use. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0010] The remote-controlled ice removal system is a new technology for efficiently removing ice from bridge cables. It is an adjustable, ring-shaped system that fits securely around the bridge cable and moves smoothly without causing damage. Six rubber rollers provide stability and guidance. The ring itself is adaptable to different cable diameters, allowing installation on various bridge types. A 300W AC motor drives the gearbox, which moves one of the rubber rollers along the cable. The motor is remotely controlled, allowing the operator to adjust the direction, speed, and torque depending on the ice formation. The ice scraper blade is replaceable and removes the ice from the cable while the system is in motion. This enables effective de-icing without human intervention.

[0011] The unit is easy to install and remove, for example using a handcuff system, allowing maintenance personnel to easily move it from cable to cable. Additional units can be connected in series via an expansion connection system, with power supplied through the connected units. This enables cost-effective de-icing of multiple cables without the need for additional power sources at each unit.

[0012] A 433 MHz or 868 MHz remote control allows for safe operation of the device from a range of 500 meters. Start, stop, direction of movement (up / down), and torque adjustment are all integrated into the controller. The receiver is housed in a protective enclosure near the motor, ensuring reliable operation even in harsh climates. Power is supplied directly from the bridge via a long cable connection, eliminating the need for battery charging or replacement. Weather-resistant components ensure durability and long-term performance. This economical and reliable solution prevents dangerous ice buildup on suspension and cable-stayed bridges. This innovation significantly enhances bridge safety by eliminating the risk of ice formation, which can cause accidents and structural damage.Compared to conventional methods such as manual de-icing, chemical treatment, or cable sleeve systems, this innovation offers an effective, automated, and safer alternative. By eliminating human intervention and the associated risks, it ensures operational efficiency while simultaneously guaranteeing worker safety during bridge maintenance.

[0013] Another major advantage of the tool is its interchangeability and recyclability. After de-icing a single cable, it can be replaced and installed on another cable, thus efficiently and reliably servicing multiple bridge cables.

[0014] The device is scalable, meaning multiple units can be operated in parallel. It features an expansion connection system that allows multiple units to be powered and interconnected, increasing efficiency when dealing with many cables on a large bridge. The rubber wheels provide traction without damaging the cables.

[0015] Power is supplied via a wireless remote control (433 MHz or 868 MHz), allowing the operator to remotely control movement, direction, and torque from a safe distance. Constructed from durable and weather-resistant materials, the device withstands even the harshest winter conditions. Compared to conventional de-icing methods, this invention represents an efficient, scalable, and environmentally friendly approach. By increasing bridge safety, reducing maintenance costs, and delivering overall improved performance, this device provides an economical and long-term solution for ice formation control on suspension and cable-stayed bridges.

[0016] The invention eliminates the need to climb bridge cables for ice removal, thus reducing the risk of falls and accidents. The system is remotely controlled, protecting maintenance personnel from harsh weather conditions. Ice removal becomes safer and more efficient, without endangering human lives.

[0017] The driven gearbox prevents uneven and inconsistent ice removal from the cable, as well as structural damage. The folding blade and rotating rubber rollers push the ice downwards, eliminating the risk of dangerous ice buildup. This results in increased bridge safety and reduced maintenance.

[0018] Operation is via a wireless remote control with a 500-meter range, allowing for convenient remote control. Movement, power, and torque can be controlled wirelessly. This minimizes manual handling in adverse climatic conditions.

[0019] The detachable design allows for easy removal from one cable and attachment to another, thus simplifying recycling. The device is very practical and effective, eliminating the need for various specialized tools. Thanks to its easy portability, ice can be easily removed from many bridge cables.

[0020] The ring expansion process makes the device versatile and suitable for various cable diameters. This versatility ensures smooth operation and efficient de-icing. The ring design is robust yet capable of continuous operation. The device also features an expansion port, allowing additional units to be connected and powered from a single power source. Simultaneous de-icing of multiple cables is more efficient and convenient. The power consumption of individual power outlets is minimized, simplifying mass de-icing. Reference numbers: 1 ice scraper blade 2 clamping mechanism 3 support poles 4 Extendable stainless steel rings 5 power cables 6 rubber rollers 7 engine 8 gearboxes 9 expansion ports

Claims

[1] An ice removal system for cables on bridges, consisting of: an adjustable ring-shaped stainless steel construction for cables of different diameters with a firm and stable hold, without slipping; at least six ball-bearing rubber wheels for smooth gliding along the cable without damaging its surface; an AC drive system with a 300 W AC motor to drive a gearbox that has a roller and all rollers are driven synchronously to ensure free movement; a fixed blade that is rigidly mounted on the machine and serves to scrape and push the ice away from the cable, when the device moves the cable upwards; and a remotely controlled system for switching on and off, raising and lowering, and torque operation to achieve the maximum ice removal flow in each case. [2] Ice removal system according to claim 1, wherein the ring-shaped frame is designed like handcuffs to allow easy and safe assembly and disassembly on bridge cables. [3] Ice removal system according to claim 1, wherein the rubber rollers are made of hard, non-abrasive material so that they can move freely on the cable without damaging the surface of the bridge cable. [4] Ice removal system according to claim 1, wherein the removable blade neither shifts nor rotates and ensures uniform ice scraping when the device is moved. [5] Ice removal system according to claim 1, wherein the power supply is provided directly via the bridge network and has no integrated batteries. The power cable is permanently attached to the bridge cable and cannot become tangled during transport or impair operation.

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