Empty container spreader electrical protection system and control method

Abstract

The application discloses an empty container lifting appliance electric protection system and a control method, and the empty container lifting appliance electric protection control method comprises a lock opening control method: a controller judges whether an empty container is in a loading state according to a signal of a loading sensor; the controller judges whether the empty container is in a locking state according to a signal of a locking sensor; if the empty container is in the loading state and the locking state, the controller allows to execute a lock opening operation; otherwise, the controller does not allow to execute the lock opening operation. The lifting appliance action is controlled according to the state judgment of the independent sensor on the loading, the lock opening and the locking state, so that the safety accidents are avoided and the equipment is not used incorrectly.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the field of container operations, and more particularly to an electrical protection system and control method for empty container spreaders. Background Technology

[0002] Container spreaders for empty containers typically include two or more manually controllable rotating twistlock devices. After being inserted into the lifting hole of the container, the twistlock device locks securely within the hole by rotating the locking pin in the forward direction, preventing it from disengaging and enabling the entire container to be moved. Rotating the locking pin in the reverse direction returns it to its initial state, allowing it to disengage from the lifting hole and unlock. Generally, the twistlock device is manually controlled. However, if the operator, for any reason, is in a situation that does not meet safety or empty container spreader usage requirements, and cannot accurately judge the situation, they may incorrectly control the opening and closing of the twistlock device. This can lead to serious safety accidents or, at the very least, malfunctions due to improper use of the lifting attachments, resulting in inefficiency. Summary of the Invention

[0003] The purpose of this invention is to provide an electrical protection system and control method for empty container lifting equipment. Based on the status judgment of the container being lifted, unlocked, and locked by independent sensors, the system controls the lifting equipment's actions to avoid safety accidents and misuse of the equipment.

[0004] An electrical protection control method for an empty container lifting device, the method including an unlocking control method: the controller determines whether the device is in a loaded state based on the signal from the loaded sensor; and determines whether the device is in a locked state based on the signal from the locked sensor; if the device is in both a loaded and locked state, the unlocking operation is allowed; otherwise, the unlocking operation is not allowed.

[0005] In one embodiment, the method further includes a locking control method: the controller determines whether the device is in a locked state based on the signal from the locked sensor; and determines whether the device is in an unlocked state based on the signal from the unlocking sensor; if the device is in both a locked and unlocked state, the locking operation is allowed; otherwise, the locking operation is not allowed.

[0006] In one embodiment, the method further includes a tilt control method: the controller determines whether it is in an unlocked state based on the signal from the unlock sensor; and determines whether it is in a suspended state based on the signal from the box sensor; if it is in an unlocked state and in a suspended state, then tilting is allowed; otherwise, tilting is not allowed.

[0007] In one embodiment, the method further includes a lifting control method: the controller determines whether there is an unlocking abnormality based on the signal from the unlocking sensor; determines whether there is a locking abnormality based on the signal from the locking sensor; if there is neither an unlocking abnormality nor a locking abnormality, the lifting operation is allowed; otherwise, the lifting operation is not allowed.

[0008] In one embodiment, determining whether the box is in a locked state based on the signal from the locking sensor includes the following determination method: the controller receives signals from at least two of the locking sensors; if all the locking sensors are energized, it is determined to be in a locked state; if all the locking sensors are de-energized, it is determined to be in a suspended state; if some of the locking sensors are energized and others are de-energized, it is determined to be a locking malfunction. Alternatively, determining whether the box is in a locked state based on the signal from the locking sensor includes the following determination method: the controller receives signals from at least two of the locking sensors; if all the locking sensors are energized, it is determined to be in a locked state; if some of the locking sensors are energized and others are de-energized, it is determined to be a locking malfunction. Alternatively, determining whether the box is in an unlocked state based on the signal from the unlocking sensor includes the following determination method: the controller receives signals from at least two of the unlocking sensors; if all the unlocking sensors are energized, it is determined to be in an unlocked state; if some of the unlocking sensors are energized and others are de-energized, it is determined to be an unlocking malfunction.

[0009] In one embodiment, the method further includes an indicator light control method: the controller determines the box-locking status based on the signal from the box-locking sensor; when the box-locking status is determined to be in place, the box-locking indicator light remains on; when the box-locking abnormality is determined to be in place, the box-locking indicator light flashes; when the determined status is not one of the above two states, the box-locking indicator light remains off; or, the controller determines the locking status based on the signal from the locking sensor; when the lock-locking status is determined to be in place, the locking indicator light remains on; when the locking abnormality is determined to be in place, the locking indicator light flashes; when the determined status is not one of the above two states, the locking indicator light remains off; or, the controller determines the unlocking status based on the signal from the unlocking sensor; when the unlocking status is determined to be in place, the unlocking indicator light remains on; when the unlocking abnormality is determined to be in place, the unlocking indicator light flashes; when the determined status is not one of the above two states, the unlocking indicator light remains off.

[0010] An electrical protection system for an empty container lifting device includes a controller, at least two container-landing sensors, and at least two locking sensors. The controller is used to execute the method described above. The container-landing sensors are used to detect whether the lifting device is properly landed on the top of the empty container, and each container-landing sensor is located at a different detection point on the lifting device. The locking sensors are used to detect whether the turnlock is properly locked, and each locking sensor is located at a different detection point on the lifting device. The container-landing sensors are connected to the controller, and the locking sensors are also connected to the controller.

[0011] In one embodiment, an electrical protection system for an empty container spreader further includes at least two unlocking sensors connected to the controller. The unlocking sensors are used to detect whether the turnlock is fully unlocked, and each unlocking sensor is located at a different detection point on the spreader.

[0012] In one embodiment, the landing sensor is energized when the lifting device is on top of the empty container; otherwise, the landing sensor is de-energized. The locking sensor is energized when the rotary lock is in place; otherwise, the locking sensor is de-energized. The unlocking sensor is energized when the rotary lock is in place; otherwise, the unlocking sensor is de-energized.

[0013] In one embodiment, an electrical protection system for an empty container lifting device further includes a container-mounted indicator light, an unlock indicator light, and a lock indicator light, wherein the container-mounted indicator light, the unlock indicator light, and the lock indicator light are connected to the controller.

[0014] Compared with the prior art, the advantages of the electrical protection system and control method for the empty container lifting device of the present invention are as follows:

[0015] 1. This invention comprehensively judges the status of the lifting device based on the container's position, unlocking status, and locking status, and controls and restricts the unlocking operation, locking operation, tilting operation, and lifting operation to improve the safety of the operation.

[0016] 2. This invention is equipped with two or more loading sensors distributed at different measurement points. The loading status is judged comprehensively based on the signals from all loading sensors. Separate unlocking and locking sensors are also set up to monitor the unlocking and locking status separately, so as to restore the loading status of the lifting equipment as comprehensively as possible and further improve the safety of the operation.

[0017] 3. Indicator lights are provided, using constant on, flashing, and constant off modes to provide on-site alerts, facilitating rapid monitoring and timely handling by on-site personnel.

[0018] The invention will become clearer from the following description, taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, which are used to explain embodiments of the invention. Attached Figure Description

[0019] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions in the embodiments of the present invention or the prior art, the drawings used in the description of the embodiments or the prior art will be briefly introduced below. Obviously, the drawings described below are only some embodiments of the present invention. For those skilled in the art, other drawings can be obtained based on these drawings without creative effort.

[0020] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the electrical protection system for the empty container lifting device according to an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 1 ;

[0021] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of the electrical protection system for the empty container lifting device according to an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 2 ;

[0022] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of the rotary lock structure in an embodiment of the present invention;

[0023] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of the rotary lock unlocking structure in an embodiment of the present invention;

[0024] Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram of the process for determining the box status in an embodiment of the present invention;

[0025] Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram of the locking state determination process in an embodiment of the present invention;

[0026] Figure 7 This is a schematic diagram of the unlocking status determination process in an embodiment of the present invention;

[0027] Figure 8 This is a flowchart illustrating the unlocking control method in an embodiment of the present invention;

[0028] Figure 9 This is a flowchart illustrating the interlocking control method in an embodiment of the present invention;

[0029] Figure 10 This is a flowchart illustrating the tilt control method in an embodiment of the present invention;

[0030] Figure 11 This is a flowchart illustrating the lifting control method in an embodiment of the present invention;

[0031] Figure 12 This is a flowchart illustrating the method for controlling the indicator light on the loading box in an embodiment of the present invention;

[0032] Figure 13 This is a flowchart illustrating the locking indicator light control method in an embodiment of the present invention;

[0033] Figure 14This is a flowchart illustrating the unlock indicator light control method in an embodiment of the present invention.

[0034] Among them, 1. Empty container lifting tool, 2. Twisted lock, 3. Locking pin cylinder, 4. Corner piece, 5. Lock hole, 6. Container sensor, 7. Locking sensor, 8. Unlocking sensor, 9. Detection plate, 10. Container rod. Detailed Implementation

[0035] Embodiments of the present invention will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0036] In the description of this invention, it should be noted that the terms "upper," "lower," "inner," "outer," "front end," "rear end," "both ends," "one end," and "the other end," etc., indicate the orientation or positional relationship based on the orientation or positional relationship shown in the accompanying drawings. They are used only for the convenience of describing this invention and for simplifying the description, and do not indicate or imply that the device or element referred to must have a specific orientation, or be constructed and operated in a specific orientation. Therefore, they should not be construed as limitations on this invention. Furthermore, the terms "first" and "second" are used for descriptive purposes only and should not be construed as indicating or implying relative importance.

[0037] In the description of this invention, it should be noted that, unless otherwise explicitly specified and limited, the terms "installed," "equipped with," "connected," etc., should be interpreted broadly. For example, "connection" can be a fixed connection, a detachable connection, or an integral connection; it can be a mechanical connection or an electrical connection; it can be a direct connection or an indirect connection through an intermediate medium; it can be a connection within two components. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of the above terms in this invention based on the specific circumstances.

[0038] This implementation example Figure 1-14 As shown, taking a front-end crane as an example, the empty container spreader 1 has corner fittings 4 at the top corner of the container. The spreader 1 is equipped with a rotary locking device for locking the container. The corner fitting 4 has a locking hole 5. The rotary lock 2 of the rotary locking device can be inserted into the locking hole 5 of the corner fitting 4 and rotated to lock. Figure 1 As shown. The rotary lock 2 can rotate within a range of 0° to 90°. The locking cylinder 3 controls the rotation state of the rotary lock through its extension and retraction movements, thereby achieving locking and unlocking operations with the container corner fitting 4. The unlocking sensor 8 and locking sensor 7 are arranged near the locking cylinder 3, so that the detection plate 9 fixed on the locking cylinder 3 can be detected when the locking cylinder 3 is in the fully extended and retracted states. When the locking cylinder 3 is in the fully extended state, the rotary lock 2 is at 90° and is locked with the corner fitting 4, as shown. Figure 3 As shown, at this time, the locking sensor 7 is energized, while other states are de-energized; and when the locking pin cylinder 3 is fully retracted, the rotary lock is at 0°, and the corner piece 4 is in the unlocked state, as shown. Figure 4As shown, the unlocking sensor 8 is energized at this time, and de-energized in other states. However, it is not limited to this embodiment. Other methods, other lock structures, or other sensors can be used for unlocking or locking detection, including but not limited to using visual sensors or infrared sensors as unlocking or locking sensors and arranging them accordingly.

[0039] like Figure 2 As shown, several retractable spring-loaded holding rods 10 are provided at the position where the bottom of the lifting device 1 contacts the top of the empty container. The holding rods 10 can extend and compress. Without external force, the holding rods 10 will return to the extended state due to the spring action. When sufficient external force presses against the holding end of the holding rod 10, the spring of the holding rod device will be compressed, thus placing the holding rod 10 in a compressed state. A holding sensor 6 is arranged above the direction of the holding rod's extension and retraction, and can detect the extension and retraction of the holding rod 10, thereby detecting whether the holding rod is in a compressed state. When the holding rod 10 is in a compressed state, the holding sensor 6 will be energized; when the holding rod 10 is in the extended state, the holding sensor 6 will not be energized. However, this embodiment is not limited to this one; other types of holding sensors or other methods of detecting the holding status can also be used.

[0040] In this embodiment, an electrical protection system for an empty container lifting device includes at least two container placement sensors, at least two locking sensors, and a controller. The controller executes any of the control methods described below. The container placement sensors detect whether the lifting device is properly placed on top of the empty container, and each placement sensor is located at a different detection point on the lifting device. The locking sensors detect whether the rotary lock is properly engaged, and each locking sensor is located at a different detection point on the lifting device. The container placement sensors are connected to the controller, and the locking sensors are also connected to the controller. When the lifting device is properly placed on top of the empty container, the container placement sensors are energized; otherwise, they are de-energized. When the rotary lock is properly engaged, the locking sensors are energized; otherwise, they are de-energized.

[0041] In this embodiment, an electrical protection system for an empty container lifting device further includes at least two unlocking sensors. These sensors detect whether the twistlock is fully unlocked, and each sensor is located at a different detection point on the lifting device. When the twistlock is fully unlocked, the unlocking sensor is energized; otherwise, it is de-energized.

[0042] This embodiment determines the box's locking status, locking status, and unlocking status based on signals from various sensors:

[0043] (i) Determine the state of the box based on the signals from the box sensors, including the following determination methods: receive signals from at least two box sensors; if all box sensors are energized, the box is determined to be in a box-energized state; if all box sensors are de-energized, the box is determined to be in a floating state; if some box sensors are energized and others are de-energized, the box is determined to be in an abnormal state.

[0044] For example, two landing sensors are set up, namely landing sensor 1 and landing sensor 2. A method of traversing each sensor and combining the status of all sensors is used to make a comprehensive judgment. The specific judgment method process is as follows: Figure 5 As shown:

[0045] ①: Determine whether the No. 1 landing sensor is energized. If it is energized, proceed to step ②; if it is not energized, proceed to step ③.

[0046] ②: Determine whether the No. 2 box-setting sensor is energized. If it is energized, it is determined to be in the box-setting state. If it is not energized, it is determined to be an abnormal box-setting condition.

[0047] ③: Determine whether the No. 2 landing sensor is energized. If it is energized, it is determined that the landing is abnormal. If it is not energized, it is determined that the sensor is in a suspended state.

[0048] This invention features two or more container-attaching sensors distributed at different measurement points. Each sensor can independently detect the container-attaching status at its location. Only when all sensors are energized and detect normal attachment, indicating that all attachment surfaces of the empty container spreader are in contact with the top surface of the container, and that the spreader's twist locks are fully engaged in the lifting holes of the container corner fittings, is the container-attached state determined. However, if any sensor fails to power, it indicates that the container has not made proper contact with the spreader. If some sensors fail to power while others are energized, it indicates that the container is in contact with some surfaces but not others, indicating an abnormal attachment. If all sensors fail to power, it indicates that none of the container's contact surfaces with the spreader are in contact, and the spreader and container are separated, indicating a suspended state. In this embodiment, energized sensors indicate proper attachment, further enhancing system safety. However, this is not limited to this embodiment; other signals can also be used to represent proper attachment.

[0049] (ii) Determine the locking status based on the signals from the locking sensors, including the following determination methods: receive signals from at least two locking sensors; if all locking sensors are energized, the state is locked; if some locking sensors are energized and others are de-energized, the state is locked abnormal.

[0050] For example, two interlocking sensors are set up, namely interlocking sensor 1 and interlocking sensor 2. A judgment method is adopted by traversing each sensor and combining the status of all sensors to make a comprehensive judgment. The specific judgment method process is as follows: Figure 6 As shown:

[0051] ①: Determine whether the No. 1 interlocking sensor is energized. If it is energized, proceed to step ②; if it is not energized, proceed to step ③.

[0052] ②: Determine whether the No. 2 interlocking sensor is energized. If it is energized, it is determined to be in an interlocked state. If it is not energized, it is determined to be an interlocking abnormality.

[0053] ③: Determine whether the No. 2 interlocking sensor is energized. If it is energized, the interlocking is considered abnormal.

[0054] This invention includes two or more locking sensors distributed near each rotary lock. Each locking sensor can independently detect its corresponding rotary lock. A locked state is determined when all locking sensors are energized and detect that all rotary locks are properly locked, meaning all rotary locks are correctly locked. However, if any locking sensor loses power, it indicates that at least one rotary lock cannot lock properly, and this is considered an abnormal locking state. In this embodiment, energizing the locking sensor signifies that locking is complete, further improving system security. However, this is not limited to this embodiment; other signals can also be used to represent proper locking.

[0055] (iii) Determine the unlocking status based on the signals from the unlocking sensors, including the following determination methods: receive signals from at least two unlocking sensors; if all unlocking sensors are energized, the unlocking status is determined; if some unlocking sensors are energized and others are de-energized, the unlocking is determined to be abnormal.

[0056] For example, two locking sensors are set up, namely unlocking sensor 1 and unlocking sensor 2. A method of traversing each sensor and combining the status of all sensors is used to make a comprehensive judgment. The specific judgment process is as follows: Figure 7 As shown:

[0057] ①: Determine if the No. 1 unlocking sensor is energized. If it is energized, proceed to step ②; if it is not energized, proceed to step ③.

[0058] ②: Determine whether the No. 2 unlocking sensor is energized. If it is energized, it is determined to be in an unlocked state. If it is not energized, it is determined to be an unlocking malfunction.

[0059] ③: Determine whether the No. 2 unlocking sensor is energized. If it is energized, the unlocking is considered abnormal.

[0060] This invention includes two or more unlocking sensors distributed near each rotary lock. Each unlocking sensor can independently detect its corresponding rotary lock. Only when all unlocking sensors are powered on and detect that all rotary locks are unlocked normally is the system considered unlocked, meaning all rotary locks have been correctly unlocked. However, if any unlocking sensor loses power, it indicates that at least one rotary lock cannot be unlocked normally, and this is considered an unlocking anomaly. In this embodiment, the power of the unlocking sensor indicates that the lock is fully unlocked, further improving system security. However, this is not limited to this embodiment; other signals can also be used to represent full unlocking.

[0061] As mentioned above, the power-on sensor indicates that the box is properly locked at that location, the power-on lock sensor indicates that the lock is properly engaged at that location, and the power-on unlock sensor indicates that the unlock is properly engaged. The sensors are only powered on when the system is in a normal state. If any abnormality occurs in any part of the system and causes the sensors to lose power, the system will not be considered to be in a normal state as long as there are sensors that have lost power, thus further improving the safety of the entire system.

[0062] This embodiment provides an electrical protection control method for an empty container lifting device, including: an unlocking control method, a locking control method, a tilting control method, and a lifting control method.

[0063] (a) Unlocking control method:

[0064] The controller determines whether the box is in the locked state based on the signal from the box-locking sensor; and determines whether the box is in the locked state based on the signal from the locking sensor.

[0065] If the box is in the locked state, the unlocking operation is allowed; otherwise, the unlocking operation is not allowed.

[0066] The specific control process is as follows: Figure 8 As shown:

[0067] ①: Determine if the box is locked. If yes, proceed to step ②; otherwise, unlocking is not allowed.

[0068] ②: Determine if the lock is engaged. If so, unlocking is allowed; otherwise, unlocking is not allowed.

[0069] The "allow unlocking" signal can be a signal sent by the controller to the lock mechanism to execute unlocking or to permit unlocking. The "disallow unlocking" signal can be a signal sent by the controller to the lock mechanism to prohibit unlocking or to prevent the controller from sending a signal to permit unlocking. Other methods can also be used to achieve this.

[0070] This invention includes a container-landing sensor specifically designed to detect whether the container is properly aligned with the spreader. The container-landing sensor is used to determine whether the spreader is properly aligned with the empty container. It also includes a locking sensor specifically designed to detect whether the locking is in place. The signal from the locking sensor is used to determine whether the locking is in place, thus achieving more accurate detection of the container-landing and locking status.

[0071] The "container engagement" state refers to the point where all the contact surfaces of the empty container spreader are in contact with the top surface of the container. This indicates that the spreader's twist locks have been fully inserted into the lifting holes of the container's corner fittings, meaning that the spreader has been successfully docked with the container and is ready for opening and closing operations.

[0072] The locked state refers to the state in which all the locking cylinders of the empty container spreader are fully extended, the rotary lock is at 90°, and the rotary lock cannot be disengaged from the lifting hole of the container corner fitting. This state is the locked state, and the rotary lock is closed normally and locked in place.

[0073] Therefore, unlocking operations are only permitted when the container is judged to be in a locked or locked state, indicating that the container is properly locked onto the spreader. This is to prevent damage caused by unlocking operations performed under abnormal container loading conditions, and also to avoid damage caused by repeated unlocking operations.

[0074] (II) Lockout Control Method:

[0075] The controller determines whether the box is in a locked state based on the signal from the box-locking sensor; and determines whether the box is in an unlocked state based on the signal from the unlocking sensor.

[0076] If the box is in the locked state and the lock is in the unlocked state, the locking operation is allowed; otherwise, the locking operation is not allowed.

[0077] The specific control process is as follows: Figure 9 As shown:

[0078] ①: Determine if the box is in the locked state. If yes, proceed to step ②; otherwise, locking is not allowed.

[0079] ②: Determine if the lock is open. If so, locking is allowed; otherwise, locking is not allowed.

[0080] Among them, allowing locking can be a signal sent by the controller to the locking device to execute locking or a signal to permit locking. Not allowing locking can be a signal sent by the controller to the locking device to prohibit locking, or it can be a signal that the controller is prohibited from sending a signal to permit locking to the locking device. It is not limited to these, and other methods can also be used to achieve this.

[0081] This invention features a dedicated unlocking sensor to detect whether the lock is fully unlocked. The signal from the unlocking sensor determines whether the lock is fully unlocked, thus enabling more accurate detection of the unlocking status.

[0082] The unlocked state refers to the state where all the locking cylinders of the empty container spreader are fully retracted, the rotary lock is at 0°, and the rotary lock can disengage from the lifting holes of the container corner fittings. This state is considered the unlocked state, indicating that the rotary lock is unlocked normally and in place. Therefore, locking operations are only permitted when the container is judged to be in the docking and locking state, meaning that the container and spreader are properly docked, the rotary lock is inserted into the locking hole and is in the unlocked state. This is to avoid damage caused by performing locking operations under abnormal docking conditions, and also to avoid damage caused by repeated locking operations.

[0083] (III) Forward and backward tilt control methods:

[0084] The controller determines whether it is in an unlocked state based on the signal from the unlock sensor; and determines whether it is in a suspended state based on the signal from the box sensor.

[0085] If the device is in the unlocked state and in a suspended state, then tilting forward or backward is allowed; otherwise, tilting forward or backward is not allowed.

[0086] The specific control process is as follows: Figure 10 As shown:

[0087] ①: Determine if the lock is open. If yes, proceed to step ②. Otherwise, tilting forward or backward is not allowed.

[0088] ②: Determine if the object is in a suspended state. If so, tilting forward or backward is allowed; otherwise, tilting forward or backward is not allowed.

[0089] The "allowing tilting forward and backward" signal can be achieved by the controller sending a signal to the boom drive of the spreader to execute tilting forward and backward or to permit tilting forward and backward. The "disallowing tilting forward and backward" signal can be achieved by the controller sending a signal to the boom drive of the spreader to prohibit tilting forward and backward, or by prohibiting the controller from sending a signal to permit tilting forward and backward. It is not limited to these methods and can be implemented in other ways.

[0090] Forward and backward tilt control is used to control the spreader boom to change its tilt angle. When the spreader is loaded with a container, tilting is not permitted. Specifically, in the unlocked state, the spreader is not locked to the container; in the suspended state, the container and spreader are completely separated. Only when both are simultaneously in the unlocked and suspended states, meaning the spreader has completely unloaded the container, is tilting permitted. Otherwise, in other situations where it cannot be confirmed whether the spreader has completely unloaded the container, tilting is not allowed.

[0091] (iv) Lifting control method:

[0092] The controller determines whether there is an unlocking abnormality based on the signal from the unlocking sensor; it also determines whether there is a locking abnormality based on the signal from the locking sensor.

[0093] If the system is neither in an unlocking abnormality nor in a locking abnormality, the lifting operation is permitted; otherwise, the lifting operation is not permitted.

[0094] Preferably, lifting and lowering operations are permitted when neither the unlocking nor locking malfunction occurs; otherwise, lowering operations are permitted, but lifting operations are not. Lifting operations control the raising or lowering of the spreader. Lifting operations are only permitted when the spreader is unloaded or properly loaded with a container. If an unlocking or locking malfunction occurs, only lowering operations are permitted, and lifting operations are prohibited, thus ensuring operational safety.

[0095] The specific control process is as follows: Figure 11 As shown:

[0096] ①: Determine if there is an unlocking malfunction. If so, lifting is not allowed, but lowering is allowed; otherwise, proceed to step ②.

[0097] ②: Determine if there is a locking anomaly. If so, lifting is not allowed and lowering is allowed; otherwise, lifting is allowed.

[0098] The signal to allow lifting can be a signal sent by the controller to the drive unit of the spreader to execute lifting or a signal to permit lifting. The signal to disallow lifting can be a signal sent by the controller to the drive unit of the spreader to prohibit lifting or a signal to prohibit the controller from sending a signal to permit lifting. It is not limited to these and can be implemented in other ways.

[0099] However, this embodiment is not the only one that can be used; the following lifting control process can also be employed:

[0100] ① The controller determines whether there is an interlocking abnormality based on the signal from the interlocking sensor: if yes, lifting operation is not allowed and lowering operation is allowed; otherwise, proceed to step ②.

[0101] ② Based on the signal from the unlocking sensor, determine whether there is an unlocking abnormality: if yes, lifting operation is not allowed and lowering operation is allowed; otherwise, lifting operation is allowed.

[0102] (V) Traffic Light Control Methods

[0103] Preferably, for ease of on-site management and monitoring, in this embodiment, an electrical protection system for an empty container lifting device further includes a container-mounted indicator light, an unlock indicator light, and a lock indicator light, which are connected to the controller.

[0104] An electrical protection control method for an empty container lifting device also includes an indicator light control method:

[0105] The sensor signal is used to determine whether the box is in the box-fitting state. When the box is in the box-fitting state, the box-fitting indicator light remains constantly on; when a box-fitting malfunction is detected, the indicator light flashes; when the detected state is neither of the above two states, the indicator light remains off. The control flow is as follows: Figure 12 As shown.

[0106] Based on the signal from the interlock sensor, the system determines whether the device is in an interlocked state. When the device is in an interlocked state, the interlock indicator light remains constantly on; when an interlocking malfunction is detected, the interlock indicator light flashes; when the detected state is neither of the above two states, the interlock indicator light remains off. The control flow is as follows: Figure 13 As shown.

[0107] Based on the signal from the unlock sensor, the system determines whether the device is in an unlocked state. When the device is unlocked, the unlock indicator light remains constantly on; when an unlocking malfunction is detected, the unlock indicator light flashes; when the device is not in either of these states, the unlock indicator light remains off. The control flow is as follows: Figure 14 As shown.

[0108] It allows for quick assessment of the load status of the lifting equipment based on different light signals.

[0109] Preferably, real-time monitoring can also be set, for example, setting a monitoring cycle of 3ms or 5ms, and collecting signals from the box sensor, unlocking sensor and locking sensor in each cycle, so as to monitor the status of the lifting device in a timely manner and take corresponding control strategies.

[0110] This invention comprehensively judges and controls unlocking, locking, tilting, and lifting operations based on the box-mounting state, locking state, and unlocking state. This embodiment uses multiple box-mounting sensors to determine the box-mounting state, multiple locking sensors to determine the locking state, and multiple unlocking sensors to determine the unlocking state. However, this invention is not limited to this embodiment. To achieve comprehensive judgment and control of unlocking, locking, tilting, and lifting operations based on the box-mounting state, locking state, and unlocking state, other methods can also be used to judge the box-mounting state, locking state, and unlocking state. Taking the detection and judgment of the box-mounting state as an example (the methods for locking and unlocking states are similar), examples include, but are not limited to, the following: Example 1: A box-mounting sensor is set up, which is equipped with a multi-point detection mechanism. Only when the box is properly positioned at multiple points can the multi-point detection mechanism trigger the box-mounting sensor to send a signal indicating that the box-mounting state has been achieved; Example 2: A single box-mounting sensor is set up, and the box-mounting state is judged using only a single sensor; Example 3: A visual sensor is set up to judge the box-mounting state, abnormal state, and suspended state by detecting the positional deviation of the image.

[0111] The present invention has been described above in conjunction with the preferred embodiments, but the present invention is not limited to the embodiments disclosed above, but should cover various modifications and equivalent combinations made in accordance with the essence of the present invention.

Claims

1. A method of electrical protection control for a spreader, characterized in that, The method comprises a lock opening control method: The controller determines whether it is in the loading state according to the signal of the loading sensor; and determines whether it is in the locking state according to the signal of the locking sensor; If it is in the loading state and in the locking state, the lock opening operation is allowed to be performed; otherwise, the lock opening operation is not allowed to be performed; The determination of whether it is in the loading state according to the signal of the loading sensor comprises the following determination method: the controller receives the signals of at least two loading sensors; if all the loading sensors are powered on, it is determined that it is in the loading state; if all the loading sensors are powered off, it is determined that it is in the suspended state; if part of the loading sensors are powered on and the other part of the loading sensors are powered off, it is determined that it is in the loading abnormality; The determination of whether it is in the locking state according to the signal of the locking sensor comprises the following determination method: the controller receives the signals of at least two locking sensors; if all the locking sensors are powered on, it is determined that it is in the locking state; if part of the locking sensors are powered on and the other part of the locking sensors are powered off, it is determined that it is in the locking abnormality; The determination of whether it is in the lock opening state according to the signal of the lock opening sensor comprises the following determination method: the controller receives the signals of at least two lock opening sensors; if all the lock opening sensors are powered on, it is determined that it is in the lock opening state; if part of the lock opening sensors are powered on and the other part of the lock opening sensors are powered off, it is determined that it is in the lock opening abnormality; The method further comprises a pilot lamp control method: The controller determines the state of the loading according to the signal of the loading sensor; when it is determined that it is in the loading state, the loading pilot lamp is always on; when it is determined that it is in the loading abnormality, the loading pilot lamp flashes; when the determined state is not the above two states, the loading pilot lamp is always off; The controller determines the state of the locking according to the signal of the locking sensor; when it is determined that it is in the locking state, the locking pilot lamp is always on; when it is determined that it is in the locking abnormality, the locking pilot lamp flashes; when the determined state is not the above two states, the locking pilot lamp is always off; The controller determines the state of the lock opening according to the signal of the lock opening sensor; when it is determined that it is in the lock opening state, the lock opening pilot lamp is always on; when it is determined that it is in the lock opening abnormality, the lock opening pilot lamp flashes; when the determined state is not the above two states, the lock opening pilot lamp is always off.

2. The electrical protection control method for a spreader as claimed in claim 1, wherein The method further comprises a lock closing control method: The controller determines whether it is in the loading state according to the signal of the loading sensor; and determines whether it is in the lock opening state according to the signal of the lock opening sensor; If it is in the loading state and in the lock opening state, the lock closing operation is allowed to be performed; otherwise, the lock closing operation is not allowed to be performed.

3. The electrical protection control method for a spreader as claimed in claim 1, wherein, The method further comprises a forward and backward tilting control method: The controller determines whether it is in the lock opening state according to the signal of the lock opening sensor; and determines whether it is in the suspended state according to the signal of the loading sensor; If it is in the lock opening state and in the suspended state, the forward and backward tilting operation is allowed to be performed; otherwise, the forward and backward tilting operation is not allowed to be performed.

4. The electrical protection control method for a spreader as claimed in claim 1, wherein, The method further comprises a lifting control method: The controller determines whether it is in the lock opening abnormality according to the signal of the lock opening sensor; and determines whether it is in the locking abnormality according to the signal of the locking sensor; If not in the unlocking abnormal state and not in the locking abnormal state, the lifting operation is allowed to be performed; otherwise, the lifting operation is not allowed to be performed.

5. An empty container spreader electrical protection system characterized in that, The controller, at least two latching sensors, and at least two locking sensors are included. The controller is configured to perform the method of any one of claims 1-4. The latching sensors are configured to detect whether the spreader is latched on top of the empty container, and each of the latching sensors is arranged at a different detection point of the spreader. The locking sensors are configured to detect whether the spin lock is locked in place, and each of the locking sensors is arranged at a different detection point of the spreader. The latching sensors are connected to the controller, and the locking sensors are connected to the controller.

6. A container lift spreader electrical protection system according to claim 5, wherein, The at least two unlocking sensors are also included, the unlocking sensors are connected to the controller, the unlocking sensors are configured to detect whether the spin lock is unlocked in place, and each of the unlocking sensors is arranged at a different detection point of the spreader.

7. A container lift spreader electrical protection system according to claim 6, wherein, When the spreader is latched on top of the empty container, the latching sensors are powered on, otherwise the latching sensors are powered off; when the spin lock is locked in place, the locking sensors are powered on, otherwise the locking sensors are powered off; when the spin lock is unlocked in place, the unlocking sensors are powered on, otherwise the unlocking sensors are powered off.

8. The empty container spreader electrical protection system according to claim 6, characterized in that, The latching indicator, the unlocking indicator, and the locking indicator are also included, and the latching indicator, the unlocking indicator, and the locking indicator are connected to the controller.

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