Large-span suspension bridge catwalk gantry mounting method and system

Abstract

According to the large-span suspension bridge catwalk portal frame installation method and system, a complete and efficient installation process is formed by systematically integrating five core steps of installation of assemblies with constant intervals, hoisting and in-place of the catwalk portal frame, downward sliding of the catwalk portal frame, catwalk positioning and installation and disassembly and recovery; the long-standing problem of catwalk portal installation in the construction of the large-span suspension bridge is solved; the distance constant assembly is pre-installed before the surface layer is laid, so that the design distance between the upper-layer bearing cable and the lower-layer bearing cable can be actively locked; the catwalk portal integrating the self-driving module and the positioning speed measurement module achieves intelligent motion control in the gliding process, and the central control assembly dynamically adjusts the driving force according to the speed and position data monitored in real time, so that it is ensured that the portal can slide at the stable speed in different slope sections; in the whole mounting process, the upper-layer bearing cable does not need to be released and tensioned, the initial tension and the overall stability of the catwalk structure are kept, and the construction safety is improved.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention belongs to the field of suspension bridge construction technology, specifically relating to a method and system for installing a catwalk gantry of a long-span suspension bridge. Background Technology

[0002] A suspension bridge is a bridge structure with the main cable as the primary load-bearing component. Due to its large span, high strength, and unique mechanical properties, it is an ideal choice for crossing canyons, straits, or wide bodies of water. In suspension bridge construction, a catwalk is a commonly used high-altitude work platform. It is erected below the main cable using cable saddles and load-bearing cables, forming a temporary construction access road that is essentially parallel to the main cable.

[0003] Catwalks generally consist of catwalk load-bearing cables, surface layer, guardrails, transverse passages, and catwalk gantries. The catwalk load-bearing cables include upper and lower load-bearing cables, and the catwalk gantries connect the upper and lower load-bearing cables, serving as an important structure to improve the catwalk's wind resistance and load-bearing stability. The lower load-bearing cables form the surface layer and are equipped with guardrails and transverse passages.

[0004] During catwalk construction, the catwalk gantry needs to be erected by sliding down after the surface layer and transverse passages are completed. However, the self-weight of the surface layer and transverse passages during construction causes a significant decrease in the sag of the lower load-bearing cables. This results in the actual distance between the upper and lower load-bearing cables being greater than the design distance and the height of the catwalk gantry, making it impossible for the catwalk gantry to smoothly connect the upper and lower load-bearing cables.

[0005] In existing technologies, for the construction of suspension bridges with small spans (≤1000m), the sag of the lower load-bearing cables is relatively small. When installing the catwalk gantry, a winch can be used to release tension on the upper load-bearing cables to ensure that the distance between the upper and lower load-bearing cables meets the requirements, thereby enabling the catwalk gantry to slide down and be installed. However, as the span of suspension bridges becomes larger, and for large-span suspension bridges with spans of over 2000m, the difference between the distance between the upper and lower load-bearing cables and the set distance can even reach 5 meters. In this case, the traditional method of releasing tension on the upper load-bearing cables using a winch is no longer feasible due to its complex operation and the risk of damaging the overall structural stability of the catwalk by excessive tension, which could pose safety hazards for subsequent construction. Summary of the Invention

[0006] To address the technical problem in the background art that the traditional method of releasing the upper load-bearing cable with a winch during the construction of long-span suspension bridges is complex to operate and prone to causing damage to the overall stability of the catwalk structure due to excessive release, thus posing safety hazards to subsequent construction, and can no longer meet the construction requirements, this invention provides a method and system for installing a catwalk gantry for long-span suspension bridges.

[0007] To achieve the above objectives, the present invention adopts the following technical solution: In a first aspect, the present invention provides a method for installing a catwalk gantry frame for a long-span suspension bridge, comprising: S1: Constant Spacing Component Installation: After the tensioning and erection of the upper and lower load-bearing cables are completed, before the surface layer is laid, multiple constant spacing components are connected between the upper and lower load-bearing cables, and the constant spacing components correspond one-to-one with the design and installation position of the catwalk gantry. S2: Catwalk gantry hoisting and positioning: After the surface layer is laid, the catwalk gantry is hoisted onto the tower. The self-drive module and positioning speed measurement module are integrated and installed on the catwalk gantry, and the self-drive module on the catwalk gantry is sleeved on the upper load-bearing cable. S3: Catwalk gantry descent: The self-drive module and positioning speed measurement module are activated. The self-drive module drives the catwalk gantry to slide down along the upper load-bearing cable to the designed installation position. During this process, the positioning speed measurement module monitors the moving speed and position of the catwalk gantry in real time and sends it to the central control component. The central control component dynamically adjusts the drive speed of the self-drive module according to the actual moving speed and position of the catwalk gantry. S4: Catwalk mast positioning and installation: When the central control component determines that the catwalk mast has reached the corresponding designed installation position, it controls the self-drive module to stop moving; and fixes the lower structure of the catwalk mast to the surface layer. S5: Removal and Recycling: After the catwalk mast is fixed, remove the spacing constant component, self-drive module and positioning speed measurement module at the corresponding position, and repeat steps S2 to S4 until all catwalk masts are installed.

[0008] Optionally, step S1 includes: S1.1: After the tensioning and erection of the upper and lower load-bearing cables are completed, before laying the surface layer, according to the design installation position of the catwalk gantry, install the ear plates of the constant spacing components at the corresponding crossbeams. S1.2: Based on the design and installation location of the catwalk gantry, at least one upper load-bearing cable shall be connected to the corresponding upper load-bearing cable using cable clamps; S1.3: Connect the ear plate and the corresponding cable clamp by connecting the connecting cable to realize the connection between the upper and lower load-bearing cables of the constant spacing component.

[0009] Optionally, step S1.3 further includes: adjusting the length of the connecting cable by using a hoist on the connecting cable so that the distance between the upper and lower load-bearing cables is the designed distance, and the upper load-bearing cable is always kept taut.

[0010] Optionally, step S2 further includes connecting the crossbeam of the catwalk gantry to the auxiliary winch at the top of the main tower, and electrically connecting the auxiliary winch to the central control assembly.

[0011] Optionally, step S3 specifically includes: S3.1: Start the self-drive module and positioning speed measurement module, and use the self-drive module to drive the catwalk gantry to slide down along the upper load-bearing cable to the designed installation position; S3.2: During the process of the catwalk gantry sliding down the upper load-bearing cable towards the designed installation position, the moving speed and position of the catwalk gantry are monitored in real time by the positioning and speed measurement module and sent to the central control component; S3.3: The central control unit adjusts the self-drive module based on the position and movement speed of the catwalk mast: When the catwalk gantry is in a high-slope section near the tower, if the moving speed of the catwalk gantry exceeds the first threshold, the self-drive module will stop working and the auxiliary winch will take over the gantry's descent by controlling the rope release speed. When the catwalk gantry is in a low-slope section near the mid-span, if the moving speed of the catwalk gantry is lower than the second threshold, the self-drive module is activated to provide the main driving force and the rope release rate of the auxiliary winch is controlled to be consistent with the moving speed of the catwalk gantry.

[0012] Optionally, step S4 includes: S4.1: When the central control component determines that the cat walkway gantry has reached the corresponding designed installation position, it controls the self-drive module to stop moving. S4.2: Monitor the moving speed and position of the catwalk gantry in real time through the positioning and speed measurement module and send it to the central control component; if the central control component determines that the catwalk gantry is still moving, it controls the auxiliary winch to lock in order to pull the catwalk gantry, and repeats this step; if the central control component determines that the catwalk gantry has stopped moving, it executes step S4.3. S4.3: Adjust the position of the cat walkway gantry so that the bolt holes on the bottom plate of the cat walkway gantry are aligned with the reserved holes on the surface layer at the corresponding positions, and tighten them respectively to complete the fixed connection between the cat walkway gantry and the surface layer.

[0013] Secondly, the present invention also provides a catwalk gantry installation system for long-span suspension bridges, used to implement the above-mentioned catwalk gantry installation method for long-span suspension bridges, including: catwalk gantry, spacing constant component, self-drive module, positioning and speed measuring module and central control component; The cat walkway gantry is a portal structure consisting of beams and columns; Multiple constant spacing components are used to connect the upper and lower load-bearing cables after the tensioning and erection of the upper and lower load-bearing cables are completed and before the surface layer is laid, so as to keep the spacing between the upper and lower load-bearing cables constant. The self-drive module consists of at least two modules, which are detachably mounted on the crossbeam of the catwalk gantry and are used to be fitted onto the upper load-bearing cable to drive the catwalk gantry to move along the upper load-bearing cable. The positioning and speed measuring module is detachably mounted on the crossbeam of the cat walkway gantry; The central control component is communicatively connected to the self-drive module and the positioning and speed measurement module.

[0014] Optionally, the constant spacing component includes a cable clamp, an ear plate, and a connecting cable; The cable clamp is a ring structure consisting of two half-rings fastened together by high-strength bolts, with an inner anti-slip pad layer, used to hold and fix it to the upper load-bearing cable. The ear plate is used to be installed on the crossbeam of the lower load-bearing cable and corresponds to the designed installation position of the catwalk gantry. The connecting cable connects to the corresponding ear plate and cable clamp, and a hoist is installed on it to adjust the length of the connecting cable.

[0015] Optionally, the self-driving module includes a main body, a drive motor, an energy storage device, and multiple sets of drive wheels; The main body has a receiving groove, and the upper load-bearing cable passes through the receiving groove; The drive motor and the energy storage device are disposed inside the main body and are electrically connected to each other; Multiple sets of the drive wheels are arranged in the receiving groove and abut against the upper load-bearing cable; The positioning and speed measurement module includes at least a GNSS positioning module and a speed sensor.

[0016] Optionally, the system further includes an auxiliary winch, which is located at the top of the main cable tower, connected to the crossbeam of the catwalk gantry, and electrically connected to the central control component.

[0017] The beneficial effects of this invention are: This invention provides a method and system for installing catwalk gantry frames for long-span suspension bridges. By systematically integrating five core steps—installation of constant-spacing components, catwalk gantry hoisting and positioning, catwalk gantry descent, catwalk positioning and installation, and dismantling and recycling—a complete and efficient installation process is formed. This solves the long-standing problem of catwalk gantry installation in the construction of long-span suspension bridges: because the lower-layer load-bearing cables sag significantly after the surface layer is laid, traditional methods cannot effectively control the spacing between the upper and lower load-bearing cables, making it difficult to position the gantry. This method, however, by pre-installing constant-spacing components before the surface layer is laid, can... The design spacing between the upper and lower load-bearing cables can be actively locked, creating the necessary conditions for the smooth installation of the gantry. The catwalk gantry, which integrates a self-drive module and a positioning and speed measurement module, achieves intelligent motion control during the descent. The central control component dynamically adjusts the driving force based on real-time monitored speed and position data, ensuring that the gantry can slide at a stable speed in different slope sections, avoiding the risk of collision or jamming due to speed loss. The entire installation process of this invention does not require the upper load-bearing cables to be unloaded, thus maintaining the initial tension and overall stability of the catwalk structure, greatly improving construction safety.

[0018] Meanwhile, this method has a high degree of automation, which significantly reduces manual intervention in high-altitude operations, reduces labor intensity and safety hazards, and has wide applicability and important engineering value in long-span suspension bridge projects with a span of more than 2000m. Attached Figure Description

[0019] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the installation method of the catwalk gantry of a long-span suspension bridge in this invention; Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of the catwalk gantry installation system for long-span suspension bridges in this invention; Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of the cat walkway gantry in this invention; Figure 4 This is a further schematic diagram of the cat walkway gantry in this invention; Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram of the cat walkway gantry column and self-driving module in this invention; Figure 6 In this invention Figure 5 Detailed diagram of point A in the middle; Figure 7 This is a schematic diagram of the cable clip in this invention.

[0020] The components include: 1. Catwalk gantry; 11. Crossbeam; 12. Column; 2. Constant spacing component; 21. Cable clamp; 22. Ear plate; 23. Connecting cable; 24. Hoist; 25. Tension sensor; 3. Self-drive module; 31. Main body; 32. Drive wheel; 4. Positioning and speed measurement module; 5. Central control component; 6. Upper load-bearing cable; 7. Lower load-bearing cable; 8. Auxiliary winch. Detailed Implementation

[0021] To make the objectives, technical solutions, and advantages of the embodiments of the present invention clearer, the technical solutions of the embodiments of the present invention will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Obviously, the described embodiments are only some embodiments of the present invention, and not all embodiments. The following description of at least one exemplary embodiment is merely illustrative and is in no way intended to limit the present invention or its application or use. Based on the embodiments of the present invention, all other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art without creative effort are within the scope of protection of the present invention.

[0022] It should be noted that the terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to limit the scope of exemplary embodiments according to the invention. As used herein, the singular form is intended to include the plural form as well, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. Furthermore, it should be understood that when the terms "comprising" and / or "including" are used in this specification, they indicate the presence of features, steps, operations, devices, components, and / or combinations thereof.

[0023] Unless otherwise specifically stated, the relative arrangement, numerical expressions, and values ​​of the components and steps set forth in these embodiments do not limit the scope of the invention. It should also be understood that, for ease of description, the dimensions of the various parts shown in the drawings are not drawn to actual scale. Techniques, methods, and devices known to those skilled in the art may not be discussed in detail, but where appropriate, such techniques, methods, and devices should be considered part of the specification. In all examples shown and discussed herein, any specific values ​​should be interpreted as merely exemplary and not as limitations. Therefore, other examples of exemplary embodiments may have different values. It should be noted that similar reference numerals and letters in the following figures denote similar items; therefore, once an item is defined in one figure, it need not be further discussed in subsequent figures.

[0024] In the description of this invention, it should be understood that the orientation or positional relationship indicated by directional terms such as "front, back, up, down, left, right", "horizontal, vertical, horizontal" and "top, bottom" is generally based on the orientation or positional relationship shown in the accompanying drawings, and is only for the convenience of describing this invention and simplifying the description. Unless otherwise stated, these directional terms 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, and therefore should not be construed as a limitation on the scope of protection of this invention. The directional terms "inner" and "outer" refer to the inner and outer contours relative to the outline of each component itself.

[0025] For ease of description, spatial relative terms such as "above," "on top of," "on the upper surface of," "above," etc., are used herein to describe the spatial positional relationship of a device or feature as shown in the figures to other devices or features. It should be understood that spatial relative terms are intended to encompass different orientations in use or operation beyond the orientation of the device as described in the figures. For example, if the device in the figures were inverted, a device described as "above" or "on top of" other devices or structures would subsequently be positioned as "below" or "under" other devices or structures. Thus, the exemplary term "above" can include both "above" and "below." The device may also be positioned in other different ways (rotated 90 degrees or in other orientations), and the spatial relative descriptions used herein will be interpreted accordingly.

[0026] Example 1 See Figure 1 The diagram illustrates the installation method of the catwalk gantry for a long-span suspension bridge according to the present invention, including: S1: Constant Spacing Component Installation: After the tensioning and erection of the upper and lower load-bearing cables are completed, before the surface layer is laid, multiple constant spacing components are connected between the upper and lower load-bearing cables, and the constant spacing components correspond one-to-one with the design and installation position of the catwalk gantry. S2: Catwalk gantry hoisting and positioning: After the surface layer is laid, the catwalk gantry is hoisted onto the tower. The self-drive module and positioning speed measurement module are integrated and installed on the catwalk gantry, and the self-drive module on the catwalk gantry is sleeved on the upper load-bearing cable. S3: Catwalk gantry descent: The self-drive module and positioning speed measurement module are activated. The self-drive module drives the catwalk gantry to slide down along the upper load-bearing cable to the designed installation position. During this process, the positioning speed measurement module monitors the moving speed and position of the catwalk gantry in real time and sends it to the central control component. The central control component dynamically adjusts the drive speed of the self-drive module according to the actual moving speed and position of the catwalk gantry. S4: Catwalk mast positioning and installation: When the central control component determines that the catwalk mast has reached the corresponding designed installation position, it controls the self-drive module to stop moving; and fixes the lower structure of the catwalk mast to the surface layer. S5: Removal and Recycling: After the catwalk mast is fixed, remove the spacing constant component, self-drive module and positioning speed measurement module at the corresponding position, and repeat steps S2 to S4 until all catwalk masts are installed.

[0027] In this embodiment, a complete and efficient installation process is formed by systematically integrating five core steps: installation of constant spacing components, hoisting and positioning of catwalk gantry, catwalk gantry descent, catwalk positioning and installation, and dismantling and recycling. This solves the long-standing problem of catwalk gantry installation in the construction of long-span suspension bridges: because the lower load-bearing cables will sag significantly after the surface layer is laid, traditional methods cannot effectively control the spacing between the upper and lower load-bearing cables, making it difficult to position the gantry. However, this method can actively lock the design spacing between the upper and lower load-bearing cables by pre-installing constant spacing components before the surface layer is laid, creating the necessary conditions for smooth gantry installation. The catwalk gantry, which integrates a self-drive module and a positioning and speed measurement module, achieves intelligent motion control during descent. The central control component dynamically adjusts the driving force according to the real-time monitored speed and position data, ensuring that the gantry can slide at a stable speed in different slope sections, avoiding the risk of collision or jamming due to speed loss. The entire installation process of this invention does not require the upper load-bearing cables to be unloaded, thus maintaining the initial tension and overall stability of the catwalk structure, greatly improving construction safety.

[0028] Meanwhile, this method has a high degree of automation, which significantly reduces manual intervention in high-altitude operations, reduces labor intensity and safety hazards, and has wide applicability and important engineering value in long-span suspension bridge projects with a span of more than 2000m.

[0029] Optionally, step S1 in this invention includes: S1.1: After the tensioning and erection of the upper and lower load-bearing cables are completed, before laying the surface layer, according to the design installation position of the catwalk gantry, install the ear plates of the constant spacing components at the corresponding crossbeams. S1.2: Based on the design and installation location of the catwalk gantry, at least one upper load-bearing cable shall be connected to the corresponding upper load-bearing cable using cable clamps; S1.3: Connect the ear plate and the corresponding cable clamp by connecting the connecting cable to realize the connection between the upper and lower load-bearing cables of the constant spacing component.

[0030] In this embodiment, the reliability and adjustability of spacing control are achieved through the precise connection between the cable clamps and the ear plates. Specifically, the ear plates are pre-installed at the crossbeams at the designed installation positions before the surface layer is laid, and the upper load-bearing cables are fastened with cable clamps at the corresponding positions. This ensures that the connection of the constant spacing components has a clear positioning benchmark, avoiding positional deviations during later installation. The connecting cable, as a force transmission component, effectively links the ear plates and cable clamps, forming a stable force transmission path. This ensures that the upper and lower load-bearing cables can maintain the preset spacing under the surface layer load. This not only improves construction accuracy but also ensures that the arrangement of the constant spacing components strictly corresponds to the installation position of the catwalk gantry, providing precise spatial assurance for the subsequent sliding and positioning of the gantry.

[0031] Optionally, step S1.3 of the present invention further includes: adjusting the length of the connecting cable by using a hoist on the connecting cable so that the distance between the upper and lower load-bearing cables is the designed distance, and the upper load-bearing cable is always in a taut state.

[0032] In this embodiment, the length of the connecting cable is adjusted using a hoist on the connecting cable. During the construction of a long-span suspension bridge, environmental factors at the bridge site (such as temperature changes and wind influences) may cause slight variations in the length of the load-bearing cable. The hoist can compensate for these deviations in real time, ensuring constant spacing. Simultaneously, it keeps the upper load-bearing cable taut throughout the entire installation process, avoiding stress concentration or structural deformation caused by slackness. This effectively guarantees the overall rigidity and safety of the catwalk system. Furthermore, the hoist is easy to operate and highly reliable, making it particularly suitable for high-altitude operations. Construction personnel can quickly complete adjustments and lock the position, significantly shortening the installation cycle.

[0033] Optionally, step S2 of the present invention further includes connecting the crossbeam of the catwalk gantry to the auxiliary winch at the top of the main tower, and electrically connecting the auxiliary winch to the central control component.

[0034] Optionally, step S3 in this invention specifically includes: S3.1: Start the self-drive module and positioning speed measurement module, and use the self-drive module to drive the catwalk gantry to slide down along the upper load-bearing cable to the designed installation position; S3.2: During the process of the catwalk gantry sliding down the upper load-bearing cable towards the designed installation position, the moving speed and position of the catwalk gantry are monitored in real time by the positioning and speed measurement module and sent to the central control component; S3.3: The central control unit adjusts the self-drive module based on the position and movement speed of the catwalk mast: When the catwalk gantry is in a high-slope section near the tower, if the moving speed of the catwalk gantry exceeds the first threshold, the self-drive module will stop working and the auxiliary winch will take over the gantry's descent by controlling the rope release speed. When the catwalk gantry is in a low-slope section near the mid-span, if the moving speed of the catwalk gantry is lower than the second threshold, the self-drive module is activated to provide the main driving force and control the rope release rate of the auxiliary winch to be consistent with the moving speed of the catwalk gantry. This avoids problems such as pulling and shaking caused by the auxiliary winch's rope release rate being lower than the moving speed of the catwalk gantry driven by the self-drive module 3.

[0035] In this embodiment, a segmented intelligent control strategy is proposed. By dynamically adjusting the working status of the self-drive module and the auxiliary winch, stable movement of the catwalk gantry is achieved throughout its entire movement. Specifically, in the high-slope section near the main tower, the catwalk gantry is prone to accelerating downwards due to gravity. If the speed exceeds a first threshold, the central control component switches to winch-led control, utilizing its precise rope-releasing capability to suppress the risk of overspeed and avoid impact damage to the catwalk gantry. In the low-slope section near the mid-span, the catwalk gantry may decelerate due to friction or insufficient slope. At this time, the self-drive module actively provides driving force to ensure continuous movement and prevent jamming.

[0036] This adaptive control strategy not only optimizes energy consumption distribution (such as relying on gravity for energy saving in high-slope sections and using active drive in low-slope sections), but also significantly improves the smoothness and safety of the descent process. The central control component makes decisions based on real-time data from the positioning and speed measurement module, realizing intelligent operation and maintenance, reducing human judgment errors, and is suitable for long-distance installation on long-span bridges, ensuring engineering accuracy and efficiency.

[0037] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the first threshold corresponds to the low-speed stage, with a value range of 15-20 m / min. This stage aims to ensure smooth start-up and stable stopping, and to prepare for safe deceleration. The second threshold corresponds to the high-speed stage, which is when the catwalk gantry is operating normally in a low-slope section near the mid-span. Its value range is 35-50 m / min. This stage is the high-efficiency operating range of the gantry to ensure operational efficiency.

[0038] Optionally, step S4 in this invention includes: S4.1: When the central control component determines that the cat walkway gantry has reached the corresponding designed installation position, it instructs the self-drive module to stop moving. S4.2: Monitor the moving speed and position of the catwalk gantry in real time through the positioning and speed measurement module and send it to the central control component; if the central control component determines that the catwalk gantry is still moving, the central control component issues a command to control the auxiliary winch to lock in order to pull the catwalk gantry, and repeats this step; if the central control component determines that the catwalk gantry has stopped moving, then execute step S4.3. S4.3: Adjust the position of the cat walkway gantry so that the bolt holes on the bottom plate of the cat walkway gantry are aligned with the reserved holes on the surface layer at the corresponding positions, and tighten them respectively to complete the fixed connection between the cat walkway gantry and the surface layer.

[0039] In this embodiment, the gantry positioning and installation process is refined. A multi-level verification and fine-tuning mechanism ensures the accuracy and reliability of the gantry positioning: After the central control component determines that the gantry has reached the designed position based on the positioning data, it instructs the self-drive module to stop. However, by continuously monitoring position changes, it can identify minute displacements caused by inertia or external forces and trigger the auxiliary winch locking function to achieve instantaneous braking. This closed-loop control eliminates the risk of positioning error accumulation and ensures the stability of the catwalk gantry before it is fixed. The subsequent manual fine-tuning steps (such as aligning bolt holes and reserved holes) further improve the installation accuracy, making the catwalk gantry tightly connected to the surface layer and avoiding loosening or uneven stress during long-term use. This organically combines automated control and manual intervention, ensuring both efficiency and installation quality.

[0040] Example 2 Secondly, referring to Figure 2 , Figure 3 , Figure 4 and Figure 5 The present invention provides a catwalk gantry installation system for a long-span suspension bridge, which is used to implement the catwalk gantry installation method of the long-span suspension bridge in Embodiment 1, including: catwalk gantry 1, spacing constant component 2, self-drive module 3, positioning and speed measuring module 4, and central control component 5; The catwalk gantry 1 is a portal structure consisting of a crossbeam 11 and a column 12; Multiple constant spacing components 2 are used to connect the upper load-bearing cable 6 and the lower load-bearing cable 7 after the tensioning and erection of the upper load-bearing cable 6 and the lower load-bearing cable 7 are completed and before the surface layer is laid, so as to keep the spacing between the upper load-bearing cable 6 and the lower load-bearing cable 7 constant. At least two self-drive modules 3 are detachably mounted on the crossbeam 11 of the catwalk gantry 1 and are used to be fitted onto the upper load-bearing cable 6 to drive the catwalk gantry 1 to move along the upper load-bearing cable 6. The positioning and speed measuring module 4 is detachably mounted on the crossbeam 11 of the cat walkway gantry 1; The central control component 5 is connected to the self-drive module 3 and the positioning and speed measurement module 4.

[0041] In this embodiment, a highly efficient and collaborative construction platform is constructed by integrating the catwalk gantry 1, the spacing constant component 2, the self-driving module 3, the positioning and speed measuring module 4, and the central control component 5. It should be noted that the catwalk gantry installation system for long-span suspension bridges in this embodiment corresponds to the catwalk gantry installation method for long-span suspension bridges in Embodiment 1. Its usage and beneficial effects are also the same, and will not be elaborated here.

[0042] Optionally, the spacing constant component 2 in this invention includes a cable clamp 21, an ear plate 22, and a connecting cable 23; Reference Figure 7The cable clamp 21 is a ring structure consisting of two half-rings fastened together by high-strength bolts, with an anti-slip pad layer inside, used to hold and fix it to the upper load-bearing cable 6. Ear plate 22 is used to be installed on the crossbeam of the lower load-bearing cable 7 and corresponds to the designed installation position of the cat walkway gantry 1; The connecting cable 23 connects to the corresponding ear plate 22 and cable clamp 21, and a hoist 24 is provided on it for adjusting the length of the connecting cable.

[0043] In this embodiment, the cable clamp 21 adopts a ring structure fastened with high-strength bolts and is lined with an anti-slip pad layer to ensure a firm fit with the upper load-bearing cable 6 and prevent slippage or damage to the cable body; the ear plate 22 is installed on the crossbeam of the lower load-bearing cable 7 to provide a stable anchor point for the connecting cable 23, and its correspondence with the design position of the catwalk gantry 1 ensures the accuracy of spacing control.

[0044] The connecting cable 23, combined with the hoist 24, forms an adjustable length mechanism, allowing construction personnel to fine-tune the spacing according to real-time needs and adapt to different spans and load conditions. This structure not only simplifies the installation process but also improves the durability and adaptability of the components. For example, the anti-slip pad reduces wear during long-term use, and the mechanical self-locking function of the hoist ensures long-term stability of the spacing.

[0045] Furthermore, a tension sensor 25 is also installed on the connecting cable 23 to collect the tension on the connecting cable 23 in real time and transmit it to the central control component 5. The central control component 5 determines whether an overload has occurred based on the tension on the connecting cable 23 and outputs an alarm signal.

[0046] Optionally, the self-driving module 3 in this invention includes a main body 31, a drive motor, an energy storage device, and multiple sets of drive wheels 32; The main body 31 has a receiving groove, through which the upper load-bearing cable 6 passes; The drive motor and energy storage device are located inside the main body 31 and are electrically connected to each other; Multiple sets of drive wheels 32 are arranged in the receiving groove and abut against the upper load-bearing cable 6; The positioning and speed measurement module 4 includes at least a GNSS positioning module and a speed sensor.

[0047] In this embodiment, the main body design of the self-drive module incorporates a slot through which the upper load-bearing cable passes, with multiple drive wheels abutting against the cable body, dispersing the driving force and reducing the risk of localized wear. The integration of the drive motor and energy storage components (such as batteries) ensures the module's independent operation capability, avoiding the complexity of external power supply. The GNSS positioning module of the positioning and speed measurement module provides centimeter-level accuracy positioning, combined with real-time motion data feedback from the speed sensor, enabling precise decision-making by the central control components. This highly integrated design makes the module lightweight and easy to assemble and disassemble, improving equipment reusability. Simultaneously, its powerful driving capability ensures effective traction of the catwalk gantry on flat sections, overcoming the limitations of traditional gravity-based descent methods.

[0048] Furthermore, refer to Figure 6 The drive wheel 32 can be in pairs, one above the other, to clamp and fix the upper load-bearing cable 6.

[0049] Optionally, the system in this invention also includes an auxiliary winch 8, which is located at the top of the main cable tower, connected to the crossbeam 11 of the catwalk gantry 1, and electrically connected to the central control assembly 5.

[0050] In the description of this specification, the references to terms such as "one embodiment," "some embodiments," "illustrative embodiment," "example," "specific example," or "some examples," etc., indicate that a specific feature, structure, material, or characteristic described in connection with that embodiment or example is included in at least one embodiment or example of the invention. In this specification, the illustrative expressions of the above terms do not necessarily refer to the same embodiment or example. Furthermore, the specific features, structures, materials, or characteristics described may be combined in any suitable manner in one or more embodiments or examples.

[0051] Although embodiments of the invention have been shown and described, those skilled in the art will understand that various changes, modifications, substitutions and alterations can be made to these embodiments without departing from the principles and spirit of the invention, the scope of which is defined by the claims and their equivalents.

Claims

1. A method for installing a catwalk gantry frame for a long-span suspension bridge, characterized in that, include: S1: Installation of constant spacing components: After the tensioning and erection of the upper load-bearing cable (6) and the lower load-bearing cable (7) are completed, before the surface layer is laid, multiple constant spacing components (2) are connected between the upper load-bearing cable (6) and the lower load-bearing cable (7), and the constant spacing components (2) correspond one-to-one with the designed installation position of the catwalk gantry (1); S2: Catwalk gantry hoisting and positioning: After the surface layer is laid, the catwalk gantry (1) is hoisted onto the cable tower. The self-drive module (3) and the positioning and speed measuring module (4) are integrated and installed on the catwalk gantry (1). The self-drive module (3) on the catwalk gantry (1) is then fitted onto the upper load-bearing cable (6). S3: Catwalk gantry slides down: Start the self-drive module (3) and the positioning speed measurement module (4), and use the self-drive module (3) to drive the catwalk gantry (1) to slide down along the upper load-bearing cable (6) to the designed installation position; during this process, the positioning speed measurement module (4) monitors the moving speed and position of the catwalk gantry (1) in real time and sends it to the central control component (5). The central control component (5) dynamically adjusts the driving speed of the self-drive module (3) according to the actual moving speed and position of the catwalk gantry (1); S4: Catwalk gantry positioning and installation: When the central control component (5) determines that the catwalk gantry (1) has reached the corresponding design installation position, it controls the self-drive module (3) to stop the movement drive; and fixes the lower structure of the catwalk gantry (1) to the surface layer. S5: Removal and recycling: After the cat walkway gantry (1) is fixed, remove the spacing constant component (2), self-drive module (3) and positioning speed measuring module (4) at the corresponding positions, and repeat steps S2 to S4 until the installation of all cat walkway gantry (1) is completed.

2. The method for installing a catwalk gantry of a long-span suspension bridge according to claim 1, characterized in that, Step S1 includes: S1.1: After the tensioning and erection of the upper load-bearing cable (6) and the lower load-bearing cable (7) are completed, before the surface layer is laid, according to the design installation position of the catwalk gantry (1), the ear plate (22) of the constant spacing component (2) is installed at the crossbeam (11) at the corresponding position. S1.2: According to the design installation position of the cat walkway gantry (1), at least one upper load-bearing cable (6) is connected to the upper load-bearing cable (6) at the corresponding position by cable clamp (21). S1.3: The ear plate (22) and the corresponding cable clamp (21) are connected by the connecting cable (23) to realize the connection between the constant spacing component (2) and the upper load-bearing cable (6) and the lower load-bearing cable (7).

3. The method for installing a catwalk gantry of a long-span suspension bridge according to claim 2, characterized in that, In step S1.3, the following is also included: adjusting the length of the connecting cable (23) by using the hoist (24) on the connecting cable (23) so that the distance between the upper load-bearing cable (6) and the lower load-bearing cable (7) is the design distance, and the upper load-bearing cable (6) is always in a taut state.

4. The method for installing a catenary gantry frame for a long-span suspension bridge according to claim 1, characterized in that, In step S2, the crossbeam (11) of the catwalk gantry (1) is connected to the auxiliary winch (8) at the top of the main tower, and the auxiliary winch (8) is electrically connected to the central control assembly (5).

5. The method for installing a catenary gantry frame for a long-span suspension bridge according to claim 4, characterized in that, Step S3 specifically includes: S3.1: Start the self-drive module (3) and the positioning and speed measurement module (4), and use the self-drive module (3) to drive the cat walkway gantry (1) to slide down and move along the upper load-bearing cable (6) to the designed installation position; S3.2: During the process of the catwalk gantry (1) sliding down the upper load-bearing cable (6) to the designed installation position, the moving speed and position of the catwalk gantry (1) are monitored in real time by the positioning speed measurement module (4) and sent to the central control component (5). S3.3: The central control component (5) adjusts the self-drive module (3) according to the position and moving speed of the cat walkway gantry (1): When the catwalk gantry (1) is in a high-slope section near the tower, if the moving speed of the catwalk gantry (1) exceeds the first threshold, the self-drive module (3) will stop working and the auxiliary winch (8) will take over the gantry's descent by controlling the rope release speed. When the catwalk gantry (1) is in a low-slope section near the mid-span, if the moving speed of the catwalk gantry (1) is lower than the second threshold, the self-drive module (3) is activated to provide the main driving force and the rope release rate of the auxiliary winch (8) is controlled to be consistent with the moving speed of the catwalk gantry (1).

6. The method for installing a catenary gantry frame for a long-span suspension bridge according to claim 5, characterized in that, Step S4 includes: S4.1: When the central control component (5) determines that the cat walkway gantry (1) has reached the corresponding designed installation position, it controls the self-drive module (3) to stop the movement drive; S4.2: The positioning and speed measurement module (4) monitors the moving speed and position of the catwalk gantry (1) in real time and sends it to the central control component (5); if the central control component (5) determines that the catwalk gantry (1) is still moving, it controls the auxiliary winch (8) to lock in order to pull the catwalk gantry (1) and repeats this step; if the central control component (5) determines that the catwalk gantry (1) has stopped moving, it executes step S4.

3. S4.3: Adjust the position of the cat walkway gantry (1) so that the bolt holes on the bottom plate of the cat walkway gantry (1) are aligned with the reserved holes on the surface layer at the corresponding positions, and tighten them respectively to complete the fixed connection between the cat walkway gantry (1) and the surface layer.

7. A catwalk gantry installation system for a long-span suspension bridge, used to implement the catwalk gantry installation method for a long-span suspension bridge as described in claim 6, characterized in that, include: Catwalk gantry (1), constant spacing component (2), self-drive module (3), positioning and speed measurement module (4), and central control component (5); The cat walkway gantry (1) is a portal structure consisting of a crossbeam (11) and a column (12); The constant spacing component (2) consists of multiple components, which are used to connect the upper load-bearing cable (6) and the lower load-bearing cable (7) after the tensioning and erection of the upper load-bearing cable (6) and the lower load-bearing cable (7) are completed and before the surface layer is laid, so as to keep the spacing between the upper load-bearing cable (6) and the lower load-bearing cable (7) constant. The self-driving module (3) consists of at least two modules, which are detachably mounted on the crossbeam (11) of the catwalk gantry (1) and are used to be mounted on the upper load-bearing cable (6) to drive the catwalk gantry (1) to move along the upper load-bearing cable (6). The positioning and speed measuring module (4) is detachably mounted on the crossbeam (11) of the cat walkway gantry (1); The central control component (5) is communicatively connected to the self-driving module (3) and the positioning and speed measuring module (4).

8. The catenary gantry installation system for long-span suspension bridges according to claim 7, characterized in that, The constant spacing component (2) includes a cable clamp (21), an ear plate (22), and a connecting cable (23); The cable clamp (21) is a ring structure consisting of two half-rings fastened together by high-strength bolts, with an anti-slip pad layer inside, used to hold and fix it to the upper load-bearing cable (6); The ear plate (22) is used to be installed on the crossbeam (11) of the lower load-bearing cable (7) and corresponds to the designed installation position of the cat walkway gantry (1); The connecting cable (23) connects to the corresponding ear plate (22) and cable clamp (21), and a hoist (24) is provided on it for adjusting the length of the connecting cable (23).

9. The catwalk gantry installation system for long-span suspension bridges according to claim 8, characterized in that, The self-driving module (3) includes a main body (31), a drive motor, an energy storage device, and multiple sets of drive wheels (32). The main body (31) has a receiving groove, through which the upper load-bearing cable passes; The drive motor and the energy storage device are disposed inside the main body (31) and are electrically connected to each other; Multiple sets of the drive wheels (32) are arranged in the receiving groove and abut against the upper load-bearing cable; The positioning and speed measurement module (4) includes at least a GNSS positioning module and a speed sensor.

10. The catenary gantry installation system for long-span suspension bridges according to claim 8, characterized in that, The system also includes an auxiliary winch (8), which is located at the top of the main tower, connected to the crossbeam (11) of the catwalk gantry (1), and electrically connected to the central control assembly (5).

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