A control method for shortening the molten steel hoisting logistics time between converter and continuous casting process

Abstract

This invention relates to a control method for shortening the material handling time of molten steel in converter and continuous casting processes, belonging to the field of metallurgical equipment control. The method achieves real-time crane positioning and status monitoring by deploying positioning tags, electronic limiters, height encoders, electronic fences, audible and visual alarms, and an AI-based automatic scheduling and control system for ladles in the casting, receiving, and refining bays. Based on smelting parameters, the method predicts the tapping time in advance, controls the crane to be in standby mode, and automatically and accurately aligns it. It employs both manual and AI-based ladle confirmation and safety passage constraints to execute standardized hoisting. All process nodes are linked and data is optimized in a closed loop. This invention can significantly shorten the molten steel hoisting time, improve scheduling efficiency and operational safety, reduce process waiting time and energy loss, and ensure continuous and efficient production in converter-continuous casting.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention belongs to the field of metallurgical equipment control and relates to a control method for shortening the material handling time of molten steel in converter and continuous casting processes. Background Technology

[0002] As the core of metallurgical enterprise production, the steelmaking process, with converters (or electric furnaces) and continuous casting machines as key equipment, directly determines the enterprise's production capacity, product quality, and energy consumption level through their coordinated operation. The metallurgical overhead crane plays a crucial connecting role in receiving molten steel from the converter and transporting it to the continuous casting machine's pouring position. It is a key logistics equipment for achieving furnace-machine matching and ensuring the continuous and smooth operation of the steelmaking process. The crane's hoisting path planning, operation rhythm control, process connection accuracy, and crane operation directly affect the overall logistics timeliness of the converter-continuous casting process.

[0003] The existing logistics model for transporting molten steel in converters and continuous casting relies heavily on manual scheduling and experience-based operations. Crane operations are primarily based on manual ground control, experience-based operation by crane operators, and manual positioning by crane operators. This high reliance on manual experience leads to the following drawbacks: high safety risks and increased equipment wear and tear; unstable work quality due to excessive dependence on manual experience; poor coordination among multiple mechanisms and low positioning efficiency; limited lifting timeliness, hindering process capacity improvement; significant pressure on energy consumption and cost control; and rigid personnel allocation, making it difficult to implement multi-tasking.

[0004] The crane operation suffers from problems such as fixed waiting times, path redundancy, and excessively long alignment times. The main problems are as follows: The lack of time coordination between converter tapping, ladle positioning, continuous casting preparation, and crane transportation can easily lead to situations where molten steel is waiting for the crane or the crane is running empty and waiting for orders, significantly lengthening the overall hoisting cycle.

[0005] The hoisting route was not optimized, with frequent detours and repositioning between sections. In addition, the operation of three overhead cranes across the section and the interference from four overhead cranes further increased the time spent on ineffective logistics.

[0006] The lack of standardization in the lifting, operation, and placement of molten steel ladles, coupled with numerous manual confirmation steps and significant visual alignment errors, not only prolongs operation time but also leads to increased temperature drop, higher energy consumption, and disrupted production rhythm. In recent years, metallurgical enterprises have experienced frequent accidents involving spilled molten steel due to inadequate lifting confirmation.

[0007] Loose control over process connection nodes and a lack of advance prediction and synchronous linkage mechanisms can easily lead to continuous casting machines waiting for steel or converter blockages, hindering the efficient operation of the entire process.

[0008] The long spans between the refining and receiving spans, coupled with the presence of equipment such as CAS, LF, RH, ladle covering devices, and steel carts, result in narrow span distances and the lack of fixed safe passages for ladle hoisting. During hoisting, crane operators manually predict the height and width, making precise coordination between the trolley, hoisting mechanism, and other components difficult to achieve with manual operation. Errors in manual judgment easily lead to ladle scraping accidents, increasing the risk of spillage and other safety incidents, and hindering the crane's rapid operation.

[0009] The aforementioned problems result in excessively long material handling times for molten steel between the converter and continuous casting lines, and poor furnace-machine matching stability. This not only reduces production efficiency but also increases steel temperature drop and energy costs, making it difficult to meet the demands of modern steelmaking for compact, efficient, and low-cost production, as well as the current steel industry's needs for reduced output, low steel purchase and sale price differences, and the pursuit of maximum cost, maximum efficiency, and safety. Therefore, a standardized operating method is urgently needed to shorten material handling time and optimize process connections, thereby overcoming existing technological bottlenecks. Summary of the Invention

[0010] In view of this, the purpose of the present invention is to provide a control method for shortening the material handling time of molten steel in converter and continuous casting processes.

[0011] To achieve the above objectives, the present invention provides the following technical solution: A control method for shortening the material handling time of molten steel in converter and continuous casting processes, the method comprising the following steps: S1. Pre-configure scheduling and coordination equipment on the steel hoisting and logistics production line of the converter and continuous casting processes; S2, the ladle AI automatic scheduling and control system identifies the smelting parameters of each converter and refining furnace, as well as the daily production plan and process path, and pre-calculates the steel tapping time of each converter and refining furnace. It also obtains the position, load and operating status of each crane in real time through various scheduling and collaboration equipment. S3. Determine the shortest safe hoisting path from the converter tapping position to the casting position of each continuous casting machine based on the position, load and operating status of each crane, and send the control command to the corresponding crane controller. S4. After receiving the control command, the corresponding crane controller predicts the tapping time based on the temperature and carbon content of the molten steel in the furnace. Based on the predicted tapping time, it controls the crane to the corresponding position in advance and performs precise positioning control in conjunction with the dispatching and cooperating equipment. S5. Perform ladle hoisting operations in accordance with the double ladle hanging confirmation mechanism and the electronic fence safety passage monitoring mechanism; S6. After completing the current ladle hoisting operation, store all relevant hoisting data and proceed with the next round of ladle hoisting operation.

[0012] Furthermore, in step S1, the steel hoisting and logistics production line for the converter and continuous casting process includes at least a casting bay, a receiving bay, and a refining bay; the casting bay includes several types of continuous casting machines and ladle hot repair stations; the receiving bay includes receiving bay trolley tracks and several receiving bay trolleys; the refining bay includes refining bay trolley tracks and several refining bay trolleys, and also includes several sealed argon blowing alloy composition adjustment stations, ladle refining furnace stations, and vacuum circulation degassing stations; The specific configuration of the scheduling and coordination equipment includes: Several positioning electronic tags are set on the track safety guardrail at a preset distance on the side of the receiving cross-track near the refining cross-track and the side of the refining cross-track near the receiving cross-track. A positioning electronic tag reader is installed on the side of each receiving cross-train near the refining cross-train and on the side of each refining cross-train near the receiving cross-train. Each crane is equipped with a controller for logistics control and information transmission and reception, as well as a crane main hoisting wire rope height encoder; Electronic fence transmitters were installed at the receiving and refining cross-track travel ends respectively; Audible and visual alarms are installed at each continuous casting machine and ladle hot repair station in the casting section, as well as at each sealed argon blowing alloy composition adjustment station, ladle refining furnace station, and vacuum circulation degassing station in the refining section. A ladle AI automatic scheduling and control system server is set up in the refining section, and a ladle AI automatic scheduling and control system controller is configured in each refining station. Several auxiliary monitoring devices were installed within the receiving and refining track area; Steel ladle lifting and seat electronic limiters are installed above the tracks of each workstation, and corresponding electronic limit readers are installed on each crane to identify the arrival signal and achieve precise stopping.

[0013] Furthermore, in step S2, the ladle AI automatic scheduling and control system identifies the smelting parameters of each converter and refining furnace, as well as the daily production plan and process path, and the casting dynamics of the continuous casting machine, and estimates the tapping time of each converter and refining furnace in advance. Through various scheduling and cooperation equipment, the system obtains the position, load and operating status of each crane in real time. After the controller sends the ladle hoisting command, the system starts the real-time data acquisition process. The controllers on each receiving and refining crane identify the load status of the crane in real time through the crane's main and auxiliary hook scales or overload limiters, and transmit the load status to the local controller. The positioning electronic tag reader continuously reads the positioning electronic tag information on the track safety guardrail, identifies and determines the precise location of each vehicle in real time, and transmits the location information to the local controller; Each crane controller sends its location information and load status to the system terminal via wireless transmission. The system terminal then uploads the data to the steel ladle AI automatic dispatching and control system server via optical fiber. The server synchronously pushes the location, load, and operating status of all vehicles to the display screens in each control room. The steel ladle AI automatic scheduling control system reads the crane status and location, calculates and selects the optimal crane based on the current production status, and issues hoisting scheduling instructions through the steel ladle AI automatic scheduling control system controller; The crane's controller receives the command and reports the reception status, allowing the crane operator to prepare for subsequent hoisting operations.

[0014] Furthermore, step S3 includes the following steps: After the steel ladle AI automatic scheduling and control system server obtains the real-time location, load and running status of each crane, it combines the workshop layout, the distribution of casting positions of the continuous casting machine, the direction of the crane track and the safety operation specifications, and selects the optimal crane that is in an unloaded or standby state, closest to the work point and without operational interference based on the pre-calibrated track and work position coordinates. Starting from the converter tapping position and ending at the target continuous casting machine casting position, plan and determine the shortest safe hoisting route, mark the driving trajectory, driving speed limit, and avoidance points in the route, and prohibit the vehicle from detouring or changing lanes; Different path parameters are generated for different casting positions on continuous casting machines, specifying the travel direction, gear, deceleration point, and stopping point; The server will send a complete set of control commands, including path, speed limit, avoidance, deceleration and stopping position, to the controller of the corresponding vehicle. The controller completes command parsing and status locking, and sends a message to the server that the command has been received, ready to execute the driving and hoisting operations according to the specified path.

[0015] Furthermore, in step S4, after receiving the control command, the gantry crane controller will coordinate with the smelting control systems of each sealed argon blowing alloy composition adjustment station, ladle refining furnace station, and vacuum circulation degassing station to perform the following operations: When each smelting station enters the final blowing stage, the temperature and carbon content of the molten steel are monitored in real time, and the server predicts the tapping time. The server issues a dedicated hoisting standby instruction to the corresponding crane in advance based on the predicted time. The crane controller controls the crane to travel to the top of the ladle for alignment, and the main trolley travels to the west side of the ladle for positioning. After confirming the safe position of the crane operator, the controller lowers the main hook to the preset height and stops, completing the self-check and braking confirmation and remaining in standby mode. After the hoisting station issues the formal hoisting instruction, the server activates the electronic limit switch of the corresponding workstation. The trolley controller automatically controls the trolley to decelerate to a preset low speed based on the positioning information. After reaching the limit point, the controller controls the motor to stop, thus achieving precise parking. The light and sound alarm is triggered when the vehicle reaches its designated position. The alarm stops after the commanding personnel confirm the position is reached, and the limit switch automatically resets after the alignment is completed.

[0016] Furthermore, step S5 includes: After the crane is precisely aligned, the controller, in conjunction with the auxiliary monitoring device, electronic fence transmitter, and height encoder, performs the hoisting operation. A dual ladle hanging confirmation mechanism is activated, with images collected by the auxiliary monitoring device, secondary confirmation by ground-based crane personnel, and the ladle hanging confirmation auxiliary system automatically determining the validity of trunnion engagement and hook withdrawal. The electronic fence safety passage monitoring mechanism is activated, with the electronic fence monitoring the horizontal boundary and the height encoder monitoring the vertical height, and the signals are connected to the controller; when the steel ladle exceeds the limit or crosses the boundary, the controller triggers an alarm to prompt adjustment; Once the safety passage is confirmed to be normal, the vehicle travels at a constant speed along the shortest path, and the system monitors the positions of multiple vehicles in real time and avoids cross-interference. The crane performs standardized operations in sequence according to the preset process, including heavy ladle hoisting, ladle placement, hoisting the molten steel continuous casting machine, ladle return, and hoisting the ladle onto the hot repair car. Simultaneously, the entire process node linkage control is implemented, information of each operation node is unified, continuous casting stations are prepared in advance, and abnormal situations are communicated in real time and the operation rhythm is quickly adjusted.

[0017] Furthermore, step S6 includes the following steps: Once the ladle hoisting is completed, the ladle AI automatic scheduling and control system server collects data from the entire process through various controllers, positioning readers, height encoders, and auxiliary monitoring devices, records the time nodes of the entire hoisting process, and accurately calculates the steel prediction time, crane standby time, hoisting travel time, alignment and placement time, and the total time of the entire process. The server stores hoisting data, operating parameters, and workstation information into a dedicated operation database for archiving; the system summarizes and analyzes the data daily, optimizes processes, scheduling strategies, and control parameters for time-consuming steps, and forms a standardized operation system. The hoisting time, compliance, and safety indicators are incorporated into the monthly evaluation system of the work team. After all data processing is completed, the controller resets the crane status, and the electronic limit switch, electronic fence transmitter, audible and visual alarm, and auxiliary monitoring device return to standby mode. The system waits for the next hoisting command and enters the next round of steel ladle hoisting operation cycle.

[0018] The beneficial effects of this invention are as follows: This invention enables efficient cross-regional collaborative scheduling. Through real-time positioning and status synchronization, it completely solves the problems of chaotic traditional manual scheduling, train interference, and empty waiting, significantly improving train utilization and making furnace-machine matching more stable.

[0019] This invention can also achieve precise and rapid alignment of the vehicle. It adopts electronic limit switches, PLC automatic control, and AI automatic calculation, scheduling and tracking to replace experience-based alignment and manual experience-based scheduling, which greatly shortens the alignment time, eliminates alignment deviation, and reduces vehicle start-stop losses and equipment wear.

[0020] This invention enables seamless connection of process sequences by predicting the steel tapping time in advance and controlling the crane to be on standby in advance, eliminating remote machine adjustment and idle waiting, and ensuring that there is no delay in the connection between converter steel tapping and crane lifting, thus significantly reducing the overall logistics cycle.

[0021] This invention can reduce the overall waiting time. The vehicle approach warning and the workstation audio-visual prompts enable synchronized preparation between humans and machines, eliminating the ineffective time wasted when people wait for instructions after the vehicle has arrived at its destination, and vice versa.

[0022] This invention significantly improves the safety and standardization of hoisting operations. It adopts a dual confirmation mechanism of manual pointing and AI-assisted identification, combined with real-time monitoring by a high-temperature camera, to solve problems such as unreliable ladle hanging, incomplete hook unhooking, and large visual errors, thereby reducing the risk of ladle falling off and molten steel spilling.

[0023] This invention achieves both horizontal and vertical constraints through electronic fences and height encoders, allowing vehicles to travel at high speeds within a safe range and avoiding low-speed operation due to concerns about scratches, thus significantly improving transport speed while ensuring safety.

[0024] This invention also enables continuous optimization through data closed-loop. By statistically analyzing the entire process duration, parameters are continuously optimized to form a standardized system, thereby continuously shortening the hoisting time and reducing steel temperature drop, power consumption, and labor costs, thus comprehensively improving the efficiency and economic benefits of the steelmaking production line.

[0025] Other advantages, objectives, and features of the invention will be set forth in part in the description which follows, and in part will be apparent to those skilled in the art from the following examination, or may be learned from practice of the invention. The objectives and other advantages of the invention can be realized and obtained through the following description. Attached Figure Description

[0026] To make the objectives, technical solutions, and advantages of the present invention clearer, the preferred embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings, wherein: Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the overall process of the control method for shortening the material handling time of molten steel in the converter and continuous casting processes according to an embodiment of the present invention; Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of the scheduling and coordination equipment configuration on the steel hoisting and logistics production line of the converter and continuous casting processes according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0027] Figure reference numerals: 1-Continuous casting machine; 2-Auxiliary monitoring device; 3-Ladle hot repair station; 4-Audio-visual alarm; 5-Electronic fence transmitter; 6-Positioning electronic tag; 7-Crane; 8-Ladle refining furnace station; 9-Electronic limit reader; 10-Electronic tag reader; 11-Electronic limit switch; 12-Sealed argon blowing alloy composition adjustment station; 13-Crane main lifting wire rope height encoder; 14-Crane controller; 15-Ladle AI automatic scheduling control system controller; 16-Vacuum circulation degassing station; 17-Ladle AI automatic scheduling control system server. Detailed Implementation

[0028] The following specific examples illustrate the implementation of the present invention. Those skilled in the art can easily understand other advantages and effects of the present invention from the content disclosed in this specification. The present invention can also be implemented or applied through other different specific embodiments, and various details in this specification can be modified or changed based on different viewpoints and applications without departing from the spirit of the present invention. It should be noted that the illustrations provided in the following embodiments are only schematic representations of the basic concept of the present invention. Unless otherwise specified, the following embodiments and features can be combined with each other.

[0029] The accompanying drawings are for illustrative purposes only and are schematic diagrams, not actual pictures. They should not be construed as limiting the invention. To better illustrate the embodiments of the invention, some parts in the drawings may be omitted, enlarged, or reduced, and do not represent the actual product dimensions. It is understandable to those skilled in the art that some well-known structures and their descriptions may be omitted in the drawings.

[0030] In the accompanying drawings of the embodiments of the present invention, the same or similar reference numerals correspond to the same or similar components. In the description of the present invention, it should be understood that if terms such as "upper," "lower," "left," "right," "front," and "rear" indicate the orientation or positional relationship based on the orientation or positional relationship shown in the drawings, they are only for the convenience of describing the present invention and 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, the terms used to describe positional relationships in the drawings are only for illustrative purposes and should not be construed as limiting the present invention. For those skilled in the art, the specific meaning of the above terms can be understood according to the specific circumstances.

[0031] Please see Figures 1-2 This is a control method for shortening the material handling time of molten steel in converter and continuous casting processes.

[0032] Example 1 This embodiment first describes the specific implementation process of a control method for shortening the material handling time of molten steel in the converter and continuous casting processes, such as... Figure 1 As shown, it includes at least the following steps: S1. Pre-configure scheduling and coordination equipment on the steel hoisting and logistics production line of the converter and continuous casting processes; S2, the ladle AI automatic scheduling and control system identifies the smelting parameters of each converter and refining furnace, as well as the daily production plan and process path, and pre-calculates the steel tapping time of each converter and refining furnace. It also obtains the position, load and operating status of each crane in real time through various scheduling and collaboration equipment. S3. Determine the shortest safe hoisting path from the converter tapping position to the casting position of each continuous casting machine based on the position, load and operating status of each crane, and send the control command to the corresponding crane controller. S4. After receiving the control command, the corresponding crane controller predicts the tapping time based on the temperature and carbon content of the molten steel in the furnace. Based on the predicted tapping time, it controls the crane to the corresponding position in advance and performs precise positioning control in conjunction with the dispatching and cooperating equipment. S5. Perform ladle hoisting operations in accordance with the double ladle hanging confirmation mechanism and the electronic fence safety passage monitoring mechanism; S6. After completing the current ladle hoisting operation, store all relevant hoisting data and proceed with the next round of ladle hoisting operation.

[0033] In step S1 of this embodiment, as Figure 2 As shown, the existing steel hoisting and logistics production line for converter and continuous casting processes includes at least a casting bay, a receiving bay, and a refining bay. The casting bay includes several types of continuous casting machines 1 and a ladle hot repair station 3. The receiving bay includes a receiving bay trolley track and several receiving bay trolleys 7. The refining bay also includes a refining bay trolley track and several refining bay trolleys 7. It also has several sealed argon blowing alloy composition adjustment stations 12, a ladle refining furnace station 8, and a vacuum circulation degassing station 16.

[0034] When configuring scheduling and coordination devices, the specific steps include: On the receiving span's track near the refining span and on the refining span's track near the receiving span, several positioning electronic tags 6 are installed at preset intervals on the track safety rails. Positioning electronic tag readers 10 are installed on each receiving span trolley and each refining span trolley, with the receiving span trolley's reader 10 installed on the side near the refining span and the refining span trolley's reader 10 installed on the side near the receiving span. The positioning electronic tags 6 and the positioning electronic tag readers 10 work together to identify and determine the precise position of each receiving span trolley and refining span trolley on the track in real time, providing a location data source for trolley position monitoring, path planning, and precise alignment. Each receiving or refining trolley is equipped with a trolley controller 14 for logistics control and information transmission and reception. This controller receives and processes trolley positioning information, height information, and instruction information; executes control logic for trolley movement, deceleration, stopping, and lifting; and enables the transmission of logistics information and instructions between the trolley and the ladle AI automatic scheduling control system and ground workstations. Each receiving or refining trolley is also equipped with a trolley main lifting wire rope height encoder 13, which is used to detect and provide feedback on the ladle lifting height in real time, constructing a safe vertical hoisting channel for the ladle, ensuring that the ladle passes within a safe height range, and preventing collisions or safety hazards caused by excessively high or low operation.

[0035] Electronic limit switches 11 for ladle lifting and sitting are installed on the safety railings of the trolley tracks above the ladle car tracks at the sealing argon blowing alloy composition adjustment station, ladle refining furnace station, vacuum circulation degassing station, and ladle hot repair station on the east side of the refining bay and the west side of the receiving bay, as well as above the ladle turrets of the continuous casting machines in the casting bay. Simultaneously, electronic limit readers 9 for ladle lifting positions are installed on each receiving bay trolley and refining bay trolley. The electronic limit switches 11 and 9 work together to identify whether the trolley has reached the ladle lifting or sitting position, sending a position signal to the trolley controller to achieve automatic trolley stopping and precise alignment, reducing manual alignment time and avoiding alignment deviations.

[0036] Electronic fence transmitters 5 are installed at one end of the receiving span trolley track in the direction of travel and at one end of the refining span trolley track in the direction of travel. These transmitters are used to construct a safe passage for horizontal hoisting of steel ladles, monitor and constrain the horizontal operating range of steel ladles, prevent the trolley from deviating from the safe hoisting area, and ensure the safety of horizontal hoisting.

[0037] Audible and visual alarms 4 are installed at each continuous casting machine 1 and ladle hot repair station in the casting bay. Audible and visual alarms 4 are also installed at each sealed argon blowing alloy composition adjustment station, ladle refining furnace station and vacuum circulation degassing station in the refining bay. They are used to receive crane approach signals and arrival signals, and remind ground command personnel and station operators to prepare for crane lifting, ladle receiving and other preparations in advance in an audible and visual manner, thereby reducing crane waiting time and improving process connection efficiency. A ladle AI automatic scheduling and control system server 17 is also set up in the refining section, and ladle AI automatic scheduling and control system controllers 15 are configured in each sealed argon blowing alloy composition adjustment station, ladle refining furnace station and vacuum circulation degassing station; the ladle AI automatic scheduling and control system server is used to store and process full-process data such as crane position, ladle status, hoisting sequence; the ladle AI automatic scheduling and control system controller is used to read the status of smelting, crane, ladle, hot repair station, etc., calculate the adaptation of crane, ladle, hot repair station to production, issue hoisting instructions, activate limit devices, transmit station signals, etc., to realize the coordinated scheduling and information synchronization between converter-refining-continuous casting processes.

[0038] Several auxiliary monitoring devices 2 are installed within the receiving span and refining span trolley tracks. These devices are used to collect and monitor real-time images of ladle hanging, trunnion engagement, hook disengagement, and hoisting processes, providing a visual basis for ladle hanging confirmation and hoisting safety supervision.

[0039] In step S2 of this embodiment, after the ladle AI automatic scheduling and control system controller sends the ladle hoisting command, the system starts the real-time data acquisition and status acquisition process: Each receiver and refining inter-carriage controller used for logistics control and information transmission identifies the load status of the car in real time through the main and auxiliary hook scales or overload limiters, and transmits the load status to the local controller. The receiving and refining vehicles are equipped with positioning electronic tag readers to continuously read the positioning electronic tag information on the corresponding track safety guardrails, identify and determine the precise position of each receiving and refining vehicle on the track in real time, and transmit the position information to the local controller. Each controller that receives the cross-train and refining cross-train will transmit the collected train position information and load working status information to the system terminal on the train beam via wireless transmission. The system terminal transmits all location and working status information of the receiving cross-car and refining cross-car to the ladle AI automatic scheduling and control system server in the refining span via fiber optic transmission. After the server of the ladle AI automatic scheduling and control system integrates and processes the data, it synchronously pushes the real-time location, load and operating status of each receiving cross-traffic car and refining cross-traffic car to the display screen of the control room of each sealed argon blowing alloy composition adjustment station, ladle refining furnace station, vacuum circulation degassing station, continuous casting machine station and ladle hot repair station in the casting and refining cross-traffic. Operators at each station in the converter, continuous casting, and refining workshops can view the location, load, and operating status of each receiving crane and refining crane in real time through the display screen in the control room. Based on the current production status of the sealing argon blowing alloy composition adjustment station, ladle refining furnace station, vacuum circulation degassing station, and continuous casting machine 1, they can select the optimal crane and issue hoisting and dispatching instructions for molten steel ladle, empty steel ladle, and continuous casting surplus steel ladle through the ladle AI automatic dispatching control system controller. After receiving the hoisting dispatch instruction, the controller of the corresponding crane or refining crane will report the instruction reception status, and the crane operator will prepare to execute the subsequent hoisting operation.

[0040] In step S3 of this embodiment, after obtaining the real-time location, load, and operating status of each receiving and refining trolley, the ladle AI automatic scheduling and control system server, in conjunction with the layout of the steelmaking workshop, the distribution of casting positions on the continuous casting machine, the track directions of the receiving and refining trolleys, and on-site safety operation specifications, executes path planning and command issuance operations: Based on the pre-calibrated track and workstation coordinates, combined with the current position, load and operating status of each receiving and refining crane, the optimal crane that is in an idle / standby state, closest to the work point and has no operational interference is selected; Starting from the converter tapping position and ending at the target continuous casting machine casting position, the shortest safe hoisting path is planned and determined. The ladle AI automatic scheduling control system controller reads the steel production plans of the converter, refining furnace, and continuous casting machine daily in advance, reads the latest steel process paths and production arrangements of the converter, refining furnace, and continuous casting machine in real time, identifies the smelting parameters of each converter and refining furnace in real time, and pre-calculates the tapping time of each converter and refining furnace and the casting dynamics of the continuous casting machine. Through various scheduling and cooperation equipment, the position, load, and operating status of each crane and ladle and hot repair station are obtained in real time. The AI ​​calculates the optimal hoisting route for the ladle and the transfer and hot repair station utilization of the ladle, and issues hoisting instructions, activates limit devices, and transmits station signals to achieve collaborative scheduling and information synchronization between the converter-refining-continuous casting process. The system automatically marks the driving trajectory, driving speed limit, and avoidance points in the path and prohibits the crane from arbitrarily detouring or changing lanes. To address the differences in the casting positions of different continuous casting machines, differentiated path control parameters are generated to specify the driving direction, driving gear, deceleration point, and stopping point of the vehicle. The steel ladle AI automatic scheduling and control system server will contain a complete set of control instructions, including the shortest safe hoisting path, driving speed limit, avoidance points, deceleration positions, and parking positions, and will send them to the corresponding controllers of the receiving cross-line vehicles or refining cross-line vehicles for logistics control and information transmission and reception. After receiving the control command, the controller completes command parsing and status locking, and at the same time sends feedback to the steel ladle AI automatic scheduling and control system server that the command has been received and is ready to perform the driving and hoisting operations according to the specified path.

[0041] In step S4 of this embodiment, after receiving the control command, the controller used for logistics control and information transmission and reception links with the smelting control systems of the sealed argon blowing alloy composition adjustment station, the ladle refining furnace station, and the vacuum circulation degassing station to perform timing prediction, advance positioning, and precise alignment control: The sealing argon blowing alloy composition adjustment station, ladle refining furnace station, and vacuum circulation degassing station enter the final blowing stage. The smelting control system monitors key indicators such as the temperature and carbon content of the molten steel in the furnace in real time, and the ladle AI automatic scheduling control system server predicts the precise steel tapping time. Based on the predicted steel tapping time, the steel ladle AI automatic scheduling and control system server pre-sets the time and issues a dedicated hoisting standby instruction to the corresponding receiving or refining crane through the steel ladle AI automatic scheduling and control system controller, clarifying the hoisting operation task for this operation. After receiving the standby command, the crane controller controls the crane to perform the "four confirmations + two bell rings" safety operation, moving the crane to the top of the molten steel ladle to complete the alignment mark calibration, and at the same time moving the main trolley to the west side of the molten steel ladle to complete the positioning. After confirming that the ground personnel are in a safe position to direct the lifting operation, the controller lowers the main hook to a preset height above the molten steel ladle and stops, completing the equipment self-check and braking confirmation before lifting, and then remains in standby mode. The ladle AI automatic scheduling and control system controller issues a formal command to hoist the ladle, and the ladle AI automatic scheduling and control system server sends an activation signal to the limit device at the corresponding workstation, and the limit device enters the working state; The crane controller continuously acquires the location information of the positioning electronic tag through the positioning electronic tag reader and writer, calculates the distance between the crane and the hoisting position in real time, and automatically controls the crane to decelerate to the preset gear and run at low speed when the crane approaches the target work position. When the crane arrives at the designated hoisting position, the electronic limit reader recognizes the positioning signal and feeds it back to the crane controller. The controller immediately controls the trolley travel motor to stop running, and the crane stops precisely and completes the alignment. While the vehicle is moving or stopping, the steel ladle AI automatic dispatching and control system server sends a trigger signal to the audible and visual alarm at the corresponding work station. The audible and visual alarm sounds a prompt, and after the ground command personnel confirm the instruction, the alarm stops, and the command personnel enter the designated hoisting position to prepare. Once the alignment is complete, the limit switch automatically resets and enters the next work cycle, completing precise alignment control throughout the entire process.

[0042] In step S5 of this embodiment, after the crane is precisely aligned, the crane controller, in conjunction with the auxiliary monitoring device, the electronic fence transmitter, and the crane main lifting wire rope height encoder, performs double bag confirmation, safety passage restraint, and standardized hoisting operation throughout the entire process. A dual ladle hanging confirmation mechanism is activated: the auxiliary monitoring device collects images of the ladle trunnions and hook status in real time. On the one hand, the ground-based crane operator conducts a secondary on-site confirmation, and on the other hand, the ladle hanging confirmation auxiliary system automatically determines the reliability of the trunnion connection and the effectiveness of the hook withdrawal. Lifting can only be carried out after the dual confirmation is passed. The electronic fence safety passage monitoring mechanism is activated: the electronic fence transmitter monitors the horizontal running boundary of the ladle in real time, and the crane's main hoisting wire rope height encoder monitors the vertical hoisting height of the ladle in real time. Both signals are connected to the crane controller. During the lifting of the ladle, the trolley controller controls the ladle to remain within the vertical safety passage height range based on the feedback signal from the height encoder; when moving horizontally, the controller constrains the trolley to travel within the horizontal safety passage based on the electronic fence signal. If the height of the ladle exceeds the limit or it touches the boundary of the electronic fence in the horizontal direction, the crane controller will immediately trigger an alarm in the control room to remind the crane operator to adjust the position and attitude in time to ensure the safety of hoisting. After the safety passage is confirmed to be normal, the trolley controller controls the trolley to travel at a constant speed along the shortest safe hoisting path determined by S3, prohibiting detours, lane changes and frequent acceleration and deceleration. At the same time, the steel ladle AI automatic scheduling control system server monitors the positions of multiple trolleys in real time to avoid cross interference and same-direction avoidance problems in advance. The crane controller executes the following operations in sequence according to the preset process: hoisting the heavy steel ladle, placing the ladle, hoisting the molten steel to the continuous casting machine, returning the ladle, and hoisting the ladle onto the hot repair car. It strictly controls the gear position, descent height, test brake process, tilting angle, and unhooking sequence to complete the standardized hoisting process. Full-process execution node linkage control: The steel ladle AI automatic scheduling and control system server uniformly synchronizes key node information such as converter tapping, crane lifting, crane travel, steel ladle positioning, and continuous casting preparation. The continuous casting station completes equipment inspection and auxiliary material preparation in advance during hoisting to ensure that the casting process can start immediately after the steel ladle is positioned. When equipment abnormalities occur, all positions communicate in real time, and the scheduling system quickly adjusts the operation rhythm.

[0043] In step S6 of this embodiment, after all the ladle hoisting operations for the current furnace are completed, the ladle AI automatic scheduling control system server and the crane controller perform data storage, analysis, optimization, and cyclic preparation operations: The steel ladle AI automatic scheduling and control system server records the time nodes of the entire hoisting process through the full-process data collected by various controllers, positioning electronic tag readers, height encoders and auxiliary monitoring devices, and accurately calculates the converter tapping prediction time, crane standby time, hoisting travel time, alignment and placement time and total logistics time. The steel ladle AI automatic scheduling and control system server stores the above-mentioned hoisting-related data, crane operation parameters, and workstation operation information into a dedicated operation database to complete data archiving and storage. The system summarizes and analyzes hoisting data daily, and automatically generates optimization suggestions for steps that take too long. These suggestions are used to correct timing prediction parameters, path planning schemes, and precise alignment control logic, thereby continuously improving hoisting efficiency. The relevant indicators such as hoisting time, operation compliance, and safety performance are incorporated into the team evaluation system, and the completion status of each team is statistically analyzed and evaluated every month. After all data processing is completed, the trolley controller resets the trolley status, and the limit devices, electronic fence transmitters, audible and visual alarms, and auxiliary monitoring devices all return to standby mode. The system waits for the next ladle hoisting instruction and enters the next round of ladle hoisting operation cycle.

[0044] Example 2 This embodiment, in conjunction with a specific configuration, provides a more specific and detailed explanation of the method in Embodiment 1.

[0045] In step S1 of this embodiment, as Figure 2 As shown, the existing steel hoisting and logistics production line for converter and continuous casting processes includes at least a casting bay, a receiving bay, and a refining bay. The casting bay is equipped with a twin-strand slab continuous casting machine numbered 1#CC, 2#CC, and 4#CC, and a single-strand slab continuous casting machine numbered 3#CC, and has two ladle hot repair stations. The receiving bay has four receiving trolleys numbered 1#HC, 2#HC, 3#HC, and 4#HC in its trolley track. The refining bay has three refining trolleys numbered 5#HC, 6#HC, and 7#HC in its trolley track, and also includes a sealed argon blowing alloy composition adjustment station numbered 1#CAS, 2#CAS, and 3#CAS, a ladle refining furnace station numbered 1#LF and 2#LF, and a vacuum circulation degassing station numbered 1#RH.

[0046] When configuring scheduling and coordination devices, the specific steps include: On the receiving span's track near the refining span and on the refining span's track near the receiving span, several positioning electronic tags are installed on the track safety rails at intervals of 0.1 meters. Positioning electronic tag readers are installed on the west side of the end beam of each receiving span's trolley and on the east side of the end beam of each refining span's trolley. Specifically, the positioning electronic tag readers for the receiving span trolleys are installed on the side closest to the refining span, and the positioning electronic tag readers for the refining span trolleys are installed on the side closest to the receiving span. The positioning electronic tags and readers work together to identify and determine the precise position of each receiving span trolley and refining span trolley on the track in real time, providing a location data source for trolley position monitoring, path planning, and precise alignment. Each receiving or refining trolley is equipped with a PLC controller for logistics control and information transmission. This controller receives and processes trolley positioning, height, and command information; executes control logic for trolley movement, deceleration, stopping, and lifting; and facilitates the transmission of logistics information and commands between the trolley and the ladle AI automatic scheduling control system and ground workstations. Each receiving or refining trolley is also equipped with a main hoisting wire rope height encoder to detect and provide real-time feedback on the ladle lifting height, creating a safe vertical hoisting passage for the ladle and ensuring it travels within a safe height range to prevent scraping or other safety hazards caused by excessively high or low operating heights.

[0047] Electronic fence transmitters for horizontal ladle hoisting safety passages are installed at one end of the receiving span's trolley track in the direction of travel and at one end of the refining span's trolley track in the direction of travel. These transmitters are used to construct a safe passage for horizontal ladle hoisting, monitor and constrain the horizontal operating range of the ladle, prevent the trolley from deviating from the safe hoisting area, and ensure the safety of horizontal hoisting.

[0048] Fixed audible and visual alarms are installed at each continuous casting machine and ladle hot repair station in the casting bay. Fixed audible and visual alarms are also installed at each sealed argon blowing alloy composition adjustment station, ladle refining furnace station, and vacuum circulation degassing station in the refining bay. These alarms are used to receive crane approach and arrival signals and remind ground command personnel and station operators to prepare for crane lifting, ladle receiving, and other tasks in advance, thereby reducing crane waiting time and improving process connection efficiency. A ladle AI automatic scheduling and control system server is also set up in the refining section as the system host, and ladle AI automatic scheduling and control system controllers are configured in each sealed argon blowing alloy composition adjustment station, ladle refining furnace station, and vacuum circulation degassing station. The ladle AI automatic scheduling and control system server is used to store and process full-process data such as crane position, ladle status, and hoisting sequence. The ladle AI automatic scheduling and control system controllers are used to read the status of smelting, crane, ladle, and hot repair stations, calculate the adaptation of crane, ladle, and hot repair stations to production, issue hoisting instructions, activate limit devices, and transmit station signals to achieve coordinated scheduling and information synchronization between converter-refining-continuous casting processes.

[0049] On the east side of the refining bay and the west side of the receiving bay, electronic limiters for ladle lifting and sitting are installed on the ladle car tracks and the safety rails above the continuous casting machine ladle turret rails at each sealed argon blowing alloy composition adjustment station, ladle refining furnace station, vacuum circulation degassing station, ladle hot repair station, and ladle car tracks. Corresponding electronic limiters for ladle hoisting positions are installed on each receiving bay trolley and refining bay trolley to identify the ladle lifting and sitting electronic limiter positioning signals.

[0050] High-temperature, high-definition cameras are installed as auxiliary monitoring devices within the receiving and refining trolley tracks, at each sealed argon blowing alloy composition adjustment station, ladle refining furnace station, vacuum circulation degassing station, ladle hot repair station, and continuous casting machine ladle slewing table lifting position. These cameras are used to collect and monitor real-time images of ladle hanging, trunnion engagement, hook disengagement, and hoisting processes, providing visual evidence for ladle hanging confirmation and hoisting safety supervision. A ladle hanging confirmation auxiliary AI system is installed on each receiving and refining trolley to cooperate with the auxiliary monitoring devices in determining the ladle trunnion engagement and hook disengagement status.

[0051] In step S2 of this embodiment, after the ladle AI automatic scheduling and control system controller sends the ladle hoisting command, the system starts the real-time data acquisition and status acquisition process: Each receiving crane and refining crane's PLC controller identifies the crane's load status in real time through the crane's main and auxiliary hook scales or overload limiters, and transmits the load status to the local PLC controller. The receiving and refining relay cars are continuously read by the positioning electronic tag readers on the corresponding track safety guardrails every 0.1 meters. The receiving relay cars 1#HC, 2#HC, 3#HC, and 4#HC, as well as the refining relay cars 5#HC, 6#HC, and 7#HC, are identified and determined in real time on the track. The position information is then transmitted to the local PLC controller. Each PLC controller that receives the cross-train and refining cross-train will transmit the collected train position information and load working status information to the system terminal on the train beam via a wireless transmitter. The system terminal transmits all location and working status information of the receiving cross-car and refining cross-car to the ladle AI automatic scheduling and control system server in the refining span via fiber optic transmission. After the server of the ladle AI automatic scheduling and control system integrates and processes the data, it synchronously pushes the real-time location, load and operating status of each receiving cross-haul car and refining cross-haul car to the display screens of the control room of the casting cross-haul, the 1#CAS, 2#CAS, 3#CAS sealed argon blowing alloy composition adjustment station, the 1#LF, 2#LF ladle refining furnace station, the 1#RH vacuum circulation degassing station, the 1#CC, 2#CC, 3#CC, 4#CC continuous casting machine station and the ladle hot repair station in the casting cross-haul and refining cross-haul. Operators at each station in the converter, continuous casting, and refining workshops can view the position, load, and operating status of each crane in real time through the display screen in the control room. Based on the current production status of each sealed argon blowing alloy composition adjustment station, ladle refining furnace station, vacuum circulation degassing station, and continuous casting machine, they can select the optimal crane and issue hoisting and dispatching instructions for molten steel ladles, empty steel ladles, and continuous casting surplus steel ladles through the ladle AI automatic dispatching control system controller. After receiving the hoisting dispatch instruction, the PLC controller of the corresponding crane or refining crane will report the instruction reception status, and the crane operator will prepare to execute the subsequent hoisting operation.

[0052] In step S3 of this embodiment, after obtaining the real-time location, load, and operating status of each receiving and refining trolley, the ladle AI automatic scheduling and control system server, combined with the layout of the steelmaking workshop, the distribution of casting positions of continuous casting machines 1#CC, 2#CC, 3#CC, and 4#CC, the track directions of the receiving and refining trolleys, and on-site safety operation specifications, executes path planning and command issuance operations: Based on the pre-calibrated track and workstation coordinates, combined with the current position, load and operating status of the receiving cross-haul cranes 1#HC, 2#HC, 3#HC, and 4#HC and the refining cross-haul cranes 5#HC, 6#HC, and 7#HC, the optimal crane that is in an idle / standby state, closest to the work point and has no operational interference is selected. Starting from the converter tapping position and ending at the target continuous casting machine casting position, the shortest safe hoisting path is planned and determined. The driving trajectory, speed limit, and avoidance points are automatically marked on the path, and the vehicle is prohibited from arbitrarily detouring or changing lanes. Based on the positional differences of the casting positions of different continuous casting machines 1#CC, 2#CC, 3#CC, and 4#CC, differentiated path control parameters are generated to clarify the driving direction, driving gear, deceleration point, and stopping point of the trolley. The steel ladle AI automatic scheduling and control system server will send a complete set of control instructions, including the shortest safe hoisting path, travel speed limit, avoidance point, deceleration position, and parking position, to the corresponding PLC controller receiving the cross-haul or refining cross-haul. After receiving the control command, the PLC controller completes command parsing and status locking, and at the same time sends feedback to the steel ladle AI automatic scheduling control system server that the command has been received, and prepares to execute the travel and hoisting operations according to the specified path.

[0053] In step S4 of this embodiment, after receiving the control command, the PLC controller links the smelting control systems of the 1#CAS, 2#CAS, and 3#CAS sealed argon blowing alloy composition adjustment stations, the 1#LF and 2#LF ladle refining furnace stations, and the 1#RH vacuum circulation degassing station to perform timing prediction, advance positioning, and precise alignment control. Each sealed argon blowing alloy composition adjustment station, ladle refining furnace station, and vacuum circulation degassing station enters the final blowing stage. The smelting control system monitors key indicators such as the temperature and carbon content of the molten steel in the furnace in real time, and the ladle AI automatic scheduling control system server predicts the precise steel tapping time. Based on the predicted steel tapping time, the steel ladle AI automatic scheduling control system server issues a dedicated hoisting standby instruction to the corresponding receiving crane or refining crane 3 minutes in advance through the steel ladle AI automatic scheduling control system controller, clearly specifying the metallurgical crane number and operation task for this hoisting. After receiving the standby command, the crane PLC controller controls the crane to perform the "four confirmations + two bell rings" safety operation, moving the crane to the top of the molten steel ladle to complete the alignment mark calibration, and at the same time moving the main trolley to the west side of the molten steel ladle to complete the positioning. After confirming that the ground personnel are in a command position and that their position is more than 5 meters away from the object being lifted, the PLC controller controls the main hook to descend at level 4 to a height of about 2 meters above the molten steel ladle and stops, completing the equipment self-check and braking confirmation before lifting and maintaining standby status. The hoisting personnel issue a formal instruction to hoist the steel ladle through the steel ladle AI automatic scheduling and control system controller. The steel ladle AI automatic scheduling and control system server sends an activation signal to the electronic limit switch for steel ladle hoisting and sitting at the corresponding work station. The electronic limit switch is activated and enters the working state. The crane PLC controller continuously acquires the position information of the positioning electronic tag through the positioning electronic tag reader and writer, calculates the distance between the crane and the hoisting position in real time, and automatically controls the crane to decelerate to low speed in first gear when the crane approaches the target work position. When the crane arrives at the designated hoisting position, the electronic limit reader at the steel ladle hoisting position identifies the electronic limit switch's arrival signal and feeds it back to the crane's PLC controller. The PLC controller immediately controls the trolley's traveling motor to stop running, and the crane stops precisely and completes the alignment. While the vehicle is moving or stopping, the steel ladle AI automatic dispatching and control system server sends a trigger signal to the audible and visual alarm at the corresponding work station. The audible and visual alarm sounds a prompt, and after the ground command personnel confirm the instruction, the alarm stops, and the command personnel enter the designated hoisting position to prepare. Once the alignment is complete, the electronic limit switch disconnects and automatically resets, entering the next work cycle and completing precise alignment control throughout the entire process.

[0054] In step S5 of this embodiment, after the crane is precisely aligned, the crane PLC controller, in conjunction with the high-temperature high-definition camera, the ladle hanging confirmation auxiliary AI system, the electronic fence transmitter, and the crane main lifting wire rope height encoder, performs double hanging confirmation, safety passage restraint, and standardized hoisting operation throughout the entire process. A dual steel ladle hanging confirmation mechanism is activated: a high-temperature, high-definition camera collects real-time images of the steel ladle trunnions and hook status. On the one hand, ground-based crane operators conduct a secondary on-site confirmation, and on the other hand, the steel ladle hanging confirmation assist AI system automatically determines the reliability of the trunnion connection and the effectiveness of the hook withdrawal. Lifting can only be carried out after both confirmations are passed. The electronic fence safety passage monitoring mechanism is activated: the electronic fence transmitter monitors the horizontal running boundary of the ladle in real time, and the crane's main hoisting wire rope height encoder monitors the vertical hoisting height of the ladle in real time. Both signals are connected to the crane's PLC controller. During the ladle lifting process, the overhead crane PLC controller controls the ladle to remain within the vertical safety passage height range based on the feedback signal from the height encoder; when running horizontally, the PLC controller constrains the overhead crane to stay within the horizontal safety passage based on the electronic fence signal. If the height of the ladle does not meet the safety passage requirements or if it touches the electronic fence of the hoisting safety passage in the horizontal direction, the crane PLC controller will immediately trigger an alarm in the control room to remind the crane operator to adjust the position and posture in time to ensure hoisting safety. After the safety passage is confirmed to be normal, the crane PLC controller controls the crane to travel at a constant speed along the shortest safe hoisting path determined by S3. The operating speed is controlled within the safe and uniform speed range specified by the workshop to avoid frequent acceleration, deceleration, start and stop operations, and detours and lane changes are prohibited. At the same time, the ladle AI automatic scheduling control system server monitors the operating positions of multiple cranes in real time, and avoids crane cross-interference and same-direction avoidance problems in advance to ensure that a single crane travels without obstruction throughout the entire process. The crane PLC controller executes the following operations sequentially according to the preset process: heavy ladle hoisting, ladle placement, hoisting of molten steel onto the continuous casting machine, ladle return, and hot repair ladle hoisting onto the steel car: (1) Heavy steel ladle hoisting: The overhead crane is moved to the work position in advance, and the main hoist is lowered to 2m above the ladle in 4th gear to wait; upon receiving the ladle hanging instruction, it is lowered to 1m above the hoisting point in 4th gear and then gradually slowed down to a stop; within 2 interface points Lower the main hook to the third gear until the hook head is below the trunnion, then move eastward 1. Start the main trolley in 2nd gear and press it against the trunnion; after double confirmation of reliability, raise the main hook in 4th gear and stop 0.5m away from the saddle seat; lower it in 2nd gear and test the brakes to confirm their effectiveness; lift the heavy load into the safety passage in 4th gear and adjust the position of the main trolley; after starting in 1st gear, quickly shift to 4th gear and drive; automatically decelerate to 1st gear 10 meters away from the lifting position and stop automatically upon reaching the position. (2) Ladle hoisting: Align the large and small trolleys until they are above the ladle car and stop; lower the main hoist in 4th gear until the bottom of the ladle is 1m away from the crosscar and stop; after adjusting the position, 1 2nd gear downshifts until the ladle is seated; 2 3rd gear, lower the hook head below the trunnion, westward 1 In 2nd gear, unhook the main hook; in 4th gear, lift the main hook to clear obstacles above the height of the obstacle, and the main trolley returns to the safe passage. (3) Lifting the molten steel continuous casting machine: Align the large and small trolleys with the casting machine, and adjust the height of the ladle to be between the stop blocks of the slewing arm; 1 Shift into second gear and move the main trolley so that the ladle lightly touches the east stop block; 1 Descend to 2nd gear until close to the support, then slowly sit on the bag in 1st gear after confirmation; unhook the hook step by step as instructed. (4) Steel ladle return operation: Complete the overturning of casting residue, control the overturning angle of covered steel ladle ≦150° and the overturning angle of uncovered steel ladle ≦160°; align the empty steel ladle with the hot repair station, and unload and unhook the ladle according to the specifications; (5) Hot repair steel car hoisting ladle: The main and auxiliary hooks are lowered to the alignment position 1 meter above the ladle; the main and auxiliary hooks are respectively hooked to the trunnions; after confirmation, they are lifted, aligned and unhooked at the same time; if secondary slag turning is required, the refining crossover car must tilt the ladle 60 degrees and make it higher than the CAS platform, and the receiving crossover car must tilt 60 degrees and make it higher than the ladle cover platform before it can drive to the slag pot; The entire process is executed with interconnected control at each node: the AI-powered automatic scheduling and control system server synchronizes key node information for the start of converter tapping, crane lifting, crane travel, ladle positioning, and continuous casting preparation. Each position strictly follows the node execution. The continuous casting position completes equipment inspection and auxiliary material preparation in advance during the ladle hoisting process to ensure that the casting process begins immediately after the ladle is in place, eliminating the problem of "molten steel waiting for equipment, molten steel waiting for preparation". In case of equipment abnormality, each position communicates information in advance, and the dispatch center quickly adjusts the work rhythm to avoid waiting throughout the entire line.

[0055] In step S6 of this embodiment, after all the ladle hoisting operations for the current furnace are completed, the ladle AI automatic scheduling control system server and the crane PLC controller perform data storage, analysis, optimization, and cyclic preparation operations: The steel ladle AI automatic scheduling and control system server records the time nodes of the entire hoisting process through the full-process data collected by each PLC controller, positioning electronic tag reader, crane main hoisting wire rope height encoder, and high-temperature high-definition camera, and accurately calculates the converter tapping prediction time, crane standby time, hoisting travel time, alignment and placement time, and total logistics time. The steel ladle AI automatic scheduling and control system server stores the above-mentioned hoisting-related data, crane operation parameters, and workstation operation information into a dedicated operation database to complete data archiving and storage. The system summarizes and analyzes hoisting data daily, optimizes operation processes and adjusts scheduling strategies for time-consuming steps, and continuously corrects timing predictions, path planning, and alignment operation parameters to gradually form a standardized and replicable hoisting operation system. The relevant indicators such as hoisting time, operation compliance, and safety performance are incorporated into the team evaluation system, and the completion status of each team is statistically analyzed and evaluated every month. After all data processing is completed, the crane PLC controller resets the crane status, and the electronic limit switch, electronic fence transmitter, audible and visual alarm, and high-temperature high-definition camera all return to standby mode. The system waits for the next steel ladle hoisting instruction and enters the next round of steel ladle hoisting operation cycle.

[0056] By implementing the method described in this embodiment, the steel hoisting and logistics time for the converter and continuous casting processes at Chongqing Iron and Steel Plant has been shortened from the original 312 seconds to an average of 282 seconds, a reduction of 0.5 minutes. This effectively reduces the waiting time for molten steel in the continuous casting machine, improves the operating efficiency of the steelmaking production line, and achieves cost reduction and efficiency improvement.

[0057] Finally, it should be noted that the above embodiments are only used to illustrate the technical solutions of the present invention and are not intended to limit it. Although the present invention has been described in detail with reference to preferred embodiments, those skilled in the art should understand that modifications or equivalent substitutions can be made to the technical solutions of the present invention without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention, and all such modifications or substitutions should be covered within the scope of the claims of the present invention.

Claims

1. A control method for shortening the molten steel hoisting logistics time between a converter and a continuous casting process, characterized by: The method includes the following steps: S1. Pre-configure scheduling and coordination equipment on the steel hoisting and logistics production line of the converter and continuous casting processes; S2, the ladle AI automatic scheduling and control system identifies the smelting parameters of each converter and refining furnace, as well as the daily production plan and process path, and pre-calculates the steel tapping time of each converter and refining furnace. It also obtains the position, load and operating status of each crane in real time through various scheduling and collaboration equipment. S3. Determine the shortest safe hoisting path from the converter tapping position to the casting position of each continuous casting machine based on the position, load and operating status of each crane, and send the control command to the corresponding crane controller. S4. After receiving the control command, the corresponding crane controller predicts the tapping time based on the temperature and carbon content of the molten steel in the furnace. Based on the predicted tapping time, it controls the crane to the corresponding position in advance and performs precise positioning control in conjunction with the dispatching and cooperating equipment. S5. Perform ladle hoisting operations in accordance with the double ladle hanging confirmation mechanism and the electronic fence safety passage monitoring mechanism; S6. After completing the current ladle hoisting operation, store all relevant hoisting data and proceed with the next round of ladle hoisting operation.

2. The control method for shortening the molten steel hoisting logistics time between the converter and the continuous casting process according to claim 1, characterized in that: In step S1, the steel hoisting and logistics production line for the converter and continuous casting process includes at least a casting bay, a receiving bay, and a refining bay; the casting bay includes several types of continuous casting machines and ladle hot repair stations; the receiving bay includes receiving bay trolley tracks and several receiving bay trolleys; the refining bay includes refining bay trolley tracks and several refining bay trolleys, and also includes several sealed argon blowing alloy composition adjustment stations, ladle refining furnace stations, and vacuum circulation degassing stations; The specific configuration of the scheduling and coordination equipment includes: Several positioning electronic tags are set on the track safety guardrail at a preset distance on the side of the receiving cross-track near the refining cross-track and the side of the refining cross-track near the receiving cross-track. A positioning electronic tag reader is installed on the side of each receiving cross-train near the refining cross-train and on the side of each refining cross-train near the receiving cross-train. Each crane is equipped with a controller for logistics control and information transmission and reception, as well as a crane main hoisting wire rope height encoder; Electronic fence transmitters were installed at the receiving and refining cross-track travel ends respectively; Audible and visual alarms are installed at each continuous casting machine and ladle hot repair station in the casting section, as well as at each sealed argon blowing alloy composition adjustment station, ladle refining furnace station, and vacuum circulation degassing station in the refining section. A ladle AI automatic scheduling and control system server is set up in the refining section, and a ladle AI automatic scheduling and control system controller is configured in each refining station. Several auxiliary monitoring devices were installed within the receiving and refining track area; Steel ladle lifting and seat electronic limiters are installed above the tracks of each workstation, and corresponding electronic limit readers are installed on each crane to identify the arrival signal and achieve precise stopping.

3. The control method for shortening the molten steel hoisting logistics time between the converter and the continuous casting process according to claim 1, characterized in that: In step S2, after the ladle AI automatic scheduling and control system controller sends the ladle hoisting instruction, the system starts the real-time data acquisition process; The controllers on each receiving and refining crane identify the load status of the crane in real time through the crane's main and auxiliary hook scales or overload limiters, and transmit the load status to the local controller. The positioning electronic tag reader continuously reads the positioning electronic tag information on the track safety guardrail, identifies and determines the precise location of each vehicle in real time, and transmits the location information to the local controller; Each crane controller sends its location information and load status to the system terminal via wireless transmission. The system terminal then uploads the data to the steel ladle AI automatic dispatching and control system server via optical fiber. The server synchronously pushes the location, load, and operating status of all vehicles to the display screens in each control room. The steel ladle AI automatic scheduling control system reads the crane status and location, calculates and selects the optimal crane based on the current production status, and issues hoisting scheduling instructions through the steel ladle AI automatic scheduling control system controller; The crane's controller receives the command and reports the reception status, allowing the crane operator to prepare for subsequent hoisting operations.

4. The control method for shortening the molten steel hoisting logistics time between the converter and the continuous casting process according to claim 1, characterized in that: Step S3 includes the following steps: After the steel ladle AI automatic scheduling and control system server obtains the real-time location, load and running status of each crane, it combines the workshop layout, the distribution of casting positions of the continuous casting machine, the direction of the crane track and the safety operation specifications, and selects the optimal crane that is in an unloaded or standby state, closest to the work point and without operational interference based on the pre-calibrated track and work position coordinates. Starting from the converter tapping position and ending at the target continuous casting machine casting position, plan and determine the shortest safe hoisting route, mark the driving trajectory, driving speed limit, and avoidance points in the route, and prohibit the vehicle from detouring or changing lanes; Different path parameters are generated for different casting positions on continuous casting machines, specifying the travel direction, gear, deceleration point, and stopping point; The server will send a complete set of control commands, including path, speed limit, avoidance, deceleration and stopping position, to the controller of the corresponding vehicle. The controller completes command parsing and status locking, and sends a message to the server that the command has been received, ready to execute the driving and hoisting operations according to the specified path.

5. The control method for shortening the molten steel hoisting logistics time between the converter and the continuous casting process according to claim 1, characterized in that: In step S4, after receiving the control command, the gantry crane controller will coordinate with the smelting control systems of each sealed argon blowing alloy composition adjustment station, ladle refining furnace station, and vacuum circulation degassing station to perform the following operations: When each smelting station enters the final blowing stage, the temperature and carbon content of the molten steel are monitored in real time, and the server predicts the tapping time. The server issues a dedicated hoisting standby instruction to the corresponding crane in advance based on the predicted time. The crane controller controls the crane to travel to the top of the ladle for alignment, and the main trolley travels to the west side of the ladle for positioning. After confirming the safe position of the crane operator, the controller lowers the main hook to the preset height and stops, completing the self-check and braking confirmation and remaining in standby mode. After the hoisting station issues the formal hoisting instruction, the server activates the electronic limit switch of the corresponding workstation. The trolley controller automatically controls the trolley to decelerate to a preset low speed based on the positioning information. After reaching the limit point, the controller controls the motor to stop, thus achieving precise parking. The light and sound alarm is triggered when the vehicle reaches its designated position. The alarm stops after the commanding personnel confirm the position is reached, and the limit switch automatically resets after the alignment is completed.

6. The control method for shortening the molten steel hoisting logistics time between the converter and the continuous casting process according to claim 1, characterized in that: Step S5 includes: After the crane is precisely aligned, the controller, in conjunction with the auxiliary monitoring device, electronic fence transmitter, and height encoder, performs the hoisting operation. A dual ladle hanging confirmation mechanism is activated, with images collected by the auxiliary monitoring device, secondary confirmation by ground-based crane personnel, and the ladle hanging confirmation auxiliary system automatically determining the validity of trunnion engagement and hook withdrawal. The electronic fence safety passage monitoring mechanism is activated, with the electronic fence monitoring the horizontal boundary and the height encoder monitoring the vertical height, and the signals are connected to the controller; when the steel ladle exceeds the limit or crosses the boundary, the controller triggers an alarm to prompt adjustment; Once the safety passage is confirmed to be normal, the vehicle travels at a constant speed along the shortest path, and the system monitors the positions of multiple vehicles in real time and avoids cross-interference. The crane performs standardized operations in sequence according to the preset process, including heavy ladle hoisting, ladle placement, hoisting the molten steel continuous casting machine, ladle return, and hoisting the ladle onto the hot repair car. Simultaneously, the entire process node linkage control is implemented, information of each operation node is unified, continuous casting stations are prepared in advance, and abnormal situations are communicated in real time and the operation rhythm is quickly adjusted.

7. The control method for shortening the molten steel hoisting logistics time between the converter and the continuous casting process according to claim 1, characterized in that: Step S6 includes the following steps: Once the ladle hoisting is completed, the ladle AI automatic scheduling and control system server collects data from the entire process through various controllers, positioning readers, height encoders, and auxiliary monitoring devices, records the time nodes of the entire hoisting process, and accurately calculates the steel prediction time, crane standby time, hoisting travel time, alignment and placement time, and the total time of the entire process. The server stores hoisting data, operating parameters, and workstation information into a dedicated operation database for archiving; the system summarizes and analyzes the data daily, optimizes processes, scheduling strategies, and control parameters for time-consuming steps, and forms a standardized operation system. The hoisting time, compliance, and safety indicators are incorporated into the monthly evaluation system of the work team. After all data processing is completed, the controller resets the crane status, and the electronic limit switch, electronic fence transmitter, audible and visual alarm, and auxiliary monitoring device return to standby mode. The system waits for the next hoisting command and enters the next round of steel ladle hoisting operation cycle.

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