Trolley for bridge crane system and bridge crane system

Abstract

The present disclosure relates to a trolley (2) for a bridge crane system (2), the trolley (2) comprising a plurality of cross members (22, 26), one of the cross members (22) being configured to support a portion of a lifting member (14), the lifting member (14) being configured to lift a load in use. At least one first beam (30) extends between the cross members (22, 26), the first beam (30) being spaced apart from the cross members (22, 26) in a vertical direction perpendicular to the cross members (22, 26). A plurality of arms (34A, 34C) extend between the cross member (22, 26) and the first beam (30) to provide a connection therebetween, with at least one of the arms (34A, 34C) extending in a direction angled relative to the vertical direction. The utility model further discloses a bridge crane system which comprises the trolley.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This utility model relates to a trolley arrangement for a hoist in a crane system, specifically, to a trolley and a bridge crane system. Background Technology

[0002] In a typical bridge crane configuration, a trolley is mounted to an overhead beam or gantry. The trolley includes wheels to allow it to move along the beam, thus providing horizontal movement. A pulley system may be mounted to the trolley to support hooks, etc., thereby lifting loads during use.

[0003] "Low headroom" crane systems can be used in locations with limited vertical workspace. In this arrangement, it is desirable for the various components of the trolley to be positioned as high as possible relative to the gantry, thereby providing an increased clearance between the trolley and the ground during use. Examples of this arrangement are provided in WO 2015 / 110705, US 5461985, and US 2005 / 0092201. Prior art systems include several disadvantages.

[0004] This invention is intended to overcome or improve one or more problems in existing technical solutions. Utility Model Content

[0005] According to a first aspect, a trolley for a bridge crane system is provided, the trolley comprising: a plurality of transverse members, one of which is configured to support part of a lifting member configured to lift a load in use; at least one first beam extending between the transverse members and spaced apart from the transverse members in a vertical direction perpendicular to the transverse members; and a plurality of arms extending between the transverse members and the first beam to provide a connection between the transverse members and the first beam, wherein at least one of the arms extends in a direction angled relative to the vertical direction.

[0006] The trolley may include a second beam that extends between the transverse members. The second beam may be connected to the transverse members via a corresponding arm.

[0007] The arms connected to the second beam can be angled relative to the vertical direction (i.e., all arms are angled). The arms connected to the first beam can be parallel to each other. The arms connected to the second beam can be parallel to each other.

[0008] The arm connected to the second beam is at an angle relative to the vertical direction in the direction opposite to that of the arm connected to the first beam (i.e., arranged in a divergent pattern).

[0009] The arm can be at an angle between 1 degree and 30 degrees relative to the vertical. The arm can also be at an angle between 1 degree and 10 degrees relative to the vertical.

[0010] The arm can be angled outwards, such that the portion of the arm connecting to the beam is more spaced apart than the portion connecting to the transverse member. The beam can extend outwards relative to the trolley. The beam can extend outwards parallel to the axis of the transverse member.

[0011] At least one of the arms may include a wheel or roller. Each of the arms may include a wheel or roller. In use, the wheel or roller can provide movement of the trolley along the gantry or cable tray.

[0012] At least one arm of the boom supports a portion of the lifting mechanism to raise the lifting member during use. At least one arm of the boom may include multiple mounting surfaces to allow the lifting mechanism to be mounted to the boom. The mounting surfaces may be located on opposite sides of the boom, such that the lifting mechanism can be mounted accordingly on the opposite side of the boom.

[0013] The first beam and / or transverse member may include an arcuate tubular profile.

[0014] The transverse member and the first beam form a U-shaped profile in a direction perpendicular to the transverse member. The transverse member and the beam(s) may extend perpendicularly to each other. The transverse member may be parallel. The beams may be parallel.

[0015] One of the transverse members can be configured to support the sheave device. Another transverse member can be configured to provide an attachment point for lifting the member.

[0016] According to another aspect, a bridge crane system is provided, which includes the trolley of the first aspect.

[0017] The first transverse member can be located on the first side of the gantry of the bridge crane system. The second transverse member can be located on the second side of the gantry. One or more beams can span the gantry. Wheels can engage the gantry. The lifting mechanism can be located on the side of the gantry. The bridge crane system can include a low-profile, low-headroom, or low-bridge system.

[0018] Where feasible, any aspect of this invention may be combined with any other aspect of this invention. Attached Figure Description

[0019] Embodiments of the present invention are described below by way of example only with reference to the accompanying drawings:

[0020] Figure 1 A schematic side view of the crane system is shown;

[0021] Figure 2A perspective view of the trolley of the crane system is shown;

[0022] Figure 3 A simplified view of the trolley is shown.

[0023] Figure 4 A simplified side view of the trolley is shown.

[0024] Figure 5 A close-up view of the trolley's arm is shown;

[0025] Figure 6 A first perspective view of the trolley's arm is shown;

[0026] Figure 7 A second perspective view of the trolley's arm is shown; and

[0027] Figure 8 A top-down comparative view of the trolley is shown. Detailed Implementation

[0028] Figure 1 A schematic diagram of crane system 2 is shown. The crane system includes a bridge beam or gantry 4. Gantry 4 may include main beams, girders, rails, cantilever, etc. Gantry 4 is typically suspended above the ground (e.g., suspended from the ceiling or supported by legs). System 2 includes a hoist 6. Hoist 6 is movably mounted to gantry 4 to provide movement along the gantry, thereby providing movement of the load connected to hoist 6.

[0029] The hoist 6 includes a trolley or carriage 8. Wheels or rollers 10 are mounted to the trolley 8 to engage the gantry 4 and provide the aforementioned movement. A motor (not shown) may drive the wheels 10. The drive mechanism of the hoist 6 may include a gearbox, a control system, and / or other features associated with such a crane system. In other embodiments, the trolley 8 may be actuated via an external drive mechanism (e.g., via a screw drive or an endless loop).

[0030] In some embodiments, the gantry / cable tray is movable (e.g., providing movement of the hoist 6 in a second dimension). The gantry / cable tray can be mounted to a gantry, rail, or support structure to allow horizontal movement of the gantry / cable tray. The cable tray may include one or more wheels configured to engage the ground or support structure (if provided). Figure 1 In the illustrated embodiment, the gantry includes wheels 7 configured to run on a track 5 (as shown in the depth direction). The track 5 may be located below the end of the gantry 4 (in... Figure 1In the diagram, the gantry extends to the right (only the left end is shown). A motor may be provided to enable movement of the gantry / cable tray section. The motor may include a gearbox. The gearbox may be connected to wheels or the like to drive the gantry / cable tray.

[0031] A remote controller (not shown) can be configured to provide operation of the crane 2. The remote controller can allow adjustment of the position of the trolley along the gantry 4 and / or the vertical position of the load. The remote controller can be wired or wireless. The remote controller can include a suspended or radio controller. It is understood that this application does not relate to a specific form of the crane system 2 or any aspect thereof.

[0032] The lifting member 14 is connected to the hoist 6. The lifting member 14 may include ropes, chains, metal wires, or other suitable components for lifting a load in use. The lifting member 14 includes a connector 16 for connecting to the load in use. The connector 16 may include a hook, shackle, or other suitable connector. The connector 16 is connected to the hoist 6 via a pulley arrangement formed using the lifting member 14. In some embodiments, the lifting member 14 comprises a polymer or synthetic material. The polymer may include ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene. In other embodiments, the rope may be steel.

[0033] A first portion of the lifting member 14 is mounted to the lifting mechanism 18. For example, the lifting mechanism 18 may include a winch assembly. The lifting mechanism 18 may extend / retract (i.e., extend or retract) the lifting member 14 to change the height of the connection 16. A drum (e.g., a rope reel) or a spool may be provided to store the lifting member 14.

[0034] like Figure 2 As best shown, the second portion of the lifting member 14 is held via a pulley device 20 (i.e., a pulley or roller). The pulley device 20 is connected to the transverse member 22. The transverse member 22 extends across the width of the trolley 8. The transverse member 22 may form part of the frame or structure of the trolley 8. The lifting member 14 extends over the pulley device 20 to form a loop. Thus, the lifting member 14 extends rearward around the connector 16 and is secured to the trolley 8 at its end. The lifting member 14 is secured via the connector 24.

[0035] Connector 24 is disposed on the second transverse member 26. Transverse members 22 and 26 are tubular in form. Transverse members 22 and 26 are arranged in parallel. Transverse members 22 and 26 are mounted to frame 28. Frame 28 includes a first beam 30 and a second beam 32. The first beam 30 and second beam 32 are tubular in form. The first beam 30 and second beam 32 are parallel. In use, the first beam 30 and second beam 32 are configured to span the gantry 4. The first beam 30, second beam 32 and / or transverse members 22 and 26 include circular or arc-shaped tubular forms. The first beam 30, second beam 32 and / or transverse members 22 and 26 can form a tubular frame.

[0036] Frame 28 includes arms 34A to 34D. Arms 34A to 34D are configured to unite transverse members 22, 26 and the first beam 30 and the second beam 32. Frame 28 includes a U-shaped profile (see [link]). Figure 3 Arms 34A to 34D receive corresponding transverse members 22, 26 at their first ends 38. Fasteners 40 are configured to secure the transverse members 22, 26 to arms 34A to 34D. In the present embodiment, arms 34A to 34D are mounted to the ends of transverse members 22, 26. In other embodiments, arms 34A to 34D may be displaced from the ends of transverse members 22, 26. Thus, the tubular form of the transverse members 22, 26 allows for adjustment of the spacing between the first beam 30 and the second beam 32 (i.e., the length of the trolley 8). This further allows the hoist 6 to be adapted to gantry frames of different sizes. Wheels 10 can run along flanges, etc., on the gantry frame.

[0037] Arms 34A to 34D support corresponding wheels 10. Two of the arms 34A and 34B are configured to support a lifting mechanism 18. The lifting mechanism 18 can be mounted to the arms 34A and 34B via brackets 42A and 42B. Brackets 42A and 42B can be located at the respective ends of the drum / shaft or its housing 44. One of the brackets 42A supports a motor 46 (of the lifting mechanism 18). The motor causes the lifting mechanism to move vertically (i.e., to rotate the drum). The motor is operatively connected to the shaft via a gearbox 48. The lifting mechanism 18 may include brakes or the like to slow down and / or stop its movement.

[0038] The second end 50 of arms 34A to 34D is configured to receive the first beam 30 and the second beam 32. Arms 34A to 34D include corresponding holes to receive the first beam 30 and the second beam 32. In this embodiment, arms 34A to 34D are partially disposed along the length of the first beam 30 and the second beam 32. It is understood that the position of arms 34A to 34D along the first beam 30 and the second beam 32 can be adjusted to adjust the width of the trolley 8. Suitable fasteners can be provided to secure arms 34A to 34D in place.

[0039] Now for reference Figure 4 The second ends 50 of arms 34A to 34D are angled outwards. Therefore, the spacing of the first ends 38 of arms 34A to 34D is smaller than the spacing of the second ends 50 of arms 34A to 34D. Thus, arms 34A to 34D are divergent (e.g., in a direction parallel to the length of the trolley 8 or the gantry). This arrangement allows the wheels 10 to be close to each other, providing sufficient spacing for the first beam 30, the second beam 32 (e.g., to accommodate the lifting member 14, etc.). The angled arrangement also effectively raises the first beam 30 and the second beam 32, thereby helping to lower the profile of the trolley 8 for a more compact design. The angled arrangement increases the spacing between the first beam 30 and the second beam 32, thus providing more space for the lifting member 14. As an additional benefit, the hoist 6 can move laterally closer to the walls or sides of a building, allowing the hoist to provide effective lifting capacity over a larger ground area. The angled arrangement also reduces the spacing of the wheels 10.

[0040] refer to Figure 5 Arms 34A to 34D form an angle θ relative to reference 52. This reference can be defined as a direction perpendicular to the transverse members 22 and 26. In use, angle θ is typically also an angle relative to the vertical direction. Angle θ can be between 1 degree and 30 degrees; preferably, between 2 degrees and 10 degrees; most preferably, 5 degrees.

[0041] In this embodiment, each of arms 34A to 34D is angled. The first beam 30 and the second beam 32 extend outwards on both sides. Arms 34B and 34D are angled in a first direction, while arms 34A and 34C are angled in opposite directions. This provides a symmetrical arrangement. One pair of arms 34A and 34C is parallel to each other but not parallel to the other pair of arms 34B and 34D. The other pair of arms 34B and 34D is parallel to each other. In other embodiments, one pair of 34A and 34C / 34B and 34D may be angled, while the other pair of 34B and 34D / 34A and 34C is not angled (i.e., perpendicular to the transverse members 22 and 26).

[0042] Figure 6 and Figure 7 Arm 34A is shown in more detail. Arm 34A includes a channel 54 for receiving transverse member 26. Channel 54 may include a sleeve (e.g., annular or ring-shaped). A second channel 56 is configured to receive beam 30. The second channel 56 may include a plurality of spaced annular elements.

[0043] like Figure 6As shown, arm 34A includes a first mounting surface 58A. A bracket 42A of the lifting mechanism 18 is configured to abut against the first mounting surface 58A. The first mounting surface 58A includes a generally flat surface. A hole 60 is configured to allow fasteners to be attached thereto during use. The bracket 42A can be releasably attached to arm 34A. A second mounting surface 58B is configured in a similar manner. The first mounting surface 58A is positioned adjacent to the first channel 54, and the second mounting surface 58B is positioned adjacent to the second channel 56. The first mounting surface 58A is positioned towards a first end 38 of the arm, and the second mounting surface 58B is positioned towards a second end 50. Thus, mounting surfaces 58A and 58B are spaced apart by a large portion of the length of arm 34A. This ensures that the bracket 42A is attached to arm 34A around two spatial points, ensuring a secure connection and helping to prevent rotation.

[0044] refer to Figure 7 Arm 34A includes a third mounting surface 62A. The third mounting surface 62A is located at a position corresponding to the first mounting surface 58A. A fourth mounting surface 62B is correspondingly located at a position corresponding to the second mounting surface 58B. The first mounting surface 58A has a shape similar to the third mounting surface 62A. The third mounting surface 58B has a shape similar to the fourth mounting surface 62B. Therefore, a bracket can be mounted to both sides 64A and 64B of the arm as needed.

[0045] like Figure 8 As shown, this device allows for the installation of lifting mechanisms 18 of different sizes, particularly drums or drum housings 44 of different sizes. Figure 8 In the top view, bracket 42A is attached to the inner side 64B of arm 34A (i.e., bracket 42A is mounted to the inner surface of trolley 8). Figure 8 In the bottom view, bracket 42A is attached to the outer side 64A of arm 34A (i.e., bracket 42A is mounted to the outside of trolley 8). Therefore, this system is more flexible because lifting mechanisms of different sizes can be mounted on the system without modification. Thus, a single trolley system can be used for multiple different systems, reducing manufacturing complexity and cost. This system provides a dual-mounting-point arrangement for the lifting mechanism.

[0046] In this embodiment, a single arm 34A includes mounting structures located on its two sides 64A, 64B. Arm 34A can be positioned adjacent to gearbox 48. In other embodiments, a second arm 34B is configured to support a second bracket 42B in a similar manner. Accordingly, the second arm 34B may include mounting structures on its two sides. This allows for at least three size configurations.

[0047] The electrical housing 66 is mounted to the trolley. Housing 66 can house one or more electrical systems, control systems, and / or power supplies. In some embodiments, the electrical housing 66 can be mounted in a manner similar to the lifting mechanism 18. Therefore, arms 34C and 34D can include mounting structures on their sides.

[0048] This device can be used in "low profile" or "low headroom" crane systems. Such systems can be installed in locations with limited vertical space. The sheave assembly 20 and attachment device 44 on the transverse members 22, 26 allow the sheave assembly 20 and attachment device 44 to be raised horizontally or above the gantry 4 during use. This increases the vertical clearance for the hoist system 6. The first beam 30 and second beam 32 are the connecting sides of the low headroom hoist, such that the connecting structure is located below the support beam or main beam. The wheel 10 can then be fitted to run along the flange of the support beam or main beam. The first beam 30 and second beam 32 are positioned below the transverse members 22, 26 to allow the transverse members 22, 26 to be raised relative to prior art systems. The angled boom arrangement further enhances this. The lifting mechanism 18 and / or other components are located on the side of the trolley 8, also increasing the vertical clearance. The lifting mechanism 18 is mounted to the booms 34A to 34D to facilitate lateral attachment.

Claims

1. A trolley (8) for a bridge crane system (2), characterized in that, The vehicle includes: Multiple transverse members (22, 26), one of which is configured to support part of a lifting member (14), which is configured to lift a load in use; At least one first beam (30) extending between the transverse members (22, 26), the first beam (30) being spaced apart from the transverse members (22, 26) in a vertical direction perpendicular to the transverse members (22, 26); and Multiple arms (34A, 34C) extending between the transverse members (22, 26) and the first beam (30) to provide a connection between the transverse members (22, 26) and the first beam (30), wherein at least one of the arms (34A, 34C) extends in a direction angled relative to the vertical direction.

2. The trolley according to claim 1, wherein, The trolley also includes a second beam (32) that extends between the transverse members (22, 26) and is connected to the transverse members (22, 26) via corresponding arms (34B, 34D).

3. The trolley according to claim 2, wherein, The arm connected to the second beam (32) is at an angle relative to the vertical direction.

4. The trolley according to claim 3, wherein, The arm connected to the second beam (32) is angled relative to the vertical direction in the direction opposite to the arm connected to the first beam (30).

5. The trolley according to claim 1, wherein, The arm forms an angle between 1 degree and 30 degrees relative to the vertical direction.

6. The trolley according to claim 2, wherein, The arms connected to the first beam and the arms connected to the second beam are angled outwards such that the portions of each arm connected to the corresponding one of the first beam (30) and the second beam are more spaced apart than the portions connected to the transverse members (22, 26).

7. The trolley according to claim 1, wherein, At least one of the arms (34A, 34C) includes a wheel or roller (10) to provide movement of the trolley along the gantry (4) or bridge in use.

8. The trolley according to claim 1, wherein, At least one of the arms (34A, 34C) supports a portion of the lifting mechanism (18) to raise the lifting member (14) during use.

9. The trolley according to claim 8, wherein, At least one of the arms (34A, 34C) includes a plurality of mounting surfaces (58A, 62A) to allow the lifting mechanism (18) to be mounted to the arm, and wherein the mounting surfaces (58A, 62A) are disposed on opposite sides of the arm such that the lifting mechanism (18) can be mounted accordingly on opposite sides (64A, 64B) of the arm.

10. The trolley according to claim 1, wherein, The first beam (30) and / or the transverse members (22, 26) include an arcuate tubular profile.

11. The trolley according to claim 1, wherein, The transverse members (22, 26) and the first beam (30) form a U-shaped profile in a direction perpendicular to the transverse members (22, 26).

12. The trolley according to claim 2, wherein, The transverse members (22, 26) are parallel, and / or the first beam (30) and the second beam (32) are parallel.

13. The trolley according to claim 1, wherein, One of the transverse members is configured to support the sheave device (20), and the other transverse member is configured to provide an attachment point (24) for the lifting member (14).

14. A bridge crane system (2), characterized in that, It includes the trolley as described in claim 1.

15. The bridge crane system according to claim 14, wherein, A first transverse member is provided on the first side of the gantry (4) of the bridge crane system (2), and a second transverse member is provided on the second side of the gantry (4).

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