Heavy load transport device and heavy load transport system

Abstract

To provide a heavy load transport device and a heavy load transport system capable of transporting a heavy load having increased thickness and length in a stable state in a limited short time.SOLUTION: Supporting and conveying mechanisms 10f, 10b in a heavy load transport device alternatively perform the following operations (A) and (B) in a repeated manner. That is, in (A), the supporting and conveying mechanism 10f moves a heavy load 1 along a first direction x while supporting it, and the supporting and conveying mechanism 10b moves a rear cushion jack 6b to a predetermined position along a second direction y by driving a rear side propulsion jack 7b while not supporting the heavy load 1. Additionally, in (B), the supporting and conveying mechanism 10b moves the heavy load 1 along the first direction x while supporting it, and the supporting and conveying mechanism 10f moves a front cushion jack 6f to the predetermined position along the second direction y by driving a front side propulsion jack 7f while not supporting the heavy load 1.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 3

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a heavy load transport device and a heavy load transport system. [Background technology]

[0002] Various heavy-duty transport devices have been known for use in bridge construction and other construction work, such as sliding and transporting large, heavy loads, such as bridge girders, in a predetermined direction and erecting them on bridge piers and other supporting structures. These conventional heavy-duty transport devices are broadly classified into devices that combine a vertical jack that supports the weight of the heavy load with a propulsion jack that moves the heavy load together with the vertical jack, devices that combine a propulsion jack for the heavy load with a slide base, and crawler-type devices that transport the heavy load using tracks. Furthermore, some heavy loads require very complex transport configurations. For example, the present applicant has developed a heavy-duty transport (loading) device that can transport not only "linear heavy loads" such as straight bridge girders, but also so-called "curved heavy loads" such as bridge girders that include curved sections in plan view (see Patent Document 1). [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Publication No. 2023-22962 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] Recently, bridge construction projects have become increasingly challenging due to their extremely complex construction conditions. In particular, bridge construction projects spanning existing roads or railway tracks require large and complex bridge structures. Furthermore, construction must be completed within a very limited time frame to minimize disruption to traffic. Furthermore, as described in Patent Document 1, when transporting a heavy load along a curved path, it is necessary to simultaneously move the load in the forward direction and in the lateral direction that intersects the forward direction. However, as the load becomes larger and heavier, and as the girder height increases with the size of the load, ensuring stability during support and transport becomes increasingly difficult. Consequently, careful work is required, potentially resulting in longer construction periods and higher construction costs.

[0005] Therefore, the present disclosure has been made in consideration of such problems, and aims to provide a heavy object transport device and a heavy object transport system that can transport large and heavy objects (especially "curved heavy objects") in a stable state and within a limited short time, thereby improving safety and economy during the erection and construction of heavy objects. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] [1] In order to achieve the above object, the heavy object transport device (10) according to the present disclosure is configured to transport a heavy object (1) in a linear manner along a predetermined direction, the heavy object (1) having a cross-sectional portion including a pair of flanges (1f, 1f) and a web (1w) connecting the pair of flanges (1f, 1f) and having a curved portion in a plan view.

[0007] The heavy object transport device (10) also includes a rail (2) extending along a first direction (x), which is a predetermined direction, a first vertical jack (3f) and a second vertical jack (3b) provided on the rail (2), and a first propulsion jack (4f) and a second propulsion jack (4b) connected to the first vertical jack (3f) and the second vertical jack (3b), respectively, and is equipped with a plurality of transport units (20u) arranged side by side along a second direction (y) intersecting the first direction (x).

[0008] Furthermore, the heavy object transport device (10) further includes a plurality of support beam units (30u) having first support beams (5f) and second support beams (5b) straddling the first vertical jacks (3f) and second vertical jacks (3b) of the plurality of transport units (20u) along the second direction (y), a plurality of first cushion jacks (6f) and a plurality of second cushion jacks (6b) juxtaposed on the first support beams (5f) and second support beams (5b), respectively, and a third propulsion jack (7f) and a fourth propulsion jack (7b) connected to at least a portion of the first cushion jacks (6f) and at least a portion of the second cushion jacks (6b), respectively. The first vertical jack (3f), the first propulsion jack (4f), the first support beam (5f), the first cushion jack (6f), and the third propulsion jack (7f) constitute a first support transfer mechanism (10f), and the second vertical jack (3b), the second propulsion jack (4b), the second support beam (5b), the second cushion jack (6b), and the fourth propulsion jack (7b) constitute a second support transfer mechanism (10b). The first support transfer mechanism (10f) and the second support transfer mechanism (10b) are configured to alternately and repeatedly perform the following operations (A) and (B):

[0009] That is, in operation (A), the first support and transport mechanism (10f) supports the heavy object (1) by bringing the first cushion jack (6f) into contact with a portion of the heavy object (1) including a portion directly below the web (1w), and then drives the first propulsion jack (4f) to move the heavy object (1) along the first direction (x). At the same time, the second support and transport mechanism (10b) performs a transfer operation on the heavy object (1) by contracting the stroke of the second cushion jack (6b) to move it away from the heavy object (1). At this time, if the second cushion jack (6b) is not supporting the heavy object (1) and is not at a predetermined position corresponding to a portion of the heavy object (1) including a portion directly below the web (1w), then the fourth propulsion jack (7b) is driven to move the second cushion jack (6b) along the second direction (y) to the predetermined position.

[0010] In operation (B), the second support and transport mechanism (10b) supports the heavy object (1) by bringing the second cushion jack (6b) into contact with a portion of the heavy object (1) including the portion directly below the web (1w), and then drives the second propulsion jack (4b) to move the heavy object (1) along the first direction (x). At the same time, the first support and transport mechanism (10f) moves the first cushion jack (6f) away from the heavy object (1), thereby transferring the heavy object (1). If the first cushion jack (6f) is not supporting the heavy object (1) and is not at a predetermined position corresponding to the portion of the heavy object (1) including the portion directly below the web (1w), the third propulsion jack (7f) is driven to move the first cushion jack (6f) along the second direction (y) to the predetermined position.

[0011] In this configuration, the first support conveying mechanism (10f) and the second support conveying mechanism (10b) alternately perform the operations (A) and (B), thereby transferring the heavy objects (1) so as to support the portions of the heavy objects (1) including those directly below the web (1w), and sequentially sending out the heavy objects (1) along the extending direction of the rail (2) (first direction (x)). This significantly reduces the time required to transfer the heavy objects (1) compared to when either the first support conveying mechanism (10f) or the second support conveying mechanism (10b) is provided alone, and therefore makes it possible to quickly transport the heavy objects (1) within a limited short period of time.

[0012] Here, if the heavy load (1) is a so-called "curved heavy load" having a curved portion in a plan view, when the heavy load (1) is sent in the first direction (x), the support position of the heavy load (1) may deviate from the predetermined position directly below its web (1w) (i.e., the position corresponding to the "web core"). In contrast, in the heavy load transport device disclosed herein, when either the first support transport mechanism (10f) or the second support transport mechanism (10b) is moving the heavy load (1) along the first direction (x), the first cushion jack (6f) and the second cushion jack (6b) of the support beam unit (30u) are moved to predetermined positions directly below the web (1w) of the heavy load (1). This allows a stable propulsive force to be applied at all times, even if the heavy load (1) is a curved heavy load, effectively ensuring stability during transport. Moreover, only the first cushion jacks (6f) and second cushion jacks (6b) on the first support beams (5f) and second support beams (5b) are moved in the second direction (y), and the multiple transport units (20u) supporting the entire support beam unit (30u) are not moved in the second direction (y). Therefore, even if the heavy object (1) becomes heavier and longer and its girders become taller, the heavy object (1) can be more reliably prevented from tipping over, thereby further improving the stability during support and transport of the heavy object (1).

[0013] [2] In the above configuration, at least one of the first cushion jack (6f) and the second cushion jack (6b) may have a plate portion (61) on which the heavy load (1) is placed and a spherical seat (62) provided so that the plate portion (61) is tilted forward and backward in the first direction (x) according to the position of the center of gravity of the heavy load (1). This makes it possible to absorb the inclination (camber) of the heavy load (1) relative to the horizontal plane and the resulting minute changes in the girder height of the heavy load (1). Therefore, adjustments using bulkhead members such as liners and the installation work thereof, which have conventionally been required to compensate for such inclination and changes in girder height, are no longer necessary, thereby suppressing increases in installation costs.

[0014] [3] At least one of the first vertical jack (3f) and the second vertical jack (3b) may have a plurality of lifting jacks (31), a reinforcing member (32; e.g., a wall member with a bracket) erected between the plurality of lifting jacks (31), and a plate portion (33) connected to the plurality of lifting jacks (31). In this way, the first support beam (5f) and the second support beam (5b) in the support beam unit (30u) can each be supported by a plurality of lifting jacks (31). As a result, even if the jack stroke is lengthened in response to an increase in the girder height of the heavy object (1), the tipping moment of the heavy object (1) can be sufficiently resisted, thereby further improving the stability during transportation of the heavy object (1).

[0015] [4] Furthermore, at least some of the multiple lifting jacks (31) may be detachably mounted in each transport unit (20u). This configuration allows the lifting jacks (31) to be used individually depending on the specifications of the heavy object (1), improving versatility for handling various heavy objects (1). Furthermore, the lifting jacks (31) can be easily attached and detached at any time and replaced with lifting jacks (31) of different shapes or sizes. Therefore, the first vertical jack (3f) and the second vertical jack (3b) can be repurposed as jacking down equipment for the transported heavy object (1) without having to be disassembled and replaced as a whole. As a result, compared to using separate jacking down equipment, the equipment, labor, and man-hours required for transportation, lifting, installation, etc. can be reduced, contributing to further economical efficiency and environmental considerations.

[0016] [5] More specifically, at least one of the first propulsion jack (4f) and the second propulsion jack (4b) may be configured to push or pull the corresponding first vertical jack (3f) or second vertical jack (3b) along the first direction (x), and / or the third propulsion jack (7f) and the fourth propulsion jack (7b) may be configured to push or pull the corresponding first cushion jack (6f) or second cushion jack (6b) along the second direction (y).

[0017] [6] The heavy load transport system (100) according to the present disclosure is characterized in that it includes a plurality of the above-described heavy load transport devices (10) according to the present disclosure for a heavy load (1) having a cross-sectional area including a pair of flanges (1f, 1f) and a web (1w) connecting the pair of flanges and having a curved area in a plan view. This allows for reliable and safe transport of a larger heavy load (1). [Effects of the Invention]

[0018] The heavy object transport device disclosed herein allows for the stable transport of large, heavy objects in a limited short time, thereby improving safety and economy during the erection and construction of heavy objects. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0019] [Figure 1A] 1 is a plan view (top view) showing an example of a state in which a curved bridge girder is being transported by the heavy object transport device and system according to the present embodiment. FIG. [Figure 1B] 1 is a plan view (top view) showing an example of a state in which a curved bridge girder is being transported by the heavy object transport device and system according to the present embodiment. FIG. [Figure 2] 1 is a schematic cross-sectional view showing an example of a state in which a curved bridge girder is transported by the heavy object transport device and system according to the present embodiment. FIG. [Figure 3] 1 is a perspective view showing an example of the configuration of a heavy object transport device according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 4] 1 is a perspective view showing an example of the configuration of a transport unit provided in a heavy object transport apparatus according to the present embodiment. FIG. [Figure 5] 10 is a flowchart illustrating a part of the procedure for transporting a curved bridge girder by the heavy object transport device and system according to the present embodiment. [Figure 6A] FIG. 6 is a perspective view showing a state when step S1 in FIG. 5 is performed. [Figure 6B] FIG. 6 is a front view showing a state when step S1 of FIG. 5 is performed. [Figure 6C] FIG. 6 is a side view showing a state when step S1 of FIG. 5 is performed. [Figure 7A] FIG. 6 is a perspective view showing a state when step S2 in FIG. 5 is performed. [Figure 7B] FIG. 6 is a front view showing a state when step S2 of FIG. 5 is performed. [Figure 7C] FIG. 6 is a side view showing a state when step S2 of FIG. 5 is performed. [Figure 8A] FIG. 6 is a perspective view showing a state when step S3 in FIG. 5 is performed. [Figure 8B]FIG. 6 is a front view showing a state when step S3 in FIG. 5 is performed. [Figure 8C] FIG. 6 is a side view showing a state when step S3 of FIG. 5 is performed. [Figure 9A] FIG. 6 is a perspective view showing a state when step S4 in FIG. 5 is performed. [Figure 9B] FIG. 6 is a front view showing a state when step S4 in FIG. 5 is performed. [Figure 9C] FIG. 6 is a side view showing a state when step S4 of FIG. 5 is performed. [Figure 10A] FIG. 6 is a perspective view showing a state when step S5 in FIG. 5 is performed. [Figure 10B] FIG. 6 is a front view showing a state when step S5 in FIG. 5 is performed. [Figure 10C] FIG. 6 is a side view showing a state when step S5 of FIG. 5 is performed. [Figure 11A] FIG. 6 is a perspective view showing a state when step S6 in FIG. 5 is performed. [Figure 11B] FIG. 6 is a front view showing a state when step S6 in FIG. 5 is performed. [Figure 11C] FIG. 6 is a side view showing the state when step S6 in FIG. 5 is performed. [Figure 12A] FIG. 6 is a perspective view showing a state when step S7 in FIG. 5 is performed. [Figure 12B] FIG. 6 is a front view showing a state when step S7 in FIG. 5 is performed. [Figure 12C] FIG. 6 is a side view showing the state when step S7 in FIG. 5 is performed. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0020] The present embodiment will be described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. To facilitate understanding of the description, the same components in the drawings will be denoted by the same reference numerals as much as possible, and redundant description will be omitted.

[0021] <Outline of the heavy load transport device 10 and the heavy load transport system 100> First, an example of heavy load transportation by the heavy load transportation device 10 and heavy load transportation system 100 according to this embodiment will be described with reference to Figures 1A, 1B, and 2. Figures 1A and 1B are plan views (top views) showing an example of how a curved bridge girder 1 (heavy load) is transported by the heavy load transportation device 10 and the heavy load transportation system 100. Figure 2 is a schematic cross-sectional view showing an example of how a curved bridge girder 1 is transported by the heavy load transportation device 10 and the heavy load transportation system 100.

[0022] As shown in the schematic cross-sectional view of FIG. 2, a curved bridge girder 1, which is an example of a "heavy load" to be transported in this embodiment, generally comprises a pair of flanges 1f, 1f arranged facing each other and extending substantially in the xy plane. These flanges 1f, 1f define a flat main surface. Furthermore, at predetermined positions between the flanges 1f, 1f, a plurality of webs 1w are erected in the z direction (vertical direction) at appropriate intervals to connect the flanges 1f, 1f. Thus, the curved bridge girder 1 is a large, heavy load having a cross-sectional area including the pair of flanges 1f, 1f and the plurality of webs 1w connecting them. Furthermore, as shown in FIGS. 1A and 1B, the curved bridge girder 1 is a type of "curved heavy load" having a curved portion (a portion having curvature) in a plan view. More specifically, a clothoid curved bridge girder, which constitutes a curved road on which vehicles travel, can be exemplified.

[0023] The flange 1f is, for example, composed of a flat plate-like member having a predetermined thickness. The web 1w is also composed of a flat plate-like member having a predetermined thickness. Generally, the flange 1f functions as a resistance member against stresses caused by bending, compression, and tension in the structure as the curved bridge girder 1 due to its expansion and contraction, while the web 1w connects the flanges 1f, 1f, curves following the flange 1f in bending, and functions as a resistance member against shear. Therefore, as long as the flange 1f and web 1w exhibit such functions or substantially equivalent functions, the curved bridge girder 1 is not limited to the structure shown in FIG. 2.

[0024] Here, the heavy load transport system 100 according to this embodiment is a system comprising a plurality of heavy load transporting devices 10 according to this embodiment, and as shown in Fig. 2, for example, four heavy load transporting devices 10 are arranged along the y-axis direction, and a plurality of these heavy load transporting devices 10 may also be arranged along the x-axis direction to form a matrix of heavy load transporting devices 10. Furthermore, each of the heavy load transporting devices 10 arranged in the y-axis direction is arranged between the curved bridge girder 1 and the standard (reference) level GL at the construction cross section at a predetermined interval so as to support a portion corresponding to a unit structure including a pair of webs 1w, 1w.

[0025] 1A and 1B, the heavy-duty transport system 100 operates to transport the curved bridge girder 1 linearly, for example, along the x-axis direction (first direction). In this embodiment, the curved bridge girder 1 is transported, for example, from pier T1 toward pier T2 by the heavy-duty transport system 100 installed on pier T1, and is finally erected on piers T1 and T2. In this example, the curved bridge girder 1 is a bridge girder for a road bridge that is erected to cross multiple existing road groups M and numerous railway groups R located between piers T1 and T2. Therefore, the bridge structure of the curved bridge girder 1 is very large and complex, and its construction conditions require extremely complex and difficult construction work. Moreover, it can be said that this project requires construction within an extremely limited time to minimize traffic interruptions.

[0026] <Configuration of the heavy object transport device 10> Next, Fig. 3 is a perspective view showing an example of the configuration of the heavy object transport apparatus 10 according to this embodiment. Also, Fig. 4 is a perspective view showing an example of the configuration of a transport unit 20u provided in the heavy object transport apparatus 10 according to this embodiment. As shown in these figures, the heavy object transport apparatus 10 mainly comprises two transport units 20u, 20u and two beam support units 30u, 30u.

[0027] (Transport unit 20u) Each transport unit 20u extends in the x-axis direction (first direction) as a whole, and two transport units 20u, 20u are arranged side by side at a predetermined interval along the y-axis direction (second direction) perpendicular to the x-axis direction. Each transport unit 20u also includes two rails 2 extending along the x-axis direction, and a front vertical jack 3f (first vertical jack) and a rear vertical jack 3b (second vertical jack) provided on each rail 2. Each of these rails 2, 2 is configured to be detachable and assemble (attachable and detachable using bolts, etc.) into multiple sections (e.g., three) along the x-axis direction (extension direction). A low-friction base plate and a low-friction slide mechanism (built-in rollers, etc.) are provided on the upper surface of the rail 2, allowing the front vertical jack 3f and the rear vertical jack 3b to slide along the x-axis direction, which is the transport direction of the curved bridge girder 1.

[0028] Each of the front vertical jack 3f and the rear vertical jack 3b has a plurality of (for example, four) lifting jacks 31, and a plate portion 33 made of a flat member is installed on top of the lifting jacks 31. The front support beams 5f and the rear support beams 5b of the support beam unit 30u, which will be described later, are placed on this plate portion 33. In each of the front vertical jack 3f and the rear vertical jack 3b, reinforcements 32 having brackets that extend in the x-axis direction and stand upright in the z-axis direction are installed between the plurality of lifting jacks 31.

[0029] Furthermore, stop plate portions 35f, 35f are provided at the front and rear of the front vertical jack 3f in the x-axis direction so as to sandwich the group of lifting jacks 31, and similarly, stop plate portions 35b, 35b are provided at the front and rear of the rear vertical jack 3b in the x-axis direction so as to sandwich the group of lifting jacks 31.

[0030] The front ends of two forward propulsion jacks 4f, 4f (first propulsion jacks) are fixed to both ends of the front stop plate 35f of the front vertical jack 3f. The centers of the forward propulsion jacks 4f, 4f are fixed to front support bases 45f, 45f provided on the side walls of the rails 2, 2, respectively. The rear ends of the forward propulsion jacks 4f, 4f are not fixed. In other words, the forward propulsion jacks 4f, 4f are supported only by their front ends and centers. By simultaneously extending their strokes, the front vertical jack 3f can be moved forward in the x-axis direction (pushed out) on the rail 2. Conversely, by shortening their strokes, the front vertical jack 3f can be moved backward in the x-axis direction (pulled back).

[0031] Meanwhile, the front end of one rear thrust jack 4b (second thrust jack) is fixed to the center of the stop plate portion 35b behind the rear vertical jack 3b. The center portion of the front thrust jack 4b is fixed to a rear support base 45b provided at the rear end portions of the rails 2, 2. The rear end of the rear thrust jack 4b is not fixed. In other words, the rear thrust jack 4b is also supported only by its front end and center portion. By extending its stroke, the rear thrust jack 4b can move the rear vertical jack 3b forward in the x-axis direction on the rail 2 (push out), and conversely, by shortening its stroke, the rear vertical jack 3b can be moved backward in the x-axis direction (pull back).

[0032] (Beam unit 30u) Each support beam unit 30u extends in the y-axis direction (second direction) perpendicular to the x-axis direction, which is the extension direction of each transport unit 20u, and the two support beam units 30u, 30u are arranged side by side at a predetermined interval along the x-axis direction (first direction). Each support beam unit 30u also includes a front support beam 5f (first support beam) and a rear support beam 5b (second support beam) extending along the y-axis direction, and two front cushion jacks 6f, 6f (first cushion jacks) and two rear cushion jacks 6b, 6b (second cushion jacks) provided on the front support beam 5f and the rear support beam 5b, respectively.

[0033] The front cushion jacks 6f, 6f and the rear cushion jacks 6b, 6b are connected to each other via connecting members 65 that are arranged above the front support beams 5f and the rear support beams 5b, respectively. Low-friction base plates and low-friction slide mechanisms (built-in rollers, etc.) are provided on the upper surfaces of the front support beams 5f and the rear support beams 5b, and the connected front cushion jacks 6f, 6f and the connected rear vertical jacks 3b, 3b are configured to be slidable along the x-axis direction, which is the transport direction of the curved bridge girder 1.

[0034] Furthermore, the front cushion jack 6f has a plate portion 61 on which the curved bridge girder 1 is placed and a spherical seat 62 (front-rear universal joint) provided so that the plate portion 61 tilts forward and backward in the x-axis direction according to the position of the center of gravity of the curved bridge girder 1. Similarly, the rear cushion jack 6b also has a plate portion 61 on which the curved bridge girder 1 is placed and a spherical seat 62 provided so that the plate portion 61 tilts forward and backward in the x-axis direction according to the position of the center of gravity of the curved bridge girder 1. In addition, front side propulsion jacks 7f, 7f (third propulsion jacks) are installed on both side walls of the front support beam 5f, and similarly, rear side propulsion jacks 7b, 7b (fourth propulsion jacks) are installed on both side walls of the rear support beam 5b. Furthermore, one end of each front side propulsion jack 7f is fixed to one of the front cushion jacks 6f, and the other end is fixed to the side wall of the front support beam 5f. Similarly, one end of each rear side propulsion jack 7b is fixed to one rear cushion jack 6b, and the other end is fixed to the side wall of the rear support beam 5b.

[0035] By simultaneously extending the strokes of these front side thrust jacks 7f, 7f, the front cushion jacks 6f, 6f can be moved in one direction in the y-axis direction on the front support beam 5f, and conversely, by shortening the strokes, the front cushion jacks 6f, 6f can be moved in the opposite direction in the y-axis direction. Similarly, by simultaneously extending the strokes of the rear side thrust jacks 7b, 7b, the rear cushion jacks 6b, 6b can be moved in one direction in the y-axis direction on the rear support beam 5b, and conversely, by shortening the strokes, the rear cushion jacks 6b, 6b can be moved in the opposite direction in the y-axis direction.

[0036] (Support and transport mechanisms 10f, 10b) Here, to facilitate understanding of the transport procedure for the curved bridge girder 1 described later, we will explain the support transport mechanism 10f (first support transport mechanism) and the support transport mechanism 10b (second support transport mechanism), which are conceptually composed of multiple elements provided in the above-mentioned heavy object transport device 10. First, the support transport mechanisms 10f and 10b can be said to be transport units that lift and support the curved bridge girder 1 while independently sending the curved bridge girder 1 forward in the x-axis direction. In other words, the support transport mechanism 10f is a functional unit that can be conceived as a collection of elements arranged relatively forward in the x-axis direction: the front vertical jack 3f, the front propulsion jack 4f, the front support beam 5f, the front cushion jack 6f, and the front lateral propulsion jack 7f, and can also be called the "front support transport mechanism 10f." Similarly, the support and transport mechanism 10b is a functional part that can be thought of as a collection of elements arranged relatively rearward in the x-axis direction, namely, the rear vertical jack 3b, the rear propulsion jack 4b, the rear support beam 5b, the rear cushion jack 6b, and the rear lateral propulsion jack 7b, and can also be called the "rear support and transport mechanism 10b."

[0037] <Transportation procedure for curved bridge girder 1> Next, some of the specific procedures for transporting a curved bridge girder 1 by the heavy load transporting device 10 and heavy load transport system 100 having the above configuration will be described below. Figure 5 is a flow chart illustrating some of the procedures for transporting a curved bridge girder 1 by the heavy load transporting device 10 and heavy load transport system 100 according to this embodiment. The transport work of the curved bridge girder 1 by the heavy load transporting device 10 and heavy load transport system 100 shown below (see Figures 1A and 1B) is carried out based on direct or indirect control commands from a control unit (a control and arithmetic device such as a computer) not shown.

[0038] (Step S1) 6A to 6C are a perspective view, a front view, and a side view, respectively, showing the state when step S1 in FIG. 5 is performed. This step S1 corresponds to the timing after the start of work when both the support and transport mechanisms 10f and 10b are supporting the curved bridge girder 1. Specifically, in the support and transport mechanism 10f, the front cushion jack 6f abuts against and supports the curved bridge girder 1 due to the upward drive of the front vertical jack 3f, and the front propulsion jack 4f is in a contracted state. In addition, in the support and transport mechanism 10b, the rear cushion jack 6b abuts against and supports the curved bridge girder 1 due to the upward drive of the rear vertical jack 3b, and the rear propulsion jack 4b is in an extended state. At this time, at least the front cushion jack 6f, which will move the curved bridge girder 1 in the next step S2, out of the front cushion jack 6f and the rear cushion jack 6b, supports the curved bridge girder 1 in a region including the area directly below the web 1w.

[0039] In the perspective view (Fig. 6A) and side view (Fig. 6B), in order to make it easier to understand the extent of delivery of the curved bridge girder 1 being transported, a virtual reference line Rf is additionally shown at a position corresponding to the joint of the web 1w in the curved bridge girder 1 (the same applies to the following drawings). Also, in the front view (Fig. 6C), since the curved bridge girder 1 has a curved portion, the web 1w is shown tilted at a predetermined angle in the left-right direction (the same applies hereinafter).

[0040] (Step S2) 7A to 7C are a perspective view, a front view, and a side view, respectively, showing the state when step S2 in Fig. 5 is performed. In step S2, from the state after step S1 is completed, support for the curved bridge girder 1 is transferred to the support and transport mechanism 10f alone. That is, while maintaining the state of step S1 and waiting, the support and transport mechanism 10f shortens the rear vertical jack 3b in the support and transport mechanism 10b to separate the rear cushion jack 6b from the curved bridge girder 1 (releasing support).

[0041] (Step S3) 8A to 8C are a perspective view, a front view, and a side view, respectively, showing the state when step S3 in Fig. 5 is performed. In step S3, the support and transport mechanism 10f extends the front propulsion jack 4f and transports the curved bridge girder 1 forward in the x-axis direction while supporting it. Meanwhile, in parallel with this sending-out operation, the support and transport mechanism 10b shortens the rear propulsion jack 4b and moves it rearward, while driving (here, shortening) the rear side propulsion jack 7b as necessary and moving the rear cushion jack 6b to a predetermined position corresponding to directly below the web 1w.

[0042] (Step S4) 9A to 9C are a perspective view, a front view, and a side view, respectively, showing the state when step S4 in Fig. 5 is performed. In step S4, from the state after step S3 is completed, the curved bridge girder 1 is temporarily supported by both support and transport mechanisms 10f and 10b. That is, the support and transport mechanism 10f waits while maintaining the state at the transport destination of step S2, and extends the rear vertical jack 3b of the support and transport mechanism 10b to bring the rear cushion jack 6b into contact with the curved bridge girder 1.

[0043] (Step S5) 10A to 10C are a perspective view, a front view, and a side view, respectively, showing the state when step S5 in Fig. 5 is performed. In step S5, from the state after step S4 is completed, support for the curved bridge girder 1 is transferred to only the support and transport mechanism 10b. That is, the support and transport mechanism 10f shortens the front vertical jack 3f to separate the front cushion jack 6f from the curved bridge girder 1 (release support), while the support and transport mechanism 10b remains in the state of step S4 and waits.

[0044] (Step S6) 11A to 11C are a perspective view, a front view, and a side view, respectively, showing the state when step S6 in Fig. 5 is performed. In step S6, the support transport mechanism 10f shortens the front propulsion jack 4f and moves it rearward in the x-axis direction, while driving (here, shortening) the front side propulsion jack 7f as necessary and moving the front cushion jack 6f to a predetermined position corresponding to directly below the web 1w. Meanwhile, in parallel with this retraction operation, the support transport mechanism 10b extends the rear propulsion jack 4b and transports the curved bridge girder 1 forward in the x-axis direction while supporting it.

[0045] (Step S6) 12A to 12C are perspective, front, and side views, respectively, showing the state when step S7 in FIG. 5 is performed. In step S7, the support and transport mechanism 10f extends the front vertical jack 3f to support the curved bridge girder 1 again, while the support and transport mechanism 10b maintains the state at the transport destination in step S6 and waits. This creates a state similar to step S1, except that the curved bridge girder 1 is transported forward in the x-axis direction. Then, in step S8, based on whether or not the curved bridge girder 1 has been transported a predetermined distance to a preset position, if it has not been transported ("No" in step S8), the process returns to step S1, and steps S1 to S8 are repeatedly executed. On the other hand, if the curved bridge girder 1 has been transported a predetermined distance to a preset position ("Yes" in step S8), the curved bridge girder 1 is jacked down onto the piers T1 and T2, and the series of transport operations is stopped.

[0046] <Actions and Effects of the Heavy Load Transport Device 10 and the Heavy Load Transport System 100> According to the heavy load transport device 10 and heavy load transport system 100 of this embodiment configured as described above, the support transport mechanisms 10f, 10b can simultaneously transport the curved bridge girder 1 by alternately sending it forward while sequentially rearranging the curved bridge girder 1, and prepare to reliably support the area of ​​the curved bridge girder 1 including the area directly below the web 1w.

[0047] That is, in step S3, the support and transport mechanism 10f brings the front cushion jack 6f into contact with a portion of the curved bridge girder 1 including the portion directly below the web 1w, supporting the curved bridge girder 1, and drives the front thrust jack 4f to move the curved bridge girder 1 along the x-axis direction (first direction). At this time, the support and transport mechanism 10b moves the rear cushion jack 6b along the y-axis direction to the predetermined position by driving the rear side thrust jacks 7b, while moving the rear cushion jack 6b away from the curved bridge girder 1 and no longer supporting the curved bridge girder 1 (up to this point is "Operation A"). Also, the support and transport mechanism 10b brings the rear cushion jack 6b into contact with a portion of the curved bridge girder 1 including the portion directly below the web 1w, supporting the curved bridge girder 1, and drives the rear thrust jack 4b to move the curved bridge girder 1 along the x-axis direction. At this time, the support and transport mechanism 10f moves the front cushion jack 6f away from the curved bridge girder 1 so that it is not supporting the curved bridge girder 1, and then moves the front cushion jack 6f along the y-axis direction to the above-mentioned specified position by driving the front side thrust jack 7f (up to this point is "Operation B").

[0048] In this way, the support and transport mechanisms 10f, 10b alternately repeat the above operations (A) and (B), thereby sequentially transferring the curved bridge girder 1 so as to support the portion of the curved bridge girder 1 including the portion directly below the web 1w, while successively sending out the curved bridge girder 1 along the x-axis direction along which the rail 2 extends. This significantly reduces the time required to transfer the curved bridge girder 1 compared to when only one of the support and transport mechanisms 10f, 10b is provided, making it possible to quickly transfer the curved bridge girder 1 within a limited short period of time.

[0049] Furthermore, the support and transport mechanisms 10f, 10b move the front cushion jack 6f and the rear cushion jack 6b to a predetermined position directly below the web 1w of the curved bridge girder 1, thereby constantly applying a stable propulsive force to the curved bridge girder 1 and effectively ensuring stability during transport. Furthermore, only the front cushion jack 6f and the rear cushion jack 6b on the front support beam 5f and the rear support beam 5b, respectively, are moved in the y-axis direction, while the multiple transport units 20u, 20u supporting the entire support beam unit 30u are not moved in the y-axis direction. Therefore, even if the curved bridge girder 1 becomes taller due to its increased size and weight, it is possible to more reliably prevent the curved bridge girder 1 from tipping over. As a result, the stability of the curved bridge girder 1 during support and transport can be further improved.

[0050] Furthermore, the front cushion jack 6f and the rear cushion jack 6b are connected to the plate portion 61, and have a spherical seat 62 that is provided so that the plate portion 61 tilts forward and backward in the x-axis direction according to the position of the center of gravity of the curved bridge girder 1. This makes it possible to absorb the tilt (camber) of the curved bridge girder 1 relative to the horizontal plane and the resulting minute changes in the girder height of the curved bridge girder 1. Therefore, adjustments using bulkhead members such as liners, which were previously required to compensate for such tilt and changes in girder height, and the installation work for such members are no longer necessary, which makes it possible to suppress increases in construction costs.

[0051] Furthermore, since the front vertical jack 3f and the rear vertical jack 3b have a plurality of lifting jacks 31, reinforcements 32 erected between them, and a plurality of lifting jacks 31, each of the front support beams 5f and the rear support beams 5b in the support beam unit 30u can be supported by a plurality of lifting jacks 31. As a result, even if the jack stroke is lengthened in response to an increase in the girder height of the curved bridge girder 1, it is possible to sufficiently resist the overturning moment of the curved bridge girder 1, and the stability of the curved bridge girder 1 during transportation can be further improved.

[0052] Furthermore, at least some of the multiple lifting jacks 31 are detachably mounted on each transport unit 20u, so that, for example, a single lifting jack 31 can be used depending on the specifications of the curved bridge girder 1. This improves versatility for handling various heavy loads, such as curved bridge girders 1. Furthermore, the lifting jacks 31 can be easily attached and detached at any time and replaced with lifting jacks 31 of different shapes or sizes. Therefore, the front vertical jack 3f and the rear vertical jack 3b can be repurposed as equipment for jacking down the curved bridge girder 1 after transportation without having to be disassembled and replaced as a whole. As a result, compared to using separate jacking equipment, the equipment, labor, and man-hours required for transportation, lifting, installation, etc. can be reduced, contributing to further improved economy and environmental considerations.

[0053] The present embodiment has been described above with reference to specific examples. However, this is for the purpose of facilitating understanding of the present disclosure and is not intended to limit the present disclosure. In other words, the present disclosure is not limited to these specific examples. Design modifications to these specific examples made by a person skilled in the art are also encompassed within the technical scope of the present disclosure as long as they comprise the features of the present disclosure. Furthermore, unless otherwise specified, the elements, arrangements, materials, conditions, shapes, dimensions, sizes, scales, etc. of the above-described specific examples are not limited to those exemplified and can be modified as appropriate. Furthermore, the elements of the above-described specific examples can be combined in various ways as appropriate, as long as no technical contradictions arise.

[0054] That is, for example, the objects to be transported by the heavy load transport device 10 and heavy load transport system 100 according to the present disclosure are not limited to curved heavy loads, but may also be straight heavy loads. Also, the integrated rail 2 can be divided into multiple sections, and the overall size of the rail 2 can be changed as needed. This further enhances versatility. Furthermore, the shape of the curved bridge girder 1 shown in Figures 1A and 1B is not limited to this, and the present disclosure is also useful for curved heavy loads with gentler curvatures. [Explanation of symbols]

[0055] 1...curved bridge girder (heavy load), 1f...flange, 1w...web, 2...rail, 3b...rear vertical jack (second vertical jack), 3f...front vertical jack (first vertical jack), 4b...rear propulsion jack (second propulsion jack), 4f...front propulsion jack (first propulsion jack), 5b...rear support beam (second support beam), 5f front support beam (first support beam), 6b...rear cushion jack (second cushion jack), 6f...front cushion jack (first cushion jack), 7b...rear side propulsion jack (fourth propulsion jack), 7f...front side propulsion jack (third propulsion jack), 10...heavy load transport device, 10b...front support transport mechanism (second support transport mechanism), 10f...rear support transport mechanism (first support transport mechanism), 20u...transport unit, 30u...beam support unit, 31...lifting jack, 32...reinforcement, 33...plate portion, 35b, 35f...stopping plate portion, 45b...rear support base, 45f...front support base, 61...plate portion, 62...spherical seat, 65...connecting member, 100...heavy load transport system, GL...standard (reference) level, M...road group, R...railway group, Rf...virtual reference line, S1 to S8...step, T1, T2...pier

Claims

1. A heavy object transport device capable of linearly transporting a heavy object having a cross-sectional portion including a pair of flanges and a web connecting the pair of flanges and having a curved portion in a plan view along a predetermined direction, a plurality of transport units each having a rail extending along a first direction, which is the predetermined direction, a first vertical jack and a second vertical jack provided on the rail, and a first propulsion jack and a second propulsion jack connected to the first vertical jack and the second vertical jack, respectively, and arranged side by side along a second direction intersecting the first direction; a plurality of support beam units including first and second support beams straddling the first vertical jacks and the second vertical jacks of the plurality of transport units along the second direction, a plurality of first cushion jacks and a plurality of second cushion jacks juxtaposed on the first and second support beams, respectively, and a third and fourth propulsion jack connected to at least some of the first cushion jacks and at least some of the second cushion jacks, respectively; Equipped with a first support and transport mechanism is configured by the first vertical jack, the first propulsion jack, the first support beam, the first cushion jack, and the third propulsion jack, a second support and transport mechanism is configured by the second vertical jack, the second propulsion jack, the second support beam, the second cushion jack, and the fourth propulsion jack, The first support and transport mechanism and the second support and transport mechanism perform the following operations (A) and (B): (A) When the first support and transport mechanism supports the heavy object by abutting the first cushion jack against a portion of the heavy object including the portion directly below the web, the first propulsion jack is driven to move the heavy object along the first direction, and when the second support and transport mechanism moves the second cushion jack away from the heavy object and is not supporting the heavy object, if the second cushion jack is not at a predetermined position corresponding to the portion of the heavy object including the portion directly below the web, the fourth propulsion jack is driven to move the second cushion jack to the predetermined position along the second direction. (B) When the second support and transport mechanism supports the heavy object by abutting the second cushion jack against a portion of the heavy object including the portion directly below the web, the second propulsion jack is driven to move the heavy object along the first direction, and when the first support and transport mechanism moves the first cushion jack away from the heavy object and is not supporting the heavy object, if the first cushion jack is not at a predetermined position corresponding to the portion of the heavy object including the portion directly below the web, the third propulsion jack is driven to move the first cushion jack to the predetermined position along the second direction. A heavy object transport device that alternately performs the above steps repeatedly.

2. 2. The heavy object transport device according to claim 1, wherein at least one of the first cushion jack and the second cushion jack has a plate portion on which the heavy object is placed and a spherical seat configured so that the plate portion tilts forward and backward in the first direction depending on the position of the center of gravity of the heavy object.

3. 3. A heavy object transport device as described in claim 1 or 2, wherein at least one of the first vertical jack and the second vertical jack has a plurality of lifting jacks, a reinforcing member erected between the plurality of lifting jacks, and a plate portion connected to the plurality of lifting jacks.

4. 4. The heavy load transport device according to claim 3, wherein at least some of the plurality of lifting jacks are detachably provided in each of the transport units.

5. 3. A heavy object transport device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein at least one of the first propulsion jack and the second propulsion jack is configured to push or pull the corresponding first vertical jack or the corresponding second vertical jack along the first direction, and / or the third propulsion jack and the fourth propulsion jack are configured to push or pull the corresponding first cushion jack or the corresponding second cushion jack along the second direction.

6. A heavy object transport system comprising a plurality of heavy object transport devices according to claim 1 or 2 for a heavy object having a cross-sectional portion including a pair of flanges and a web connecting the pair of flanges, and having a curved portion in a plan view.

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