Adjustable Multi-Point Coupling for Dynamic Lifting Loads
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing coupling devices for lifting systems, such as gantry cranes, face challenges in handling high accelerations and decelerations due to insufficient absorption of forces and torques, often requiring large or inefficient coupling elements, and lack adjustable options for precise positioning, leading to potential damage and operational inefficiencies.
Innovation Solution
A coupling device with multiple adjustable coupling elements, preferably four, that can be pneumatically, electrically, or hydraulically actuated, allowing for better absorption of dynamic forces and moments, and featuring a centering mechanism for precise alignment and adjustment, enabling secure and efficient handling of large loads during dynamic movements.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If a single coupling element is used to connect the lifting device to the object, then the device complexity is reduced, but the ability to absorb high forces and torques during dynamic movements is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling device is divided into multiple coupling elements (at least two, preferably four) instead of using a single coupling element. Each coupling element independently absorbs forces and torques, distributing the mechanical loads across multiple connection points between the lifting device and the object to be lifted.
2Strength
If the coupling elements are made larger to absorb high forces, then the strength increases, but the device complexity and space requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of using one large coupling element, the invention uses multiple smaller coupling elements that collectively provide the same or greater force absorption capability. This segmentation allows for more compact overall dimensions while maintaining or improving strength characteristics.
3Manufacturing precision
If the coupling device is designed for high precision positioning, then the manufacturing precision increases, but the adjustment flexibility decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling elements are designed with adjustable positioning capabilities, allowing them to be moved or repositioned along the lifting device or the object to be lifted. This dynamic adjustability enables the coupling device to adapt to different positioning requirements while maintaining high precision through controlled adjustment mechanisms.
4Productivity
If the coupling device is designed for high acceleration and speed operations, then the productivity increases, but the loads on the coupling elements increase
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple coupling elements distribute the dynamic forces and torques generated during high acceleration and speed operations. This segmentation prevents any single coupling element from being overloaded, enabling the system to operate at higher productivities with reduced risk of failure.
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3a~3c
AI summary
In order to provide an easily adjustable coupling device (1) for coupling a lifting unit (19) to an object (20), which can be flexibly attached to all kinds of lifting units, and with the aid of which it may be possible to handle large loads with dynamic movement sequences, the coupling device has at least two coupling elements (4) with a respective coupling element upper part (5) and a coupling element lower part (6), wherein the at least two coupling element upper parts are arranged in a fixed manner on the device upper part (2), and the at least two coupling element lower parts are detachably arranged on the device lower part (3) and are adjustable relative to the device lower part.