Auxiliary Boom Jackscrew Mechanism for Precise Alignment

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Solution Overview

Problem

The existing methods for mounting and dismounting auxiliary booms on cranes are inefficient due to alignment challenges and require manual effort, leading to low operational efficiency and safety concerns.

Innovation Solution

The proposed solution involves an auxiliary boom with a connecting frame and a jackscrew mechanism that allows for simultaneous extension and retraction of the boom, facilitated by a driving mechanism and limiting mechanisms for precise alignment.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Manufacturing precision

If manual alignment and pin insertion methods are used for mounting the auxiliary boom, then the mounting process can be completed with simple equipment, but the alignment precision is poor and the mounting efficiency is low

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvealignment precisionVSAvoidmounting efficiency
Core Design Contradiction:
Manufacturing precisionVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces the traditional manual mechanical alignment method with a laser alignment system. The laser alignment device projects alignment marks onto the auxiliary boom and main boom, enabling precise alignment without manual measurement tools. This substitution of mechanical alignment with optical alignment resolves the contradiction by achieving high precision alignment while maintaining simple operational procedures.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent introduces alignment marks as an intermediary element between the laser alignment device and the boom components. These marks serve as visual mediators that facilitate precise alignment by providing clear reference points. The alignment marks bridge the gap between the laser projection system and the physical components, enabling accurate positioning without direct mechanical contact or complex measurement procedures.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Reliability

If multiple connecting pins are used to secure the auxiliary boom, then the connection reliability is improved, but the complexity of mounting and dismounting operations increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveconnection reliabilityVSAvoidmounting operation complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines multiple pin insertion operations into a single coordinated action. The auxiliary boom is designed with multiple connecting pins that can be inserted simultaneously or in a standardized sequence. This merging of multiple discrete pinning operations into a unified mounting procedure reduces the overall complexity while maintaining the reliability benefits of multiple connection points.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent employs preliminary alignment through laser marking before pin insertion. By pre-establishing the correct position and orientation of the auxiliary boom using laser alignment marks, the subsequent pin insertion becomes a straightforward task. This preliminary action eliminates the need for complex adjustment and trial-and-error during the pinning operation, reducing mounting complexity while ensuring reliable connection.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

3Loss of time

If traditional pin removal methods are used for dismounting the auxiliary boom, then the process can be completed with basic tools, but the time required for dismounting is excessive

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedismounting timeVSAvoidoperator safety
Core Design Contradiction:
Loss of timeVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces manual pin removal with a hydraulic or pneumatic extraction system. The quick release mechanism uses fluid pressure to automatically eject the connecting pins from their receptacles, eliminating the need for manual hammering or prying. This substitution dramatically reduces dismounting time while improving operator safety by eliminating close proximity work with heavy tools and high-position components.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

4Length of moving object

If the auxiliary boom is designed with multiple sections for telescopic extension, then the lifting height and amplitude are improved, but the structural complexity and weight increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveboom lengthVSAvoidstructural complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Length of moving objectVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements a telescopic boom structure where smaller boom sections are nested within larger sections. The auxiliary boom can be extended by telescoping out additional sections, similar to nested dolls. This nesting arrangement achieves variable boom length without proportionally increasing overall structural complexity, as the nested sections share common structural elements and connection mechanisms.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #7Nested doll (Nesting)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent designs the boom as a dynamic, adjustable structure rather than a fixed single-piece component. The telescopic sections can be extended or retracted based on operational requirements, allowing the boom length to adapt to different lifting tasks. This dynamic design achieves variable length capability while maintaining relatively simple structure through standardized telescopic mechanisms and hydraulic control systems.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Applied Scientific Principles

This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.

Function Achieved in This Case

This solution significantly simplifies the mounting and dismounting processes, improving efficiency by allowing for quick and accurate alignment, reducing the need for manual tools, and enhancing operator safety.

Implementation Method 1

a jackscrew mechanism comprising a first shaft, a second shaft and a driving mechanism; the first shaft and the second shaft are both arranged between the first connecting hole and the second connecting hole and coaxial with the first connecting hole; the driving mechanism is in driving connection with both the first shaft and the second shaft to drive the first shaft and the second shaft to protrude simultaneously and retract simultaneously

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectScrew mechanism: Screw

Data Source

PatentUS20250074750A1Auxiliary boom, crane, method for unfolding auxiliary boom and method for retracting auxiliary boom
Publication Date: 2025.03.06 XUZHOU HEAVY MASCH CO LTD
  • US20250074750A1 patent drawing
  • US20250074750A1 patent drawing
  • US20250074750A1 patent drawing

AI summary

Disclosed are an auxiliary boom, a crane, a method for unfolding an auxiliary boom and a method for retracting an auxiliary boom. The auxiliary boom comprises an auxiliary boom body and a jackscrew mechanism. The auxiliary boom body comprises a connecting frame. The jackscrew mechanism comprises a first shaft, a second shaft and a driving mechanism; the first shaft and the second shaft are both arranged between the first connecting hole and the second connecting hole; the driving mechanism is in driving connection with the first shaft and the second shaft When the first shaft is in a protruded state, the first shaft is inserted into the first connecting hole; when the second shaft is in the protruded state, the second shaft is inserted into the second connecting hole.