Base-Free Balanced Loading Arm for Ground-Level Maintenance Access
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional loading arms with fixed bases pose accessibility issues for maintenance operations due to their high position and encumbrance from tensioning systems, and arms without bases do not necessarily offer better access.
Innovation Solution
A balanced loading arm with a pantograph system and counterweights, where the inner and outer transfer members are self-supporting or carried by a support structure, allowing the arm to be compact and bring the compass to ground level without increasing structural complexity, and featuring a motor-driven balancing system with jacks and counterweights for stability and ease of access.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a fixed base is used to support the loading arm, then the arm structure is stable and can bear the arm's weight, but the base height creates poor accessibility for maintenance operations
Solution Approach 1:
The invention removes the fixed base entirely from the loading arm structure. The arm is supported by tensioning systems anchored to the quay or ship structure rather than a self-contained base, eliminating the accessibility problem caused by base height while maintaining structural stability through external anchoring points.
Solution Approach 2:
The support function is shifted from a vertical dimension (base height) to a horizontal dimension (anchoring points distributed along the quay or ship). This dimensional change allows the arm to be stable without requiring a tall base that would obstruct access.
2Ease of operation
If tensioning systems are added to eliminate the base, then the arm can be more accessible, but the tensioning systems create encumbrance that still hinders access
Solution Approach 1:
The tensioning systems are positioned and configured to provide support only where needed, rather than creating a complex network throughout the entire arm structure. This localized approach reduces encumbrance while maintaining accessibility in critical maintenance zones.
Solution Approach 2:
The tensioning systems are designed to be dynamic and adjustable, allowing them to be configured or removed as needed for maintenance operations, rather than being fixed permanent structures that permanently block access.
3Length of moving object
If the arm length is reduced to achieve a compact design, then the working zone coverage is maintained, but the structural strength may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
Counterweights are integrated into the arm structure to balance the arm's weight and reduce the load on support structures. This allows for shorter arm lengths while maintaining the structural strength needed to handle fluid products, as the counterweights compensate for the reduced leverage and structural mass.
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
The solution enables shorter arm lengths for the same working zone, reaching lower connection points, improved accessibility for maintenance, and a more compact design that reduces interference and enhances ease of use and maintenance.
Implementation Method 1
The balancing of the compass is provided by a pantograph system comprising a first pulley rotatably mounted on a support and bearing the primary counterweight and a second pulley rotationally coupled to the inner transfer member, and linked to the first pulley by an endless cable
Implementation Method 2
The pantograph system comprising a first pulley rotatably mounted on a support and bearing the primary counterweight and a second pulley rotationally coupled to the inner transfer member, and linked to the first pulley by an endless cable
Implementation Method 3
The balancing of the compass is provided by a pantograph system comprising a first pulley rotatably mounted on a support and bearing the primary counterweight
Implementation Method 4
the first pantograph system and/or the second pantograph system are each actuated by a motor assembly; the motor assembly comprises at least one jack
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3~4
Figure 5~6
AI summary
The invention provides a balanced arm (201 ) for transferring a fluid product, having a transfer compass comprising an inner transfer member (208) and an outer transfer member (221 ), articulated together, and a counterweight system(203) for balancing the transfer compass, characterized in that the compass is installed on a turntable (215) rotatable about a vertical axis, to rotationally drive the transfer compass about that axis, and the balancing system comprises at least one counterweight (207; 207') mounted so as to be able to turn about an axis (206) of horizontal general orientation, on a support (251 ) fixed to the turntable and functionally linked to the inner transfer member to provide the balancing of the transfer compass.