Multifunctional Boom System with Stabilizing Cradle

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing boom lifting devices are limited in their ability to perform multiple functions, such as lifting loads from below and above, and often require different machines for varying load weights and heights, leading to inefficiencies and increased costs. Additionally, elongated loads can rotate or swing, potentially damaging the crane or load.

Innovation Solution

A multifunctional boom system with a base assembly and a boom assembly comprising multiple sections, each independently extendable and retractable, equipped with attachment couplers and implement connectors at different positions. This system includes a cradle attachment to stabilize elongated loads and a control system with linear actuators and a controller to manage the extension and angle of the boom.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If a single boom system is designed to perform multiple functions (telehandler and crane operations), then the need for multiple machines is reduced and space is saved, but the device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvemulti-functionalityVSAvoidsystem complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The boom system is designed with multiple implement connectors positioned at different locations along the boom, allowing a single system to perform both telehandler operations (with forks at lower connectors) and crane operations (with hooks at upper connectors), thereby eliminating the need for separate machines while managing complexity through standardized connector designs

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The boom is divided into multiple sections with independent implement connectors at different positions, allowing selective attachment of implements based on operational needs. This segmentation enables the system to adapt between different functions without requiring complete system reconfiguration, managing complexity through modular attachment points

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

2Length of moving object

If elongated loads are suspended from the uppermost boom section, then lifting height is increased, but the loads may rotate or swing causing damage

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvelifting heightVSAvoidload rotation and swinging

Core Design Contradiction:

Length of moving objectVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

A cradle attachment is introduced as an intermediary device between the implement connector and the elongated load. The cradle physically supports and stabilizes the load, preventing rotation and swinging while allowing the boom to maintain its elevated position for high lifting operations

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

The cradle attachment is positioned to preemptively counteract the rotational and swinging forces that would otherwise affect suspended elongated loads. By providing preliminary stabilization at the point of suspension, the system prevents harmful movements before they can cause damage to the load or crane structure

Inventive Principle:

Principle #9Preliminary anti-action

3Adaptability or versatility

If multiple machines are used for different lifting operations, then functional requirements are met, but time and space are wasted

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvefunctional capabilityVSAvoidoperational time

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The boom system integrates multiple implement connectors that accommodate both telehandler implements (forks) and crane implements (hooks), allowing operators to switch between different lifting functions without changing machines. This eliminates the time required for machine transitions while maintaining full functional capability for both operation types

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

4Adaptability or versatility

If multiple machines are deployed for varying load weights and heights, then operational requirements are satisfied, but equipment costs increase

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveoperational flexibilityVSAvoidnumber of machines

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSQuantity of substance

Solution Approach 1:

The boom system replaces multiple specialized machines with a single multi-functional unit featuring implement connectors at various positions along the boom. This allows the same system to handle both telehandler applications (lower connectors) and crane applications (upper connectors), reducing the total number of machines required while maintaining operational flexibility for varying load weights and heights

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Data Source

PatentUS20250033940A1Multifunctional boom system

Publication Date: 2025.01.30 OSHKOSH CORPORATION

AI summary

A boom system includes a base assembly, a boom assembly coupled to the base assembly, and a controller. The boom assembly includes a boom including a series of boom sections, a first implement coupled to a first boom section, a second implement coupled to a second boom section, and an actuator configured to vary a lateral distance between the first implement and the second implement. The controller is communicably coupled with the boom assembly and configured to control the actuator to prevent the lateral distance between the first implement and the second implement from falling below a minimum distance.