Low Profile Can Descender Using Strand Jacks
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Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional pulley and derrick systems face limitations in head space, requiring objects to be divided into sections for lowering or raising, which is time-consuming, labor-intensive, and risky, and struggle with controlling the direction of objects, especially when dealing with tall or angled items.
Innovation Solution
A can descender system utilizing strand jacks affixed to a base frame, allowing independent operation of each jack to lower or raise loads, with the ability to angle the load for precise positioning into angled openings, eliminating the need for a derrick and pulley system.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Length of moving object
If a traditional pulley and derrick system is used to lower or raise objects, then the system can handle heavy loads, but the head space limitation requires objects to be divided into sections, increasing time and labor requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The system divides the load support function into multiple independent strand jacks (typically three) positioned around the aperture. Each jack operates independently to lower or raise the object, eliminating the need to divide the object itself into sections. This segmentation of the support mechanism rather than the object enables handling of tall objects in single pieces.
2Ease of operation
If a traditional pulley and derrick system is used, then the system can lower or raise objects, but the process requires multiple stops and braking mechanisms, increasing labor and risk
Solution Approach 1:
Each strand jack is equipped with its own drive mechanism and braking system, allowing independent control of each support strand. The system can lower the object by coordinating the extension of multiple jacks simultaneously, and raise it by coordinating their retraction. This self-contained control in each jack eliminates the need for complex external braking mechanisms and multiple stopping points, reducing both labor requirements and operational risks.
3Adaptability or versatility
If a traditional pulley and derrick system is used, then the system can lower or raise objects vertically, but it is very difficult to control the direction of the object, especially for angled openings
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses multiple independently controllable strand jacks positioned at different locations around the aperture. By varying the extension and retraction speed of each individual jack, the system can dynamically adjust the orientation and angle of the object during lowering or raising operations. This dynamic control capability enables precise positioning of objects into angled openings or at specific orientations, which is impossible with a single fixed pulley system.
4Adaptability or versatility
If a traditional pulley and derrick system is used, then the system can handle standard aperture sizes, but it cannot accommodate various aperture sizes and orientations
Solution Approach 1:
The system employs multiple strand jacks (typically three) that can be positioned at different locations around various aperture shapes and sizes. Each jack functions as a universal support element that can accommodate different aperture configurations. The modular nature of the jacks allows them to be arranged in different patterns to match circular, rectangular, or irregular aperture shapes, providing universal adaptability without requiring different specialized equipment for each aperture type.
Data Source
AI summary
A mining can descender comprising a plurality of strand jacks configured to work in concert to lower a load disposed between a first strand jack and a second strand jack a base configured to accommodate said plurality of strand jacks mounted there to, wherein said base comprises a plurality of assembled sections.