Capstan Cable Support Device with Magnetic Angular Sensor
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing crane systems with capstans face challenges in accurately compensating for cable ascent/descent due to telescoping arm movements, leading to inconsistent load positioning and measurement inaccuracies.
Innovation Solution
A device comprising a main supporting structure with a driven pulley and sensor system that measures the angular position of the pulley relative to the supporting structure, allowing for compensation of cable unwinding caused by arm lengthening/shortening, featuring a deformable crown for engagement with the pulley and a magnetic sensor for precise angular detection.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a sheave is used to measure cable rotations at the end of the crane arm, then cable unwinding compensation is achieved, but the device complexity and structural complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the measurement function from a complex sheave system and implements it using a simpler magnetic sensor that detects angular position of a crown attached to the capstan. This separates the measurement function from the mechanical cable support function, achieving accurate measurement without complex structural modifications.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical measurement systems with magnetic field-based sensing. A magnetic sensor detects the angular position of a crown with magnetic elements, substituting complex mechanical rotation detection with a simpler electromagnetic field interaction system.
2Measurement precision
If additional sensors and supporting structures are added to measure cable position, then measurement accuracy improves, but ease of maintenance deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The magnetic crown is directly attached to the capstan and rotates with it, automatically providing measurement data without requiring separate calibration or adjustment mechanisms. The system serves itself by utilizing the existing rotational motion of the capstan for measurement purposes.
Solution Approach 2:
The magnetic crown serves multiple functions: it acts as both a structural component of the capstan assembly and a measurement reference for the magnetic sensor. This multi-functionality reduces the number of separate components that need maintenance.
3Ease of operation
If a magnetic sensor system is implemented without additional wiring, then ease of operation improves, but measurement precision may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses wireless or contactless magnetic sensing technology that eliminates the need for complex wiring infrastructure. The magnetic field interaction provides sufficient measurement precision without requiring permanent electrical connections, allowing for easier installation and operation.
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
Enables accurate compensation of cable unwinding, maintaining constant load positioning and facilitating precise height/depth measurements without additional wiring, enhancing operational efficiency and ease of maintenance.
Implementation Method 1
a magnetic sensor for precise angular detection
Data Source
AI summary
A device for supporting a cable of a capstan of a crane includes a main supporting structure; a pulley rotatably supported by the main supporting structure, adapted to guide the cable of the capstan; and a sensor for measuring the angular position of the pulley. The pulley includes an auxiliary crown having a plurality of projecting elements disposed along the circumference thereof, and the sensor includes a stationary body integral with the main supporting structure and a wheel rotatable with respect to the stationary body, including a deformable crown meshing with the auxiliary crown of the pulley and made of a material such to deform due to the engagement of the projecting elements, wherein the sensor further includes means for detecting the angular position of the wheel with respect to the stationary body of the sensor.