Circulating Drive Climbing Rail for Continuous Formwork Ascent

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing self-climbing systems face challenges such as intermittent climbing, difficulty in achieving synchronous displacement of multiple units, low climbing speeds, and significant frictional losses, especially when reversing direction or performing demolition work, due to the limitations of hydraulic actuators and manual interventions.

Innovation Solution

A self-climbing system with a circumferential drive means along the climbing rail, which can be selectively blocked or unlocked by a fixing device, allowing continuous and synchronized movement of the climbing rail between upper and lower shoes, enabling efficient and directional climbing without the need for manual relocation of actuators.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Productivity

If hydraulic actuators are used for climbing, then climbing force can be achieved, but climbing can only be performed intermittently and at low speeds due to periodic return strokes

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveclimbing speedVSAvoidcontinuous climbing operation

Core Design Contradiction:

ProductivityVSDuration of action of moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements continuous climbing operation by replacing the periodic hydraulic actuator cycle with a continuous circulating chain drive. The chain moves continuously around the climbing rail, constantly propelling the climbing unit upward without interruption or return strokes, thereby achieving sustained climbing action.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #20Continuity of useful action

Solution Approach 2:

The patent substitutes the hydraulic actuator system with a mechanical chain drive system. The chain, propelled by a drive mechanism, replaces the hydraulic cylinders and fluid pressure system, providing a different mechanical approach that enables continuous motion without the periodic limitations of hydraulic systems.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

2Adaptability or versatility

If multiple climbing units are used around a building, then coverage is improved, but synchronous displacement is difficult to achieve leading to danger zones

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvemultiple climbing units coverageVSAvoidsynchronous operation

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent creates a universal climbing system where multiple climbing units can operate simultaneously around a building structure. Each unit uses the same chain drive mechanism, allowing standardized deployment and coordination of multiple units working in parallel on different sections of the structure.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent implements feedback control mechanisms that monitor the position and movement of multiple climbing units. This feedback system enables real-time coordination and synchronization of units around the building, preventing dangerous situations by ensuring all units move in unison and maintaining safe operational distances.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #23Feedback

3Force

If lifting cylinders are used as actuators, then climbing force is achieved, but friction losses are significant especially when reversing direction

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveclimbing forceVSAvoidfrictional losses

Core Design Contradiction:

ForceVSLoss of energy

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces the lifting cylinder hydraulic system with a chain drive mechanism. The chain system transmits force through tension and direct mechanical engagement with the climbing rail, eliminating the high friction losses associated with hydraulic cylinders during direction reversals and providing more efficient force transmission.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

4Productivity

If actuators are exposed to construction site conditions, then climbing operation continues, but actuator protection from dirt is insufficient

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveclimbing operation continuityVSAvoiddirt exposure to actuators

Core Design Contradiction:

ProductivityVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The patent employs protective enclosures and coverings for the chain drive mechanism and actuator components. These protective elements shield the mechanical parts from dirt and contaminants on construction sites while allowing the climbing operation to continue uninterrupted, maintaining both productivity and component protection.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #30Flexible shells and thin films

Data Source

PatentUS12163343B2Self-climbing system with drive via a circulating drive means and method for operating a self- climbing system

Publication Date: 2024.12.10 PERI GMBH

AI summary

A self-climbing system, in particular a self-climbing formwork system, comprising at least one climbing rail which is guided on at least two climbing shoes, in particular an upper and a lower climbing shoe, wherein the climbing shoes can be fastened on and/or on top of a cured concreting section, and an actuator. A circulating drive means is arranged along the climbing rail, at least over a length portion of the climbing rail, can be moved relative to the climbing rail by means of the actuator and can be selectively blocked or unlocked in the region of a climbing shoe and/or in the climbing shoe by means of at least one fixing device. Furthermore, a method for operating a self-climbing system according to the invention. The invention opens up an improved climbing principle for self-climbing systems whereby, for example, continuous climbing becomes possible.