Container Loading Device Cable Extension Compensation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing loading devices for containers face challenges in mechanically coupling load handling devices due to differences in height caused by cable expansion over time, which affects safety and operational efficiency.
Innovation Solution
Incorporating distance sensors to determine the level of load handling devices and inclination sensors to align them horizontally, allowing for precise leveling and compensation of cable extension, enabling easy mechanical coupling.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If mechanical coupling of load handling devices is implemented to enable simultaneous loading of two containers, then productivity is improved, but reliability deteriorates due to height misalignment caused by cable expansion
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces mechanical height adjustment mechanisms with an optical measurement system (distance sensor) and control system. The distance sensor L1 measures the actual distance between the travel carriage and load handling device, providing feedback to the control unit which then actuates the hoisting drum to adjust position. This substitution of mechanical adjustment with sensor-based control resolves the contradiction by enabling precise height matching without complex mechanical coupling mechanisms.
2Ease of operation
If distance measurement is performed using conventional sensors, then leveling can be achieved, but measurement precision deteriorates due to influence of cable extension
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a reference surface (the travel carriage) as an intermediary for distance measurement. Instead of measuring absolute positions that would be affected by cable expansion, the distance sensor L1 measures the relative distance from the travel carriage to the load handling device. This intermediary reference point eliminates the influence of cable extension on measurement accuracy, as both the reference and measured objects are part of the same mechanical system subject to identical expansion effects.
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
Ensures reliable and safe mechanical coupling of load handling devices by maintaining them at the same level, regardless of cable elongation, enhancing operational efficiency and safety.
Implementation Method 1
with which the distance of the concerned load handling device from the travel carriage can be determined
Implementation Method 2
an inclination sensor is assigned to the load handling devices, with which the spatial alignment of the load handling device with respect to the horizontal can be determined
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2A~2C
AI summary
Described here is a loading device for containers, which is provided with a travel carriage (13), which can move on a rail (11). Furthermore, there are two load handling devices (19, 20) which are assigned to the travel carriage (13), and which are kept fixed to the travel carriage (13) with the help of the supporting cables (17, 18). Each of the load handling devices (19, 20) can be raised or lowered, and the two load handling devices (19, 20) can be coupled mechanically with each other. A distance sensor is assigned to each of the load handling devices ( 19, 20), with which the distance of the load handling devices (19, 20) from the travel carriage (13) can be determined.