Crane Control Circuitry for Automatic Boom Transport Positioning
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Solution Overview
Problem
The process of transferring a crane's boom system from an arbitrary working position to a transport position is time-consuming and requires manual operation of multiple actuators, such as boom extensions, elevation angle adjustments, and slew angle changes.
Innovation Solution
A control circuitry system that automatically controls the winch arrangement and boom system actuators to transfer the load block and boom system from a working position to a transport position, utilizing sensor readings and a compute circuit to manage the movement without user input.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If manual operation of multiple actuators is used to transfer the boom system to transport position, then the operator can control each actuator individually, but the process becomes time-consuming and operationally complex
Solution Approach 1:
The system enables self-service operation by allowing the crane to automatically transfer its own boom system to transport position using the load block and winch arrangement, eliminating the need for manual coordination of multiple actuators by an operator
Solution Approach 2:
The load block is designed with multi-functionality, serving both as a lifting device for loads during working position and as an automated positioning device for transport position by engaging with the abutment and utilizing the winch arrangement for self-transfer
2Manufacturing precision
If all actuators are manually steered to achieve transport position, then precise positioning is possible, but the operational effort and complexity increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The invention extracts and utilizes the winch arrangement and abutment mechanism as a separate automated positioning subsystem, removing the burden of manual multi-actuator coordination while maintaining precise positioning capability through the engineered engagement between load block and abutment
Solution Approach 2:
The abutment serves as an intermediary element that enables automated positioning by providing a mechanical engagement point for the load block, allowing the winch arrangement to automatically control the boom system's transport position without direct manual intervention on all actuators
3Adaptability or versatility
If the boom system remains in arbitrary working position during transport, then operational flexibility is maintained, but damage risk increases during movement
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary action by automatically transferring the boom system to a predetermined safe transport position before actual transport begins, ensuring the boom is properly positioned and secured to prevent damage during vehicle movement
Solution Approach 2:
The automated control system incorporates feedback mechanisms to monitor the boom system's position and the load block's engagement with the abutment, ensuring the transport position is accurately achieved and maintaining safety during the transfer process
Data Source
AI summary
Control circuitry for a crane, comprises an input interface configured to receive readings of sensors sensing operating parameters of the crane and an output interface to output control data to cause actuators of the crane to perform a motion. A compute circuit is configured to control the operation of the crane such that a boom system of the crane is automatically transferred from an arbitrary working position to a transport position.