Mobile Crane Counterweight Coupling for Fast Secure Attachment
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Solution Overview
Problem
The challenge in mobile cranes is securely and efficiently attaching and detaching the counterweight device to the superstructure, particularly due to the weight and dynamic forces encountered during operation, while minimizing complex assembly and disassembly processes.
Innovation Solution
A counterweight device with integrated connection means that serve as a single unit for lifting, positioning, and fastening to the superstructure, utilizing flat metal sheets with centering and fastening features, reducing the need for complex welds and allowing for stable attachment without additional ballasting cylinders.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If cylindrical reception pipes with stiffening plates are used as connection means, then the connection strength is improved, but the device complexity and manufacturing complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The connection means merges multiple functions into a single integrated component: it combines the lifting function (engagement with ballasting cylinders), the positioning function (centering means with chamfered surfaces), and the fastening function (bolt connections) into one unified structure, eliminating the need for separate stiffening plates and reducing overall device complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The connection means serves multiple purposes simultaneously: it acts as a lifting point for the ballasting cylinders, provides centering through integrated chamfered surfaces, and enables fastening via bolt connections, making it a universal component that replaces multiple separate elements
2Reliability
If ballasting cylinders are used to hold the counterweight device, then the connection reliability is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The ballasting cylinders are integrated directly into the connection means structure, where the cylinders form part of the lifting and fastening mechanism, eliminating the need for separate holding devices and reducing overall system complexity while maintaining reliability
Solution Approach 2:
The ballasting cylinders perform multiple functions: they lift the counterweight device onto the superstructure, hold it in position during installation, and provide structural support, making them a multi-functional element that reduces the need for additional components
3Strength
If complex assembly and disassembly processes are used for the counterweight device, then the connection strength is improved, but the productivity decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The connection means is pre-configured with integrated centering chamfers and alignment features that automatically guide the counterweight device into the correct position during installation, eliminating the need for complex alignment procedures and speeding up the assembly process while maintaining connection strength
Solution Approach 2:
The counterweight device is segmented into modular counterweight elements that can be independently added or removed from the base plate, allowing for simplified assembly and disassembly operations that maintain structural integrity while improving productivity
Data Source
AI summary
The disclosure relates to a mobile crane that comprises a travelable undercarriage, a superstructure rotatably supported on the undercarriage, and a counterweight device couplable to the superstructure. The counterweight device comprises a counterweight base plate and at least one connection means for raising the counterweight device and for coupling it to the superstructure. The disclosure furthermore relates to a counterweight device for a mobile crane in accordance with the disclosure.