Crane Fly Connection Interlock System
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing systems for connecting and disconnecting a crane's fly section to the boom are prone to misuse, leading to incorrect sequence attempts and potential detachment due to lack of intuitiveness and reliability.
Innovation Solution
An interlock system with connectors, actuators, and covers that control the movement of blocks to prevent incorrect sequence operations, ensuring the fly section is properly aligned and secured, featuring offset screws and spring-biased blocks to prevent improper access and detachment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a sequence of pins is used to connect the fly to the boom, then the connection can be secured, but the system becomes complex and non-intuitive, leading to operator error and potential detachment
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the sequencing logic from the physical pin system and relocates it to the block mechanism. The block is positioned to physically block access to the second pin until the first pin is properly inserted, thereby removing the cognitive burden of remembering sequences while maintaining connection security.
Solution Approach 2:
The block serves as an intermediary mechanical element that mediates between the two pin insertion operations. It physically prevents access to the second pin receiver until the first pin is correctly positioned, creating an automatic enforcement of the correct sequence without requiring operator knowledge or complex control systems.
2Reliability
If blocking elements are used to prevent incorrect pin insertion, then connection security improves, but the system becomes less intuitive and more prone to misuse
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the connection process into distinct physical zones separated by the block. The block creates a clear spatial division where the first pin must be inserted before access to the second pin is available, making the correct sequence physically obvious and intuitive for operators.
Solution Approach 2:
The block is pre-positioned to block access to the second pin receiver before the first pin is inserted. This preliminary positioning of the blocking element ensures that the correct sequence is enforced automatically, making the system intuitive by preventing incorrect actions before they can occur.
3Reliability
If covers are used to hide actuators when not in use, then safety and prevention of misuse improve, but the system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the cover control function with the existing pin insertion mechanism. The actuator that inserts the pin also controls the cover positioning, combining two functions into a single mechanical action and avoiding the need for separate cover control systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The cover system is designed to automatically open and close based on the position of the pin and block. When the pin is inserted, the block moves and automatically opens the cover; when the pin is removed, the block returns and automatically closes the cover, eliminating the need for separate actuation mechanisms.
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
The system simplifies and secures the connection process, making it intuitive for operators to correctly position the fly section, reducing time wastage and preventing unintended detachment by ensuring the correct sequence is followed.
Implementation Method 1
A spring may be provided for biasing the first block to the operative condition
Data Source
AI summary
An interlock system includes first and second connectors for connecting a boom section to a boom. A first cover is provided for covering an actuator for actuating a first connector when a second connector is withdrawn from a position for connecting the boom section to the boom. A first block may also be provided for blocking a first receiver in an operative condition to prevent the first connector from entering the first receiver. The connector may be adapted for movement along an insertion axis corresponding to a first receiver on the boom section and a second receiver on the boom, and an actuator may be provided for advancing or retracting the connector, the actuator extending generally parallel to, but offset from, the connection axis. Related methods are also disclosed, as is an axially offset actuator for actuating one or more of the connectors for connecting the boom section to the boom.