Telescopic Crane Single Guide Cable Load Stabilization

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing crane systems face challenges in stabilizing large rotor blades for wind turbines due to increased forces in control cables affecting guying forces and lifting capacity, and additional weight and cost from multiple winches and ropes.

Innovation Solution

A crane design utilizing a single guide cable tensioned parallel to the boom's longitudinal axis, connected to the load hook via control ropes, with a winch system that synchronizes tensioning based on crane movements, reducing side loads and allowing for precise load alignment.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Stability of the object's composition

If multiple control cables and winches are used to stabilize the rotor blade, then the load stabilization is improved, but the weight and complexity of the equipment increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveload stabilizationVSAvoidequipment complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Stability of the object's compositionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent extracts the guying function from the control cable system, using a separate Y-guying system for boom stabilization while the control cables only perform load positioning. This separation eliminates the need for multiple complex control mechanisms while maintaining load stabilization through the frame and control cable arrangement.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #2Taking out (Extraction)

Solution Approach 2:

The control cables serve multiple functions: they stabilize the rotor blade during lifting, enable precise positioning at the mounting height, and work in conjunction with the frame structure. The frame itself provides both structural support and stabilization, reducing the need for additional dedicated stabilization equipment.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Manufacturing precision

If control cables are tensioned to stabilize the rotor blade, then the load positioning precision is improved, but the forces in the cables increase and affect the lifting capacity

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveload positioning precisionVSAvoidcable tension force
Core Design Contradiction:
Manufacturing precisionVSForce

Solution Approach 1:

The stabilization function is segmented into two independent systems: the Y-guying system handles boom stabilization, while the control cables handle load positioning. This segmentation allows control cables to operate with lower tension forces since they only need to position the load, not stabilize the entire boom system.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The frame acts as an intermediary structure between the load hook and the rotor blade. It distributes and absorbs forces, allowing control cables to work with reduced tension while maintaining positioning precision. The frame structure converts cable tensions into structural loads that are more efficiently handled by the crane boom.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

3Ease of operation

If additional winches and ropes are attached to the jib foot, then the load control capability is improved, but the weight and costs of the equipment increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveload control capabilityVSAvoidequipment weight
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSWeight of moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The existing crane winch and hoist rope are used for multiple functions: primary lifting, load positioning, and stabilization control. The control cables work in conjunction with the existing frame structure rather than requiring separate winches, eliminating redundant equipment while maintaining full load control capability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The frame structure with control cables provides self-stabilization capability without requiring additional powered winches at the jib foot. The system uses the existing crane propulsion and control mechanisms to tension and adjust the control cables, making the additional equipment self-sufficient using existing resources.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Data Source

PatentEP2426077B1Crane
Publication Date: 2015.08.26 LIEBHERR WERK EHINGEN
  • EP2426077B1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP2426077B1 patent drawingFigure 2

AI summary

The invention relates to a crane, in particular a telescopic crane, with a frame suspended from the load hook for holding a specific load, in particular a rotor blade of a wind turbine. According to the invention, a single guide cable without a guying function is provided, which extends from the boom base in the same direction as the longitudinal axis of the boom system and is attached to the boom system at its end, wherein a frame suspended from the load hook is connected to the guide cable via at least two control cables.