Crane Load Curve Adaptation via Dynamic Parameter Selection

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing crane load curve adaptation methods are not simple or economical, and they do not allow for centralized control based on operating conditions, leading to increased costs or reduced lifting capacity when operating at varying heights.

Innovation Solution

A method and system that adapt the crane load curve by selecting preferential parameters such as mast height, composition, or ballast mass, using a control-command system to determine and store multiple load curves, allowing for centralized control and configuration adjustments based on user requests and site parameters.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If a single load curve is used for a given boom length and block, then the crane can be controlled simply, but the crane cannot adapt to varying operating heights and configurations efficiently

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecrane control simplicityVSAvoidload curve adaptability to configuration
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The system dynamically selects and adapts the load curve based on real-time crane configuration parameters such as mast height, ballast mass, and mast composition. The control system transitions from using a static single load curve to dynamically adjusting the load curve according to varying operating conditions, enabling the crane to adapt efficiently to different heights and configurations without compromising control simplicity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The invention changes the parameters defining the load curve based on selected crane configuration parameters. By varying parameters such as mast height, ballast mass, and mast composition, the system generates and selects appropriate load curves from a plurality of pre-calculated curves, allowing the crane to adapt to different operating conditions while maintaining simple centralized control through parameter-based selection.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

2Length of stationary object

If the crane operates at greater height with the existing load curve, then the operating range is extended, but the lifting capacity must be reduced or the pylon structure must be modified increasing costs

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecrane operating heightVSAvoidcost of reinforced pylon elements
Core Design Contradiction:
Length of stationary objectVSQuantity of substance

Solution Approach 1:

The system pre-calculates and stores multiple load curves corresponding to different crane configurations including various mast heights, ballast masses, and mast compositions. Before operation, the appropriate load curve is selected based on the desired operating height and configuration, eliminating the need for costly structural modifications when operating at greater heights.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The control system achieves multi-functionality by using a single crane structure capable of operating at various heights with different configurations. By selecting from multiple pre-calculated load curves based on configuration parameters, the crane can operate efficiently at different heights without requiring physical modifications to the pylon structure, reducing overall costs.

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

3Adaptability or versatility

If multiple load curves are calculated and stored for different configurations, then the crane can adapt to varying heights, but the system complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveload curve adaptation to configurationVSAvoidcontrol system complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The system segments the load curve selection process by dividing it into discrete configuration parameters (mast height, ballast mass, mast composition). Each parameter has predefined options with corresponding pre-calculated load curves. This segmentation simplifies the control logic by allowing the system to select the appropriate load curve through a structured, step-by-step process based on the specific configuration parameters rather than handling continuous variations.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

4Force

If reinforced pylon elements are used to maintain lifting capacity at greater heights, then the lifting capacity is maintained, but the cost of using the crane increases considerably

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvelifting capacityVSAvoidcost of crane operation
Core Design Contradiction:
ForceVSQuantity of substance

Solution Approach 1:

The system dynamically adjusts the lifting capacity parameters based on the selected configuration and corresponding load curve. Instead of permanently reinforcing the pylon structure to maintain maximum lifting capacity at all heights, the system dynamically selects the appropriate load curve that matches the actual operating configuration, allowing the crane to maintain optimal lifting capacity at each height without incurring the costs of structural reinforcements.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Data Source

PatentEP4116250B1Method for adapting a load curve of a crane according to its configuration
Publication Date: 2024.07.31 MANITOWOC CRANE GROUP FRANCE
  • EP4116250B1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP4116250B1 patent drawingFigure 2
  • EP4116250B1 patent drawingFigure 3

AI summary

The invention relates to an adaptation method for adapting a load curve of a crane to a crane configuration, the crane configuration being associated with a plurality of crane parameters (HM, ML) among which a selection of at least one preferred parameter can be made, the adaptation method implementing a determination of a preferred load curve from among a plurality of load curves (X) calculated as a function of the preferred parameter selected.