Crane Load Path Planning Using Actuator Priority Sequences
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Solution Overview
Problem
Crane operations require skilled operators to determine optimal load transport paths considering actuator conditions, as existing systems may not account for actuation speed differences and costs, leading to suboptimal transport times and fuel consumption.
Innovation Solution
A crane system with a path generation unit that sets an operable range, generates nodes and paths within that range, and determines transport paths based on actuator priority sequences for maximum speed, cost efficiency, and actuation timing, using a combination of actuators for independent or coordinated movements.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Length of moving object
If the shortest transport path is selected based on divided-space network, then the transport distance is minimized, but the transport time may not be minimized due to different actuator speeds
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transforms the path selection criterion from purely geometric (shortest distance) to performance-based (shortest time). It does this by assigning time costs to each path segment based on actuator speeds, then selecting the path with minimum total time cost. This parameter transformation resolves the contradiction by making the selection criterion match the actual optimization goal.
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically adjusts path selection based on real-time actuator conditions and speeds. Rather than using a static shortest-path algorithm, it incorporates dynamic actuation characteristics to determine the optimal path, allowing the system to adapt to varying operational conditions and minimize transport time.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple actuators are used to move the load, then the transport capability is improved, but the actuation cost and complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system selectively activates only the necessary actuators for each specific transport task rather than using all available actuators simultaneously. By determining the minimum required actuation combination to achieve the transport objective, it reduces unnecessary complexity while maintaining full transport capability when needed.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent segments the transport task into discrete path segments, each associated with specific actuator combinations. This segmentation allows the system to manage complexity by breaking down the overall transport operation into manageable segments with predetermined actuation sequences, reducing the cognitive and computational burden.
3Manufacturing precision
If experienced operators manually determine transport paths, then the transport accuracy is improved, but the operational efficiency and scalability are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The system implements self-service by automatically generating and optimizing transport paths without requiring human intervention. The automated path planning algorithm independently determines optimal routes based on crane configuration, load characteristics, and actuator performance, eliminating the need for experienced operators to manually plan each transport operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the human operator's cognitive system with an automated computational system. Instead of relying on human experience and manual decision-making, it uses algorithms to calculate and select optimal transport paths, thereby improving both accuracy and operational efficiency while enabling scalability.
Data Source
AI summary
A crane in which a boom that is capable of derricking and extending/retracting is provided to a swiveling base includes: an operable-range-setting unit that sets an operable range in which a load being transported can be transported, the operable range being set according to the weight of the load; a path generation unit that generates, within the set operable range, a plurality of nodes through which the load can pass and a plurality of paths connecting adjacent nodes; and a transport path determination unit that determines a transport path of the load on the basis of a priority sequence for actuating a plurality of actuators of the crane, the transport path satisfying a prescribed condition, and being determined from the generated plurality of nodes and plurality of paths.