Crane Load Wheel Cradle for Safe Vertical Removal
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing devices for removing and replacing load wheels on overhead or gantry cranes lack safety and ease of use, often requiring manual handling and failing to maintain the load wheel's vertical position during removal, posing risks to workers and complicating the process.
Innovation Solution
A cradle-like device with left and right side-plates, bases, and rear walls connected to an upper cross T stanchion, which is slidably mounted on a rail, allowing for hands-free operation and secure attachment to the load wheel's bearing housing, enabling safe and stable removal and transport of the load wheel while maintaining its vertical orientation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If manual handling methods are used to remove load wheels, then workers can perform the removal process, but worker safety is compromised and the process becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a specialized cradle device as an intermediary tool between the load wheel and workers. This cradle securely holds the load wheel during removal and transport, eliminating the need for workers to manually handle the heavy wheel while simplifying the overall process through a dedicated handling mechanism.
Solution Approach 2:
The cradle device is designed to self-stabilize the load wheel during removal and transport. The cradle's structure automatically maintains the wheel in a controlled position without requiring continuous manual intervention, allowing the system to serve itself during the critical removal phase.
2Ease of operation
If load wheels are removed without maintaining vertical position, then removal is simpler, but the load wheel cannot be properly transported and installed
Solution Approach 1:
The cradle device maintains the load wheel in a vertical orientation throughout the removal and transport process, creating an equipotential state where the wheel remains in its optimal position. This eliminates the need for complex repositioning operations and ensures the wheel can be directly installed without additional manual manipulation.
Solution Approach 2:
The cradle is designed with dynamic capabilities to maintain the load wheel's vertical position during movement. The device adapts to the wheel's weight and dimensions, automatically adjusting to keep the wheel properly oriented during transport, thereby simplifying both removal and installation operations.
3Reliability
If specialized equipment is used to ensure safety and maintain position, then worker safety and load wheel stability improve, but manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The cradle device is segmented into modular components that can be manufactured separately and assembled. This segmentation allows for simpler manufacturing of individual parts using standard fabrication processes, reducing overall manufacturing complexity and cost while maintaining the device's ability to securely hold and transport the load wheel.
Data Source
AI summary
Method and apparatus for a device for connection to and support of a load wheel so that the load wheel can be easily and safely removed from a crane, and transported about as necessary to repair and/or replace the load wheel. The device includes left and right side-plates, left and right bases, left and right rear walls and along with left and right rear connectors which connect to an upper cross-T of a stanchion which is supported on a sliding rail mount which is attachable to the rail upon which the load wheel rolls. The device bolts directly to the bearing housing of the load wheel so that the axle of the load wheel can be carried on the left or right lower bases of the device. The device is then slidable along the rail upon which the load wheel of the overhead or gantry crane travels.