Crane Mat Lifting Structure for Safer Rapid Repositioning
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing outrigger mat systems require manual placement by workers, which is time-consuming and poses safety risks due to the heavy weight and frequent movement of crane mats, necessitating a more efficient and safer method for handling and repositioning.
Innovation Solution
The design of crane mats with integrated lifting portions and a sling system allows for the simultaneous lifting and repositioning of multiple mats, reducing the need for crane movement and minimizing worker exposure to safety hazards.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If workers manually place outrigger mats individually, then the mats can be positioned accurately, but the process is time-consuming and poses safety risks
Solution Approach 1:
The mat is equipped with integrated lifting portions that enable it to be lifted and repositioned by itself using the crane's lifting capability, rather than requiring workers to manually handle each mat. This self-service approach eliminates the safety risks and time consumption associated with manual placement while maintaining positioning accuracy.
Solution Approach 2:
The lifting portions are integrated directly into the mat structure, allowing the same component to serve both as part of the load-bearing mat and as a lifting attachment point. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate lifting devices and enables efficient crane-based mat handling.
2Adaptability or versatility
If crane mats are moved frequently for repositioning, then the equipment can be stabilized in different locations, but the frequent movement increases safety risks and time loss
Solution Approach 1:
The integrated lifting portions enable the mat to be easily picked up and repositioned by the crane without requiring manual intervention. This self-service capability makes the repositioning process rapid and safe, allowing the equipment to be adapted to different locations efficiently.
Solution Approach 2:
The lifting portions are designed to be recessed into the sidewalls, allowing the mat to transition between a stable, flat configuration during operation and a lift-ready configuration when repositioning is needed. This dynamic design enables quick transitions between operational and transport states.
3Adaptability or versatility
If crane mats are moved frequently for repositioning, then the equipment can be stabilized in different locations, but the frequent movement increases safety risks
Solution Approach 1:
By enabling the mat to lift itself via integrated portions, the system eliminates the need for workers to manually handle heavy mats during repositioning. This removes workers from harm's way while maintaining the ability to reposition mats to different locations as needed.
Solution Approach 2:
The lifting portions act as an intermediary between the crane and the mat, providing a secure attachment point that allows the crane to safely handle the mat without direct human intervention. This intermediary mechanism transfers the load safely from manual to mechanical handling.
4Productivity
If integrated lifting portions are added to the mat, then the handling efficiency is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The lifting portions are merged with the mat's sidewall structure rather than being separate attachments. This integration combines the structural and lifting functions into a single unified component, improving handling efficiency while minimizing the increase in overall device complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The lifting portions serve dual purposes: they are integral to the mat's structural integrity and simultaneously provide the lifting interface for crane operation. This multi-functionality justifies the added complexity by delivering multiple benefits from a single structural feature.
Data Source
AI summary
A crane mat system includes a top surface and a bottom surface constructed of steel plates. The top surface and the bottom surface are joined by one or more sides and an internal support structure. Two or more lifting portions are mounted to recessed walls. Each lifting portion includes an arm having a proximal end attached to a recessed wall of the mat and a distal end attached to a plate. Each arm is mounted above the midline of the height of the mat. A protrusion is mounted on each arm such that when the mats are stacked, the protrusions over lower mats are nested within recessed cutouts of upper mats. The lifting portions are configured such that a sling can lift a stack of mats.