Unified Crane Drivetrain via Mechanical Torque Transmission
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Solution Overview
Problem
Large cranes face limitations in weight distribution and lifting capacity due to axle load restrictions and the inefficiencies of using separate internal combustion engines for the undercarriage and superstructure, leading to suboptimal performance and increased fuel consumption.
Innovation Solution
A crane design that utilizes a large internal combustion engine in the undercarriage to power both the undercarriage and superstructure through a mechanical torque and force transmission system, eliminating the need for a separate superstructure engine and optimizing engine operation for reduced fuel consumption and increased lifting capacity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a separate superstructure engine is used, then the superstructure can be powered independently, but the overall weight increases and fuel consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the power sources by using a single undercarriage engine to drive both the undercarriage and superstructure through a unified drivetrain. The engine's output is split via a gearbox to power the track drives and the superstructure motor simultaneously, eliminating the need for a separate superstructure engine and reducing overall weight.
Solution Approach 2:
The undercarriage engine serves multiple functions: it powers the undercarriage movement, the superstructure rotation, and can also drive auxiliary systems. This multi-functional design replaces what would traditionally require separate dedicated motors for each function, optimizing weight and fuel consumption.
2Power
If a larger internal combustion engine is used for the undercarriage, then sufficient power is available for road travel, but fuel consumption increases when operating in consumption-optimized range
Solution Approach 1:
The unified drivetrain allows continuous power transmission from the undercarriage engine to both undercarriage and superstructure operations. The engine operates continuously at optimal power levels without the need to switch between different engine sizes or operating modes, maintaining fuel efficiency while providing sufficient power for both road travel and crane operations.
3Power
If a hydraulic shaft is used to transmit power from undercarriage to superstructure, then power can be transmitted, but the system becomes complex and maintenance becomes laborious
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the hydraulic transmission system with a direct mechanical drivetrain. Power is transmitted mechanically through drive shafts, gearboxes, and universal joints from the undercarriage engine directly to the superstructure motor, eliminating hydraulic pumps, hoses, and rotary unions while simplifying the overall system and reducing maintenance requirements.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This design enhances crane performance by reducing weight, lowering maintenance needs, and improving fuel efficiency while maintaining or increasing lifting capacity and stability, with reduced noise and heat generation.
Implementation Method 1
the torque and/or force transmission means has at least one articulated shaft (16), a first bevel gear (13), at least one other one in the superstructure (3) arranged bevel gear (13) with a power continuation to a pump transfer case (14)
Implementation Method 2
a first bevel gear (13), at least one other one in the superstructure (3) arranged bevel gear (13) with a power continuation
Data Source
Figure 1
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AI summary
The present invention relates to a drive device for a crane (1), wherein the crane comprises an undercarriage (2) and a superstructure (3), with at least one undercarriage motor (10) arranged in the undercarriage, which is an internal combustion engine, and with at least one superstructure drive, wherein the superstructure drive can be driven by means of a torque and/or power transmission means driven by the undercarriage motor (10). The present invention further relates to a crane (1) with such a drive device.