Outrigger Connection Locking Device for Cranes
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing outrigger connection locking devices for crane apparatuses fail to reliably secure connecting pins without a working space between the carrier frame and outriggers, as hydraulic cylinders can contract and cause pins to drop off.
Innovation Solution
A telescopic cylinder with a connection locking unit and remote operation mechanism that extends the connection pin into place and restricts contraction, using protruding portions on the piston rod and tube to prevent the pin from disengaging, allowing remote operation of the locking mechanism.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Extent of automation
If a hydraulic cylinder is used to insert pins into pin holes for connecting outriggers to the carrier frame, then the connection can be automated, but the hydraulic cylinder may contract due to pressure decrease and cause the pins to drop off
Solution Approach 1:
The locking plate is positioned in advance between the piston rod and tube to prevent the telescopic cylinder from contracting. This preliminary placement of the locking mechanism counteracts the potential harmful effect of cylinder contraction before it can cause the pin to drop off, thereby maintaining reliable pin retention while keeping the automation function.
2Ease of operation
If a working space is provided for the connection between the carrier frame and outrigger, then the hydraulic cylinder can be extended to insert pins, but there is not always sufficient working space available
Solution Approach 1:
The connection locking device utilizes the existing telescopic cylinder structure, with the locking plate nested between the piston rod and tube. This nested arrangement allows the locking function to be integrated within the existing mechanical structure, eliminating the need for additional working space while maintaining the pin insertion capability through the telescopic motion.
3Ease of operation
If the connection locking unit is operated remotely, then the worker can operate from a safe distance, but the locking mechanism becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
A link wire serves as an intermediary element that transmits the operator's input from the remote operation lever to the locking plate. This simple mechanical intermediary allows remote operation without requiring complex electronic or hydraulic control systems, thereby achieving ease of operation while minimizing the increase in device complexity.
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
Enables reliable and safe locking of outriggers to the carrier frame even without a working space, preventing pin disengagement and enhancing installation flexibility by allowing remote operation of the connection locking device.
Implementation Method 1
a telescopic cylinder configured to perform a telescopic motion that allows the connection pin to move to a location in which the connection pin is inserted into the carrier frame hole and the outrigger hole
Implementation Method 2
the connection locking unit is set between the protruding portions by an operation of the remote operation mechanism for connection locking to restrict the extended telescopic cylinder from contracting
Data Source
Figure 1
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AI summary
There is provided an outrigger connection locking device used in a crane apparatus (3) including a boom (6), a swivel base (5) that supports the boom (6) so as to be raised and lowered, a carrier frame (4) on which the swivel base (5) is mounted, and an outrigger (7) removably mounted to the carrier frame (4). The outrigger locking device includes: a connection pin (84, 85) that can be inserted into a carrier frame hole (44) formed in the carrier frame (4) and into an outrigger hole (73) formed in the outrigger (7); a telescopic cylinder (81) that performs a telescopic motion that allows the connection pin (84, 85) to move to a location in which the connection pin (84, 85) is inserted into the carrier frame hole (44) and the outrigger hole (73); a connection locking unit (9) that restricts the connection pin (84, 85) inserted into the carrier frame hole (44) and the outrigger hole (73) from moving; and a remote operation mechanism (10) for connection locking that can operate the connection locking unit (9).