Crane Suspension Connector Pivoting via Frame-Mounted Winch
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Solution Overview
Problem
The assembly and disassembly of crane suspension systems, particularly with heavy connectors, are time-consuming and require additional resources, including assist cranes and extra personnel, due to the need for repetitive manual flipping of heavy link plates.
Innovation Solution
A method utilizing a frame-mounted winch assembly to pivot and secure connectors between crane suspension sections, eliminating the need for assist cranes and reducing manual labor by using a winch to move connectors from a stowed to an operational position.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If manual flipping of heavy link plates is used to connect suspension sections, then the connection can be made, but the assembly time increases significantly and additional labor resources are required
Solution Approach 1:
The connector is designed to automatically flip from stowed to operational position using its own weight and gravity, eliminating the need for manual flipping operations. The self-flipping mechanism converts the connector's weight from a hindrance to a useful force that drives the positioning action.
Solution Approach 2:
The connector transitions from a static heavy component to a dynamic self-positioning element. By allowing the connector to rotate and flip dynamically during assembly, the system eliminates repetitive manual operations and reduces assembly time while handling heavy weights.
2Ease of operation
If assist cranes are used to move heavy connectors, then the heavy link plates can be positioned, but additional equipment and personnel resources are required
Solution Approach 1:
The connector positions itself automatically through gravity-assisted flipping, eliminating the need for assist cranes and additional positioning equipment. The system uses the connector's own weight to perform the positioning function that would otherwise require external equipment.
Solution Approach 2:
The complex assist crane system and additional positioning equipment are completely removed from the assembly process. The invention extracts the unnecessary equipment requirements while maintaining the ability to handle heavy connectors through simplified manual operations.
3Volume of moving object
If connectors are kept in stowed position during transport, then they occupy less space, but they need to be manually flipped to operational position for assembly
Solution Approach 1:
During assembly, the connector automatically flips from stowed to operational position using gravity, eliminating the need for separate manual flipping operations. This self-flipping capability maintains compact transport configuration while enabling rapid assembly transition.
Solution Approach 2:
The connector is pre-positioned in the stowed configuration for transport, and the design incorporates automatic flipping mechanisms that prepare it for operational use without requiring additional assembly steps. The preliminary stowed position is maintained until assembly is required.
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 method allows a two-person team to connect heavy boom backstay suspension sections in under five minutes, compared to 15 minutes with an assist crane, significantly reducing assembly and disassembly time and eliminating the need for additional labor and equipment.
Implementation Method 1
connecting a line from the winch to a lift point on the connector; activating the winch to move the connector
Implementation Method 2
A frame mounted winch assembly for use in assembling and disassembling a connection between first and second sections of a crane suspension assembly
Implementation Method 3
moving the connector so that it pivots about the pivot axis; center of gravity of the connector is approximately directly above the first pin
Data Source
AI summary
A method of connecting sections of a crane suspension assembly together includes attaching a frame to a member of a first section; connecting a tension member between the frame and a connector used in the assembly; moving the tension member so that the connector pivots about a pin to a position where a second hole in the connector is in alignment with a hole in a second section member; putting a second pin through the hole in the connector and the hole through the second section member; and disconnecting the tension member from the connector. The method may also include attaching a frame with a winch to a section of the crane suspension assembly; connecting a line from the winch to the connector; activating the winch to move the connector so that it pivots about a pivot axis; and securing the connector in its second position.