Spatial Center of Mass Determination Using Crane Suspension Forces
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods are inadequate for determining the spatial center of mass and weight of large structures, as they require complex and specialized equipment, and are limited to two-dimensional measurements, making them unsuitable for industrial applications involving large or heavy objects.
Innovation Solution
A method using industrial crane units or hoisting devices with multiple suspension points, where the object is suspended at different points and the forces acting on these points are measured to determine the center of mass in three dimensions, utilizing a data evaluation unit for automatic and precise calculations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If specialized weighing platforms and hoisting devices are used for small objects, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity increases and applicability to large structures deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies universality by enabling standard industrial crane units to perform both their primary function of lifting heavy structures and the secondary function of determining spatial center of mass. The crane's existing suspension devices and force sensors are utilized for measurement purposes, eliminating the need for specialized equipment and making the system applicable to structures of any size within the crane's capacity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from two-dimensional center of mass determination (available in stationary scales) to three-dimensional determination by utilizing the spatial flexibility of crane suspension. By suspending the object at multiple different spatial positions and measuring forces in three-dimensional space, the system achieves complete spatial center of mass determination applicable to large structures.
2Measurement precision
If stationary scales are used for weight measurement, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity increases and ease of operation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies self-service by enabling the crane system to perform its own center of mass measurement function using its existing components (suspension devices and force sensors). The crane serves dual purposes - lifting and measuring - without requiring external specialized equipment, making the system easy to operate for users who already have access to industrial cranes.
3Productivity
If theoretical determination of weight and center of mass is performed, then productivity is improved, but reliability deteriorates due to data completeness issues
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the theoretical calculation method (which relies on incomplete material data and supplier specifications) with an experimental mechanical measurement method. By using force sensors on the crane suspension to directly measure forces and calculate center of mass from actual physical data, the system achieves both high productivity (rapid measurement) and high reliability (accurate experimental determination).
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 rapid, reliable, and precise determination of the spatial center of mass and weight of objects of any size, restricted only by the hoisting device's capacity, with improved accuracy and user-friendliness, suitable for large structures like ships and steel constructions.
Implementation Method 1
the forces of the suspended object acting on the suspension points are measured
Data Source
AI summary
The spatial center of mass and a mass of an object can be determined by orientating the suspended object in at least two different spatial positions and measuring the orientation of the object in each of the different spatial positions the forces acting on the suspension devices because of the suspended object, the forces acting on the suspension devices being resolved into three independent force components. A center of area of the object and the associated force effect lines are determined for each of the at least two spatial positions, the center of area of the respective spatial position being determined with an inclined tension compensation of the suspension devices. The spatial center of mass is determined by superimposing at least two force effect lines.