Crane Wheel Wear Measurement With Integrated Mechanical Probe
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing wheel systems for cranes require high inspection effort and cost due to the need for dismantling or separate measuring instruments to detect wear, and are not robust against mechanical influences like vibrations.
Innovation Solution
A mechanical device integrated into the support body of the wheel system that can be manually actuated to detect and quantify wear on the running wheel without disassembly, using a probe that contacts the wheel surface for precise measurement and a visual indicator for easy wear state visualization.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If the wheel system is dismantled and disassembled for wear inspection, then the running wheel can be examined for wear, but the inspection effort and time increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The wheel system performs self-inspection through an integrated mechanical measuring device that is part of the wheel assembly itself. The measuring device includes a probe that contacts the running wheel surface and a scale that indicates wear extent, allowing the system to monitor its own condition without external intervention or disassembly.
Solution Approach 2:
The mechanical measuring device is pre-installed on the wheel system in a standby position, ready to perform measurements at any time. The probe can be manually actuated to contact the running wheel surface and take measurements without requiring any preliminary disassembly or preparation work.
2Measurement precision
If separate measuring instruments are used to detect wear, then wear can be detected, but the device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The measuring device is merged with the wheel system by integrating the probe, scale, and mounting components directly onto the wheel assembly. This combination eliminates the need for separate external measuring instruments and reduces overall system complexity while maintaining wear detection functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The wheel system includes its own built-in measuring capability through the integrated mechanical device, allowing it to self-monitor wear conditions without requiring external measuring equipment. The probe and scale are permanent components of the wheel assembly.
3Measurement precision
If optical sensors or laser distance meters are used for wear detection, then wear can be measured, but the system becomes vulnerable to mechanical influences like vibrations
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces fragile optical or laser-based measuring systems with a robust mechanical measuring device. The mechanical probe and scale assembly is inherently more resistant to vibrations and mechanical influences, while still providing accurate wear measurement capability through direct contact with the running wheel surface.
4Measurement precision
If continuous contact measurement is implemented, then wear can be continuously monitored, but further wear of the probe and running wheel occurs
Solution Approach 1:
The measuring device is designed for periodic or discontinuous use rather than continuous operation. The probe can be manually actuated to contact the running wheel surface when wear inspection is needed, and then returned to a standby position. This periodic measurement approach minimizes additional wear on both the probe and the running wheel while still providing effective wear monitoring capability.
Data Source
AI summary
The invention relates to a wheel system having a running wheel and a support body which at least partially surrounds the running wheel and in which the running wheel is mounted and from which the running wheel projects in order to come into contact with a rail. In order to allow predictive maintenance of the wheel system with a low inspection effort, it is proposed that a mechanical device for detecting and/or determining wear on the running wheel is mounted on the support body.