Crawler Crane Alternate Drive Units for Regional Adaptability
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Solution Overview
Problem
Crawler cranes face challenges in meeting varying regional requirements due to different climatic conditions and emission regulations, leading to inefficiencies and potential inability to operate in certain locations without additional, costly cooling systems or unsuitable operating materials.
Innovation Solution
A crawler crane design that allows for the alternate connection of at least two different drive units, enabling selection based on local conditions, with modular components for easy coupling and uncoupling, including internal combustion engines, hydraulic or electrical systems, and adjustable pumps to meet specific emission standards and material availability.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a crane is equipped with a drive unit designed for specific regional conditions, then it can operate efficiently in that region, but it cannot be easily adapted to different regions with different requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The drive unit is divided into separable modules that can be independently connected or disconnected from the crane. This allows different drive unit configurations to be attached based on regional requirements, solving the contradiction between adaptability and complexity by enabling modular reconfiguration rather than permanent integration
Solution Approach 2:
The crane is designed with universal connection interfaces and mounting structures that can accommodate multiple types of drive units. This universal design allows the same crane platform to operate with different drive unit configurations across various regions, achieving adaptability without proportionally increasing overall system complexity
2Adaptability or versatility
If a crane uses a drive unit that meets strict emission regulations, then it can operate in regions with high environmental standards, but it may require additional cooling systems in hot climates increasing cost
Solution Approach 1:
The drive unit configuration is made dynamic and changeable rather than fixed. Different drive units with varying emission characteristics and cooling requirements can be selected and installed based on the specific regional conditions, allowing optimization between emission compliance and cooling system costs for each operating location
Solution Approach 2:
The emission parameters and thermal management parameters of the drive unit can be changed by selecting different drive unit models or configurations. This allows the system to adapt to regional emission standards and climate conditions independently, avoiding the need for expensive universal cooling systems
3Adaptability or versatility
If a crane is designed with permanently installed drive units, then it has stable operation, but it cannot be easily transported or reconfigured for different uses
Solution Approach 1:
The drive unit is segmented into a crane platform and a separately transportable drive unit module. This segmentation allows the drive unit to be easily detached for transport while maintaining stable operation when connected, resolving the contradiction between flexibility and reliability
Solution Approach 2:
Connection interfaces and mounting structures are pre-configured on both the crane and drive unit to ensure proper alignment and stable connection when assembled. This preliminary preparation maintains operational reliability while enabling easy reconfiguration and transport
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention relates to a crane, particularly a crawler crane, whereby at least two different drive units can be alternately connected with the crane. The invention is additionally directed at corresponding drive units.