Crawler Crane Combination with Rotatable Connecting Beam
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional multi-crane lifts require multiple cranes with double the lifting capacity, leading to increased space and operational costs, and existing combination cranes with lattice boom connections are inflexible and prone to damage during operation.
Innovation Solution
A combination crane system connecting two crawler cranes with a rotatable and telescopic connecting beam, allowing for directional changes and increased lifting capacity while preventing excessive stress on the connecting beam through beam length and angle detection and control mechanisms.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Power
If two crawler cranes are firmly connected by lattice connection members to double lifting capacity, then lifting capacity is improved, but directional flexibility and operational versatility deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The connecting beam is designed to be rotatable at both ends about horizontal axes, allowing the connection to dynamically adapt to different ground levels and operational positions. This dynamic capability enables the combination crane to maintain structural integrity while achieving directional flexibility, resolving the contradiction between firm connection for lifting capacity and adaptability for operational versatility
Solution Approach 2:
The connecting beam's rotational capability about horizontal axes allows changes in the vertical alignment parameter between the two cranes. By enabling the beam to rotate and adjust to different ground levels, the system maintains its load-bearing function while adapting to varying operational conditions, thus preserving both lifting capacity and directional flexibility
2Power
If a combination crane is created by connecting two cranes, then lifting capacity is doubled, but device complexity and structural vulnerability increase
Solution Approach 1:
The connecting beam serves multiple functions: it structurally connects the two cranes to enable combined lifting, provides rotational adjustment capability to accommodate different ground levels, and acts as a flexible connector that reduces stress concentration. This multi-functionality reduces the need for additional complex components while achieving the desired lifting capacity and adaptability
3Power
If cranes are connected to form a combination crane, then lifting capacity increases, but stability under varying ground conditions deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The rotatable connecting beam provides dynamic adjustment capability that allows the combination crane to adapt to varying ground levels. By enabling rotation about horizontal axes, the system maintains proper alignment and load distribution even when cranes operate on uneven terrain, thus preserving structural stability while achieving increased lifting capacity
Data Source
AI summary
A combination crane A is formed by connecting two crawler cranes 1L and 1R. Each crawler crane is provided with at least a lower propelling body 3 which can be propelled by crawlers 2, an upper revolving body 5 rotatably mounted on the lower propelling body 3 by a swing unit 4 provided between them, a boom 6 whose base section is tiltably supported on the upper revolving body, a tilting mechanism 10 that raises and lowers the boom and a hoist mechanism that hoists and lowers the lifting members 12 hung by a hoist rope 11 from the top of the boom. Both upper swing bodies of two cranes are connected together with a connecting beam 20. Swing motion is performed by driving the one crawler crane to move around the other crawler crane which is free to rotate and is locked against propulsion.