Foundation Anchor for Work Machine Reuse

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing anchoring methods for work machines, such as cranes, are complex, costly, and non-reusable due to the permanent integration of anchoring elements into concrete foundations, making them difficult to dismantle and reuse.

Innovation Solution

A quadrangular anchoring frame connected via square tubes to counterplates, allowing for detachable tension elements to distribute compressive and tensile forces effectively, enabling the anchoring frame and elements to be reused by being cast into the foundation during concrete pouring and easily removable after use.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If anchoring elements are permanently integrated into concrete foundations, then the anchoring provides stable force dissipation, but the anchoring elements cannot be reused and the process becomes cost-intensive

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveforce dissipationVSAvoidreusability
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The anchoring system is divided into separate components: the anchoring frame with tubes remains permanently embedded in the foundation, while the tension elements are detachable and can be removed and reused. This segmentation allows the permanent part to provide stable force dissipation while the removable part enables reusability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The tubes embedded in the foundation serve as intermediaries between the anchoring frame and the tension elements. They provide a permanent connection point in the foundation while allowing detachable tension elements to pass through and be removed, thus mediating between the need for permanent stable anchoring and reusable components.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Ease of manufacture

If traditional anchoring methods are used with stone screws or threaded rods, then the anchoring can be installed on site, but the components cannot be removed and reused

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveinstallation flexibilityVSAvoidreusability
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of manufactureVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The system separates the permanently installed components (anchoring frame and tubes) from the removable components (tension elements). This allows on-site installation flexibility while enabling reuse of the tension elements after dismantling.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The tension elements are designed to be discarded in the foundation during use, but can actually be recovered and reused. The tubes remain in the foundation as permanent anchors while the tension elements can be removed and recovered for future use, transforming a traditionally discarded component into a reusable one.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #34Discarding and recovering

3Strength

If anchoring feet are cast into the foundation, then the anchoring provides stable connection, but the entire anchoring method becomes complex and cost-intensive

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveconnection stabilityVSAvoidanchoring process complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
StrengthVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The anchoring system is segmented into a simple frame structure with tubes, eliminating the need for complex embedded anchoring feet. The frame can be easily assembled and positioned, while the tubes provide the necessary connection points, simplifying the overall process while maintaining connection stability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The anchoring frame with tubes serves multiple functions: it provides a stable base for the working machine, creates permanent connection points in the foundation, and allows for detachable tension elements. This multi-functionality reduces the need for additional specialized components, simplifying the overall anchoring system.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Data Source

PatentEP2481853B1Foundation anchor for work machine
Publication Date: 2016.03.30 LIEBHERR WERK BIBERACH GMBH
  • EP2481853B1 patent drawingFigure 1~2
  • EP2481853B1 patent drawingFigure 3~4
  • EP2481853B1 patent drawingFigure 5~7

AI summary

The present invention relates to an anchoring device for anchoring a working machine, in particular a crane, to a foundation, with a square anchoring frame for receiving the working machine, wherein the anchoring frame is connected at its corner points to at least one counter plate via at least one square tube and at least one tension element for releasably anchoring the anchoring frame to the counter plate(s) can be passed through the square tube.