Lifting Device for Grain Bin Stability
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for constructing grain bins and hoppers are labor-intensive and prone to instability, particularly in ensuring all parts of the structure remain level and lift at the same rate, leading to potential overloading and collapse.
Innovation Solution
A device comprising a lift cap with slots for spreader straps connected to a lift ring, allowing for stable lifting and distribution of weight using an overhead crane, with slings attached to the bin to ensure balanced lifting and secure placement.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a single point suspension method is used for lifting a grain bin with an overhead crane, then the lifting operation is simplified, but the structure becomes unstable
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a multi-point suspension system with spreader bars and slings as an intermediary between the single crane hook and the grain bin. This mediator distributes the lifting force across multiple attachment points on the bin, maintaining stability while keeping the crane operation simple. The spreader bars connect the central lift point to multiple slings that attach to different locations on the bin structure.
2Stability of the object's composition
If a multi-point suspension method is used for lifting a grain bin, then structure stability is improved, but it becomes difficult to keep all parts level and lift at the same rate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs dynamic adjustment mechanisms where the slings can be independently adjusted in length and tension. This allows the lifting system to adapt to slight variations in the bin's geometry and loading distribution, automatically maintaining level lifting without requiring precise manual synchronization of multiple lifting points.
Solution Approach 2:
The lifting system is segmented into independent adjustable components (multiple slings with individual tensioning mechanisms) rather than a rigid fixed structure. This segmentation allows each component to be adjusted independently to achieve balanced lifting, simplifying the operation while maintaining stability.
3Ease of manufacture
If successive rings of panels are lifted using jacks, then the bin can be constructed incrementally, but the process becomes labor intensive and time consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the manual jack system with an overhead crane-based lifting mechanism. The crane provides powered lifting capability, substituting manual mechanical jacking with a more efficient mechanical system. This maintains the incremental construction approach while dramatically reducing labor requirements and construction time.
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
The solution enables easier, less labor-intensive construction and stable lifting of grain bins and hoppers, preventing overloading and ensuring secure placement without collapsing, by distributing the weight evenly around the lift ring as the crane lifts the structure.
Implementation Method 1
shackles that permit the straps to slide a limited distance in the slots
Implementation Method 2
the weight is distributed around the lift ring by gravity as the spreader straps move in the slots
Data Source
AI summary
A device and method for lifting cylindrical structures using an overhead crane. The device comprises a lift cap with a lift tab that is the single-point of connection to the crane. The lift cap has a plurality of slots around its perimeter. A plurality of spreader straps are connected to the lift cap at the slots with shackles that permit the straps to slide a limited distance in the slots. The spreader straps hang down from the lift cap and connect it to a lift ring that hangs below the lift cap. The lift ring is comprised of a series of connected spreader bars and is about the same diameter as the grain bin. Slings attached to the spreader bars hang below the lift ring. The loose end of each sling is removably attached to the cylindrical structure.