Handheld Crane Capacity Calculator Using Signal Distance
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional methods for determining crane capacity are time-consuming and prone to errors, as they require manual measurements and calculations.
Innovation Solution
A handheld device that calculates crane capacity by sending a signal to a receiver on the crane mast, determining the distance from the device to the receiver, and using this data to compute the crane's capacity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If manual measurement and calculation methods are used to determine crane capacity, then the process is simple and does not require complex equipment, but it is time-consuming and prone to human error
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual mechanical measurement methods with an automated electronic system. The handheld device uses signal transmission and reception to automatically calculate distance from the crane mast, eliminating the need for physical tape measures and manual calculations. This substitution of mechanical measurement with electronic automation directly reduces both time consumption and human error in crane capacity determination.
Solution Approach 2:
The system enables self-service operation where the handheld device automatically performs distance calculation and crane capacity determination without requiring operator intervention for measurement and computation. The device autonomously sends signals, receives reflections, calculates distances, and determines capacity, allowing the operator to simply position the device and read the result.
2Reliability
If manual measurement methods are used, then equipment complexity is low, but measurement precision and reliability are reduced due to human error
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces unreliable manual measurement processes with a reliable electronic signal-based system. The handheld device transmits signals to the crane mast receiver and automatically calculates distance, eliminating human measurement errors. This mechanical-to-electronic substitution significantly improves reliability while the integrated design keeps device complexity manageable.
Solution Approach 2:
The system introduces an intermediary electronic device (the handheld device with signal transmission capability) between the operator and the measurement task. This intermediary automatically performs the measurement and calculation functions, serving as a mediator that translates physical distance into accurate capacity determination without human intervention in the critical measurement steps.
3Productivity
If traditional manual methods are used to determine crane capacity, then the system is simple to operate, but productivity is reduced due to time-consuming measurements and calculations
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces time-consuming manual measurement and calculation processes with instant electronic signal transmission and automated computation. The handheld device rapidly determines distance and calculates crane capacity in seconds, dramatically improving productivity. The electronic system performs calculations that would take operators minutes to complete manually.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs self-service operations by automatically executing signal transmission, distance calculation, and capacity determination without requiring operator expertise in complex calculations. The device handles all computational tasks autonomously, allowing operators to quickly assess capacity without training in complex measurement procedures.
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
Enables quick and accurate assessment of crane capacity at a load location, reducing the risk of errors and saving time compared to traditional methods.
Implementation Method 1
prompting the handheld device to send a signal to a receiver, receiving a signal from the receiver, calculating a distance from the handheld device to the receiver based on at least the signal from the receiver
Data Source
AI summary
A method of calculating crane capacity is disclosed. The method may include the steps of placing a handheld device near a load, prompting the handheld device to send a signal to a receiver, receiving a signal from the receiver, calculating a distance from the handheld device to the receiver based on at least the signal from the receiver, and using the distance to calculate the crane capacity, wherein the receiver is arranged near or on a crane mast.