Hoist Load-Sensing Frame for Real-Time Force Monitoring

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing hoist systems lack an effective design for real-time load monitoring, which is crucial for safety and preventing accidents.

Innovation Solution

A load sensing apparatus with a frame, top hook, and force sensor is integrated into a hoist, allowing for real-time force measurement and display, with optional user-programmable alerts for safety limits.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If a force sensor is integrated into the hoist frame, then real-time load monitoring capability is improved, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvereal-time load monitoring capabilityVSAvoiddevice complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

Measurement precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The force sensor is integrated directly into the hoist frame structure, merging the sensing function with the structural component. This eliminates the need for separate mounting brackets or additional structural modifications, thereby improving measurement capability while minimizing the increase in device complexity.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The hoist frame is designed to serve dual purposes: structural support and force sensing. By incorporating the force sensor into the frame itself, the frame becomes a multi-functional component that both supports the hoist mechanism and provides real-time load measurement, reducing overall system complexity.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Reliability

If real-time force measurement and display are implemented, then safety and accident prevention are improved, but loss of time for system setup and configuration increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvesafety and accident preventionVSAvoidtime for system setup and configuration

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The force sensor is pre-integrated into the hoist frame during manufacturing, so that when the hoist is deployed, the load monitoring capability is already present and requires minimal setup. This preliminary integration action reduces the time needed for system configuration while maintaining safety improvements.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The system provides self-service through automatic force measurement and display without requiring complex external instrumentation or manual calibration procedures. The force sensor automatically measures load and the display unit immediately presents the information, minimizing setup time while maximizing safety benefits.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

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 real-time load monitoring, enhancing safety by preventing accidents and property damage through timely force feedback.

Implementation Method 1

A force sensor is disposed between the fastener and the frame

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectForce sensing:

Data Source

PatentUS20250277712A1Load Sensing Device for a Hoist

Publication Date: 2025.09.04 COLUMBUS MCKINNON CORP

AI summary

A load sensing apparatus for use with a material handling device. The load sensing apparatus includes a frame configured to support the material handling device. The frame has an opening defined therein. A top hook has an opening defined therein between a tip and a body portion and has a shank extending from the body portion. At least a portion of the shank passes through the opening in the frame. A fastener is attached to the shank on a side of the frame opposite from the opening in the hook. A force sensor disposed between the fastener and the frame.