Hybrid Crane Design Resolving Span and Installation Trade-offs
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing cranes, such as jib cranes and workstation cranes, face limitations in weight capacity, span and reach, space requirements, and installation time, with jib cranes having limited span and reach and workstation cranes requiring significant space and time for installation.
Innovation Solution
A hybrid crane structure combining elements of jib and workstation cranes, featuring a mast with support beams, runway beams, a bridge, and a trolley system, allowing for greater flexibility and capacity while reducing installation time and space requirements.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of time
If a jib crane is used, then installation time is reduced, but span and reach are limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the structural simplicity of a jib crane with the extended span capability of a workstation crane by integrating a rotating mast with a bridge system that spans between multiple support points, achieving both quick installation and extended reach
2Strength
If a workstation crane is used, then weight capacity and span are improved, but space required and installation time increase
Solution Approach 1:
The workstation crane structure is segmented into modular components including a mast, bridge, trolley, and hoist that can be independently assembled and configured, reducing the overall space footprint while maintaining weight capacity through optimized component placement
3Strength
If a workstation crane is used, then weight capacity is improved, but installation time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The bridge and support beams are pre-assembled as modular units with predetermined configurations, allowing for rapid on-site assembly that maintains the weight capacity of a full workstation crane while significantly reducing installation time through simplified assembly procedures
Data Source
AI summary
A crane may comprise a mast that includes a base end and a top end located opposite the base end, at least one support beam fixedly coupled to the mast adjacent the top end of the mast, a first runway beam fixedly coupled to the at least one support beam, and a second runway beam spaced from the first runway beam. The crane may also comprise a bridge movably coupled to the first runway beam and the second runway beam, a trolley movably coupled to the bridge, and a hoist coupled to the trolley. In many embodiments, the crane only comprises one mast.