Automated Leveling Arms for Crane Load Stability
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for moving and leveling structural steel loads using cranes and hoists are time-consuming and labor-intensive, as they require manual adjustment to ensure the load is lifted in a level position, which can lead to safety issues and inefficiencies.
Innovation Solution
A leveling device with pivotally connected leveling arms and a level sensor system that automatically adjusts the load to a level position by extending and retracting hydraulic arms, allowing for efficient and safe lifting and movement of loads.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If manual adjustment methods are used to level loads, then safety is improved, but time and labor requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The leveling device automatically levels the load using its own weight and gravitational force. The arms pivot and adjust themselves without external manual intervention, eliminating the need for operators to manually calculate and adjust the center of gravity while maintaining safety through automated control
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces manual mechanical adjustment with an automated mechanical leveling system. The leveling arms with pivot points and counterweights automatically perform the leveling function that previously required manual calculation and adjustment, reducing both time and labor while maintaining safety
2Reliability
If manual adjustment methods are used to level loads, then safety is improved, but labor requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The leveling device performs the leveling function autonomously using its inherent weight distribution and pivot mechanisms. No manual labor is required to adjust the center of gravity or reposition chains, as the system self-adjusts based on gravitational force and pivot point geometry
Solution Approach 2:
The patent eliminates manual labor by replacing operator intervention with an automated mechanical leveling system. The pivot-connected arms and counterweights automatically perform the leveling function that previously required human calculation and physical adjustment
3Reliability
If chains are repositioned to lift loads level, then safety is improved, but the process becomes more complex and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The leveling device divides the load support function into separate functional components: lifting chains for vertical support and leveling arms for horizontal alignment. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function independently, simplifying the overall process while maintaining safety
Solution Approach 2:
The leveling arms serve as an intermediary mechanism between the lifting chains and the load. Rather than directly manipulating the chains to achieve level positioning, the arms mediate the adjustment process through pivot points and gravitational force, simplifying the operator's task
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 leveling device ensures loads are lifted and moved in a level position without the need for manual calculation of the center of gravity, reducing time and labor while enhancing safety and efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
a level sensor carried by the load-carrying member and in communication with the leveling arms to sense whether the load-carrying member is level
Implementation Method 2
Each leveling arm is preferably independently moveable between extended and retracted positions
Data Source
AI summary
A leveling device for a lifting apparatus having a load-carrying member includes a level arm-carrying member and a pair of leveling arms having a first end pivotally connected thereto that are independently moveable between extended and retracted positions. The leveling device also includes a level sensor carried by the load-carrying member, and a controller in communication with the level sensor. The controller moves the leveling arms between the extended and retracted positions responsive to the level sensor sensing the load-carrying member being out of level.