Lift Capacity System for Pipelayer Stability
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Current pipelayer machines face challenges in accurately determining their maximum lift capacity without tipping, especially when operating in rugged terrain and remote locations, due to the lack of comprehensive factors considered in existing stability systems.
Innovation Solution
A lift capacity system that includes sensors to monitor the fore, aft, and roll position of the chassis, boom angle, load, and connector skew, using a control system to determine real-time lift capacity and provide operators with accurate lifting limits, thereby preventing tipping.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Stability of the object's composition
If the pipelayer machine operates conservatively to avoid tipping, then stability is improved, but the ability to access desired installation locations is significantly limited
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically adjusts the operational parameters and lift capacity recommendations based on real-time sensor data about terrain conditions, boom position, and load characteristics. This allows the machine to operate closer to its actual stability limits rather than using fixed conservative limits, thereby improving access to difficult locations while maintaining stability
Solution Approach 2:
The system continuously monitors multiple parameters including chassis acceleration, boom angle, load weight, and terrain conditions, then uses this feedback to update the lift capacity calculations and provide real-time guidance to the operator. This closed-loop feedback enables the machine to adapt to changing conditions and operate safely at higher capacity limits
2Force
If the pipelayer machine is made larger and heavier to satisfy higher lifting capacities, then lifting capacity is improved, but the footprint is limited by cost, maneuverability, and transportation considerations
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses sensors and control algorithms to dynamically determine optimal operational parameters (boom angle, lift capacity, counterweight position) that maximize the effective lifting capacity of the existing machine configuration. This allows the machine to achieve higher lifting capacities through optimized parameter selection rather than physical enlargement
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces mechanical enlargement of the machine with an electronic control system that uses sensors, processors, and algorithms to optimize performance. The control system substitutes for additional mechanical mass by intelligently managing the distribution and utilization of the existing machine's capabilities
3Force
If oversized undercarriage and boom are used to increase lifting capacity, then lifting capacity is improved, but manufacturing costs and operating fuel costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system optimizes fuel consumption by dynamically adjusting operational parameters to achieve the minimum necessary lift capacity for each task. The control system calculates the exact capacity needed based on load weight, boom angle, and terrain conditions, preventing unnecessary energy expenditure from oversized components operating at suboptimal efficiency
Data Source
AI summary
A lift machine includes a machine chassis, a boom extending from the machine chassis, and a connector extending from the boom for coupling to a load. The machine further includes a control system that determines a lift capacity of the machine based on a skew of the connector caused by the load.