Lifting Device Automatic Reeving Configuration Change

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Solution Overview

Problem

The automation of changes in mixing configuration for double-mouflage lifting devices is not well-controlled, posing safety issues.

Innovation Solution

A lifting machine equipped with a double-mixing lifting device featuring a reversible mechanical connection system and a control unit that automatically controls changes in mixing configuration based on effort measurement data from a lifting cable strand.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Productivity

If automation of haulage changes is implemented, then operational efficiency is improved, but safety control deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveoperational efficiencyVSAvoidsafety control
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements automatic feedback control by monitoring the force on the lifting cable strand and using this information to automatically control the lifting winch during connection and disconnection phases. The control/command unit receives force measurement data from the sensor and adjusts the winch operation accordingly, creating a closed-loop control system that maintains safety while enabling automation. This resolves the contradiction by making the automation safety-dependent on real-time force feedback rather than open-loop control.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

Solution Approach 2:

The system performs self-service through automatic configuration changes based on force measurement thresholds. The control/command unit automatically determines when to transition between single-haul and double-haul configurations by monitoring the force data, eliminating the need for manual operator intervention while maintaining safety through algorithmic decision-making based on physical parameters.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

2Speed

If manual intervention is eliminated, then operational speed is improved, but control precision deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveoperational speedVSAvoidcontrol precision
Core Design Contradiction:
SpeedVSManufacturing precision

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces manual mechanical control with an automated control system that uses force measurement data to control the lifting winch. The sensor-based force monitoring and automated winch control substitute for manual operator actions, enabling faster configuration changes while maintaining precision through electronic control algorithms that respond to real-time force thresholds.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The system uses parameter changes in the force measurement data to trigger automated configuration transitions. By monitoring changes in the force parameter on the lifting cable strand and comparing it against predefined thresholds, the control system automatically determines when to switch between configurations, maintaining precision through parameter-based decision logic rather than manual judgment.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

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 secure, rapid, and automated transitions between connected and disconnected configurations, enhancing safety and operational efficiency by eliminating the need for manual intervention.

Implementation Method 1

an elastic return member urging said locking element to be engaged with said complementary locking element

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElastic force: Elasticity

Implementation Method 2

a sensor for measuring a force on a strand of the lifting cable

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectForce measurement:

Data Source

PatentEP4345052B1Lifting device with automatic reeving configuration change
Publication Date: 2025.04.09 MANITOWOC CRANE GROUP FRANCE
  • EP4345052B1 patent drawingFigure 1~2
  • EP4345052B1 patent drawingFigure 3~4
  • EP4345052B1 patent drawingFigure 5

AI summary

Lifting device (1) comprising a lower pulley (3) and an upper pulley (4), the lower pulley being suspended by a lifting cable (90) connected to a lifting winch (91), a reversible mechanical connection system to be reversibly configurable between a connected configuration and a disconnected configuration, which includes a locking element, a complementary locking element and an elastic return member urging said locking element to engage with said complementary locking element, a control/command unit (8) controlling the lifting winch and a sensor (81) for measuring a force on a strand of the lifting cable, and the control/command unit (8) controlling the lifting winch in a connection phase and in a disconnection phase according to the measurement data of the force on the strand of the lifting cable.