Load Control Apparatus for Marine Crane Oscillation Mitigation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing load control systems for cranes struggle to effectively mitigate oscillatory motion caused by external factors like wave motion and wind, especially in rough seas, and often require modifications that affect the certification of lifting devices.
Innovation Solution
A load control apparatus with a base and support element that includes actuators to actively counteract oscillatory motion, using a control system and sensors to detect and respond to movement, allowing the apparatus to be integrated with existing lifting devices without altering their certification.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Stability of the object's composition
If a retractable stabilizer is used to control load oscillation, then load stability is improved, but the device complexity increases and the lifting device certification is affected
Solution Approach 1:
The load control apparatus is divided into separate functional components: a base for attachment to the load, a support element pivotally connected to the base, and actuation means connected to both the support element and base. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function while maintaining overall system simplicity and compatibility with existing lifting devices.
Solution Approach 2:
The support element acts as an intermediary between the base and the actuation means, providing a pivotal connection that allows controlled movement. This intermediary component enables the actuation means to apply forces to the base indirectly, reducing the complexity of direct actuation while maintaining load control capability.
2Stability of the object's composition
If a stabilizing frame extending over the lifting cable is used, then load stability is improved, but the device complexity increases and certification is affected
Solution Approach 1:
The apparatus separates the stabilization function into distinct components: the base attaches to the load, the support element provides pivotal movement, and the actuation means applies control forces. This segmentation avoids the need for a complex stabilizing frame that would extend over the lifting cable, thereby maintaining simplicity and certification compatibility.
Solution Approach 2:
The support element is pivotally connected to the base, allowing it to dynamically adjust its position in response to load movements and actuation forces. This dynamic configuration enables effective load stabilization without requiring a rigid, complex frame structure that would interfere with the lifting cable and affect certification.
3Stability of the object's composition
If active control systems are added to counteract oscillation, then load stability is improved, but the weight of the lifting system increases
Solution Approach 1:
The actuation means changes the physical state or configuration of the support element and base assembly by applying forces that pivot the support element relative to the base. This parameter change (angular position) enables active oscillation control without requiring heavy, complex active control systems, thereby minimizing weight increase.
4Ease of operation
If the apparatus is integrated with existing lifting devices, then ease of operation is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The base is designed to be attachable to various loads, and the support element can pivot to accommodate different movement patterns. The actuation means can be configured to work with different lifting device types. This universality allows the apparatus to be integrated with existing lifting devices without requiring device-specific customization, maintaining ease of operation while keeping the design relatively simple.
Data Source
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AI summary
A load control apparatus and method for controlling movement of a suspended load is disclosed. The load control apparatus includes: a base for attachment to or forming part of a load; a support element pivotally secured to and extending from the base for receiving and/or connecting to a lift line; and actuation means connected to the support element and to the base at respective positions which are spaced from the pivotal connection between the support element and the base such that actuation, in use, of the actuation means causes the base to pivot relative to the support element.