Load-Handling Crane Optical Control for Travel Direction
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing load-handling cranes lack ergonomic and efficient control methods, particularly in accurately determining the travel direction of the hoist and trolley drives, often relying on ambiguous reference points and requiring multiple hand operations for control and pendulum damping.
Innovation Solution
A method and crane design where a sensor system on the load-bearing means detects unique identification features of marking elements, such as 2D codes, to ascertain precise position data, allowing an operator to control the crane with one hand by manipulating these elements, integrating a controller to generate control commands based on these data, and optionally using operating elements for additional control.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If conventional control switches with operating elements are used, then control commands can be generated, but multiple hand operations are required reducing ergonomics and efficiency
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the conventional mechanical control switch with operating elements with an optical control system. The sensor system detects the orientation of the load-bearing means using optical marking elements (such as 2D codes) and ascertains position data to generate control commands, eliminating the need for mechanical operating elements and enabling intuitive one-hand control.
Solution Approach 2:
The control system automatically generates control commands based on the detected orientation of the load-bearing means. The system self-regulates by continuously monitoring the marking element's position and translating it into appropriate travel commands, eliminating the need for manual intervention through complex control switches.
2Measurement precision
If reference points or rotation angle sensors are used to determine travel direction, then control commands can be generated, but measurement precision and reliability are insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses optical marking elements such as 2D codes that can be detected with high precision by the sensor system. These marking elements provide unambiguous orientation information through their geometric patterns and identification features, enabling precise determination of the load-bearing means' orientation and travel direction.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces rotation angle sensors and mechanical reference points with an optical detection system that reads marking elements on the load-bearing means. This substitution provides higher measurement precision through optical detection of geometric patterns and identification features.
3Ease of operation
If the handling device is secured outside the load strand, then it is easier to operate, but single-hand operation and pendulum damping are not possible
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the handling device with the load-bearing means by securing it directly to the load strand. This integration allows the operator to hold the handling device with one hand while simultaneously controlling the crane and damping pendulum movements, combining multiple functions into a single integrated system.
Solution Approach 2:
The handling device serves multiple functions: it acts as both the control interface for generating travel commands and the means for manually damping pendulum movements of the load-bearing means. This multi-functionality is achieved by integrating the device into the load strand while maintaining optical detection capability.
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
Enhances ergonomic control by enabling intuitive, precise, and safe operation of load-handling cranes, reducing unintentional movements, and allowing single-hand operation with enhanced safety and efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
a sensor system ascertains position data of a part secured, i.e., attached, to the load-bearing means... at least one marking element, which is designed, for example, as a 2D code... is attached to the load-bearing means, preferably to the handling device, in order to be detected by the sensor system
Data Source
AI summary
A method for controlling a load-handling crane, to the load-bearing means of which a handling device is secured, wherein a sensor system ascertains position data of a part secured to the load-bearing means, and a controller is connected to the sensor system in a signal-transmitting manner and is configured to specify, on the basis of the position data, a travel direction for a control command, generated by the controller, for at least one travel drive of the crane, in particular a trolley drive and/or a crane drive.The aim of the invention is to increase efficiency and ergonomics during load-handling operation. This aim is achieved in that at least one identification feature is attached to the handling device, and the at least one marking element is detected by the sensor system, and is analyzed.The invention also relates to a load-handling crane configured to perform such a method.