Magnetically Actuated Anti-Two-Block Sensing Device
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Solution Overview
Problem
Offshore and onshore cranes face issues with two-blocking, where contact between upper and lower blocks can lead to hoisting line failure or load disconnection, necessitating effective anti-two-block safety systems to prevent such incidents.
Innovation Solution
An anti-two-block sensing device is introduced, comprising a chandelier with a trigger assembly and proximity sensors that detect the approach of the lower block towards the upper block, triggering alerts or preventive measures to avoid two-blocking, and is designed without seals, springs, or lubricants for low-maintenance operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional anti-two-block sensing devices are used, then two-blocking detection capability is provided, but maintenance requirements increase due to seals, springs, and precision sliding components
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical sensing components (seals, springs, sliding components) with a magnetically actuated trigger assembly. The trigger is actuated by a magnet coupled to the hoisting line, eliminating the need for mechanical contacts and reducing maintenance requirements while maintaining reliable two-blocking detection capability.
2Measurement precision
If complex sensing devices with multiple components are used, then detection accuracy is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts and eliminates unnecessary complex components from traditional sensing devices. By using a simple magnetically actuated trigger assembly with proximity sensors, the device achieves adequate detection accuracy without the complexity of multiple mechanical components, seals, and precision sliding surfaces.
3Reliability
If frequent maintenance is performed on traditional sensing devices, then operational reliability is maintained, but productivity is reduced due to downtime
Solution Approach 1:
The magnetically actuated trigger assembly is designed to be inherently maintenance-free, eliminating the need for periodic maintenance interventions. The magnetic coupling and proximity sensing mechanism have no wear parts, seals, or lubrication requirements, allowing continuous operation without productivity loss from maintenance downtime.
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 system effectively prevents two-blocking by detecting the proximity of the lower block to the upper block, ensuring safe crane operation and reducing maintenance requirements, thereby enhancing the reliability and safety of hoisting systems.
Implementation Method 1
A sensing cap having proximity sensors or other detectors can be mounted on the chandelier for detecting the approach of the lower block toward the upper block
Data Source
AI summary
Various hoisting systems with anti-two-block sensing devices are provided. In one embodiment, an apparatus includes a hoisting system having a hoisting line, a sleeve positioned on the hoisting line, and an anti-two-block sensing device installed about the hoisting line so as to allow the hoisting line to move through the anti-two-block sensing device. The anti-two-block sensing device includes a detector positioned to detect a sleeve component when the sleeve is present within the anti-two-block sensing device. Additional systems, devices, and methods are also disclosed.