Modular Power Unit for Rack Mast Lifting Assemblies
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current lifting assemblies require different power units for various lifting devices and mast orientations, leading to inefficiencies and limitations in adapting to different construction needs, particularly on construction sites where scaffolding height increases, necessitating versatile power units that can handle varying loads and orientations.
Innovation Solution
A modular power unit composed of interchangeable elements that can be configured for both power and guiding functions, allowing the same unit to be used across different lifting devices and mast orientations, with features like adjustable roller boxes and a gear motor with a reaction arm to reduce strain and facilitate emergency braking.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If a monoblock power unit is used, then the structure is simplified, but the adaptability to different lifting devices and mast orientations is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The power unit is divided into separate functional modules: a motor block providing power function and roller boxes providing guiding function. These modular elements can be independently selected and combined based on specific application requirements, resolving the contradiction between structural simplicity and adaptability.
Solution Approach 2:
The motor block and roller boxes are designed as universal modular components that can be configured for different lifting devices (elevators, load hoists, rack platforms) and mast orientations. The same basic elements serve multiple functions across different applications.
2Productivity
If the platform extends beyond the plumb line on the rack mast, then the lifting capacity is improved, but the strain on the mast and guiding elements increases
Solution Approach 1:
The roller boxes act as intermediary guiding elements between the power unit and the mast. They are specifically designed to reduce strain on the mast and guiding elements while enabling the platform to extend beyond the plumb line, thus allowing increased lifting capacity without excessive strain on structural components.
3Reliability
If different power units are used for various lifting devices, then the functionality for each device is optimized, but the device complexity and inventory requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
A single set of modular elements (motor block and roller boxes) is designed to serve multiple lifting device types including elevators, load hoists, and rack platforms. The same elements can be configured for different mast orientations and load requirements, eliminating the need for multiple specialized power unit designs.
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 efficient vertical movement of platforms along masts with reduced strain on the mast and improved safety through synchronized braking, allowing a single power unit to serve multiple lifting applications regardless of mast orientation or load weight, enhancing operational flexibility and safety on construction sites.
Implementation Method 1
a gear motor with a reaction arm to reduce strain and facilitate emergency braking
Implementation Method 2
The power unit is equipped with a braking device, and with a brake pressure regulator; The braking device comprises a centrifugal braking mechanism with a shaft driven by a movement of the power unit
Data Source
AI summary
The invention relates to a lifting assembly (10, 20, 30, 40, 50, 60, 70, 80, 90) comprising: a rack mast, a platform (12, 23, 33, 43, 53, 91), and at least one power unit (100, 300, 400, 500, 600, 800, 900, 901) which is mounted to the mast and which controls the vertical movement of the platform along the length thereof. The invention is characterized in that the power unit comprises a plurality of modular elements including at least one motor block (101, 200, 201, 301, 401, 501, 604, 621, 801, 904), at least one upper roller box (102, 205, 210, 305, 404, 503, 627, 903) and at least one lower roller box (103, 206, 304, 405, 502, 601, 629, 902). According to the invention, each of the modular elements is equipped with mechanical fastening means (610, 611, 612) which are aligned with the mechanical fastening means of an adjacent modular element.