Scissor-Stabilized Hoisting Assembly for Swing-Free Rail Lifting

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing hoisting devices suffer from swinging and twisting issues when the bottom part is lowered, and traditional floor-and-ceiling rail systems are bulky and limited to spaces without underpasses.

Innovation Solution

A hoisting device with a first part connected to a running rail and a second part suspended below, equipped with flexible hoisting means and a scissors mechanism to prevent horizontal and twisting movements, allowing for parallel alignment and controlled movement.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If a traditional hoisting device with separate braking and overwind protection systems is used, then the functional reliability is improved, but the device complexity and space occupation increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvefunctional reliabilityVSAvoiddevice complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines the braking function and overwind protection function into a single integrated mechanism. The brake assembly includes both the braking components and the overwind protection components (such as the limit switch and overload relay) that work together to provide both functions simultaneously, thereby reducing device complexity while maintaining reliability

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The brake assembly is designed as a multi-functional unit that performs both braking operations and overwind protection. The same mechanical structure serves multiple purposes: the brake shoes provide friction braking, while integrated sensors and switches detect overwind conditions and trigger protective actions, eliminating the need for separate dedicated systems

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Reliability

If a traditional hoisting device with separate braking and overwind protection systems is used, then the functional reliability is improved, but the space occupation increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvefunctional reliabilityVSAvoidspace occupation
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSArea of stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent merges the braking system and overwind protection system into a single integrated brake assembly, significantly reducing the space required. The compact design places the limit switch, overload relay, and brake shoes in close proximity within the same structural housing, minimizing the overall footprint while maintaining all necessary safety functions

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

3Reliability

If frequent maintenance and inspections are performed, then the reliability is improved, but the loss of time increases

Engineering Contradiction:
ImprovereliabilityVSAvoidmaintenance time
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The integrated brake assembly incorporates self-diagnostic capabilities through integrated sensors and monitoring systems that automatically detect wear, overheating, or malfunction conditions. The system provides real-time feedback and alarm signals, enabling operators to identify issues without manual inspection and schedule maintenance only when actually needed, reducing overall maintenance time while maintaining high reliability

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Data Source

PatentEP3743368B1Hoisting device
Publication Date: 2026.05.13 KONECRANES GLOBAL OY
  • EP3743368B1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP3743368B1 patent drawingFigure 2

AI summary

The invention relates to a hoisting device which comprises a first part (1) movably connected to a running rail (2) above it, and a second part (3) suspended under the first part (1), and hoisting means (4) arranged between the first part (1) and second part (3) to lift and lower the second part (3). In addition, a scissors mechanism (5) is arranged between the first part (1) and second part (3) to prevent the horizontal movement and twisting movement of the second part (3) in relation to the first part (1). Such a hoisting device is advantageous, because the second part of the hoisting device may be lifted and lowered at the same time as the first part is moved without any notable swinging exerted on the second part.