Segmented Support Movement Device Reducing Inertia
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Solution Overview
Problem
Overhead bridge cranes face inefficiencies due to significant inertia added by balancing systems, which can be cumbersome and hinder horizontal motion, especially when counterweights are used, and require powerful actuators for vertical motion, leading to mechanical drawbacks.
Innovation Solution
A movement device with a trolley, first and second supports, and an intermediate support, featuring pivotable joints and a locking mechanism, allowing for flexible movement along multiple axes while minimizing inertia through strategically positioned actuators and linkages, enabling smooth and efficient payload relocation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If counterweights are used for balancing vertical motion, then the vertical motion is facilitated, but significant inertia is added to the system which hinders horizontal motion
Solution Approach 1:
The support structure is divided into multiple segments (first support, intermediate support, second support) connected by pivotable joints. This segmentation allows each segment to be lighter while collectively providing the necessary support and motion capabilities, reducing overall system inertia compared to a single large counterweight system.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses dynamic pivotable joints instead of static counterweights. The intermediate support can pivot relative to both the first and second supports, allowing the structure to adapt its configuration during motion. This dynamic behavior enables vertical motion facilitation without requiring heavy static counterweights that would increase horizontal motion inertia.
2Power
If powerful actuators are attached to the trolley or bridge for vertical motion, then vertical lifting capability is achieved, but the actuators add to the moving mass and create inertia for horizontal motion
Solution Approach 1:
The actuator is relocated from the horizontal plane (attached to trolley or bridge) to the vertical dimension (attached to the second support below the payload). This dimensional change allows the actuator to provide vertical lifting force without being part of the horizontal moving mass, eliminating the inertia problem while maintaining lifting capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The second support acts as an intermediary between the payload and the actuator. The actuator attaches to the second support rather than directly to the trolley or bridge, and the second support transmits the vertical force to the payload. This intermediary arrangement isolates the actuator mass from the horizontal motion system.
3Stability of the object's composition
If a rigid connection is used between support and payload, then structural stability is maintained, but the system cannot accommodate multi-axis movement and rotation
Solution Approach 1:
The system replaces rigid fixed connections with dynamic pivotable joints at key locations. The intermediate support pivots relative to the first support at a first pivotable joint, and the second support pivots relative to the intermediate support at a second pivotable joint. These joints maintain structural stability while enabling multi-axis movement and rotation capabilities.
Solution Approach 2:
The rigid connection is segmented into multiple connected elements (first support, intermediate support, second support) joined by pivotable joints. This segmentation allows each element to move relative to others, providing adaptability for multi-axis movement while maintaining overall structural integrity through the interconnected design.
Data Source
AI summary
A movement device is configured for moving a payload. The movement device includes a first support, a second support, and an intermediate support. The intermediate support is operatively disposed between the first support and the second support. The intermediate support is jointed to the first support at two first joints and jointed to the second support at two second joints. The second support is configured for supporting the payload. The intermediate support is jointed to the second support at two second joints. The first joints are pivotable about a respective first axis of rotation such that the intermediate support moves relative to the first support. The second joints are pivotable about a respective first axis of rotation such that the second support moves relative to the intermediate support. Each of the first axes of rotation are in spaced and generally parallel relationship to one another.