Self-Latching Linear Actuator Retention for Crane Masts
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing systems for retaining linear actuators on cranes are inefficient, requiring manual assembly and disassembly, which increases setup time and poses safety risks, especially when the crane is in motion, and current solutions are either complex or unreliable.
Innovation Solution
A longitudinally telescoping actuator with a retaining mechanism that includes a body, rod, pin holder, pin, and arm, which automatically latches onto a catch on the mast when the rod is retracted, providing a self-biased latching configuration to secure the actuator without manual intervention.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If manual assembly and disassembly of linear actuator is used, then the actuator can be secured to the mast, but setup time increases and safety risks arise
Solution Approach 1:
The linear actuator is designed with a self-biased latching mechanism that automatically secures itself to the mast without manual intervention. The retaining mechanism includes a latching component that engages with a catch on the mast when the rod is retracted, and a releasing component that disengages the latch when the rod is extended, enabling the actuator to self-secure and self-release
Solution Approach 2:
The latching mechanism is designed to automatically engage when the rod is retracted to a predetermined position, performing the securing action in advance before any manual handling is needed. The self-biasing mechanism ensures the latch is ready to engage immediately upon retraction
2Ease of operation
If manual handling of linear actuator is required, then the actuator can be positioned, but safety risks increase when crane is in motion
Solution Approach 1:
The actuator automatically positions itself through the self-biased latching mechanism that engages when the rod retracts and disengages when the rod extends. This eliminates the need for manual positioning operations while maintaining precise control over the actuator's secured state
Solution Approach 2:
The manual mechanical handling operation is replaced by an automatic mechanical latching system that uses the rod's own movement to trigger the engage/disengage actions, substituting human-operated mechanical systems with an autonomous mechanical system
3Productivity
If simple retaining mechanism is used, then setup time is reduced, but reliability and strength may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The self-biased latching mechanism provides both speed and reliability by automatically engaging a positive latch that mechanically secures the actuator to the mast with substantial strength, while the entire process occurs without manual intervention, achieving both rapid setup and secure retention
Solution Approach 2:
The latching mechanism uses a cam-shaped or curved surface on the releasing component that, when actuated, provides mechanical advantage to reliably disengage the latch from the catch, ensuring controlled and dependable release while maintaining structural integrity
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 solution significantly reduces crane setup time, enhances safety by eliminating the need for manual handling, and maintains the strength and durability required for retaining the linear actuator, even when the crane is in motion.
Implementation Method 1
The pin is spring biased to a position with a portion of the pin extending beyond the second body end
Data Source
AI summary
A system and method for retaining a linear actuator on a crane component such as a mast is disclosed. In the system a retaining mechanism is mounted on either a body of the linear actuator or the crane component and a catch is mounted to the other of the body or the crane component. Retraction of a rod of the linear actuator causes a cap on the rod to contact the retaining mechanism, which causes the retaining mechanism to move into a latched configuration securing the linear actuator.