Spreader Beam for Fragile Load Lifting

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing lifting beam systems are inadequate for lifting fragile loads with variable dimensions, as they require regular gripping points, symmetrical loads, and are unstable under horizontal forces.

Innovation Solution

A spreader beam with a primary structure of two transversely spaced longitudinal beams, each carrying two longitudinally spaced balance beams that are rotatably articulated, and engaging means such as slings to distribute lifting forces effectively.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Force

If a continuous cable passing through pulleys is used to equalize forces on gripping points, then the lifting forces are distributed evenly, but the system becomes unstable to horizontal forces and requires good symmetry of the load

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveforce distributionVSAvoidhorizontal stability

Core Design Contradiction:

ForceVSStability of the object's composition

Solution Approach 1:

The continuous cable system is segmented into separate lifting lines, each connected to individual lifting points. This segmentation allows each line to independently accommodate horizontal movements while maintaining vertical lifting function, thereby improving horizontal stability without compromising force distribution

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The lifting points are made movable along the longitudinal beams through articulated connections. This dynamic capability allows the system to adapt to horizontal forces and load asymmetries by adjusting the position of lifting points, maintaining stability while preserving force equalization

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

2Force

If gripping points are distributed at regular intervals on a lifting beam, then force equalization is achieved, but the system cannot accommodate loads with variable dimensions or non-uniform structures

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveforce equalizationVSAvoidload configuration adaptability

Core Design Contradiction:

ForceVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The lifting points are designed to be movable along the longitudinal beams rather than fixed at regular intervals. This dynamic positioning capability allows the system to adapt to various load configurations, dimensions, and structures while maintaining force equalization through the articulated balance mechanism

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The articulated balance beams can accommodate multiple lifting point positions and configurations, making the system universal for different load types including pre-slabs, building modules, and other fragile loads with varying dimensions and structures

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

3Device complexity

If a lifting beam with fixed gripping points is used, then the structure is simple, but it applies excessive bending moments to fragile loads and cannot minimize stresses

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvestructure simplicityVSAvoidbending moments on load

Core Design Contradiction:

Device complexityVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The rigid lifting beam is segmented into multiple articulated balance beams that can independently rotate. This segmentation transforms the rigid structure into a flexible system that conforms to the load shape, minimizing bending moments while maintaining structural simplicity through the use of basic articulated connections

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The system changes the geometric parameters of the lifting structure by allowing the balance beams to rotate and adjust their angles. This parameter adjustment enables the lifting points to align with the load's natural stress distribution, minimizing bending moments while keeping the overall structure simple

Inventive Principle:

Principle #35Parameter changes

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 spreader beam minimizes bending moments on fragile loads, ensures stability under horizontal forces, and is adaptable for lifting bungalows with varying dimensions and post configurations.

Implementation Method 1

each balance beam being rotatably articulated about a transverse balance beam axis carried by the beam

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectRotation:

Data Source

PatentEP4146580B1Spreader for distributing grip points on a fragile load

Publication Date: 2025.06.18 SOC DAPPL ELECTRIQUES & MECANIQUES SAPEM

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AI summary

The invention relates to a spreader (1) for lifting a load (21), which comprises a primary structure comprising two transversely spaced longitudinal beams (3), each beam carrying two longitudinally spaced rockers (10), each rocker (10) being rotatably hinged about a transverse rocker axis (X10) carried by the beam (3), and, slings (16) extending downwards from each rocker (10), provided to engage with a lifting point (22) of the load (21).