Suspended Load Orientation via Fluid Circulation in Closed Loop Pipe
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current load positioning systems for suspended loads are inefficient due to limited control over load orientation, high maintenance costs, and safety risks for workers, as they rely on complex assemblies with high-speed rotating parts and manual handling, which can lead to accidents and equipment wear.
Innovation Solution
A closed loop pipe system with a fluid volume and a control unit that receives direction signals to control the flow of fluid, allowing precise orientation of suspended loads without manual handling and minimizing exposure to mechanical stresses and safety hazards.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If complex assemblies with high-speed rotating parts are used for load positioning, then control precision over load orientation is improved, but device complexity and maintenance needs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces complex high-speed rotating mechanical assemblies with a magnetic field-based positioning system. The system uses a magnet attached to the load and a sensor on the crane to detect orientation, eliminating the need for mechanical gyroscopes or rotating masses while achieving precise control through electronic feedback.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs a hydraulic or pneumatic actuator to adjust the orientation of the load based on signals from the control system. This allows for smooth, controlled movement without high-speed rotating parts, reducing mechanical complexity and maintenance requirements while maintaining precision.
2Device complexity
If manual handling with guide ropes is used for load positioning, then device complexity is reduced, but safety risks and worker exposure to hazards increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system enables automated load positioning where the crane's control system automatically adjusts load orientation based on sensor feedback. This eliminates the need for workers to manually handle guide ropes, removing them from hazardous zones while keeping the overall system relatively simple.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces manual mechanical handling with an automated magnetic field detection and electronic control system. The magnet-sensor combination provides automatic orientation feedback, eliminating the need for workers to physically manipulate guide ropes and reducing safety risks.
3Measurement precision
If high-speed rotating parts are used in load positioning systems, then control precision is improved, but wear and maintenance costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent eliminates high-speed rotating mechanical parts by using a magnet attached to the load and a magnetic sensor on the crane to detect orientation. This non-contact sensing method provides precise control without mechanical wear, significantly improving reliability and reducing maintenance needs.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a magnet as an intermediary carrier that attaches to the load and interacts with the sensor through magnetic field interaction. This intermediary enables precise orientation detection without direct mechanical contact or high-speed rotation, reducing wear and maintenance requirements.
4Ease of operation
If workers are required to work in close proximity to suspended loads for positioning, then ease of operation is improved, but safety risks increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs automated load positioning using a magnet-sensor feedback mechanism, eliminating the need for workers to physically position loads from close proximity. The crane operator can control the positioning remotely from a safe location while maintaining operational ease through the automated system.
Solution Approach 2:
The magnet attached to the load serves as an intermediary that enables remote sensing and control. The sensor detects the magnet's position and orientation through the magnetic field, allowing the operator to control load positioning from a safe distance without direct physical intervention.
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 accurate and controlled load positioning, reducing the risk of accidents and maintenance needs, as the system operates remotely and without high-speed rotating parts, thus enhancing safety and extending equipment lifespan.
Implementation Method 1
at least one pump for circulating the fluid volume in the pipe
Implementation Method 2
impart a rotational force on the pipe
Data Source
AI summary
The invention provides an apparatus [10] and method for controlling the orientation of a suspended load. The apparatus consists of a closed loop pipe [11] containing a fluid volume attachable to a suspended load and at least one pump for circulating the fluid volume in the pipe. A control unit [17] is operable to receive at least one input direction signal. The apparatus includes a control unit which is configured to generate a control signal to activate the at least one pump to control the flow of the fluid volume in the pipe and thereby impart a rotational force on the pipe.