Suspension Device for Lifting Chains with Multi-Point Attachment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Hoist chains in wind turbines often experience inefficient use, leading to motor heating and prolonged downtimes due to empty runs, even when carrying loads, as the full lifting capacity is not utilized during occupied attachment points.
Innovation Solution
A suspension device with a supporting piece and locking plate design that allows additional loads to be attached above the hook on the hoist chain, securing the chain links and enabling efficient load distribution, thereby preventing slipping and optimizing lifting capacity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If a single attachment point (hook) is used on the hoist chain, then the device complexity is low, but the lifting capacity utilization is insufficient leading to empty runs
Solution Approach 1:
The attachment device is segmented into multiple independent attachment points (first attachment point on the hook, second attachment point on the supporting piece above the hook). This allows separate loading at different positions, enabling full utilization of the hoist chain's lifting capacity without requiring a completely new single-point attachment system.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention adds a vertical dimension to the attachment structure by positioning the supporting piece above the hook along the hoist chain. This creates a multi-level attachment configuration where loads can be distributed at different heights, effectively utilizing the vertical space and preventing empty runs while maintaining structural simplicity.
2Reliability
If multiple chain links are secured in slot-shaped recesses, then the reliability of load attachment is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The locking mechanism is segmented into multiple slot-shaped recesses (first recess in the supporting piece, second recess in the locking plate) that independently secure adjacent chain links. Each recess acts as an independent locking element, providing reliable attachment without requiring a complex integrated locking system.
Solution Approach 2:
The slot-shaped recesses act as intermediary elements between the chain links and the attachment device. These recesses provide a simple geometric interface that naturally secures the chain links in place through their narrow-side insertion geometry, eliminating the need for additional complex locking components while maintaining high reliability.
3Loss of time
If the hoist chain travels long distances with empty hook, then the loss of time increases, but adding attachment devices increases device complexity
Solution Approach 1:
The supporting piece serves multiple functions: it provides a second attachment point for loads, acts as a structural connector between chain links, and maintains the geometric integrity of the attachment device. This multi-functionality allows elimination of empty runs without adding separate dedicated components for each function.
Solution Approach 2:
The attachment device is designed with a nested structure where the locking plate fits within or alongside the supporting piece, and both components work together to secure multiple chain links. This nested arrangement maximizes functional capability while minimizing the overall spatial footprint and structural complexity of the suspension device.
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2A~2C
Figure 3A~3B
AI summary
Suspension device (10) for lifting chains (20), characterized by a support piece (50) with a slot-shaped first recess (50a) extending from the outer circumference of the support piece (50) along its length to the center of the support piece (50) for receiving a first chain link; a locking plate (40) arranged above or below the support piece (50) with a slot-shaped second recess (40a) aligned with the first recess (50a) of the support piece (50) and extending from the outer circumference of the locking plate (40) along its length to the center of the locking plate (40), and a third recess (40a') intersecting with the second recess for receiving a second chain link adjacent to the first chain link; a connecting means (60) for releasably connecting the support piece (50) and the locking plate (40); and at least one stop point (60) arranged on the support piece (50) or on the locking plate (40).