Tower Crane Counter-Jib Length via Modular Ballast Segmentation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing tower cranes have inflexible counter-jib designs, limiting the ability to adjust boom length and counterweight configuration, which is disadvantageous for varying operational conditions and load distribution.
Innovation Solution
The counterweights are attached to the free end of the counterboom, with subsequent weights connected to each other, allowing the counter-jib length to be defined by the number of counterweights, enabling flexible configuration and adjustable boom length.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If counterweights are suspended in a designated opening of the counter boom, then the counterweights are securely positioned, but the number and arrangement of counterweights are fixed, limiting flexibility in adjusting ballast configuration
Solution Approach 1:
The counterweight system is segmented into multiple independent counterweight elements that can be individually attached or detached. Each counterweight element can be independently positioned on the counter boom, allowing flexible configuration of the ballast system according to different operational requirements.
Solution Approach 2:
The ballast system transitions from a static, fixed configuration to a dynamic, adjustable configuration. The number, position, and arrangement of counterweights can be changed based on varying load requirements, boom lengths, and operational conditions, making the system adaptable rather than fixed.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the counter boom length is fixed by the steel structure, then the structural integrity is maintained, but the counter boom cannot be shortened for transport or turning into wind
Solution Approach 1:
The counter boom system is effectively segmented by allowing variable positioning of counterweight elements along its length. By adjusting the number and distribution of counterweights, the functional length of the counter boom can be optimized for different operations, effectively creating variable length configurations without physically altering the boom structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The counter boom length transitions from a fixed static dimension to a dynamically adjustable effective length. The functional length can be modified by changing the counterweight configuration, enabling the boom to be effectively shortened for transport and storage, or extended for optimal load balancing during operation.
3Reliability
If more counterweights are added to increase counter boom length for long boom configurations, then load distribution on slewing mechanism is improved, but the counter boom becomes too long for transport and storage
Solution Approach 1:
The counterweight system is divided into multiple modular elements that can be selectively positioned along the counter boom. This segmentation allows the load to be distributed across multiple points rather than concentrated at the end, improving slewing mechanism performance while keeping the effective counter boom length manageable for transport purposes.
Solution Approach 2:
Different sections of the counter boom can have different counterweight configurations optimized for specific functions. The local arrangement of counterweights can be adjusted to provide optimal load distribution for long boom operations in certain zones, while maintaining overall compactness for transport in other zones.
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3
AI summary
The invention relates to a tower crane comprising a crane tower and a jib and counter-jib (100) mounted thereon, wherein the length of the counter-jib (100) is defined by the number of counterweights (10, 11) accommodated.