Tower Hoist Clamp Bracket System for Safe Access
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Solution Overview
Problem
The high cost and complexity of maintaining and repairing telecommunications towers, particularly due to the need for expensive and dangerous lifts, and the requirement for Class IV rigging plans that result in delays and expenses, highlight the need for improved systems for working on these structures.
Innovation Solution
A hoist and platform system that can be securely attached to various types of towers, including monopole, guyed, and self-support towers, featuring a clamp bracket system, sheaves, and a hoist beam that allows for lateral and vertical movement, enabling safe and efficient access for maintenance and repairs.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If expensive lifts are used to access towers, then safety is improved, but cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system allows workers to service themselves by providing a self-contained platform with integrated hoisting capability. The platform can be lowered to ground level for easy access and then hoisted back up, eliminating the need for expensive external lift equipment while maintaining safety through controlled, systematic operation
Solution Approach 2:
The invention extracts the essential function of tower access from complex external lift systems and implements it through a simplified, dedicated platform system. By removing unnecessary components and focusing only on the core hoisting and positioning functions, the system achieves safe tower access at lower cost
2Reliability
If Class IV rigging plans are required, then safety is improved, but time and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system incorporates pre-engineered clamp bracket assemblies and standardized connection points that eliminate the need for complex rigging plans during each maintenance operation. The pre-configured attachment mechanisms allow workers to quickly secure the platform to the tower without time-consuming engineering approvals
Solution Approach 2:
The clamp bracket system is designed to universally attach to various tower types (monopole, lattice, guyed) using standardized procedures. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for tower-specific rigging plans, reducing both time and administrative overhead while maintaining safety through consistent, proven attachment methods
3Adaptability or versatility
If a portable hoisting system with upright pole is used, then mobility is improved, but device complexity and center of gravity increase
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of using an upright pole that extends above the tower, the invention inverts the approach by using a lateral hoist beam that extends perpendicular to the tower. This inversion lowers the center of gravity to the tower level rather than above it, and the clamp bracket system provides a more compact, less bulky attachment mechanism
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 system provides a safer and more cost-effective means of accessing telecommunications towers, reducing the need for expensive lifts and minimizing delays by allowing for secure and efficient movement of personnel and equipment, thus enhancing maintenance efficiency and safety.
Implementation Method 1
securing a first clamp bracket system to the tower pole by placing the first clamp bracket system at least partially around the tower pole
Implementation Method 2
at least one sheave connected to the hoist beam and receiving a load line
Implementation Method 3
the hoist further comprises at least one sheave connected to the hoist beam and receiving a load line
Implementation Method 4
a brace cable connects the hoist beam to the tower pole and extends at an angle relative to the tower pole height
Data Source
AI summary
Hoists, platforms and davits are described as well as methods of securing same to telecommunication and other towers. The hoists, platforms and davits may be secured to the towers on a temporary basis using clamps. The clamps may include brackets and cables. The cables may be attached to the brackets, may wrap around the outer surface/perimeter of the tower pole/leg and may use tension to keep the bracket in place.