Transformer Coil Lifting System with Segmented Legs
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing material handling systems for transformer coils are non-portable, expensive, and difficult to install and remove, with screw clamps being cumbersome and prone to independent movement, leading to potential damage and high maintenance costs.
Innovation Solution
A lightweight, adjustable material handling system with legs and straps that can be secured around transformer coils, allowing for precise lifting and positioning without damaging the coils, and can be easily removed once in place, using adjustable feet and lift lines for secure lifting.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If screw clamps are used to lift transformer coils, then the coil can be secured and lifted, but the system becomes complex and difficult to install and remove
Solution Approach 1:
The lifting system is divided into separate modular components: legs with shoes, straps, and lifting mechanisms. Each leg assembly can be independently positioned and secured around the transformer coil, allowing for simplified installation and removal compared to a monolithic screw clamp system
Solution Approach 2:
The system incorporates adjustable elements including extendible legs and adjustable shoes that can adapt to different coil sizes and positions. The legs can be extended or retracted, and the shoes can be positioned at different heights, providing dynamic adaptability without requiring complex fixed-geometry clamp mechanisms
2Reliability
If dedicated lifting systems are designed for transformer coils, then the coils can be lifted securely, but the systems become non-portable and too large for installation sites
Solution Approach 1:
The lifting system consists of separate leg assemblies that can be transported independently and assembled around the transformer coil at the installation site. This modular approach enables portability while maintaining secure lifting capability through the coordinated arrangement of multiple legs and straps
Solution Approach 2:
The leg assemblies can be configured for different lifting scenarios and coil sizes. The same basic system components can accommodate various transformer coil dimensions by adjusting leg positions and extensions, providing universal applicability across different installation sites and equipment sizes
3Reliability
If a platform is used to lift the transformer coil, then the coil can be transported, but underneath access to the interior of the coil is limited
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of a solid platform, the system uses discrete leg assemblies positioned around the coil with straps. This segmented approach leaves the center and underneath areas open, allowing workers to access the interior of the coil for positioning over core legs while still providing secure lifting through the surrounding leg and strap structure
4Reliability
If screw clamps are used to secure transformer coils, then the coils can be lifted, but the clamps move independently exposing the coil to damage
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple leg assemblies are connected through a common strap system that wraps around the transformer coil. This merging of independent legs through the strap creates a coordinated lifting structure where the strap distributes and equalizes the load across all legs, preventing independent movement and ensuring stable, synchronized lifting
Data Source
AI summary
A material handling system for engaging and lifting transformer coils. Four leg assemblies are provided around a transformer. The leg assemblies have extensible plates which extend underneath the transformer. The leg assemblies are secured by chains to an overhead cruciform spacer which is coupled to a crane or other device. The leg assemblies may be bound together by straps to prevent movement of the leg assemblies relative to one another. For smaller or larger transformers, a lesser or greater number of leg assemblies may be used.