Variable Span A-Frame Outriggers With Adjustable Leg Segments
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional A-frame outriggers are limited to fixed or fully extended/retracted positions, lacking the ability to provide intermediate stabilization during lifting operations, whereas out-and-down outriggers offer adjustable spans but at the cost of increased size and complexity.
Innovation Solution
A variable span outrigger system with a telescoping leg, intermediate member, and connector mechanism that allows for adjustable span configurations by selectively coupling connection points using a pin, enabling the outrigger to be extended to multiple positions without altering its vertical or horizontal placement.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a conventional A-frame outrigger is used, then the structure remains simple and cost-effective, but the span is fixed and cannot be adjusted to multiple positions
Solution Approach 1:
The intermediate member is divided into multiple segments with connection points at different locations. By selectively connecting these segments, the outrigger span can be adjusted to multiple positions while maintaining the overall A-frame structure simplicity.
Solution Approach 2:
The outrigger system transitions from a fixed span to a dynamically adjustable span through the selective connection of intermediate member segments. This allows the structure to adapt its configuration based on operational requirements while preserving the simplicity of the A-frame design.
2Adaptability or versatility
If an out-and-down outrigger is used, then the span can be adjusted independently of vertical placement, but the structure becomes larger and more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The intermediate member segments are nested within each other, allowing multiple connection points to be compactly arranged. This enables span adjustment without increasing the overall volume of the outrigger structure, maintaining a compact design while providing versatility.
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of adjusting span through horizontal movement as in out-and-down outriggers, this invention achieves span adjustment by changing the effective length through vertical nesting of segments. This dimensional approach reduces the overall footprint while maintaining adjustability.
3Adaptability or versatility
If a conventional A-frame outrigger is used, then the structure remains compact, but only fully extended and fully retracted positions are available
Solution Approach 1:
The intermediate member is segmented with multiple connection points, allowing the outrigger to be manufactured as a single compact unit while providing multiple operational positions through selective connection of these segments.
Solution Approach 2:
The segmented intermediate member serves multiple functions: it maintains structural integrity, enables compact storage, and provides multiple extended positions. This multi-functionality is achieved within a single manufacturable component design.
Data Source
AI summary
A variable span A-frame outrigger includes a support having a first pivoting mount and a second pivoting mount. The first pivoting mount is pivotably connected to an outrigger leg having an upper segment and a lower segment that extends from the upper segment. The lower segment has a first plurality of connection points for connection to an intermediate member. The second pivoting mount is pivotably connected to the intermediate member having a second plurality of connection points. A connector connects a connection point of the first plurality of connection points to a connection point of the second plurality of connection points.