Movable Work Platform Mast Load Distribution

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing aerial access platforms face challenges in managing load forces, particularly bending loads, which can lead to structural stress and increased weight, complexity, and cost due to the concentration of loads at a single point on the mast structure.

Innovation Solution

A system that distributes load forces from the work platform and crane to different points on the mast structure, using a frame structure with rollers positioned low relative to the work platform, allowing for separate construction and placement of the crane and work platform, and enabling the use of other lifting devices or platforms without affecting the work platform's operation.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Strength

If loads from the work platform and crane are concentrated at a single point on the mast structure, then the structure requires increased strength and size to handle the bending loads, but this leads to increased weight, complexity, and cost

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemast structure strengthVSAvoidstructure complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
StrengthVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The invention divides the load-bearing function into multiple segments by providing several support points along the mast structure. The work platform and crane loads are distributed to multiple supports rather than concentrated at a single point, reducing bending moments and allowing for a lighter, less complex mast structure design.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The invention transitions from a single-point support system to a multi-point support system distributed along the vertical dimension of the mast. By adding the vertical distribution dimension, the load path is extended and bending loads are reduced, enabling a simpler overall structure.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

2Adaptability or versatility

If the crane and work platform are constructed as separate components, then versatility and ease of replacement are improved, but the coordination and load management become more complex

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecomponent versatilityVSAvoidcoordination complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The invention creates a universal support system where multiple supports along the mast can serve both the work platform and crane functions. This multi-functional support arrangement allows independent positioning and loading of separate components while maintaining coordinated load management through the shared support structure.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

3Adaptability or versatility

If the work platform is designed to be movable along the mast, then operational flexibility is improved, but the control and stability management become more difficult

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveoperational flexibilityVSAvoidcontrol difficulty
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The invention segments the support function into multiple fixed support points along the mast, which provides stable reference points for the movable work platform. This segmented support system simplifies control by providing predetermined stable positions while maintaining operational flexibility through the platform's ability to move between these supports.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

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

This distribution of load forces reduces bending loads on the mast structure, enhances the strength and versatility of the work platform, and allows for easier replacement or removal of components, while maintaining the ability to add cranes to existing structures without necessitating work platform replacement.

Implementation Method 1

A lower support (13) is mounted to a lower part of the frame (12) in a movable manner, by means of which support the frame (12) can be connected to the mast structure (1) in a movable manner

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectRolling: Roller

Data Source

PatentEP2345623B1A system comprising a movable work platform, as well as an apparatus and a crane device
Publication Date: 2013.07.31 SCANINTER NOKIA
  • EP2345623B1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP2345623B1 patent drawingFigure 2
  • EP2345623B1 patent drawingFigure 3

AI summary

A system comprising a mast or rail structure (1,24), a movable work platform (2) which is connected to the mast or rail structure; a lifting and lowering device (7), under whose control the work platform can be moved along the mast or rail structure; a movable frame structure (12) which is connected to the mast or rail structure; and an upper support (14) and a lower support (13) which are positioned at a distance from each other in the vertical direction and by means of which the frame structure is connected to the mast or rail structure. Said frame structure extends past the work platform in such a way that the upper support is placed above the work platform and the lower support is placed below the work platform. It also comprises a crane device (11) for manipulating loads and weights, connected to the frame structure.