NL2036841B1 - Lifting beam for carrying a load - Google Patents
Lifting beam for carrying a loadInfo
- Publication number
- NL2036841B1 NL2036841B1 NL2036841A NL2036841A NL2036841B1 NL 2036841 B1 NL2036841 B1 NL 2036841B1 NL 2036841 A NL2036841 A NL 2036841A NL 2036841 A NL2036841 A NL 2036841A NL 2036841 B1 NL2036841 B1 NL 2036841B1
- Authority
- NL
- Netherlands
- Prior art keywords
- lifting beam
- load
- lifting
- counterweight
- signal
- Prior art date
Links
Classifications
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B66—HOISTING; LIFTING; HAULING
- B66C—CRANES; LOAD-ENGAGING ELEMENTS OR DEVICES FOR CRANES, CAPSTANS, WINCHES, OR TACKLES
- B66C13/00—Other constructional features or details
- B66C13/04—Auxiliary devices for controlling movements of suspended loads, or preventing cable slack
- B66C13/08—Auxiliary devices for controlling movements of suspended loads, or preventing cable slack for depositing loads in desired attitudes or positions
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- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B66—HOISTING; LIFTING; HAULING
- B66C—CRANES; LOAD-ENGAGING ELEMENTS OR DEVICES FOR CRANES, CAPSTANS, WINCHES, OR TACKLES
- B66C1/00—Load-engaging elements or devices attached to lifting or lowering gear of cranes or adapted for connection therewith for transmitting lifting forces to articles or groups of articles
- B66C1/10—Load-engaging elements or devices attached to lifting or lowering gear of cranes or adapted for connection therewith for transmitting lifting forces to articles or groups of articles by mechanical means
- B66C1/105—Lifting beam permitting to depose a load through an opening
Landscapes
- Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
- Mechanical Engineering (AREA)
- Conveying And Assembling Of Building Elements In Situ (AREA)
Abstract
Lifting beam for carrying a load, the beam having a beam axis and comprising a longitudinal frame defining a first end and a second end; a countenNeight provided on the frame and moveable along the frame between the first end and the second end; a control system configured to control a position of the countenNeight relative to the frame, wherein the control system comprises: an actuator configured to receive a countenNeight control signal and to move the counterweight along the beam axis, an inclination sensor configured to sense an inclination angle of the beam axis with respect to a horizontal plane and to generate an inclination signal representative of the sensed inclination angle, a control unit configured to receive the inclination signal and to generate the countenNeight control signal such that the movement of the countenNeight reduces or counteracts an inclination of the beam with respect to the horizontal plane.
Description
P3654 1NLOO/JME
Title: Lifting beam for carrying a load
The present invention relates to lifting devices used in material handling and, more specifically, to a lifting beam carrying a load to be manipulated with the lifting beam.
In various industrial applications, the safe and efficient lifting of (heavy) loads is a critical aspect of material handling processes. Traditional lifting beams face challenges in maintaining stability when dealing with asymmetric loads or items with irregular shapes. The imbalance during lifting poses inherent risks, including load shifting, swinging, or even structural failures, jeopardizing the safety of personnel and the integrity of the lifted objects and surrounding environment.
Standard lifting beams are purpose-built for specific load sizes and shapes. While effective for their intended purposes, these beams fall short in versatility. In a typical construction project, where loads of varying dimensions and weights are commonplace, this limitation necessitates the use of numerous specialized lifting beams. Manual interventions are necessary for these lifting beams to lift a load in a balanced manner. The manual interchangeability of lifting beams becomes a time-consuming process.
To address the limitations of standard lifting beams, adjustable variants have been introduced. However, these come with their own set of challenges. Adjustable lifting beams on the market require manual extension and securing. The imprecision of these adjustments poses a hindrance to achieving accurate load alignment. Additionally, the manual nature of these adjustments introduces inefficiencies into the material handling process.
A step further in the evolution of lifting beams includes the introduction of remote- adjustable, hydraulic lifting beams. These systems allow for adjustments to the lifting point to position the counterweight above the centre of gravity of the load. While this improvement addresses some of the challenges associated with manual adjustments, it introduces its own complexities. The need to relocate the lifting point adds an additional aspect of intricacy to the lifting operation, requiring both time and specialized expertise.
Hence, the existing lifting beams present challenges in terms of efficiency, precision, and adaptability, particularly in construction scenarios where loads vary widely in size and shape. The drawbacks include labour-intensive manual processes, imprecise adjustments, and the time-consuming nature of these known systems.
Therefore, it is an object of the present invention to provide a lifting beam for carrying a load, wherein a more safer and efficient system is obtained to carry the load, or to provide at least an alternative lifting beam.
According to the invention, the object of the invention is achieved by providing a lifting beam for carrying a load to be manipulated with the lifting beam, the lifting beam having a beam axis and comprising — a longitudinal frame defining a first end and a second end; — a counterweight provided on the frame and moveable along the frame between the first end and the second end; — a control system configured to control a position of the counterweight relative to the frame, wherein the control system comprises: o an actuator configured to receive a counterweight control signal and to move the counterweight along the beam axis in accordance to the counterweight control signal, o an inclination sensor configured to sense an inclination angle of the beam axis with respect to a horizontal plane and to generate an inclination signal representative of the sensed inclination angle, o a control unit configured to receive the inclination signal and to generate, based on the inclination signal received, the counterweight control signal in such a way that the movement of the counterweight in response to the counterweight control signal reduces or counteracts an inclination of the beam with respect to the horizontal plane.
A lifting beam is designed to facilitate the safe and efficient carrying and positioning of a load, such as construction materials, prefabricated components and equipment. The lifting beam comprises a longitudinal frame defining a first end and a second end. The longitudinal frame refers to the primary structural element extending along the length of the lifting beam.
The frame provides the main support and rigidity needed to manipulate the load during lifting operations. The longitudinal frame is typically the main beam structure and serves as the backbone of the lifting beam. The longitudinal frame is generally shaped as a rectangular profile. The nominal length of the longitudinal frame is defined by the first end and the second end, and ranges between 3-6 meters, for example 4 meter.
The lifting beam further comprises a counterweight provided on the frame. The counterweight is configured to ensure that the lifting beam remains level and balanced under lifting conditions or varying load conditions. The counterweight is able to counteract the forces exerted by the load to be caried, thereby preventing potential tilting or swaying of the lifting beam that could compromise the safety and efficiency of the lifting process. The counterweight is moveable along the frame between the first end and the second end. In an embodiment, the frame for example comprises a guiding element, e.g. a rail extending between the first end and the second end, along which the counterweight can move. The guiding element is adapted to guide the counterweight relative to the frame. The counterweight weights for example between 100-1000 kg, preferably between 200-600 kg, more preferably between 200-500 kg.
The lifting beam further comprises a control system configured to control a position of the counterweight relative to the frame. The control system comprises an actuator configured to receive a counter weight control signal and to move the counterweight along the beam axis in accordance to the counterweight control signal. The actuator for example comprises an electric actuator, e.g. a PMZ10 actuator. The actuator is for example equipped with an integrated electric motor system, such as a servomotor. This motor system serves as the driving force for the linear motion of the counterweight, allowing for controlled and accurate movements. The actuator for example further comprises electronics, e.g. integrated electronics, configured to interpret the counterweight control signal and control the motor system accordingly.
The control system further comprises an inclination sensor configured to sense an inclination angle of the beam axis with respect to a horizontal plane. The inclination sensor is for example a force balance sensor, a MEMS sensor, a fluid filled sensor, an electrolytic sensor or a capacitive tilt sensor. The inclination sensor for example houses a sensing element which is able to sense the inclination of the beam with respect to the horizontal plane. The sensing element is for example a potentiometer, an optical encoder or a gyroscope. The inclination sensor is configured to generate an inclination signal representative of the sensed inclination angle.
The control system further comprises a control unit configured to receive the inclination signal. The control unit is configured to generate, based on the inclination signal received, the counterweight control signal in such a way that the movement of the counterweight in response to the counterweight control signal reduces or counteracts an inclination of the beam with respect to the horizontal plane. The control unit for example analyses the inclination signal and, based on predetermined criteria or user-defined parameters, generate the counterweight control signal.
During a lifting operation by the lifting beam according the invention, the pasition of the counterweight relative to the frame is automatically controlled such that inclination of the lifting beam with respect to the horizontal plane is kept as minimal as possible during the whole lifting operation. Advantageously, a balanced lifting operation is ensured wherein the load together with the lifting beam remain stable and do not tip or tilt during the lifting process.
This stability is important for preventing accidents and ensuring the safety of both environment, such as buildings or personnel, and the load being carried. The lifting beam also ensures a more time-efficient lifting operation, because the manual operations or human interactions are minimized.
In an embodiment, the control unit is configured to generate such a said counterweight control signal that the lifting beam is brought to and/or kept in an about horizontal position.
The lifting beam is able to ensure and maintain a horizontal position once the load is carried.
The lifting beam provides an enhanced load stability, efficient material handling and improved overall safety during lifting operations.
In an embodiment, the control unit is configured to receive a load signal indicating whether the lifting beam carries a said load and to generate said counterweight control signal when the load signal indicates that the lifting beam carries a said load and to generate no said counterweight control signal when the load signal indicates that the lifting beam carries no said load. The load signal indicates whether the lifting beam is currently carrying a load or not. The loads signal informs the control unit about the operational status of the lifting beam.
When the load signal confirms the presence of a load, the control unit generates a counterweight control signal. The control unit abstains from generating the counterweight control signal when the load signal indicates that the lifting beam is not currently carrying any load. This feature serves to conserve energy and prevents unnecessary counterweight adjustments during unloaded scenarios, contributing significantly to the overall efficiency of the lifting system.
In a further embodiment, the lifting beam further comprises a load sensor configured to generate the load signal representative for the load to be carried. The load signal generated is for example representative for the weight of the load, wherein the control unit is configured to determine the target position of the counterweight relative to the lifting beam, the target position being the position in which the lifting beam is horizontal, and wherein the control unit is further configured to generate the counterweight control signal such that counterweight is brought to the target position. Advantageously, by taking into account the weight of the load, the counterweight is brought to the target position relative to the lifting beam such that the potential swaying of the lifting beam when carrying the load is reduced or counteracted.
In an embodiment, the lifting beam further comprises a telescopic arm assembly comprising one or two telescopic arm systems, provided at the first end of the frame respectively at the first and second end of the frame, and wherein the one or two telescopic arm systems further comprise an telescopic actuation system configured to extend and/or retract said one or two telescopic arm systems in a length direction of the lifting beam to adjust the length of the lifting beam by adjusting the distance between the first end of the frame and the second end of the frame. The telescopic arm assembly includes one or two telescopic arm systems that can be extended or retracted in the length direction of the lifting beam. The telescopic arm assembly allows to adjust the reach of the lifting beam based on operational requirements. The telescopic actuation system for example comprises one or more of hydraulic, pneumatic or electric actuators. The telescopic arm assembly enhances the reach and adjustability of the lifting beam, enabling it to accommodate a variety of load sizes and configurations. For example, each telescopic arm system is configured to extend between 0.5-2 meters, preferably between 1-1.5 meters.
In an embodiment, the telescopic actuation system comprises an electric or hydraulic cylinder configured to extend or retract the one or two telescopic arm systems. The hydraulic cylinder operates based on the principles of hydraulic pressure. When extension is required, hydraulic fluid is pumped into the cylinder, exerting pressure on a piston inside. This pressure forces the piston to move, subsequently extend the telescopic arm system. The rate of extension can be finely controlled, allowing for gradual or rapid movements depending on the application's requirements. Conversely, when retraction is needed, the hydraulic fluid is released or redirected, creating a controlled decrease in pressure within the cylinder. This action allows the telescopic arm system to retract smoothly and efficiently.
In an embodiment, each telescopic arm system comprises an telescopic arm sensor sensing an extension length of the respective telescopic arm system and generating an extension signal representative for the extension length sensed, wherein the control unit is configured to receive the extension signal associated with the respective telescopic arm system, and wherein the control unit is configured to: — take into account the centre of gravity of the lifting beam and/or the length of the lifting beam when generating the counterweight control signal, and/or — to generate an arm control signal to actuate the telescopic actuation system for adjusting the inclination of the beam by extending and/or retracting the one telescopic arm system or one or both the telescopic arm systems.
The control unit is configured to generate the counterweight control signal based on the extension length of each telescopic arm system and/or the centre of gravity of the lifting and/or the length of the lifting beam. Alternatively or additionally, the control is configured to generate an arm control signal to actuate the telescopic actuation system for adjusting the inclination of the lifting beam by extending and/or retracting the one telescopic arm system, in case of one telescopic arm system, or one or both the telescopic arm systems, in case of two telescopic arm systems. For example, the one or two telescopic arm system are used to adjust the inclination of the lifting beam by controlling the extension length of each telescopic arm system via the arm control signal.
In an embodiment, the lifting beam further comprises one or more elongate hoisting elements, such as one or more of a hoisting cable, a hoisting rope, a hoisting chain and a hoisting sling, configured to carry the load under the beam. The one or more hoisting element are configured to securely engage with the load, providing a reliable connection for carrying various types of loads to ensure a stable and secure grip on the load.
In an embodiment, the lifting beam comprises at least two attachment points configured for engaging with an elongate hoisting element, such as one or more of a hoisting cable, hoisting rope, a hoisting chain and a hoisting sling. For example, the attachment points are releasable from or moveable about the frame. The flexibility of being releasable or moveable allows the attachment point to be repositioned or detached as needed. The attachment points for example have quick-release mechanisms or locking features to facilitate efficient and safe attachment and detachment.
In an embodiment, the control unit is configured to control the actuator to maintain the inclination angle of the beam with respect to the horizontal plane below a predetermined inclination angle when lifting the load. The predetermined inclination angle is for example between 0-5 degrees, preferably between 1-3 degrees, preferably about 2 degrees. The control unit is configured to control the actuator to move the counterweight relative to the frame when the sensed inclination angle of the beam becomes higher than the predetermined angle. In case the inclination angle of the beam with respect to the horizontal plane exceeds the predetermined inclination angle, e.g. during carrying of the load, a vertical position of the first end is for example lower than a vertical position of the second end. Accordingly, the control unit controls the actuator to move the counterweight towards the direction of the second end, such that the inclination angle of the beam with respect to the horizontal plane decreases below the predetermined inclination angle.
In an embodiment, the control system includes a user interface for receiving a user signal representative of data associated with the load to control the lifting of the load. The user interface serves as the entry point for operators to communicate with the control system.
The user interface is configured to receive a user signal, which can take the form of input through physical controls, touchscreens, keyboards, or any other interactive elements. The user signal is representative of data associated with the load to be carried. This data may include information such as the weight of the load, the dimensions of the load, centre of gravity of the load, position information of the load, specific handling requirements, or any other relevant parameters for the lifting operation. The user interface for example includes a digital input system or a touchscreen where operators can input the data of the load manually or the data of the load can be automatically scanned, for instance, using a QR code that has been generated. This data is then used by the control system to control the carrying of the load for example to determine the required lifting force, the extension length of the one or more telescopic arm systems, the position of the attachment points on the frame, the position of the counterweight relative to the frame. The control system is configured to dynamically adapt to changes in user input, allowing operators to modify lifting parameters in real time.
This adaptability is essential for handling diverse loads with varying characteristics.
In an embodiment, the user signal is provided by a remote control system, for example a radio remote control system, comprising a handheld transmitter unit configured to generate and transmit the user signal, and wherein the control system comprises a receiver unit configured to receive said user signal. The handheld transmitter unit serves as the interface for the user. It is a portable device operated by the user. The handheld transmitter unit is configured to generate the user signal, which includes data associated with the load and for example instructions for the lifting operation. For example, the handheld transmitter unit utilizes radio frequency (RF) technology to transmit the generated user signal wirelessly. The control system is equipped with a receiver unit. The receiver unit is configured to receive the user signal transmitted by the handheld transmitter unit. Once received, the user signal is processed by the control unit to control the lifting process, e.g. to make real-time adjustments of the lifting beam based on the user's instructions. The operator, using the handheld transmitter unit, can provide commands and input data from a distance, offering flexibility and safety during the lifting operation.
In an embodiment, the control unit is further adapted to provide a response signal to the user interface for indicating to the user interface the inclination angle of the frame with respect to the horizontal plane. The user interface receives the response signal, and the inclination angle information is then presented to the operator through visual or auditory means, depending on the design of the user interface. The indication of the inclination angle on the user interface provides immediate feedback to the operator. This information aids the operator in understanding the current status of the lifting beam, ensuring that the operation aligns with the desired parameters.
In an embodiment, the lifting beam further comprises a battery device electrically connected to the actuator, wherein the battery device is configured to power the actuator, and wherein the battery device is further electrically connected to one or more electric systems of the lifting beam. For example, the battery device comprises a battery configured to power the actuator and one or more electric systems of the lifting beam. The one or more electric systems of the lifting beam are for example the inclination sensor, the control unit, the electric motor system, the telescopic actuation unit, lightning of the lifting beam, etc.
According to another aspect of the invention, the invention further pertains to a method for controlling the inclination of a lifting beam according to the invention. However, the method according to the invention is not limited thereto. In addition, the various features and embodiments of the lifting beam according to the invention, as well as the use and applications thereof, can be added to the method, even if they are not explicitly described with respect to said method. Also features and components described with regard to methods can be added to the lifting beam according to the invention. Features, components and definitions used with regard to the method according to the invention have the same meaning as explained with respect to the lifting beam according to the invention, unless explicitly stated otherwise.
The object of the invention is achieved with a method for controlling the inclination of a lifting beam for carrying a load to be manipulated with the lifting beam, the lifting beam having a beam axis and comprising a longitudinal frame defining a first end and a second end, and a counterweight provided on the frame and moveable along the frame between the first end and the second end, the method comprising the steps of: — attaching the load to the lifting beam, — carrying the load by the lifting beam, — sensing an inclination angle of the beam with respect to a horizontal plane, — moving a counterweight along the beam axis based on the sensed inclination angle in such a way that the movement of the counterweight reduces or counteracts the inclination of the beam with respect to the horizontal plane.
The invention thus provides a method wherein the position of the counterweight relative to the frame is automatically controlled such that inclination of the lifting beam with respect to the horizontal plane is kept as minimal as possible during the whole lifting operation. Advantageously, a balanced lifting operation is ensured wherein the load together with the lifting beam remain stable and do not tip or tilt during the lifting process. This stability is important for preventing accidents and ensuring the safety of both environment, such as buildings or personnel, and the load being carried. The method also ensures a more time- efficient lifting operation, because the manual operations or human interactions are minimized.
According to another aspect of the invention, the invention further pertains to a use of a lifting beam according to the invention to control the inclination of the lifting beam.
The invention will be described in more detail below with reference to figures, in which in a non-limiting manner exemplary one or more embodiments of the invention will be shown.
The same reference numerals in different figures indicate the same characteristics in different figures.
In the figures:
Fig. 1: Schematically shows a side view of a lifting beam according to the invention for carrying a load;
Fig. 2: Schematically shows a perspective view of the lifting beam according to Fig. 1;
Fig. 3: Schematically shows a control system of the lifting beam according to the invention;
Fig. 4: Schematically shows an embodiment of the lifting beam according to Figs. 1-2, wherein a counterweight is moved relative to a frame of the lifting beam.
Figs. 1-2 schematically show a side view (fig. 1) and a perspective view (fig. 2) of a lifting beam 100 according to the invention for carrying a load 101. The lifting beam 100, having a beam axis 100a, comprises a longitudinal frame 102 defining a first end 102a and a second end 102b. The longitudinal frame 102 refers to the primary structural element extending along the length of the lifting beam 100. The frame 102 provides the main support and rigidity needed to handle the load 101 during lifting operations. The longitudinal frame 102 is the main beam structure and serves as the backbone of the lifting beam 100. The longitudinal frame 102 is shaped as a rectangular profile. The length of the longitudinal frame 102 is defined by the first end 102a and the second end 102b, and ranges between 3-6 meters, for example 4 meter.
The lifting beam 100 comprises two connection members 103, which are arranged along the length of the frame 102. The connection members 103 allow the lifting beam 100 to be connected to a crane (not shown) using a crane hook or cable 104.
The lifting beam 100 further comprises a counterweight 105 provided on the frame 102. The counterweight 105 is configured to ensure that the lifting beam remains level and balanced under lifting conditions or varying load conditions. The counterweight 105 is able to counteract the forces exerted by the load to be carried, thereby preventing potential tilting or swaying of the lifting beam 100 that could compromise the safety and efficiency of the lifting process. The counterweight 105 is moveable between the first end 1024 and the second end 102b. The frame 102 comprises a guiding element 107 along which the counterweight 105 can move. In the shown example (see fig. 2), the frame comprises a rail 107 extending between the first end 1024 and the second end 102b. The rail 107 is adapted to guide the counterweight 105 relative to the frame 102. The counterweight 105 weights for example between 100-1000 kg, preferably between 200-600 kg, more preferably between 200-500 kg.
The lifting beam 100 further comprises a telescopic arm assembly 106 having two telescopic arm systems 1064 provided at the first and second end 1024, 102b of the frame 102. Each telescopic arm system 1084 is slidably received within the longitudinal frame 102.
The telescopic arm assembly 106 enhances the reach and adjustability of the lifting beam 100, enabling it to accommodate a variety of load sizes and configurations. For example, each telescopic arm system 106a is configured to extend between 0.5-2 meters, preferably between 1-1.5 meters. The telescopic arm assembly 106 comprises a telescopic actuation system (not shown) configured to extend and/or retract each telescopic arm system 106a in a length direction Ld of the lifting beam 100 to adjust the length of the lifting beam 100. The telescopic actuation system is configured to control the extension and retraction of each telescopic arm system 106a. The telescopic actuation system for example comprises an electric or hydraulic cylinder configured to extend or retract the telescopic arm system 106a.
The hydraulic cylinder operates based on the principles of hydraulic pressure. When extension is required, hydraulic fluid is pumped into the cylinder, exerting pressure on a piston inside. This pressure forces the piston to move, subsequently extend the telescopic arm system. The rate of extension can be finely controlled, allowing for gradual or rapid movements depending on the application's requirements. Conversely, when retraction is needed, the hydraulic fluid is released or redirected, creating a controlled decrease in pressure within the cylinder. This action allows the telescopic arm system 1064 to retract smoothly and efficiently.
The lifting beam 100 further comprises elongate hoisting elements 1084, 108b, such as hoisting chains and hoisting cables, configured to carry the load 101 under the beam 100.
The hoisting elements 108 are configured to engage the load 101. In the shown example of fig. 1, the hoisting elements includes four hoisting chains 108a and two hoisting cables 108b to securely engage with the load 101.
The lifting beam 100 further comprises four attachment points 108c,108d configured for engaging with the hoisting chains 108a. Two attachment points 108c are provided on the frame 102 and two attachment points 108d are provided on the telescopic arm systems 106a.
The attachment points 108c are releasable from and/or moveable about the frame 102. The flexibility of being releasable or moveable allows the attachment points 108c to be repositioned or detached as needed. The attachment points 108c, 108d for example have quick-release mechanisms or locking features to facilitate efficient and safe attachment and detachment.
During a lifting operation by the lifting beam 100, the position of the counterweight 105 relative to the frame 102 is automatically controlled by a control system (see Fig. 3) in such a way that the movement of the counterweight 105 reduces or counteracts an inclination of the beam 100 with respect to a horizontal plane. Advantageously, a balanced lifting operation is ensured wherein the load 101 together with the lifting beam 100 remain stable and do not tip or tilt during the lifting process. This stability is important for preventing accidents and ensuring the safety of both environment, such as buildings or personnel, and the load 101 being carried. The lifting beam 100 also ensures a more time-efficient lifting operation, because the manual operations or human interactions are minimized.
Fig. 3 schematically shows a control system of the lifting beam 100 according to the invention. The control system 201 is configured to control a position of the counterweight 105 relative to the frame 102. The control system 201 comprises an inclination sensor 202 configured to sense an inclination angle of the beam axis 100a with respect to a horizontal plane. The inclination sensor 202 is for example a force balance sensor, a MEMS sensor, a fluid filled sensor, an electrolytic sensor or a capacitive tilt sensor. The inclination sensor 202 for example houses a sensing element which is able to detect the inclination angle of the beam 100 with respect to the horizontal plane. The sensing element is for example a potentiometer, an optical encoder or a gyroscope. The inclination sensor 202 is configured to provide an inclination signal 203 representative of the inclination angle of the frame 102 with respect to a horizontal plane. The control system 201 further comprises a control unit 204 adapted to receive the inclination signal 203. The control unit 204 is configured to, based on the inclination signal 203 received, generate a counterweight control signal 205 in such a way that the movement of the counterweight 105 in response to the counterweight control signal 205 reduces or counteracts the inclination of the lifting beam 100 with respect to the horizontal plane. The control unit 204 for example analyses the inclination signal 203 and, based on predetermined criteria or user-defined parameters 207, generates the counterweight control signal 205. Additionally or alternatively, the control unit 204 is configured to receive a load signal 207 indicating whether the lifting beam 100 carries the load 101 and to generate the counterweight control signal 205 when the load signal 207 indicates that the lifting beam 100 carries the load 100 and to generate no counterweight control signal 205 when the load signal 207 indicates that the lifting beam 100 carries no load 101. The control system further comprises an actuator 206 configured to receive the counterweight control signal 205, and to move the counterweight 105 along the beam axis
1004 in accordance to the counterweight control signal 205. The actuator 206 for example comprises an electric actuator, e.g. a PMZ10 actuator. The actuator 206 is for example equipped with an integrated electric motor system, such as a servomotor. This motor system serves as the driving force for the linear motion of the counterweight 1054, allowing for controlled and accurate movements. The actuator 206 further comprises electronics, for example integrated electronics, configured to interpret the counterweight control signal 205 received from the control unit 204, and control the motor accordingly.
The control system 201 further includes a user interface 208 for receiving a user signal 209 representative of data associated with the load 101 to control the carrying of the load 101. The user interface 208 serves as the entry point for operators to communicate with the control system 201. The user signal 209 can take the form of input through physical controls, touchscreens, keyboards, or any other interactive elements. The data may include information such as the weight of the load 101, the dimensions of the load 101, the centre of gravity of the load 101, position information of the load 101, specific handling requirements, or any other relevant parameters for the lifting operation. The user interface 208 for example includes a digital input system or a touchscreen where operators can input the data of the load manually or the data of the load can be automatically scanned, for instance, using a QR code that has been generated. This data is then used by the control system 201 to control the carrying of the load 101 for example to determine the required lifting force, the extension of the telescopic arm systems, the position of the attachment points, the position of the counterweight 105 relative to the frame 102. The control system is configured to dynamically adapt to changes in user input, allowing operators to modify lifting parameters in real time.
This adaptability is essential for handling diverse loads with varying characteristics.
The user signal 209 is for example provided by a remote control system 210, e.g. a radio remote control system, comprising a handheld transmitter unit configured to generate and transmit the user signal 209. The handheld transmitter unit serves as the interface for the user. It is a portable device operated by the user. The handheld transmitter unit is configured to generate the user signal 209, which includes data associated with the load and for example instructions for the lifting operation. For example, the handheld transmitter unit utilizes radio frequency (RF) technology to transmit the generated user signal 209 wirelessly. Once received, the user signal 209 is processed by the control unit 204 (see dotted arrow 211) to control the lifting process, e.g. to make real-time adjustments of the lifting beam based on the user's instructions. The operator, using the handheld transmitter unit 210, can provide commands and input data from a distance, offering flexibility and safety during the lifting operation.
Fig. 4 schematically shows an embodiment of the lifting beam 100 according to Figs. 1-2, wherein the counterweight 105 is moved relative to a frame 102. In Fig. 4, the load 101 to be carried is positioned next to a vertical wall 110 or the like. Due to safety reasons, it is required to keep a safety distance between the lifting beam 100 and the vertical wall 110 to carry the load 101. Assume that the centre of gravity of the load 101 is precisely positioned at the middle point of the load 101. The lifting beam 100 will start tilting as soon as it begins carrying the load 101, wherein the first end 102a will become lower than the second end 102b. In this situation, the inclination angle of the beam 100 with respect to the horizontal plane exceeds a predetermined inclination angle. The predetermined inclination angle is for example between 0-5 degrees, preferably between 1-3 degrees, preferably at 2 degrees.
Accordingly, the control unit controls the actuator to move the counterweight 105a towards the direction of the second end 102b, such that the inclination angle of the beam 100 with respect to the horizontal plane decreases below the predetermined angle. Thereby, the beam 100 is brought to and/or kept in an about horizontal position during the whole lifting operation, thus also when the lifting beam 100 starts to carry the load 101. Advantageously, a balanced lifting operation is ensured wherein the load 101 together with the lifting beam 100 remain stable and do not tip or tilt during the lifting process. This stability is important for preventing accidents and ensuring the safety of both environment, such as the vertical wall 110 and the load 101 being carried.
Claims (18)
Priority Applications (1)
| Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| NL2036841A NL2036841B1 (en) | 2024-01-19 | 2024-01-19 | Lifting beam for carrying a load |
Applications Claiming Priority (1)
| Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| NL2036841A NL2036841B1 (en) | 2024-01-19 | 2024-01-19 | Lifting beam for carrying a load |
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| NL2036841B1 true NL2036841B1 (en) | 2025-07-28 |
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| NL2036841A NL2036841B1 (en) | 2024-01-19 | 2024-01-19 | Lifting beam for carrying a load |
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Citations (1)
| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| EP3034450A1 (en) * | 2014-12-19 | 2016-06-22 | Airbus Defence and Space, S.A. | Device for hoisting and controlling loads |
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Patent Citations (1)
| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| EP3034450A1 (en) * | 2014-12-19 | 2016-06-22 | Airbus Defence and Space, S.A. | Device for hoisting and controlling loads |
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