Dynamic protective envelope for crane suspended loads
US8352128B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Sep 25, 2009 |
| Grant date | Jan 8, 2013 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Jun 29, 2031 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC B)Performing Operations; Transporting
- CPC primaryB66C13/46
- WIPO fieldHandling
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
A system and method for using a gantry crane to efficiently and safely transport loads such as containers and ship hatch covers from one location to another along a known path while avoiding collisions between the loads and obstructing objects which may be situated in the known path. A transceiver emitting laser beams may be used to establish both the position of the spreader and its load and the profile of the known path. Continuous comparisons are made by computer between the location of a dynamic digital protective envelope constructed around the crane spreader and its load, if any, and a digital representation of the profile of the known path to be traveled by the spreader and its load, if any. In the event, the comparison indicates intersection of the protective envelope and the path profile, a speed limit is imposed on the motor controlling the movement in the X axis of the trolley or in the Z axis of the spreader, as required to prevent a collision.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.