Abstract: This crane is provided with: a operable functional unit; an operation unit for receiving an operation input for operating the operable functional unit; an actuator that drives the operable functional unit; a first generation unit that generates a first control signal for the actuator on the basis of the operation input; a switch unit that can be switched between a first state and a second state; a first filter unit that filters the first control signal to generate a second control signal when the switch unit is in the second state; and a control unit that controls the actuator on the basis of the first control signal when the switch unit is in the first state, and controls the actuator on the basis of the second control signal when the switch unit is in the second state.

Abstract: A single-cable drum-type conveying installation with a cable drum driven by a winch drive, includes a cable-monitoring device, a conveying device, which hangs freely on a conveying cable, and an intermediate harness connecting the conveying cable to the conveying device. The cable-monitoring device includes a load-measuring pin, as a constituent part of the intermediate harness, and also a transmission path along which a measuring signal received from the load-measuring pin is transmitted to an evaluation device. The evaluation device is designed for evaluating the measuring signal such that, in the case of the measuring signal jumping by an extent which exceeds a certain amount, a malfunction is detected.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a hoisting winch assembly comprising at least two preferably axially parallel drums spaced from each other axially, which can be driven in synchronism with each other by two motors via a transmission assembly. The invention furthermore relates to a crane, in particular a gantry and/or container crane, with such hoisting winch assembly. According to the invention, the transmission assembly has at least two separate gear trains, so that each motor is in drive connection with one drum each via a separate gear train. As compared to a common transmission to which both motors are connected, the separate gear trains can be configured significantly lighter and smaller, as no longer the power of both motors added up, but only the power of one motor must be transmitted. Nevertheless, high hoisting powers can be provided on the whole, as each motor must drive only one drum.

Abstract: A system for storing and handling pipes between a pipe rack and a derrick includes pipe-receiving chambers that are positioned around a centre region, and an elevator for lifting and descending the pipes into the chambers. The elevator, located in the centre region in between the receiving chambers, is configured for selecting one of the receiving chambers and for lifting and descending a respective pipe into the selected chamber.

Abstract: A method for detecting a worn link in a chain of a host arrangement includes measuring a first signal while the hoist operates. A hoist arrangement and use of a signal for detecting a worn link in a chain are also disclosed.

Abstract: A rope winder, which has a rack, and a winding drum set on the rack that releases and retracts a rope. The rope includes a first turning wheel, an electronic counter, a calculating unit, a speed regulating unit and a control unit. The turning wheel has a groove which fits the rope. A petroleum instrument salvaging system which includes the rope winder and rope. One end of the rope is wound on the winding drum of the rope winder. A petroleum instrument hoisting system which includes the rope winder and a rope of which one end is wound on a winding drum of the rope winder.

Abstract: A cargo transfer monitoring system at least comprises at least one vessel motion sensor, one pair of wireless modems, a central data processing unit with decision-making module, a rugged display panel as the operator station, and communication coupling. The cargo transfer operation will be carried out by a crane operator sitting in the crane cabin on the primary vessel. The transfer will take place either from target vessel to primary vessel or from primary vessel to target vessel. The sensor(s) collect the real-time motion of vessels, which is carried over to the central computer through data cable or wireless radio link. The decision-making module predicts the motion of the vessels for a subsequent time period. Based on the predicted value, the decision-making module projects the expected or predicted impact force on the payload if the operation is started at the particular time.

Abstract: A method for operating a cutting dredger in open water, in particular to control a ground reaction force during dredging operations, the dredger including; a floating body, an elongate cutter ladder having a cutting head at its lowerable free end for dredging, which cutter ladder is hingeably coupled to the floating body and hingeable between an upwards position and a cutting position wherein the cutting head engages matter to be cut away at the floor of a body of water.

Abstract: A load sensing transmission device in which when a rotation is transmitted to a sun gear, and planetary gears are rotated, if the rotation of an internally-toothed ring gear disposed at an outer circumference of the planetary gears is restricted in at least one direction, a decelerated rotation is output from a planetary carrier by revolution of the planetary gears. When the internally-toothed ring gear is rotated without being restricted, and simultaneously rotated together with the revolution of the planetary gears the rotation which is not decelerated is output from the planetary carrier. Existence and non-existence of the restriction of the rotation of the internally-toothed ring gear are switched by sensing a load by the load sensing mechanism and performing the engagement and disengagement by an engagement pawl. The rotation of the planetary carrier is output through a plate with slider, load springs, and a plate with cam.

Abstract: An apparatus for repetitively lifting and lowering objects to create visual patterns having a plurality of units each with a motor, a rotary member, a cord attached at its distal end to the circumferential edge of the rotary member, an attaching mechanism affixed to the proximal end of the cord, and an object removably connected to the attaching mechanism. A computer or microprocessor is provided and programmed to selectively rotate the rotary members to move the objects between selected pre-determined positions along a generally vertical path of travel to establish a geometric pattern of repetitive elements.

Abstract: The present invention relates to control means (20) for controlling a lifter device (10), the control means having a grip (25) comprising a body (30) extending longitudinally in a first direction (D1) in elevation from a first end (31) to a second end (32), said control means (20) including at least one control member (40) for controlling said lifter device (10). The body (30) includes a groove (33) extending longitudinally in a second direction (D2) in elevation, said groove (33) having a back wall (34) and an open section (35) that is open to the outside (EXT) of the grip (25) so that a suspension member (15) can be reversibly inserted in said groove (33) through said open section (35), the suspension member (15) being held in said groove (33) by the hand of an operator.

Abstract: A hoisting assembly for lifting or lowering a heavy object includes an upper fixed block, an upper movable block being suspended from the upper fixed block by at least one first rope which is reeved into one or more first rope lengths between the upper fixed block and the upper movable block, a lower movable block being connected to the upper movable block by at least one second rope which is reeved into one or more second rope lengths between the upper fixed block and the upper movable block. The first and second ropes are reeved in such a way that in use the upper movable block can be positioned at a distance greater than zero from the upper fixed block and at a distance greater than zero from the lower movable block by controlling the lengths of the first and second ropes.

Abstract: The invention is directed to a process for making a golf ball having a multi-layered cover including a very thin outermost cover layer, the process comprising for example: forming first and second substantially hemispherical half shells having a thickness and comprising a thermoplastic composition, each half shell further having an outer surface and an inner surface, the inner surface forming an hemispherical cavity; dispensing an uncured liquid thermoset composition into the hemispherical cavity of the first half shell; inserting a first half of the core subassembly into the hemispherical cavity of the first half shell and displacing an amount of the uncured liquid thermoset composition such that the uncured liquid thermoset composition forms an inner cover layer having a thickness; inserting a second half of the core subassembly into the hemispherical cavity of the second half shell and displacing an amount of the uncured liquid thermoset composition such that the uncured liquid thermoset composition forms

Abstract: A winch comprises a cable roll; a cable having one end fixed to the cable roll and another end configured to electrically connect an electric device to the cable, wherein the cable is further configured to provide the electric device with electric power and/or with data; a framework to which the cable roll is mounted; measuring means connected to the framework and configured to provide data related to the length of an unwound part of the cable; and processing means configured to control winding and unwinding of the cable based on data provided by the measuring means. The cable has a predetermined reference state at which a predetermined fixed reference point is at a reference position in relation to a coordinate system, wherein the length of unwound cable is defined as the distance measured along the cable, between the location of the predetermined fixed reference point and the reference position.

Abstract: The invention relates to a subsea marine load raising and lowering system (1) for use on a vessel, preferably a vessel for laying an offshore pipeline, which system comprises first and second winches (2, 6) for raising or lowering first and second cable portions (4, 8) connected via an equalizing sheave (11), to the axle (12) of which a load connector (13) is connected. The system comprises operating means to perform synchronous raising or lowering of the cable portions. The system further comprises overload protection systems provided at both winches, and a safety assembly (15) preventing any substantial further movement of the cable portions (4, 8) in case the cable portions do not operate synchronously, comprising a structure (15a) mounted to the axle (12) of the equalizing sheave (11) having passages (15c) for the cable portions and further comprising stops (15b) arranged on each cable portion above and in the vicinity of the structure (15a).

Abstract: An apparatus for repetitively lifting and lowering objects to create visual patterns having a plurality of units each with a motor, a rotary member, a cord attached at its distal end to the circumferential edge of the rotary member, an attaching mechanism affixed to the proximal end of the cord, and an object removably connected to the attaching mechanism. A computer or microprocessor is provided and programmed to selectively rotate the rotary members to move the objects between selected pre-determined positions along a generally vertical path of travel to establish a geometric pattern of repetitive elements.

Abstract: A device for adjusting the delivery rate of a linear element. The device forms a delivery path for the linear element between an inlet to the device at a delivery rate that is substantially constant and an outlet from the device at a delivery rate that is variable and substantially periodic and varies the length of the path of the linear element in application of a predetermined periodic relationship. The device includes a plurality of pulleys movable in rectilinear translation periodically in sinusoidal manner.

Abstract: An apparatus for repetitively lifting and lowering objects to create visual patterns having a plurality of units each with a motor, a rotary member, a cord attached at its distal end to the circumferential edge of the rotary member, an attaching mechanism affixed to the proximal end of the cord, and an object removably connected to the attaching mechanism. A computer or microprocessor is provided and programmed to selectively rotate the rotary members to move the objects between selected pre-determined positions along a generally vertical path of travel to establish a geometric pattern of repetitive elements.

Abstract: With certain technical applications actuation has to be carried out at positions where the required energy supply is costly or difficult to provide. The invention offers a solution to this problem with a mechanical process, which functions without energy, for those cases where operation-related variable force or torque occurs, or where such force or torque fluctuations can be artificially produced. The invention concerns, on the one hand, the storage of rope segment that, multiplied by existing force, represents stored work, whereby the force contact point moves against the direction of force. On the other hand, it concerns the subsequent utilization of this stored rope segment for actuation, with actuation being gained from the stored rope segment through force prevailing at this time, whereby the force contact point moves in the direction of force.

Abstract: A hoisting device or crane can be operated with at least two different maximum loads. The maximum load that can be hoisted in each case is correlated with the hoisting speed in order to prevent the dynamically developed peak load from exceeding the predetermined allowed load limiting values of the components of the crane or the hoisting device.

Abstract: A control and regulation arrangement for protection of a conveyor or other hoisting or crane device that assures a safe reaction to overloading. A brake apparatus is provided that acts on the conveyor under control of an overload sensor. If the load approaches a predetermined threshold, a signal is emitted from the overload sensor and transmitted to a speed sensor that limits the conveyor speed. Simultaneously the control transmits a signal to the brake apparatus to actuate and stop the conveyor. Upon receipt of a subsequent signal that a load relief state is to be established, the control brakes the conveyor in accord with the speed signal such that the object in transport moves toward a safe position at a constant speed. A conveyor with multiple hoisting devices may include duplicate control and regulation arrangements for each hoisting device.

Abstract: The invention relates to an electromagnetically ventilating spring-pressure brake for mounting on the driving disk (15) or the driving disk shaft (16) of already existing elevators, which are operated with cables passing over a driving disk. The external-mounted brake (1) is situated concentric to the central axis of the driving disk (15) or driving disk shaft (16) on a separate base (23) of the structure on the free side (i.e. opposite the driving side) of the driving disk (15) and is fastened in a stationary and rotationally fixed manner. The rotor (5) of the brake (1) is connected in an essentially rotationally fixed manner to the free end of the driving disk (15) or of the driving disk shaft (16) in order to transmit the braking torque of the external-mounted brake to the driving disk (15).

Abstract: A portable pulling tool is provided including an integrally formed one-piece gear case for positioning all of the gear train components. The gear train includes a combination of helical gears and a differential planetary gear unit in a unique configuration. A motor control system is provided to automatically shut off the motor when a predetermined current load is detected. A multi-segment LED is provided to indicate to the user the amount of load that is being applied.

Abstract: An elevator hoist apparatus includes a stationary frame member, a main shaft, a stationary element disposed to said stationary frame member, a rotary frame member supported on said main shaft and extending in a radial direction in axial opposition to said stationary frame member, a rotary element disposed to said rotary frame member in opposition to said stationary member, a brake unit including a brake portion extending through an opening in said stationary frame member, and a rope sheave disposed to said rotary frame member for rotation therewith. The brake unit includes a brake portion disposed in a hollow portion of the stationary frame member of the stationary member and extending through the opening portion and disposed to the inner circumference of the stationary frame member or the rotary frame member. The magnetic path for the brake unit extends through one portion of the rotary frame member or the stationary frame member. Small-size and high performance are realized.

Abstract: Two incremental shaft encoders are mounted on the two extreme ends of a mechanical drive train. The encoders generate data which is representative of the rotational speed of the drive train component proximate to where the encoder is mounted. The data from the encoders is communicated to a logic unit associated with operation of the drive train, such as a variable frequency motor drive (VFD). Software in the logic unit monitors and compares the speed of both encoders. An encoder resolution setting and a gear ratio are entered into the software parameters. If a difference in speeds (as monitored and indicated by the encoders) is greater than a preset value for a period longer than a preset time period, the logic unit displays an error message and a programmed action (such as motor shutdown and load braking) is executed.

Abstract: A load compensating device, especially one for lifting appliances, includes a detector for detecting an overload or an underload and designed to cause actuation of the compensating device. The device comprises an actuator attached to one of ends of a rope or ropes that support the load for producing positive or negative displacement of the rope or ropes over a short distance compared with the length of the rope or ropes. The actuator is operated by a brushless electric motor connected to an infinitely variable-speed transmission. The transmission is connected to the detector.

Abstract: An opposed-rope driven telescoping mast assembly includes a stationary support and a longitudinal mast comprising a longitudinal section joined to move relative to the stationary support. A drive assembly drives the longitudinal mast and includes a frame and a rotatable drum assembly mounted to the frame. A first rope is joined to the drum assembly and to the longitudinal mast to pull the longitudinal section in a first direction, while a second rope is joined to the drum assembly and to the longitudinal mast to pull the longitudinal section in a second direction. A sensor is operably coupled to the drive assembly to sense overload tension in the first rope or the second rope.

Abstract: An improved lift system door control or safety circuit utilizes locking devices for the lift shaft doors and lock sensors to monitor the status of the locking devices. The lock sensors are coupled to a lift drive unit control through a data bus, which need not be especially designed as a safety data bus. The lock sensors are repeatedly interrogated at short term intervals. The status of the doors is interrogated on a longer time interval, and such data is also passed to the drive unit control by the data bus. The interrogations are used to determine the operating condition of the locking sensors as well as whether communications or transmission errors are present.

Abstract: The technology disclosed herein provides a multiple sensor system that prevents crown incursion by a traveling block in an oil rig. This system calculates traveling block position, traveling block velocity and weight supported by the traveling block, and uses this information to calculate emergency stopping positions to prevent crown out by the traveling block. The system takes all these parameters into consideration when slowing and/or stopping the traveling block when it reaches a crown out position. The result is much safer operation of the traveling block on a workover rig, as well as on an oil drilling rig.

Abstract: The invention proposes a hoisting-cable drive for a mobile crane, which hoisting-cable drive uses a single bottom-hook block (15) instead of a known double bottom-hook block. However, to prevent this single bottom-hook block (15) from tilting in the two cable lines (9, 10), for example due to possible variations in the elongation of the two cable drives, the hoisting-cable drive according to the invention comprises a kinematic force equilibrium device (17, 21), which can equalize such differences. To this effect, another embodiment of the hoisting-cable drive according to the invention uses a hoisting-cable load pickup (21) within each cable line arrangement so that the rotary speed of the winches (7, 8) can be varied, taking into account any load differences in the individual hoisting-cable lines (9, 10). Furthermore, the invention also proposes that the rotary speed of the winches (7, 8) be adjusted, taking into account the geometric winch states and crane states.

Abstract: A pneumatically operated hoist system including a load support is disclosed, wherein the system is capable of sensing an overload and preventing the raising of the load support.

Abstract: A dual braking device for a power winch includes a first braking device and a second braking device, which is composed of a transmitting sleeve, a braking lining, an electromagnetic induction coil, a magnetic conduction member, and an elastic member. When the power winch is electrically connected for retracting or releasing steel ropes, the induction coil will produce magnetic force to attract the magnetic conductive member to move and compress the elastic member, and the braking lining cannot perform braking. When the power winch is electrically disconnected, the electromagnetic induction coil cannot produce magnetic force, and the magnetic conduction member will be actuated by the elastic member to contact with and force the braking lining to stop the rotating shaft and the spindle.

Abstract: A hoist system for critical loads incorporates improved safety technology to monitor various possible fault conditions. For example, a command-not-operated function causes braking of the hoist when an encoder detects one of a group of conditions including a lack of load movement when a movement command is issued by the operating system, failure of encoder feedback, or failure of a control circuit. An uncommanded motion function also causes braking of the hoist when an encoder detects one of a group of conditions including load movement without a movement command issued by the operating system, or reverse directional movement of the load from a directional movement command input by the operating system.

Abstract: The invention relates to a device for determining a load on a hoist of a crane for handling a container, including rope drum, drive motor as well as hoist transmission disposed between drive motor and rope drum and having a hoist transmission case which is swingably supported about an axis in parallel relationship to the rope drum axis and can be supported on its opposite end on at least one torque support, which a device for indirect determination of the load, suspended from the ropes, is assigned to.

Abstract: Speed limiter system to detect over speed and generate a signal to cut the power and if necessary operate brakes. It consist of the limiter itself, with a tension pulley. The limiter consists of weights connected by a mechanism that moves asymmetrically and by centrifugal force when an over speed occurs to operate the lever of an electrical contact, with the possibility of remote resetting using the necessary means. On the other hand, the tension pulley provides sufficient tension to both sections of the cable via an adjustable compression spring or by means of weights suspended on an articulated arm, both transmitting sufficient tension to the tension pulley axle.

Abstract: An apparatus includes a bi-directional DC motor; a gear reducer connected to the DC motor; a pulley mounted on an output of the gear reducer; an anti-back drive brake mounted on the output of the gear reducer; a reel wound with cable; a second pulley attached to the reel wound with cable; a belt for connecting the pulley and the second pulley; a water measuring device attached to an end of the cable wound on the reel; at least one shaft encoder attached to the motor for measuring the speed and direction of the motor; a DC power source connected to the DC motor; a microprocessor control electronics module connected to the at least one shaft encoder and the DC motor; and a remote control in communication with the microprocessor control electronics module.

Abstract: The instant invention is directed to a active-over-passive coordinated motion winch designed to be used in combination with a class of existing offshore lifting systems such as A-Frames, booms or cranes to minimize the relative movement between a payload position and a destination position occurring commonly in offshore operations. The configuration of this system allows a remote operated vehicle (ROV) or any other launched load to be firmly captured until it is delivered to the desired destination. The configuration of the system also permits towed loads, such as sonar devices, to closely maintain level tow paths along the sea floor.

Abstract: Apparatus comprising a tensing element connected at one end thereof to a supporting structure and at another end thereof to a cover, wherein movement of the cover imparts a force on the tensing element, an actuator adapted to move the tensing element, and a sensing device adapted to sense an equilibrium force position of the tensing element, wherein if the force changes the equilibrium force position the sensing device instructs the actuator to change a tension imparted by the tensing element on the cover.

Abstract: A single person hoist for use in a derrick (2), including a motive device (4), a suspension cable connected to said motive device, and from which the person is suspended by suspension means (4) and a control means for operating the motive device, wherein the control means is operable by the person whilst suspended from the suspension means.

Abstract: The invention relates to a method for controlling the operation of a crane brake, the crane comprising an electric motor (2) controlled by means of a frequency converter (10) for hoisting and lowering movements of the crane; an electromechanical brake (9) having an impact on said movements, the brake being opened when the motor is started for a hoisting or lowering operation; a load sensor (8) weighing a load (7) to be handled; and an overload protection connected to the sensor, the frequency converter (10) being used for calculating the torque of the motor (2), which information is compared with the load information, or weight, obtained from the load sensor (8).

Abstract: A device for controlling a motor-driven hoist, includes a housing and a control unit supplied with electric energy from a power source and secured to the housing. The control unit has control elements operable from outside the housing between an inactive ready position and an active position for delivering control signals. A transmitter is supplied with electric energy from the power source and receives the control signals from the control unit for wireless transmission of the control signals to a receiver, which is operatively connected to a power controller of the drive of a motor-driven hoist. An activation switch is so operatively connected to the power source that actuation of a control element initiates a supply of electric energy from the power source, whereas the supply of electric energy from the power source is cut, when the control elements occupy their ready position.

Abstract: The invention relates to a method for controlling the operation of a crane brake, the crane comprising an electric motor (2) controlled by means of a frequency converter (10) for hoisting and lowering movements of the crane; an electromechanical brake (9) having an impact on said movements, the brake being opened when the motor is started for a hoisting or lowering operation; a load sensor (8) weighing a load (7) to be handled; and an overload protection connected to the sensor, the frequency converter (10) being used for calculating the torque of the motor (2), which information is compared with the load information, or weight, obtained from the load sensor (8).

Abstract: The system and method for use with a drawworks having a rotatable drum on which a line is wound, wherein the drawworks and the line are used for facilitating movement of a load suspended on the line, includes a drawworks control system for monitoring and controlling the drawworks. A brake arrangement is connected to the rotatable drum for limiting the rotation of the rotatable drum and at least one electrical motor is connected to the rotatable drum for driving the rotatable drum. A load signal representative of the load on the line is produced and a calculated torque value based on the load signal and electrical motor capacity is provided. The drawworks control system provides a signal representative of the calculated torque value to the electrical motor wherein pre-torquing is generated in the electrical motor in response to the signal.

Abstract: A primary device placed at the upstream end of a duct and a relay device placed at an access point pull a cable through respective duct segments. The pulling speed of the primary device is controlled by an operator. The pulling speed of the relay device is variable in response to movement of the cable by the primary device to maintain equilibrium between the pulling speeds of the devices. The pulling tension exerted upon the cable by each device is monitored and discontinued upon reaching a predetermined maximum value. At the inlet to the second segment, lubricant is supplied to the cable at a quantitative rate which is proportional to the pulling speed.

Abstract: A control device for lifting winches, in particular for drilling rigs, uses an electric motor able to operate in all four quadrants of the torque-speed diagram. A control circuit procures controlled excitation of the electric motor. A manipulator on a control panel controls the control circuit by establishing, according to its position, a given speed request instruction. An indexing circuit for controlling the control circuit is adapted, on the bases of predetermined end of travel positions and a given law relating the speed to the difference in height between a given end of travel position and the actual height at the time in question, to establish a given speed request instruction. A comparator passes to the control circuit only the speed request instruction that it receives representing the lower speed.

Abstract: A shaft winding or winch system for raising and lowering a load attached to one end of a rope. The system includes a brake unit for braking a drum, a detection unit for detecting the length of the rope, and a control unit for controlling the brake unit according to the detected extended length of the rope and the torque generated by the drive unit.

Abstract: The cutoff device is provided for crane systems, especially a dredger to which a grab 1 is attached. Grab 1 has a cable 5 connected to it, which is guided over pulleys 4, 7 and kept under tension with the help of a weight 9. One of the two pulleys 4 is provided with an initiator 12 that has segments mounted on its periphery, so pulses are generated by the rotation of pulley 4 past the initiator and the drive mechanism is switched off when the pulses fail to occur.

Abstract: A bait cast fishing reel includes electronic timing circuitry for controlling deceleration of the spool thereof, about which fishing line is wound and playing out. The spool is mechanically released and the timing circuitry is activated by the pressing of a control button. When a casting sequence is commenced, the timing control allows the spool to first rotate freely for a preselected period of time. A second phase of the timing circuitry then applies a spool braking mechanism for a preselected time period. At the completion of this second period, the timing circuitry again releases the spool for manual braking by thumb pressure. Rewinding the spool resets the timing circuitry for the next cast, and disconnects power from the circuitry.

Abstract: The cable pulling device includes a control unit having a force indicator gauge and a switch and circuit breaker assembly in series in the hot wire to the electric motor which rotates the capstan for cable pulling. Power to the electric motor can thereby be interrupted manually or automatically in the event cable pulling force approaches an overload level where damage could occur to the device, accessories and/or cable. The control unit is detachable from the puller device for location close to the operator during a pull.

Abstract: Disclosed is a multiple pulley sheave assembly for supporting a cable comprising a plurality of pulleys, including a center pulley, mounted in an arcuate path on a support frame; a pair of retainer pulleys for keeping the bend of the cable constant around the center pulley; a cable monitor coupled to the center pulley for measuring the tension, footage, and cable speed; counter-balancing weights positioned above the support frame and rigidly connected thereto; and a suspension arrangement, connected at the center of the assembly, for providing rotation of the assembly about two perpendicular axes of rotation, whereby the cable stays within a plane defined by the arcuate path.