Abstract: A jib crane system comprising a horizontally extending load beam rigidly attached to the upper end of a vertically extending mast. The lower part of the mast is positioned inside a hollow structure such as a pipe and is rotatably associated therein, and spaced from the inside surface of the pipe. A bearing boot is rigidly secured to the mast and in frictional contact with the inside surface of the pipe. The bearing boot slides around the inside circumference of the pipe in a circular or arcuate path as the mast and load beam revolve around the central axis of the mast. The bearing boot includes an outer arcuate concave contacting plate having substantially the same radius as the inside convex surface of the pipe. A ring of foil may be secured on the inside of the pipe for providing the sliding surface for the bearing boot. The mast may comprise a flanged beam having a pair of side walls with a web portion therebetween.
Type:
Grant
Filed:
August 21, 1985
Date of Patent:
August 25, 1987
Assignee:
Handling Systems, Inc.
Inventors:
John G. Volakakis, Robert L. McNelis, Burt H. Wallentim