Counterweight Movable Relative To Load Support Patents (Class 212/196)
  • Patent number: 11891278
    Abstract: A lifting machine includes a machine chassis, a boom extending from the machine chassis, a connector extending from the boom for coupling to a load, a control system that determines a rated lifting capacity of the machine, based on an orientation of the machine chassis and a lifting load, and a display. The display indicates the rated lifting capacity relative to a total lifting capacity, and the display also indicates the lifting load relative to the rated lifting capacity and the total lifting capacity.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 31, 2022
    Date of Patent: February 6, 2024
    Assignee: Caterpillar Inc.
    Inventors: Aaron J. Gnagey, Daniel W. Hoyt
  • Patent number: 11814269
    Abstract: A mobile pipelayer machine includes a machine chassis having a forward end, a rear end, a first side, and a second side, and a boom extending from the first side of the machine chassis. The mobile pipelayer machine also includes a movable counterweight system extending from the second side of the machine chassis, the movable counterweight system being selectively movable to change a center of gravity of the machine in at least one of a forward or a rearward direction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 31, 2021
    Date of Patent: November 14, 2023
    Assignee: Caterpillar Inc.
    Inventors: Robert A. Jackson, Benjamin Barbier, Curtis J. Caldwell, Michael T. Jackson
  • Patent number: 11673775
    Abstract: A vehicle crane comprising a jib that is raised and lowered by at least one main tensile connector, and a counter jib, where the main tensile connector extends between a first connecting point in the region of a jib head and a second connecting point in the region of a counter jib head. To reduce loading on the jib, in particular during raising and lowering and increase its bearing load overall, the jib has a third connecting point between the first connecting point and its foot opposite the head, and a secondary tensile connector extends between the third connecting point and a fourth connecting point in the region of the head of the counter jib, or the secondary tensile connector extends between the third connecting point via a seventh connecting point on the main tensile connector and a fourth connecting point in the region of the main jib foot.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 15, 2021
    Date of Patent: June 13, 2023
    Assignee: Tadano Demag GmbH
    Inventor: Walter Zimmer
  • Patent number: 11499291
    Abstract: The invention relates to a work machine (1, 1.1, 1.2) comprising: a work unit (2, 2.1, 2.2) or a receptacle (16) for a work unit, exactly one primary vehicle axis (3), wheel elements (4) arranged on both sides of the primary vehicle axis (3), drive units associated with the wheel elements (4), at least one control, wherein the control comprises at least one control circuit and effects a self-balancing of the work machine (1, 1.1, 1.2) about the main vehicle axis (3), and a counter-weight (5), wherein a position of the counter-weight (5) relative to the primary vehicle axis (3) is controllable via the control, and therefore the work machine (1, 1.1, 1.2) can be balanced about the primary vehicle axis (3) and controlled in the movement directions thereof via a position shift of the counter-weight (5).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 18, 2018
    Date of Patent: November 15, 2022
    Inventor: Jonas Heinzler
  • Patent number: 11186326
    Abstract: A ballasting device for an agricultural vehicle includes a ballasting body, a first ballasting arm, and a second ballasting arm. The first ballasting arm is pivotally mounted on the ballasting body about a first bearing axis on one end and a first ballasting weight is arranged at the other end thereof. The second ballasting arm is pivotally mounted on the ballasting body about a second bearing axis at one end and a second ballasting weight is arranged at the other end thereof. The ballasting device includes a receiving device for receiving the ballasting device via a three-point hitch device of the agricultural vehicle. The first ballasting weight is adjustable by the first ballasting arm and the second ballasting weight is adjustable by the second ballasting arm.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 4, 2019
    Date of Patent: November 30, 2021
    Assignee: DEERE & COMPANY
    Inventors: Jens Letscher, Thorben Riemer
  • Patent number: 11186467
    Abstract: A crane includes a jib which is mounted on the crane structure so as to be rotatable about a bearing point, a counterweight arrangement which can be positioned variably in relation to the bearing point, and a hoisting cable which runs out from a hoisting winch and is guided via the jib. A counterweight adjustment device, which is coupled to the counterweight arrangement, includes a lever element mounted rotatably about a pivot point, a hoisting cable guide arranged in the course of the hoisting cable between the hoisting winch and an upper jib section, with a first deflecting pulley arrangement mounted on the jib and a second deflecting pulley arrangement mounted on the lever element, wherein the hoisting cable is guided in an alternating manner via the first and the second deflecting pulley arrangement, and a coupling element acting on the lever element and connected to the counterweight arrangement.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 22, 2017
    Date of Patent: November 30, 2021
    Assignee: MANITOWOC CRANE GROUP FRANCE SAS
    Inventors: Bernd Backes, Frank C. Schnittker
  • Patent number: 11035345
    Abstract: An adapter device for the horizontal preassembly of a wind turbine rotor includes a connection piece on the underside of the adapter device for fastening the adapter device to a tower system of a tower crane, and a rotor flange on the top side of the adapter device for fastening the rotor hub of the wind turbine rotor to be assembled.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 1, 2017
    Date of Patent: June 15, 2021
    Assignee: SENVION GmbH
    Inventors: Bernd Schledde, Jan Lütjen
  • Patent number: 10934140
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a tower crane, in particular a revolving tower crane, comprising a crane tower composed of a plurality of tower pieces, a main boom arranged at the tower tip, and a counter-boom, wherein at least one main hoist rope is guided over the main boom to take up the load and at least one counter-boom hoist rope is guided over the counter-boom to take up a balance weight.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 12, 2017
    Date of Patent: March 2, 2021
    Assignee: LIEBHERR WERK BIBERACH GMBH
    Inventor: Eric Konijn
  • Patent number: 10865077
    Abstract: A system for assembling/disassembling a windmill in a supporting tower, comprising a intermediate fixing structure with hydraulic supports for attachment, by pressure, to the tower; a main structure capable of being attached to the tower at various working positions by absorbing the diametral differences of the latter; two pivoting arms hinged to the main structure and capable of being positioned by hydraulic actuators; a secondary structure for hoisting tower segments, equipped with four cranes of a minor size for handling the main structure and the pivoting arms during hoisting/descent, and a counterbalancing group adjustable in height by means of capstans. The main structure and the intermediate structure include a detachable side for their withdrawal and separation from the tower during disassembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 30, 2017
    Date of Patent: December 15, 2020
    Assignee: SLING SUPPLY INTERNATIONAL, S.A.
    Inventors: Pedro Garitaonandia Aramberri, Mikel López Ruiz, Igor Rodríguez Aldea
  • Patent number: 10343876
    Abstract: This invention relates to a mobile crane with a traveling undercarriage and an uppercarriage rotatably mounted on the same, to which on the one hand a boom is luffably articulated and on which on the other hand a counterweight assembly is arranged on the uppercarriage, in which a counterweight plate is connectable via a counterweight receptacle, in that the same is pivotable from a pick-up position into a deposited position about at least one bolt arranged on the counterweight receptacle. According to the invention, at least one further bolt is arranged on the counterweight receptacle parallel to the at least one bolt, which while swinging down the counterweight plate engages into a corresponding curve-shaped recess of the counterweight plate for securing the same.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 17, 2016
    Date of Patent: July 9, 2019
    Assignee: Liebherr-Werk Ehingen GmbH
    Inventors: Markus Kolb, Lars Eberhardt
  • Patent number: 10336589
    Abstract: A mobile lift crane includes a carbody; a rotating bed; a boom; a moveable counterweight unit; at least one linear actuation device; and at least one arm pivotally connected at a first end to the rotating bed and at a second end to the linear actuation device. The arm and linear actuation device are connected between the rotating bed and the counterweight unit such that extension and retraction of the linear actuation device changes the position of the counterweight unit compared to the rotating bed. In one method of operation, the counterweight unit is never supported by the ground during crane pick, move and set operations other than indirectly by the ground engaging members on the carbody.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 23, 2015
    Date of Patent: July 2, 2019
    Assignee: Manitowoc Crane Companies, LLC
    Inventors: David J. Pech, Kenneth J. Porubcansky
  • Patent number: 10239735
    Abstract: A method for assembling a crane that comprises erecting an upright ballast mast with a back mast top slide that is movable along the ballast mast and constructing a back mast using the upright ballast mast. This comprises the steps of providing a back mast upper section, multiple back mast intermediate sections, and a back mast lower section. The method also comprises connecting a part of the back mast including at least the back mast upper section, and possibly further including one or more pre-connected intermediate sections, to the back mast top slide. The part of the back mast that has been connected to the back mast top slide is stepwise extended by attaching further back mast intermediate sections and the back mast lower section. During the extension of the back mast the back mast top slide is stepwise raised along the upright ballast mast.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 18, 2016
    Date of Patent: March 26, 2019
    Assignee: Mammoet Engineering B.V.
    Inventors: Peter Paul Thomas Cornelia Stoof, Pieter Maria Stoof
  • Patent number: 10189684
    Abstract: A counterweight attachment and removal device which can connect lifting assemblies and a counterweight without precisely adjusting the construction machine position and the counterweight position, and which can attach the counterweight to adjust lateral direction. The device (18) includes a link (28) which is connected pivotally to the rear end of the construction machine, and a pair of coupling units (32, 32) which are connected to the leading end of the link (28). Each coupling unit (32) has a pair of coupling pieces (38, 40), a connecting pin (42) and a position adjustment member (44, 45). The coupling pieces (38, 40) extend from the link (28) and are able to tilt and move pivotally around the central axis (O). The connecting pin (42) is detachably connected to the extension ends between the connecting pieces (38, 40). Each adjustment member (44, 45) is disposed on the inner surface of the connecting piece (38, 40).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 26, 2015
    Date of Patent: January 29, 2019
    Assignee: Caterpillar SARL
    Inventors: Ryo Iguchi, Kenichi Mori, Hirokazu Hashimoto
  • Patent number: 10173867
    Abstract: A cab support assembly supports and moves an operator's cab relative to a frame of a construction machine. The cab support assembly includes a cab support coupled to the frame of the construction machine. The operator's cab is mounted to a cab support mounting frame, which in turn is pivotably coupled to the cab support. An actuation device is coupled to the cab support and to the cab support mounting frame. The actuation device includes a first actuation device position in which the cab support frame is in a first position in which the cab support mounting frame defines a first plane, and at least a second actuation device position in which the cab support mounting frame is in a second position such that the cab support mounting frame defines a second plane that intersects the first plane at a negative angle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 3, 2015
    Date of Patent: January 8, 2019
    Assignee: Manitowoc Crane Companies, LLC
    Inventors: Brandon D. Resch, James M. Gauthier, William J. O'Neil
  • Patent number: 10156223
    Abstract: Hoisting systems are provided for mounting a hub on top of a tower, the hub carrying a first and a second blade forming a bunny ears configuration, and a third blade. The system comprises a crane for pulling up the hub to the top of the tower, and a blade support for supporting the third blade at a supported blade portion. The system further comprises a hub-blade coupling device configured to assist in coupling a root portion of the third blade to a coupling portion of the hub. The hub-blade coupling device comprises a hub mount structure configured to be removably fixed to the hub, a blade mount structure configured to be removably fixed to the third blade, and a connector rotatably coupling the hub mount structure and the blade mount structure. Methods are provided of mounting a hub on top of a tower by using any of said systems.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 17, 2016
    Date of Patent: December 18, 2018
    Assignee: GE RENEWABLE TECHNOLOGIES WIND B.V.
    Inventor: Adrian Bueno De Santiago
  • Patent number: 10150656
    Abstract: The present application relates to a mobile counterweight mechanism of a hoisting machine, comprising a support portion, a drive portion and a counterweight which is articulated to said support portion by means of a first articulation portion, said drive portion connected between said support portion and the counterweight so that said counterweight turns over outwards about said first articulation portion relative to a center of rotation of said hoisting machine, so as to increase a distance between a center of gravity of said counterweight and a center of rotation of said hoisting machine. The present application also relates to a hoisting machine. The present application raises a movement distance of a mobile counterweight and improves the overall stability of a hoisting machine in a turnover manner.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 28, 2015
    Date of Patent: December 11, 2018
    Assignee: XUZHOU Heavy Machinery Co., LTD.
    Inventors: Quan Dong, Mengbing Zhu, Yongjian Deng, Hongshu Guo
  • Patent number: 10138096
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a process for the automatic movement of the boom system of a crane, in particular a mobile crane, with at least two boom elements. The process includes the following steps: measuring of at least one control parameter and in particular automatic actuation of at least one drive of the boom system depending on the measured control parameter.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 19, 2015
    Date of Patent: November 27, 2018
    Assignee: Liebherr-Werk Ehingen GmbH
    Inventors: Nikolaus Muench, Robert Krutz
  • Patent number: 10066365
    Abstract: A public works vehicle has a base, moving means supporting the base, brackets joined to the frame of the base, a lifting system suitable for lifting a counterweight. The lifting system has a first arm hinged to the frame, at least one thrust actuator connected to the frame and to the first arm to move the first arm, a second arm slidingly mounted with respect to the first arm, a lifting actuator connected to the first arm and to the second arm to move the second arm, a connection system connected to the second arm and to the counterweight.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 20, 2017
    Date of Patent: September 4, 2018
    Assignee: HPM—HYDRAULIC PERFORMANCE MACHINES SRL
    Inventor: Giuseppe Cartechini
  • Patent number: 9957001
    Abstract: A ballast assembly for a work vehicle. The ballast assembly includes a frame, a ballast weight, and a lift. The frame is included in an underside of the work vehicle. The ballast weight has a first portion and a second portion. The lift has an upper end pivotally coupled to the frame and a lower end releasably coupled to the ballast weight. The first and second portions are configured to engage with a ground surface and the frame, respectively, when the ballast weight is loaded onto the work vehicle. The first and second portions are configured to engage with the frame when the ballast weight is loaded onto the work vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 2, 2016
    Date of Patent: May 1, 2018
    Assignee: DEERE & COMPANY
    Inventors: Steven A. Duppong, David Rix, Gary S. Keys, II, Kendall L. Giesmann, Eric M. Forbes, Nicholas Taylor, Razvan Platon, Andrew W Keenan
  • Patent number: 9556735
    Abstract: The invention relates to a radial piston hydraulic motor. The radial piston hydraulic motor comprises a cam ring provided, with a wave-shaped inner surface and radial cylinders provided in the inner part inside the cam ring and pistons that move therein as well as rollers coupled to the pistons so as to follow the inner surface of the cam ring. By the effect of the working pressure of hydraulic oil conveyed to the cylinders, the rollers that are pressed against the inner surface of the cam ring provide a rotating movement of the cam ring and the inner part relative to each other. The hydraulic motor is provided with disengaging members disengaging the rollers coupled to the pistons from contact to the inner surface of the cam ring when the working pressure stops acting in the cylinders for bringing the hydraulic motor into freewheeling.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 4, 2014
    Date of Patent: January 31, 2017
    Assignee: SAMPO-HYDRAULICS OY
    Inventor: Roni Ryyppo
  • Patent number: 9475678
    Abstract: Load manipulator comprising a boom arm (1) and a return arm (3) parallel to each other, a loading bar (2) and a counterbar (4) so as to form a deformable parallelogram, an approximately horizontal pivot axis on which one of the arms of the parallelogram is articulated, and balancing means (8) applying a force at an compensation application point (C) to compensate for the force due to the load, said point being a point on the return arm (3) and a point on the counterbar such that it is always in line with point (M) on the loading bar at which the force due to the load is applied and the rotation axis, in which the balancing means (8) comprise a first counterweight (10) and a second counterweight (12) and a jack to compensate for the value of the force due to the load, the first counterweight (10) and the jack applying a force onto the compensation application point (C) and the second counterweight (12) applying a force on the boom arm (1).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 18, 2012
    Date of Patent: October 25, 2016
    Assignee: COMMISSARIAT A L'ENERGIE ATOMIQUE ET AUX ENERGIES ALTERNATIVES
    Inventor: Fares Kfoury
  • Patent number: 9452914
    Abstract: Load manipulator comprising a boom arm (1) and a return arm (3) parallel to each other, a loading bar (2) and a counterbar (4) so as to form a deformable parallelogram, an approximately horizontal pivot axis on which one of the arms of the parallelogram is articulated, and balancing means (8) applying a force at an compensation application point (C) to compensate for the force due to the load, said point being a point on the return arm (3) and a point on the counterbar such that it is always in line with point (M) on the loading bar at which the force due to the load is applied and the rotation axis, in which the balancing means (8) comprise a first counterweight (10) and a second counterweight (12) and a jack to compensate for the value of the force due to the load, the first counterweight (10) and the jack applying a force onto the compensation application point (C) and the second counterweight (12) applying a force on the boom arm (1).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 18, 2012
    Date of Patent: September 27, 2016
    Assignee: COMMISSARIAT A L'ENERGIE ATOMIQUE ET AUX ENERGIES ALTERNATIVES
    Inventor: Fares Kfoury
  • Patent number: 9376291
    Abstract: A crane apparatus and method are described for lifting a heavy load such as a wind-turbine generator unit 46 on to a wind-turbine tower 1. The crane is designed to climb up cables 3 attached to the top of the tower, carrying with it the cables 45 and lifting gear 31 which will be required for the main lifting operation. The crane comprises a pair of jib-frames 20 with boom arms 26, 27 which can be retracted during lifting and then deployed to a pivotable, loadbearing position once the crane is mounted at the top of the tower 1. Hydraulic strand jacks 31 and heavy-duty strands 45 are preferably used for the heavy lifting. In a preparation step, a load-bearing bracket assembly 13, 14, to which the jib-frames 20 will be secured, is hoisted up and fitted to the top of the tower 1. Once the lifting operations are complete, the crane assembly and the bracket assembly 13, 14 are lowered from the tower 1 and removed from site.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 1, 2012
    Date of Patent: June 28, 2016
    Assignee: VSL International AG
    Inventors: Jean Marie Laurens, Guy Russell, Walter Althaus, Max Ernst Meyer
  • Patent number: 8979148
    Abstract: A fly jib for a crane having a load block includes a variable length beam to which a load can be connected. A rotation mechanism is connected to the variable length beam, and is connectable to the load block so that said rotational mechanism can selectively rotate the variable length beam with respect to the load block. A balance mechanism is connected to the variable length beam, the balance mechanism automatically keeps the variable length beam in a horizontal position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 7, 2013
    Date of Patent: March 17, 2015
    Inventor: Gary Michael Hatton, II
  • Patent number: 8887933
    Abstract: A counterweight suspension device includes a pair of suspension cylinders that suspends a counterweight and that are hung from first and second hanging points provided separately in a left and right direction at a top end of a rear mast. A coupling member couples cylinder rod ends of the pair with each other. A lifting member lifts the counterweight. First and second connection points of the counterweight are connected with each of the cylinder rod ends, with the first and the second connection points provided separately in the left and right direction on the counterweight for attaching the lifting member to the counterweight. A first communication circuit is provided through which rod chambers of the suspension cylinders communicate with each other. A second communication circuit is provided through which bottom chambers of the suspension cylinders communicate with each other.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 28, 2010
    Date of Patent: November 18, 2014
    Assignee: Hitachi Sumitomo Heavy Industries Construction Crane Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Akira Hanahara
  • Patent number: 8827092
    Abstract: A mobile lift crane includes a carbody; a rotating bed; a boom; and a moveable counterweight unit. The crane is configured such that the counterweight unit is never supported by the ground other than indirectly by moveable ground engaging members on the carbody throughout a pick, move and set operation. In a first aspect, the crane is operable to move the counterweight unit to at least a first position in front of a fixed rearmost portion of the rotating bed and a second position behind the fixed rearmost portion of the rotating bed. In a second aspect, the crane also includes a first linear actuation device operable to move the counterweight unit toward and away from the front portion of the rotating bed by extending and retracting the linear actuation device. The counterweight unit may be moved a greater distance than a stroke of the first linear actuation device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 28, 2013
    Date of Patent: September 9, 2014
    Assignee: Manitowoc Crane Companies, LLC
    Inventors: David J. Pech, Kenneth J. Porubcansky
  • Patent number: 8783477
    Abstract: A pipelayer providing higher lifting capacities without adding weight or size to an undercarriage or boom of the pipelayer is disclosed. The pipelayer is designed and sized to have a maximum lifting capacity when the boom is extended from the undercarriage a predetermined, relatively short distance. However, in use the boom often needs to extend further away from the undercarriage, and in so doing the lifting capacity of the pipelayer decreases. The present disclosure provides additional lifting capacity in that extended range by selectively deploying a counterweight away from the undercarriage once the boom is extended past the predetermined distance. In so doing, not only is the lifting capacity of the pipelayer increased, but the size and weight of the undercarriage and boom are not increased. This enables standard sized undercarriages and other supporting structure to be used, thereby aiding in maneuverability and shipping of the pipelayers, while at the same time reducing manufacturing and usage costs.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 29, 2010
    Date of Patent: July 22, 2014
    Assignee: Caterpillar Inc.
    Inventors: Timothy E. Camacho, Kory D. Gerbick, Kevin J. Klein, Kent D. Smith, Jonathan R. Whitehead
  • Patent number: 8763962
    Abstract: In one aspect, a cradle system for supporting a load, the cradle system comprising a first arm with a first carriage assembly axially adjustable therealong and a second arm, opposite the first arm, with a second carriage assembly axially adjustable therealong. An actuator is associated with the first and second carriage assemblies and configured such that actuation of the actuator causes the first and second carriage assemblies to move axially in opposite directions. In another aspect, a cable support system comprising a support column and one or more tethers supported by the support column and configurable so that at least one tether is configured to move its supported cable in the same or opposite direction as the test head moves at a rate that is a constant multiplied by the test heads rate of motion where the constant may be greater than, equal to, or less than one.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 6, 2008
    Date of Patent: July 1, 2014
    Assignee: inTEST Corporation
    Inventors: Hermann Josef Weissacher, Benoit Jean Michel Goeuriot, Wei Guan, Christopher L. West, Charles Paul Nappen
  • Publication number: 20140076836
    Abstract: The present invention provides a crane with an automatic counterweight balancing device and a method of arranging counterweight thereof. The crane includes a main body and a counterweight device mounted to the main body. The counterweight device includes first and second magnetic field generators and first and second permanent magnetic counterweight blocks. The crane uses a combined arrangement of the magnetic field generators, the permanent magnetic counterweight blocks, an electrical control device, and a transducer device to detect, in a real time manner, output torques of servo motors, whereby when the output torques are not equal to rating torques, magnetic field intensities are varied to change downward magnetic forces acting on the permanent magnetic counterweight blocks thereby regulating loading of the servo motors and thus regulating the output torques of the servo motors to effect automatic balancing of counterweight and improve stability of the crane during a conveyance process.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 10, 2012
    Publication date: March 20, 2014
    Inventors: Minghu Qi, Chunhao Wu, Kunhsien Lin, Yongqiang Wang, Zhenhua Guo, Weibing Yang, Zenghong Chen, Yunshao Jiang, Zhiyou Shu
  • Publication number: 20140069883
    Abstract: A system (19; 19, 35) for reducing an amount of a counterweight for a crane comprises a crane (2) having a founding structure (3) being disposed on a base (20), a coupling unit (4), and a superstructure (5) being coupled to the founding structure (3) via the coupling unit (4). The system (19; 19, 35) further comprises a suspension device (21; 21, 36) for suspending the crane (2) at the base (20), said suspension device (21; 21, 36) having a guiding structure (22; 22, 37) defining a guiding direction (23; 23, 38), said guiding structure (22; 22, 37) being attached to the base (20), a displacement device (24) being displaceably attached to the guiding structure (22; 22, 37) along the guiding direction (23; 23, 38), and at least one suspension element (29) being connected with a first end to the crane (2) and being connected with a second end to the displacement device (24).
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 12, 2012
    Publication date: March 13, 2014
    Applicants: A2SEA A/S, Terex Cranes Germany GmbH
    Inventors: Guenter Karp, Thorsten Helwes, Hans Schneider
  • Publication number: 20130319964
    Abstract: A mobile lift crane includes a carbody; a rotating bed; a boom; a moveable counterweight unit; at least one linear actuation device; and at least one arm pivotally connected at a first end to the rotating bed and at a second end to the linear actuation device. The arm and linear actuation device are connected between the rotating bed and the counterweight unit such that extension and retraction of the linear actuation device changes the position of the counterweight unit compared to the rotating bed. In one method of operation, the counterweight unit is never supported by the ground during crane pick, move and set operations other than indirectly by the ground engaging members on the carbody.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 9, 2013
    Publication date: December 5, 2013
    Inventors: David J. Pech, Kenneth J. Porubcansky
  • Publication number: 20130270209
    Abstract: A vehicle crane includes a carbody, a turntable rotatably mounted on the carbody, a jib mounted on the turntable that can be tilted about a horizontal axis, and a counterweight assembly mounted on the turntable and can be moved relative to the turntable. A coupler mechanically couples the position of the counterweight assembly to the tilt angle of the jib. The coupler is embodied such that it can be decoupled.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 28, 2013
    Publication date: October 17, 2013
    Inventors: Dieter Stuehrwoldt, Stephan Maywald
  • Patent number: 8528755
    Abstract: Provided is a mobile crane capable of adjusting a counterweight height with no use of a costly hydraulic cylinder. The mobile crane comprises a lower propelling body, a upper slewing body, a boom pivotably attached to the upper slewing body, a mast which is at the rear of the boom and adapted to be raised and lowered so as to raise and lower the boom, a counterweight which is at the rear of the upper slewing body and hung from the mast through a guy line, and a counterweight-lifting cylinder attached to the counterweight so as to be extended to vertically push up the counterweight with respect to a ground surface. The counterweight-lifting cylinder has a cylinder body, a piston partitioning an internal space of the cylinder body into an upper head-side cylinder chamber and a lower rod-side cylinder chamber, and a rod extending from the piston downwardly beyond an lower end of the cylinder body.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 7, 2011
    Date of Patent: September 10, 2013
    Assignee: Kobelco Cranes Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Hitoshi Kurotsu
  • Patent number: 8511489
    Abstract: A mobile lift crane includes a carbody; a rotating bed; a boom; a moveable counterweight unit; at least one linear actuation device; and at least one arm pivotally connected at a first end to the rotating bed and at a second end to the linear actuation device. The arm and linear actuation device are connected between the rotating bed and the counterweight unit such that extension and retraction of the linear actuation device changes the position of the counterweight unit compared to the rotating bed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 21, 2011
    Date of Patent: August 20, 2013
    Assignee: Manitowoc Cranes, LLC
    Inventors: David J. Pech, Kenneth J. Porubcansky, John M. Lanning
  • Publication number: 20130153525
    Abstract: A mobile lift crane includes a carbody; a rotating bed; a boom; and a moveable counterweight unit. The crane is configured such that the counterweight unit is never supported by the ground other than indirectly by moveable ground engaging members on the carbody throughout a pick, move and set operation. In a first aspect, the crane is operable to move the counterweight unit to at least a first position in front of a fixed rearmost portion of the rotating bed and a second position behind the fixed rearmost portion of the rotating bed. In a second aspect, the crane also includes a first linear actuation device operable to move the counterweight unit toward and away from the front portion of the rotating bed by extending and retracting the linear actuation device. The counterweight unit may be moved a greater distance than a stroke of the first linear actuation device.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 28, 2013
    Publication date: June 20, 2013
    Inventors: David J. Pech, Kenneth J. Porubcansky
  • Publication number: 20130140258
    Abstract: The present disclosure relates to a ballast wagon for a derrick crane. The ballast wagon has two wheeled portions which each have at least two wheelsets with a respective one wheel. The two wheeled portions are arranged rotatably at a frame of the ballast wagon. The at least two wheelsets of a wheeled portion are formed pivotable independently of one another about a respective pivot axis.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 29, 2012
    Publication date: June 6, 2013
    Applicant: LIEBHERR-WERK EHINGEN GMBH
    Inventor: Liebherr-Werk Ehingen GmbH
  • Publication number: 20130112641
    Abstract: A balance assist system includes a support structure, an assist device, a variable balancing system, and a balancing cable. The variable balancing system is configured for moving a mass in a vertical direction along a Z axis. The variable balancing system includes a balance platform, a lever, and a mobile counterweight. The lever is pivotally attached to the balance platform at a fixed pivot point such that the lever is pivotable at the fixed pivot point about a balance axis. The mobile counterweight is movably disposed on the lever relative to the fixed balance axis and movable between a minimum position and a maximum position. The minimum position corresponds to the mass having a minimum weight such that the mass is statically balanced along the Z axis. Likewise, the maximum position corresponds to the mass having a maximum weight such that the mass is statically balanced along the Z axis.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 31, 2012
    Publication date: May 9, 2013
    Applicants: Universite Laval, GM GLOBAL TECHNOLOGIY OPERATIONS LLC
    Inventors: GM GLOBAL TECHNOLOGY OPERATIONS LLC, Universite Laval
  • Publication number: 20130020273
    Abstract: A stepless luffing mechanism for the super-lifting counterweight of a crawler crane, and an operating method thereof. The luffing mechanism includes a main luffing mast, a lifting oil cylinder, a luffing structure and a pulling board for the counterweight, and a super-lifting mast. The cylinder's lower end is connected with the counterweight, and its upper end is connected with a lower end of a front part of the luffing structure. The upper end of the luffing structure's front part is connected with the pulling board's lower end. A lifting rope connects the pulling board's upper end with the super-lifting mast's upper end. The super-lifting mast's lower end is connected with a platform's back end. An angle measuring sensor for the main luffing mast is provided on the super-lifting mast. A lower end of a back part of the luffing structure is connected with a pin shaft of the platform.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 12, 2010
    Publication date: January 24, 2013
    Applicant: Shanghai Sany Technology Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Zhigang Chen, Baojun Lu, Zhenzhu Li, Linghua Su
  • Publication number: 20120241402
    Abstract: A pipelayer providing higher lifting capacities without adding weight or size to an undercarriage or boom of the pipelayer is disclosed. The pipelayer is designed and sized to have a maximum lifting capacity when the boom is extended from the undercarriage a predetermined, relatively short distance. However, in use the boom often needs to extend further away from the undercarriage, and in so doing the lifting capacity of the pipelayer decreases. The present disclosure provides additional lifting capacity in that extended range by selectively deploying a counterweight away from the undercarriage once the boom is extended past the predetermined distance. In so doing, not only is the lifting capacity of the pipelayer increased, but the size and weight of the undercarriage and boom are not increased. This enables standard sized undercarriages and other supporting structure to be used, thereby aiding in maneuverability and shipping of the pipelayers, while at the same time reducing manufacturing and usage costs.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 21, 2010
    Publication date: September 27, 2012
    Inventor: Robert Ward
  • Patent number: 8201849
    Abstract: A balancing system for an agricultural vehicle includes a balance weight which has take-up pins at its sides. The pins are oriented coaxially to a common pivot axis so that the balancing weight can be taken up by the lower links of a three point implement hitch. When the balance weight has been taken up, it can be moved from a position of the center of gravity (S) of the balance weight close to the vehicle to a position distant from the vehicle. In order to attain a balance as optimal as possible, the position of the center of gravity of the balance weight in its position close to the vehicle is located below the pivot axis. Pivoting devices are provided so that the balance weight can be pivoted about the pivot axis so that it can also be brought from a position close to the vehicle to a position distant from the vehicle, where the balance weight occupies a lower position of the center of gravity in the position close to the vehicle than in the position distant from the vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 12, 2009
    Date of Patent: June 19, 2012
    Assignee: Deere & Company
    Inventors: Wolfgang Bauer, Paul R. Smith
  • Patent number: 8162160
    Abstract: A large mobile crane includes a revolving superstructure, a main boom hinged to the superstructure, and a derrick boom hinged to the superstructure. A modular counterweight system includes a traveling counterweight and a non-traveling counterweight connected to a crossbeam suspended from the distal end of the derrick boom so that the non-traveling counterweight is activated before the traveling counterweight.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 13, 2006
    Date of Patent: April 24, 2012
    Assignee: Terex Demag GmbH
    Inventors: Rüdiger Zollondz, Alfons Weckbecker, Fritz-Botho Köster, Günter Karp, Hans-Peter Franzen
  • Publication number: 20110247992
    Abstract: A mobile lift crane includes a carbody; a rotating bed; a boom; a moveable counterweight unit; at least one linear actuation device; and at least one arm pivotally connected at a first end to the rotating bed and at a second end to the linear actuation device. The arm and linear actuation device are connected between the rotating bed and the counterweight unit such that extension and retraction of the linear actuation device changes the position of the counterweight unit compared to the rotating bed. In one method of operation, the counterweight is never supported by the ground during crane pick, move and set operations other than indirectly by the ground engaging members on the carbody. The linear actuation device can include at least one rack and pinion assembly or hydraulic cylinder.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 21, 2011
    Publication date: October 13, 2011
    Inventors: David J. PECH, Kenneth J. PORUBCANSKY, John M. LANNING
  • Patent number: 8006850
    Abstract: An articulated jib for moving a load is supported on a base and comprises a first jib arm pivotably connected to a base. The first jib arm functions as a bascule and is pivotable about a first axis. There is a first counterweight disposed on the first jib arm. A second jib arm is pivotably connected to the first jib arm and is pivotable about a second axis. A linking rod connects the second jib arm to a lever arm which is also pivotably connected to the base. There is a second counterweight disposed on the lever arm.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 30, 2009
    Date of Patent: August 30, 2011
    Inventor: Randy Rotheisler
  • Publication number: 20110192815
    Abstract: Provided is a mobile crane capable of adjusting a counterweight height with no use of a costly hydraulic cylinder. The mobile crane comprises a lower propelling body, a upper slewing body, a boom pivotably attached to the upper slewing body, a mast which is at the rear of the boom and adapted to be raised and lowered so as to raise and lower the boom, a counterweight which is at the rear of the upper slewing body and hung from the mast through a guy line, and a counterweight-lifting cylinder attached to the counterweight so as to be extended to vertically push up the counterweight with respect to a ground surface. The counterweight-lifting cylinder has a cylinder body, a piston partitioning an internal space of the cylinder body into an upper head-side cylinder chamber and a lower rod-side cylinder chamber, and a rod extending from the piston downwardly beyond an lower end of the cylinder body.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 7, 2011
    Publication date: August 11, 2011
    Applicant: KOBELCO CRANES CO., LTD.
    Inventor: Hitoshi KUROTSU
  • Publication number: 20110155681
    Abstract: A counterweight suspension device includes: a pair of suspension cylinders that suspends a counterweight, and that are hung from a first and a second hanging points provided separately in a left and right direction at a top end of a rear mast; a coupling member that couples cylinder rod ends of the pair of suspension cylinders with each other; a lifting member for lifting the counterweight, that connects a first and a second connection points of the counterweight with each of the cylinder rod ends of the pair of suspension cylinders, with the first and the second connection points provided separately in the left and right direction on the counterweight for attaching the lifting member to the counterweight; a first communication circuit through which rod chambers of the pair of suspension cylinders communicate with each other; and a second communication circuit through which bottom chambers of the pair of suspension cylinders communicate with each other.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 28, 2010
    Publication date: June 30, 2011
    Applicant: Hitachi Sumitomo Heavy Industries Construction Crane Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Akira HANAHARA
  • Publication number: 20110084044
    Abstract: A pipelayer providing higher lifting capacities without adding weight or size to an undercarriage or boom of the pipelayer is disclosed. The pipelayer is designed and sized to have a maximum lifting capacity when the boom is extended from the undercarriage a predetermined, relatively short distance. However, in use the boom often needs to extend further away from the undercarriage, and in so doing the lifting capacity of the pipelayer decreases. The present disclosure provides additional lifting capacity in that extended range by selectively deploying a counterweight away from the undercarriage once the boom is extended past the predetermined distance. In so doing, not only is the lifting capacity of the pipelayer increased, but the size and weight of the undercarriage and boom are not increased. This enables standard sized undercarriages and other supporting structure to be used, thereby aiding in maneuverability and shipping of the pipelayers, while at the same time reducing manufacturing and usage costs.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 29, 2010
    Publication date: April 14, 2011
    Applicant: CATERPILLAR, INC.
    Inventors: Timothy E. Camacho, Kory D. Gerbick, Kevin J. Klein, Kent D. Smith, Jonathan R. Whitehead
  • Publication number: 20110049075
    Abstract: The present disclosure relates to a crane with a travelling undercarriage, an uppercarriage rotatably mounted on the same with a luffing boom and derrick boom arranged on the same, and a ballast carriage connectable with the uppercarriage via a coupling element, wherein the ballast carriage is a standardized heavy-duty transport device with separate drive and separate drive controller, and wherein this drive controller can be influenced as a result of the movement of the crane.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 25, 2010
    Publication date: March 3, 2011
    Applicant: LIEBHERR-WERK EHINGEN GMBH
    Inventor: Hans-Dieter Willim
  • Patent number: 7896178
    Abstract: Embodiments of the present invention generally relate to a pipelayer and a method for of loading a pipelayer or excavator for transportation. One embodiment includes a method for transporting a pipelayer or excavator from a first work site to a second worksite via a public road. The method includes acts of: raising the pipelayer or excavator off of track shoes of the pipelayer or excavator; removing a first track assembly from the pipelayer or excavator using a boom of the pipelayer or a boom assembly of the excavator; loading the first track assembly onto a first trailer of a first tractor-trailer using the boom of the remaining pipelayer or the boom assembly of the remaining excavator; removing the second track assembly from the pipelayer using the boom of the remaining pipelayer or the boom assembly of the remaining excavator; and loading the second track assembly onto the first trailer using the boom of the remaining pipelayer or the boom assembly of the remaining excavator.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 7, 2010
    Date of Patent: March 1, 2011
    Assignee: Volvo Construction Equipment AB
    Inventor: Daniel E. Davis
  • Publication number: 20110031203
    Abstract: A telescopically extendible camera crane arm includes a second section telescopically movable within a first section. A first actuator extends the second section and a second actuator retracts the second section. A control valve has first and second ports connected to provide pressurized fluid to the first and second actuators. An inlet port of the control valve is connected to a pressurized fluid source, such as a pump or accumulator of a hydraulic system. The control valve has extend, off, and retract positions. The control valve provides a threshold amount of fluid pressure to the first and second actuators when in the off position, and provides a greater than the threshold amount of fluid pressure to the first and second actuators, when in the extend or retract positions.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 6, 2009
    Publication date: February 10, 2011
    Inventor: Leonard T. Chapman
  • Patent number: 7766176
    Abstract: A mobile lift crane includes a central crane unit, a boom unit and a counterweight unit. The central crane unit has a carbody, moveable ground engaging members and a rotating bed mounted to the ground engaging members with a rotatable connection such that the rotating bed can swing with respect to the ground engaging members. The boom unit has a support member, at least one moveable ground engaging member, and a boom pivotally mounted on the support member. The counterweight unit has counterweight on a support member. Rigging connects the boom and counterweight unit such that a load lifted by the boom can be counterbalanced by the counterweight. The boom unit and counterweight unit are connected to the central crane unit by structural members that carry compressive loads and maintain the boom unit, the rotating bed and the counterweight unit in lateral alignment with each other, but allow relative vertical movement between the boom unit, the rotating bed and the counterweight unit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 11, 2008
    Date of Patent: August 3, 2010
    Assignee: Manitowoc Crane Companies, LLC
    Inventor: David J. Pech