EP1281656A1 - System and device for remote maintenance of a crane - Google Patents

Abstract

Electrical components (ECs) (17) for transmitting signals/data built into a crane link to a communications interface (18) for setting up an on-line signal/data transmission path (30) to an electronic calculating device/computer (19) like a personal computer (20). A communications switch gear (31) on the crane for signals/data links to the computer via a signal/data communications channel (22) and has several communications interfaces (32) to link to the ECs. An Independent claim is also included for a device for transmitting/receiving data/signals between electronic components on a gantry crane and a computer located at a distance from the crane.

Description

The invention relates to a system for connecting individual electrical components Crane, especially a bridge crane system, to at least one distance to this crane Ground station, and a device for transmitting and / or receiving data and / or Signals between several electronic components on a crane, in particular a bridge crane, and a computing unit distant from the crane, as in the claims 1 and 25 is specified.

With modern crane systems, especially with portal or bridge cranes with high performance or high functionality, are numerous electrical components and electronic systems built that make the operation of such crane systems safer or more diverse Open additional functions. Many of these electronic components are in themselves stand-alone devices that must be mounted on the crane. Usually come from these electronic systems from different manufacturers and these devices are multiple capable of communication, i.e. with interfaces for transmission to and reception of data or signals from a computing unit, mostly formed by a conventional one Personal computer, provided. The operating behavior of the electronic components are changed, queried or monitored. For the Various electronic components are customized, different software modules available to address the integrated electronics or supplied as standard. In order to be able to address these components, however, there is a line connection between the respective component and the computing unit provided. This is happening especially with cranes as complex or difficult. If necessary, some of them are on the crane assembled electronic devices are already bus-compatible and could therefore be interconnected via bus systems be coupled. However, due to the different systems, this is also the case complex or expensive. In particular, it requires a large number of lines or complexes Bus systems and additional software for the various electronic devices on the crane to be able to address.

The present invention is based on the object of being simple or as inexpensive as possible Signal or data connection for several electronic components of a crane to create a computing unit distant from these.

The object of the invention is solved by the features of claim 1.

It is advantageous that only one communication channel between that at a ground location existing computing unit and the crane must be built and yet all Components of the crane that are capable of signaling or data communication successively in time can be controlled or queried. A large number of cables that were previously required or other communication channels to the crane can therefore be dispensed with and is therefore a relatively inexpensive system for data connection of the components of a crane to a Computing unit created. The possibility of targeted selection of the essential Component is also given a clear connection and thus only cause relative rarely required systems no malfunction or problems when establishing a connection to a currently essential component. In addition, the respective signals or data can be absolute Targeted and interference-free transfer to or from the respective end devices be received. In addition, the functional reliability of the system according to the invention or the corresponding device due to the low complexity of the overall system quite high. A major advantage is that the supplier or manufacturer the intended software can continue to be used for the respective components, without special adaptations or even own software modules for the parameterization or control of the respective end device would have to be created.

It is advantageous in the development according to claim 2 that the subsection of the communication channel is wired on the crane and therefore with simple measures A high level of interference immunity to external influences can be created. Furthermore, the signals or data can be converted or converted from the respective electronic components are transmitted unchanged to the communication switch and then stand for further transmission via the remaining section of the communication channel ready.

A further development according to claim 3 is also of particular advantage since it is complex Cable connections from the ground station to the respective components on the crane are unnecessary can be. Especially when the crane or the components arranged on it are movable or the crane is mounted on a hall ceiling or bridges greater heights, a radio connection between the crane and a ground station is an advantage. By the specified training is ideally only a single radio system or only one radio channel required to work with a wide variety of electronic components and devices to be able to establish a communication connection on the crane. In particular, with a standard and comparatively inexpensive radio system a wireless signal or

Data connection, starting from the ground location to a specific, selected component from a group of communication-capable components.

It is advantageous in the embodiment according to claim 4 that a compact switch box with Send or receive function is created, through which the assembly or installation effort to implement the system can also be reduced.

In the embodiment according to claim 5 it is advantageous that the electronic built on the crane Components in a simple way via their already existing interface with which communication switch can be coupled. Adaptations of the interfaces of the various electronic components or interconnections of signal converters or the like are therefore superfluous or not absolutely necessary.

In the embodiment according to claim 6 it is advantageous that the radio transmission only over takes place in a relatively narrow or restricted area and is therefore relatively simple Radio transmission systems can be used. In addition, a high interference immunity, especially compared to other radio data systems, can be achieved. Due to the radio transmission in the immediate area around the crane Another advantage is that there are complex cable connections for signal and data transmission between the crane and the floor area, or much easier radio data systems to be installed can be replaced.

An embodiment according to claim 7 is also advantageous because it makes it reliable and versatile tried and tested radio systems are used, which are also available relatively inexpensively can.

Due to the possible further development according to claim 8, more extensive signal or data transmission routes are established and is particularly so when the crane has a larger radius of action, a reliable connection to the distant Computing unit enables.

A reliable, extensive signal or data transmission with general use Available communication media is made possible by the configuration according to claim 9. In particular, remote control, remote maintenance or remote monitoring of the electronic components, starting from a central ground station to any cranes erected far away. Maintenance work such as Software updates or adjustment work or so-called parameterization can thus can be carried out remotely at relatively short notice, which means that Travel expenses for maintenance technicians or system administrators are reduced or even unnecessary in some cases.

The installation or cabling effort on a crane to create the system can be kept to a minimum by the configuration according to claim 10 or 11. Through the Use of publicly accessible mobile phone networks for signal and data transmission no special additional measures are required for the establishment of the communication channel take.

With the alternative embodiment according to claim 12 it is possible to have standard available Systems for the optional connection of one of several electronic components to use a computing unit. Based on predefined identifiers such as figures or extensions can then the desired signal or data connection to a certain components.

A convenient selection of the component to be connected or the corresponding end device is made possible by the configuration according to claim 13 or 14.

A software module for central administration or for establishing a connection, outgoing from an arithmetic unit to a certain electronic terminal at a certain Crane is specified according to the advantageous development according to claim 15.

Connections established in parallel or signal or data transmissions running simultaneously are avoided by the configuration according to claim 16. The risk of misallocations, Operating errors or misinterpretations by a user of the system can be minimized.

Due to the embodiment of claim 17, the usual range of functions for the standard software provided for the respective components continue to be used no adaptations required to operate or control the respective end device or to be able to query. In particular, the standard control commands, screen masks and the like. When networking the electronic components according to the invention be kept unchanged with the computing unit.

Components capable of signaling or data communication, with which the operating behavior the crane can be influenced or by which longer-term recorded or current Operating data can be queried are specified in claim 18.

A simple design communication switch with high reliability is the claim 19 or 20 specified. In addition, those trained on the communication switch enable Interfaces a problem-free connection to the standard interfaces a computing unit, in particular a personal computer.

A multiple connection or parallel connection of several electronic components, which could destroy or influence the communication link, are avoided by the configuration according to claim 21 with technically simple measures.

In the embodiment according to claim 22, it is advantageous that only one serial communication channel is designed and yet a variety of electronic arranged on the crane side Components are sequentially connected to the computing unit in time can.

An alternative structure of the system is specified in claim 23. It is advantageous that no signals or data are transmitted by radio and thus an incorrect assignment of Signals or data or a false influence on electronic devices excluded can be.

An alternative embodiment of a built with electronic semiconductor elements Communication switch is specified in claim 24.

The object of the invention is also independent by a device according to the features solved in claim 25. It is advantageous here that only one communication channel selectively addressed a plurality of electronic components or devices on the crane can be. From a functional point of view, the specified device is a kind of networking the crane-side components with a computing unit. Seen structurally However, this connection is much easier and cheaper to implement.

Line connections between the crane and the ground station, which are difficult to lay are also highly technical in the case of movable cranes or crane systems Require effort can be dispensed with by the configuration according to claim 26.

In the embodiment according to claim 27, the control signals for the communication switch transmitted over the same communication channel, over the following also a transmission or reception of signals or data to or from the respective electronic component. Additional hardware for remote control the communication switch can thus be dispensed with, reducing the overall cost of the device can be kept low.

Finally, use of the device according to claim 28 is of particular advantage.

The invention is described below with reference to the exemplary embodiments shown in the drawings explained in more detail.

Fig. 1

ein Schaubild einer möglichen Ausführungsform und der Anwendungsbereich des erfindungsgemäßen Systems in vereinfachter, schematischer Darstellung;

Fig. 2

ein Blockschaltbild des Systems zur Anbindung einzelner, beispielsweise fern-wartungstauglicher, elektrischer Komponenten eines Krans an eine entfernt ange-ordnete Recheneinheit in stark vereinfachter, schematischer Darstellung;

Fig. 3

ein mögliches Ablaufschema zur Steuerung bzw. Überwachung einzelner elektrischer Komponenten eines Krans aus der Ferne;

Fig. 4

ein schematisches Prinzipschaltbild einer Kommunikationsweiche für den Einsatz auf einem Kran.

Show it:

Fig. 1

a diagram of a possible embodiment and the scope of the system according to the invention in a simplified, schematic representation;

Fig. 2

a block diagram of the system for connecting individual, for example, remote maintenance-compatible, electrical components of a crane to a remotely located computing unit in a highly simplified, schematic representation;

Fig. 3

a possible flow diagram for controlling or monitoring individual electrical components of a crane from a distance;

Fig. 4

a schematic block diagram of a communication switch for use on a crane.

As an introduction, it should be noted that in the differently described embodiments Provide the same parts with the same reference numerals or the same component designations are, the disclosures contained in the entire description on transfer the same parts with the same reference numerals or the same component names can be. The location information selected in the description, e.g. above, below, laterally, etc. related to the figure described and illustrated immediately and are to be transferred to the new position in the event of a change of position. Furthermore can also individual features or combinations of features from those shown and described different embodiments for themselves, inventive or inventive Represent solutions.

1 shows a possible embodiment variant of a crane 1 for lifting and transporting shown by loads. In the illustrated embodiment, a bridge crane 2 or a so-called Gantry crane illustrates which via trolleys 3, 4 to different locations can be moved. These trolleys 3, 4 can on rails close to the ground 5, 6 can be supported movably or also in the area of a ceiling construction of halls be realistically adjustable compared to corresponding guide rails. Such a hall or overhead crane 2 comprises at least one main beam 7 on which a so-called trolley 8 or a crane boom is arranged. This trolley 8 is in the longitudinal direction of the main support 7 can be moved and has at least one electromotive drive device 9, 10. By means of the drive device 9, the trolley 8 in the longitudinal direction of the Main carrier 7 is movable and with the further drive device 10 is a load suspension device 11, for example a crane hook, a load fork or the like, can be raised and lowered.

Furthermore, at least one drive device 12 to be operated electrically is designed, Via which the crane 1 or the main girder 7 can be moved via the trolley 3, 4.

If a crane boom is arranged on the main beam 7, this is via a drive device movable relative to the main beam 7 and preferably via a slewing ring and an independent one Drive device rotatably mounted about a vertical axis.

Preferably, at least one of the drive devices 9, 10, 12 of the crane 1 comprises can be formed by electromechanical or electro-hydraulic systems, an electronic Speed control device 13, for example a so-called frequency converter 14 for asynchronous motors.

Optionally, the crane 1 can also include a weighing device 15 with which the weight loads can be recorded and the relevant data can be used electronically if necessary can. In addition, at least one is directly on the crane 1 and / or in the vicinity of the crane 1 Control device 16 formed, which with actuators, such as the drive devices 9, 10, 12 and with sensors, for example force sensors, limit switches and the like., connected is. Movement sequences and / or operating states can be controlled by means of the control device 16 of the crane 1 are predetermined or influenced. Also directly on the crane 1 several electrical or electronic components 17 or assemblies, occasionally with sensors and / or actuators connected to it, their operating state or operating behavior is essential for the operation of crane 1.

Many of these electronic components 17 are usually with microcomputers and with electrical data or communication interfaces 18 for connection to conventional ones Computing units 19, for example in the form of personal computers 20, laptops, or the like. fitted. Via this at least one communication interface 18 of the respective components 17 is a data connection between the computing unit 19 and a microcomputer of the respective component 17 buildable. This data connection can be used for parameterization and / or setting and / or monitoring and / or updating of software and / or can be used to query other data. The respective functions of the electrical Components 17 are by means of programs or software modules that are specifically placed on them, which is preferred on an arithmetic unit 19 for general purposes a personal computer 20 that are executable.

With the system 21 according to the invention is an optional with technically relatively simple means Access to the components 17 via their communication interfaces 18 via a single wireless or wired or combined communication channel 22 for data or signals.

To at least electrical energy and / or control signals to the various components 17 to be able to transmit partially movable crane 1 are trailing cable arrangements 23 and / or cable drum arrangements and / or electrical conductor lines 24 are provided. These wired energy transmission devices are complex and occasional requires maintenance. The more electrical circuits or wires are required for a crane 1, the more expensive is usually the respective energy transmission device, i.e. the trailing cable arrangement 23 and / or conductor line 24 and / or cable drum arrangement. In addition, a parallel routing of the electrical feed or supply lines and of the data lines leading to the communication interfaces 18 of the respective components 17 are usually due to possible electromagnetic interference potential problematic. In addition, the maximum transmission distances are from the communication interfaces 18 of the respective components 17 to a corresponding computing unit 19 usually very limited and are occasionally repeaters for larger transmission links or the like.

At least some of the communication interfaces 18 of the various components 17 are preferably to be connected to at least one ground station 25 for communication or signaling purposes. That starting from at least one ground station 25, a transmission and / or a Receiving signals and / or data to or from the respective components 17 on the crane 1 are made possible. The ground location 25 can be located in the vicinity of the crane 1 Control center 26 may be formed, in which case parts of the control device 16 for the crane 1 or for entire crane systems can be accommodated. The floor 25 can also be defined by a remote maintenance point 27, which is local or extensive can be distant from the location of the crane 1. This remote maintenance point 27 can The location of the location of the manufacturer of crane 1 is hundreds of kilometers be away from the location of the crane 1. In particular, system 21 can also be used regional and / or national and / or international connection of electronic Components 17 and / or the control device 16 of the crane 1 to a computing unit 19 respectively.

Using the system 21 described in more detail below, it is now possible to start from the local and / or largely distant ground location 25 on the respective components 17 or electrotechnical assemblies of the crane 1 via their at least partially provided Communication interfaces 18 are accessed, as explained in more detail with reference to FIG. 2 is.

In Fig. 2 is a schematic or block diagram of the system 21 for communicative or data-related Connection of individual electrical components 17 of the crane 1, in particular a gantry crane system with at least one crane 1 that is distant from it, stationary or stationary floor location 25 shown. This floor location 25 can thereby Control center 26 of an industrial plant located near crane 1 or through an office 28 a largely distant remote maintenance point 27. This remote maintenance point 27 and / or control center 26 can be used for maintenance and / or observation and / or control and / or data query of a crane 1 located at the corresponding place of use is provided his. It is also possible, starting from the floor location 25 via the specified system 21 software updates or adapted operating programs in the respective storage devices of the various components 17 on the crane.

Cranes 1, in particular bridge cranes 2, of modern design have numerous electrical components 17 or electronic systems. Such systems or components 17 are Speed control devices 13, for example several frequency converters 14 for individual ones Drive units and / or various control devices 16, for example for one Radio control, position control or the like., And / or electronics for a weighing device 15 and / or a data and / or video recording device 29 is that, depending on the design of the crane 1, only some of the aforementioned electrical Components 17 can be formed or other electrical components 17 with signal or. Data interfaces or communication interfaces 18 are provided.

Include at least some of the electrical components 17 installed on the crane 1 at least one communication interface 18, which is used to set up a wired Signal and / or data transmission path 30 to an electronic computing unit 19 for general uses, in particular for a personal computer 20, are provided is. These electrical components 17 are independent devices, which in many cases come from different manufacturers. The various manufacturers have at least on some components 17 the interfaces 18 are provided, via which the respective Component 17 by means of the computing unit 19 and correspondingly designed software can be addressed and / or influenced and / or queried. Usually this is Communication interface 18 of the components 17 through a standardized serial Interface, for example formed by an interface of the type RS232 or the like. additionally or alternatively, another known from the prior art Communication interface 18, for example a USB (universal serial bus) interface, be trained.

A parameterization and / or setting is, for example, via this communication interface 18 and / or monitoring and / or query of stored data can be carried out. As well it is possible in some cases to send 18 software updates into the to load the respective electronic component 17 or influence the way it works Component 17 to make. In particular, this communication interface 18 also control or change the function or mode of operation accordingly authorized operator or maintenance personnel.

Around the various electrical components 17 or their communication interfaces 18 with the arithmetic unit, as a rule, located away from the crane 1 at a floor location 25 To be able to couple 19 as simply and inexpensively as possible is at least on crane 1 a communication switch 31, which is also used as a data switch or switching device can be designated trained. Each of the to be connected or queried and / or Components 17 to be controlled is via their respectively provided communication interface 18 connected to the communication switch 31. In particular, at the Communication switch 31 at least two or more communication interfaces 32 trained, which via individual separate or independent line connections 33 with corresponding communication interfaces 18 on the respective components 17 are connectable. These communication interfaces 32 are by several prefers standard interfaces, e.g. through interfaces of type RS232 and / or formed by USB interfaces and / or by parallel interfaces. Essential is that via the line connections 33 each have the same type of communication interfaces 18 and 32 can be connected to one another. The communication interfaces 32 to the various Components 17 can also act as outgoing interfaces of the communication switch 33 are referred to. However, it is very possible with these outgoing communication interfaces 32 not just unidirectional data transmission between the communication switch 31 or the computing unit 19 and the components 17, rather, the communication interfaces 32 are preferably also for a bidirectional Signal or data transmission to the computing unit 19 is suitable. The Communication switch 31 also a wired or wireless interface 34 to set up the communication channel 22 from the crane 1 to the corresponding computing unit 19 at almost any location. This communication channel 22 from the crane side Communication switch 31 to the computing unit 19 distanced therefrom enables a preferred bidirectional transmission of signals and / or data. This serial communication channel 22, which enables a connection between two electronic terminals, is symbolic simplified by a dash-dotted line.

The interface 34 of the communication switch 22 does not have to be a pluggable contact interface be trained, but is of course also a wireless signal or Data input in the form of an antenna or an optical interface or a cable connection the communication switch 31 to be understood as an interface 34 to the communication channel 22.

As already explained above, the communication channel 22 can be used for wired, wireless or any combination of signal and / or data transmission provided his. In the advantageous embodiment shown, the interface 34 is the communication switch 31 via a signal or data line 35, which usually consists of several there are electrical lines, with a transmitting and / or receiving device arranged on the crane 1 36 connected. This transmitting and / or receiving device mounted on the crane side 36 is used for the wireless transmission and / or reception of signals and / or data to or from the respective floor location 25.

The communication switch 31 or the corresponding data switch is based on any ground point 25 is controlled, in particular by a corresponding computing unit 19 switchable. In particular, the communication switch 31 is for switching or switching of the communication channel 22 to one of the outgoing communication interfaces 32 provided. That by means of the communication switch 31 can Communication channel 22 a selective connection to one of the connected, required Component 17 are built. A control of the communication switch 31 for selection or connection of the desired component 17 or for switching to the respective output-side communication interface 32 is preferred via the same communication channel 22, via which subsequently also one Signal or data transmission between the computing unit 19 and the respective electronic Component 17 can take place.

Alternatively, it is of course also conceivable to have your own channel or connection to control or switch the communication switch 31 to build what but would be associated with increased effort. Such a control channel would be preferred built on radio basis and would the communication switch 31 by means of a Mobile phone can be switched or set remotely.

Deviating from the illustrated exemplary embodiment with independent preferred standard available modules, it is of course also possible to use the wireless transmission and / or Receiving device 36 and the communication switch 31 to form a structural unit summarize. In this case, the signal or data line 35 is structurally independent Component no longer exists per se, but still exists within this unit.

The communication switch 31 has the task of establishing a single communication channel 22 to divide a plurality of individual signal or data channels or vice versa a plurality of individual signal or data channels within the signal and / or data transmission path 30 to transfer to only one communication channel 22 if possible. Essential is that from the group of signal or data channels within the signal and / or Data transmission path 30 between the communication switch 31 and the respective Components 17 can only be actively used one connection at a time. That the respective Components 17 are based on the computing unit 19 via the communication switch 31 selectively and sequentially addressable or connectable.

Thus, only one communication channel 22 is required to deal with a variety of technical issues suitable components 17 to be able to establish data communication. The communication switch 31, which are also referred to as switch boxes or interface boxes can, is preferably software-controlled via the actual communication channel 22 affected. This communication channel 22 is preferably also used to transmit the data or signals between the selected component 17 and the computing unit 19. In particular can the communication switch 31 by means of special, executable on the computing unit 19 Software and a suitable control protocol on the respective outgoing side Channel or on the respectively required communication interface 32, which for communication with the desired electronic component 17 is required, can be set. A parallel transmission of signals or data over several line connections 33 within the signal and / or data transmission path 30 is in itself not possible. In other words, it can only ever be via one line connection 33 or one Communication interface 32 of the communication switch 31 a signal and / or data transmission occur.

The communication switch 31 is preferably as central as possible between the respective communication capable Components 17 arranged so that short signal and / or data transmission paths 30 are present. On the one hand, this allows the length of the required line connections 33 on crane 1 are kept low and is also a risk of Interferences or external influences minimized. It can also be otherwise required Signal amplifier between the communication switch 31 and individual electronic Components 17 are unnecessary.

The partial section of the communication channel 22 between the crane 1 and is preferred a ground station 25 or control center 26 located near the crane by a wireless signal and / or Data transmission link 37 formed. Corresponding signals are preferred or data within the signal and / or data transmission path 37 by radio or via transmit electromagnetic waves. A remote station for the transmission and / or mounted on the crane Receiving device 36 is accordingly by a corresponding, near the crane set up transmitting and / or receiving device 38 formed. The crane-side transmission and / or Receiving device 36 and the near-ground transmitting and / or receiving device 38 are via a radio link with a maximum range of approximately, for example Can be put into communication connection 300 m to each other. To do this, the send and / or Receiving device 36 and 38 preferably according to the so-called DECT or GAP standard. It proves to be favorable if the transmission power of the transmitting and / or receiving devices 36, 38 lies below a transmission power requiring approval.

The interfaces of the transmitting and / or receiving device 36, 38 are consequently through antennas 39, 40 are formed, which are used to receive or send corresponding ones electromagnetic waves are suitable.

The transmitting and / or receiving device 38 located in the vicinity of the crane can be operated with one in the immediate vicinity Proximity to the crane 1 arranged computing unit 19 can be coupled to the evaluate signals and / or data received wirelessly or starting from the computing unit 19 wirelessly transmit signals and / or data to crane 1.

In the exemplary embodiment shown, the local, bottom-side transmission and / or reception device is 38 via a global communication link 41 with at least one locally extensively distant computing unit 19 connectable. In the embodiment shown this global communication link 41 is established via a public telephone network 42. Around this communication link 41 between the transmitting and / or receiving device 38 and the computing unit 19 is - as is known per se - both Computing unit 19 as well as the transmitting and / or receiving device 38 a suitable modem 43, 44 assigned. These modems 43, 44 serve inter alia for modulation or demodulation of the signals or data sent or received via the telephone network 42 into one for the Computing unit 19 or the transmitting and / or receiving device 38 processable form. These modems 43, 44 also serve to convert the signals or data of the computing unit 19 and the transmitting and / or receiving device 38 into a via the telephone network 42 transferable waveform. Instead of training a structurally independent modem 43, it is of course also possible, this as a so-called interface card in the computing unit 19 to integrate. Likewise, the modem 44 of the wireless transmitting and / or receiving device 38 be formed by an independent or integral unit.

Instead of combining a locally limited radio link within the signal and / or Data transmission path 37 around the crane 1 with an attached, line-bound Communication link 41, it is of course also possible to use a device 45 to provide, which for the establishment of a global, wireless communication link 41 is suitable, as can be seen from FIG. 1. The send and / or Receiving device 36 on the crane for sending signals or data and / or Receiving signals or data from a public mobile phone network. In in this case the corresponding computing unit 19 comprises a suitable modem 43 for radio data transmission, For example, a GSM or UMTS-capable modem 43 relatively low hardware or cabling effort a remote transmission of signals or data between the crane 1 and the computing unit 19 provided. In addition, generally accessible or available telecommunication media are used, whereby the production and operating costs of the device 45 and the system 21 can be kept low.

Alternatively, it is also possible to use the communication switch 31 and the crane-side transmission and / or Receiving device 36 by a so-called private branch exchange for mobile To form telecommunications. You can use a mobile phone to go to individual extensions or terminals, in this case to the desired component 17, a connection being constructed. The desired connection is selected using so-called Extensions or codes at the end of a code or number. In this case comprises the communication switch 31 on the first communication interface 34 as it were a conversion device that provides a global communication link 41 via the mobile, allows public telephone network 42.

Likewise, an additional computing unit can be provided at the ground station 25 or control center 26 a modem can be provided, which via a global communication link 41, for example via the so-called Internet, with the largely distant computing unit 19 in Communication link can be set. This local processing unit is also available with the communication switch 31 in connection and serves as an intermediate or transfer point in the communication channel 22 between one of the components 17 on the crane 1 and the widely distant, preferably via the Internet, connected to it, computing unit 19 for the higher-level administration or central control of the system 21.

In any case, the communication switch 31 via the computing unit 19 corresponds to the Desires an operator or maintenance person remotely software controlled on or convertible, as explained in more detail below. In particular, the computing unit comprises 19 software-technical means or programs for controlling the communication switch 31. This software-technical means is at least for switching the communication switch 31 or to activate one of its communication interfaces 32 to the desired one electrical component 17 is provided. If necessary, via this or a independent software technology means on the computing unit 19 also a selection hit several communication switches 31 on a crane 1 or on several cranes 1 and the corresponding connection or remote data transmission to the selected communication switch 31 can be built.

3 shows a possible sequence of remote-controlled communication with the crane 1 or its electrical components 17 illustrated in a highly simplified manner. The following Description is to be read in conjunction with Fig. 1 or 2. In a first Method step 46 is the correspondingly designed arithmetic unit 19 provided software technology means in the form of an independent application or an integrable Software module started.

In a subsequent or also preferred method step 47, the computing unit can 19 at least one software module started by the manufacturer or developer Query and / or influence of the respective component 17 is provided as standard has been.

In a further method step 48, in particular via the communication channel 22 A connection to the corresponding communication switch via a global communication link 42 31 built on the desired crane 1. This software engineering tool can also contain a database or access an external database in which all cranes 1 with their access parameters, in particular telephone or identification numbers and the like, are stored. This specially designed software on the computing unit 19 then establishes a connection via the modem 43 and the public telephone network 42 to the transmitting and / or receiving device 38 located at the remote station. following this transmitting and / or receiving device 38 is initialized and the connection to the corresponding communication switch 31, provided several communication switches 31 are present on a crane 1 or a local transmitting and / or receiving device 38 for several cranes 1 with communication switches 31 are provided. After this with the specially designed software the connection to the desired communication switch 31 is produced on the desired crane 1, the respective outlet-side channel this communication switch 31 or the respectively required electrical component 17, via which the signal or data connection is to be established. through A corresponding control protocol then becomes the communication switch 31 activated and its first or input interface 34 on the selected channel or switched through to the respective communication interface 32. It goes without saying it is also possible to select the communication switch 31 and the communication interface 32 in direct successive steps.

Then the specially created, software-technical means for establishing the connection to a specific communication switch 31 and for the selection of the desired one Put communication interface 32 in the background. After hiring or Selection of the communication interface 32 is the communication channel 22 for one Signal or data transmission between the selected electronic component 17 and the computing unit 19 open. In particular, the system states are then for everyone at the Computing unit 19 software started as if the respective component 17 directly with the computing unit 19 would be connected or plugged into it. In fact, however entire signal or data transmission via the communication switch 31, the wireless Signal and / or data transmission path 37 and the public telephone network 42 accomplished. In a subsequent method step 49, in particular, operation and / or Observation and / or query of data of the respective component 17 of a crane 1 enabled by means of the software provided for this purpose as standard or by the manufacturer.

After the communication with the respective component 17 has been completed, this procedure can be carried out at a decision point 50 either end or another crane 1 and / or another electrical component 17 for establishing a communication or Data connection can be selected.

In any case, the computing unit 19 is via the specially designed software technology each of the corresponding communicable component 17 via the communication switch 31 in chronological succession with the computing unit 19 in communication connection relocatable and via the associated standard software of the manufacturer of the respective Component 17 can be controlled without adaptations in this standard query or control software for the components 17 would be required.

4 is a highly simplified, symbolic block diagram of the communication switch 31 and this upstream, crane-side transmitting and / or receiving device 36 illustrates. As a rule, the transmitting and / or receiving device 36 is a standard available module, in particular formed by a so-called radio modem and with the communication switch 31 designed, for example, as a relay card 51 line-connected. As indicated by dashed lines, it is also possible to use one to create combined unit 52, which the antenna 39 as a wireless interface to Communication channel 22 or to the signal and / or data transmission path 37 and also via the communication interfaces 32 to the components that can be connected in each case 17 has. The components 17 can be unidirectional or bidirectional Signal or data communication can be provided, as indicated by the arrows or Double arrows for the individual line connections 33 was illustrated. The communication interfaces 32 of the communication switch 31 are preferably by contact Interfaces or contact interfaces 53 are formed. The type of these contact interfaces 53 is primarily on the components that are usually present in components 17 Adapted type of data interface. As a rule, the contact interfaces 53 are through serial interfaces or USB interfaces. Instead of individual contact interfaces 53, it is of course also possible to use the communication switch 31 clamp connections to be provided.

The communication switch 31 or relay card 51 comprises a plurality of remote controls switchable, electrical switch contacts 54. In particular, the communication switch 31 be designed as an electromagnetically adjustable multiple selector switch. The Adjustment of one or more switching tongues 55 takes place, starting from the transmission and / or Receiving device 36 or a downstream evaluation device depending the control commands issued by the computing unit 19 - FIG. 2. A corresponding Control connection 56 between the transmitting and / or receiving device 36 and the communication switch 31 was illustrated by a dashed line.

The control commands for switching or setting the communication switch 31, in particular switch tongue 55, are preferably via the same communication channel 22 transmitted, via which the signals and data to and from the components 17 are transmitted. Alternatively, these control commands can also be used, for example starting from a mobile phone via SMS (short message service) to the communication switch 31 are transmitted.

As can further be seen from the symbolic representation of the communication switch 31 , the individual outgoing communication interfaces 32 are preferably galvanic separated from each other and at least the signal or data lines of the individual Components 17 not in electrical connection.

Instead of providing mechanical switch contacts 54, it is of course also possible to To use semiconductor switches or microcontrollers that have channel switching functions or enable.

Alternatively, it is also possible to switch the communication switch 31 through an electronic multiplexer. or to form a demultiplexer device. It is essential that the communication switch 31 a selective "1-to-1 connection" between the computing unit 19 for remote maintenance and / or remote monitoring and / or remote control of the electronic crane side Components 17 allows only one serial communication channel 22.

For the sake of order, it should finally be pointed out that for a better understanding of the Structure of the system 21 or the communication switch 31 these or their components shown purely schematically partly to scale and / or enlarged and / or reduced were.

The task on which the independent inventive solutions are based can be described be removed.

Above all, the individual in FIGS. 1; 2; 3; 4 shown designs or measures form the subject of independent solutions according to the invention. The related, Tasks and solutions according to the invention are the detailed descriptions of these Figures can be seen.

REFERENCE NUMBERS

1

crane

2

Overhead crane

3

landing gear

4

landing gear

5

rail

6

rail

7

main carrier

8th

trolley

9

driving device

10

driving device

11

Load handling devices

12

driving device

13

Speed control device

14

frequency converter

15

weighing device

16

control device

17

component

18

Communication Interface

19

computer unit

20

Personal computer

21

system

22

communication channel

23

Trailing cable arrangement

24

contact line

25

ground station

26

control center

27

Remote maintenance center

28

office

29

Data and / or video recording contraption

30

Signal and / or data transmission route

31

communication Soft

32

Communication Interface

33

line connection

34

interface

35

Signal or data line

36

Sending and / or receiving device

37

Signal and / or data transmission route

38

Sending and / or receiving device

39

antenna

40

antenna

41

communication link

42

telephone network

43

Modem (PC)

44

modem

45

contraption

46

step

47

step

48

step

49

step

50

decision point

51

relay card

52

unit

53

Contact interface

54

switching contact

55

reed

56

control connection

Claims (28)

System (21) for connecting individual electrical components (17) of a crane (1), especially a gantry crane system, to at least one ground station (25) distanced from this crane (1), in particular a control center or a remote maintenance point, with the crane (1) a plurality of electrical components (17) are constructed, at least occasionally, at least one communication interface (18) for establishing a wired signal and / or data transmission link (30) to an electronic processing unit (19), in particular a personal computer (20), characterized characterized in that at least one communication switch (31) for signals and / or data is formed on the crane (1) and the communication switch (31) can be connected to the computing unit (19) via a communication channel (22) for signals and / or data, and several Has communication interfaces (32) for connection with signal and / or data communication-capable components (17) and the communication box nal (22) starting from the ground station (25) can be selectively switched over to one of the communication interfaces (34). System according to claim 1, characterized in that the communication switch (31) comprises an interface (34) for connecting a signal or data line (35) of the communication channel (22) which runs exclusively on the crane (1). System according to Claim 2, characterized in that the signal or data line (35) furthermore has a transmitting and / or receiving device (36) arranged on the crane (1) for the wireless transmission and / or reception of signals and / or data for or is connected by the ground location (25). System according to claim 1, characterized in that the communication switch (31) to be mounted on the crane (1) and a wireless transmitting and / or receiving device (36) for corresponding signals and / or data are combined to form a structural unit (52). System according to one or more of the preceding claims, characterized in that the outgoing communication interfaces (32) of the communication switch (31) through a plurality of general type interfaces for the establishment of respectively independent or mutually independent line connections (33) to the corresponding communication interfaces (18) of the respective electrical components (17) are formed. System according to one or more of Claims 3 to 5, characterized in that the transmitting and / or receiving device (36) on the crane side and a corresponding transmitting and / or receiving device (38) located in the vicinity of the crane can be set in communication with one another. System according to claim 6, characterized in that the crane-side and the near-ground, local transmitting and / or receiving device (36, 38) operate and are designed in accordance with the DECT or GAP standard. System according to claim 6 or 7, characterized in that the crane-side and the local transmitting and / or receiving device (36, 38) via at least one of several intermediate amplifiers for expanding an intermediate, wireless signal and / or data transmission path (37) with each other can be put in communication connection. System according to one or more of claims 6 to 8, characterized in that the local, stationary transmitting and / or receiving device (38) can be connected via a global communication link (41) to at least one locally widely spaced computing unit (19). System according to one or more of the preceding claims, characterized in that a first interface (34) of the communication switch (31) comprises a conversion device for signals and / or data to be received and / or transmitted wirelessly and a communication connection (41) to a computing unit (19) can be set up via a public telephone network (42) on a radio basis. System according to one or more of the preceding claims, characterized in that the crane-side transmitting and / or receiving device (36) is formed by a device (45) for establishing a global, wireless signal and / or data connection. System according to one or more of the preceding claims, characterized in that the communication switch (31) and the crane-side transmitting and / or receiving device (36) are formed by a private branch exchange for mobile data or telecommunications. System according to one or more of the preceding claims, characterized in that the communication switch (31) can be set or converted in a software-controlled manner near the crane or remotely via the computing unit (19). System according to one or more of the preceding claims, characterized in that the computing unit (19) has software-technical means for selecting one of the available communication interfaces (32) or components (17) and for connecting or switching the communication channel (22) to the selected component ( 17) includes. System according to claim 14, characterized in that the software-technical means of the computing unit (19) input or selection fields for selecting a specific communication switch (31) on a crane (1) and / or for selecting one of several cranes (1) as required or different locations. System according to one or more of the preceding claims, characterized in that the electrical components (17) can be selectively and chronologically successively put into communication connection with the computing unit (19) via the communication switch (31). System according to claim 16, characterized in that the respective electrical components (17) can be controlled via the respectively associated standard software for the components (17). System according to one or more of the preceding claims, characterized in that the electrical components (17) of the crane (1) by means of its central control device (16) and / or by a weighing device (15) and / or by speed control devices (13) for drive devices (9; 10; 12), in particular by frequency converters (14). System according to one or more of the preceding claims, characterized in that the communication switch (31) by means of a relay card (51) which can be controlled via its computer-side communication interface (32) and has a plurality of contact interfaces (53) on the output side, in particular serial interfaces or USB interfaces, are formed. System according to one or more of the preceding claims, characterized in that the communication switch (31) comprises a plurality of electrical switch contacts (54) which can be switched over by remote control. System according to one or more of the preceding claims, characterized in that the individual communication interfaces (32) of the communication switch (31) provided for bidirectional signal and / or data transmission are galvanically or electrically separated from one another. System according to one or more of the preceding claims, characterized in that a selective "1 to 1 connection" between the computing unit (19) and one of the electronic components (17) on the crane side is made via the only one serial communication channel (22) to the communication switch (31) ) is buildable. System according to claim 1, characterized in that the communication channel (22) from the communication switch (31) on the crane (1) to the ground station (25) with the arithmetic unit (19) is wired or wired. System according to one or more of the preceding claims, characterized in that the communication switch (31) is formed by an electronic multiplexer and / or demultiplexer device. Device for transmitting and / or receiving data and / or signals between a plurality of electronic components (17) on a crane (1), in particular a gantry crane (2), and a computing unit (19) distanced from the crane (1), characterized by a communication switch (31) with a group of communication interfaces (32) to the electronic components (17) on a crane (1) and an interface (34) that can be connected in terms of circuitry with these communication interfaces (32) to a wireless and / or wired communication channel (22 ) to the computing unit (19), one of the communication interfaces (32) optionally being remotely controllable or connectable to the interface (34). Apparatus according to claim 25, characterized in that the serial communication channel (22) at least in a section between the communication switch (31) to be mounted on the crane (1) and a ground location (25) close to the crane by means of corresponding transmitting and / or receiving devices ( 36, 38) is wireless. Apparatus according to claim 25 or 26, characterized in that the remotely controllable switching of the communication switch (31) on the crane (1) takes place from the computing unit (19) via that communication channel (22) which is also used for a signal and / or signal which can subsequently be introduced Data transmission is provided. Apparatus according to claim 25, characterized by use in a system (21) according to one or more of claims 1 to 24.

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