Patent Publication Number: US-2022212899-A1

Title: Modular crane component system

Description:
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS 
     The present application is a non-provisional patent application of and claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 62/781,360, filed on Dec. 18, 2018, entitled MODULAR CRANE COMPONENT SYSTEM, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. 
    
    
     STATEMENT RE: FEDERALLY SPONSORED RESEARCH/DEVELOPMENT 
     Not Applicable 
     BACKGROUND 
     1. Technical Field 
     The present disclosure relates generally to cranes. More particularly, the present disclosure relates to a modular crane component system. 
     2. Related Art 
     Light capacity cranes commonly referred to as workstation cranes are used in a variety of industrial applications for lifting and moving material that would otherwise be too heavy to lift manually. These systems typically have a rated lifting capacity between 250 lbs. to 4,000 lbs. These systems typically include an overhead track that allows for a trolley to traverse along the overhead track. A cable or the like that is used to support a load may extend from the trolley. The trolley may typically be manually pulled or pushed, manually winched or electrically motorized. Depending upon the specific configuration, these cranes may include such types as workstation bridge cranes, portable gantry cranes, work station jib cranes, workstation monorails, and so forth. Rigid horizontal fall protection systems are used to keep people safe at height and offer the operator freedom of movement to perform tasks while at height. 
     Rigid fall protection systems typically share many of the same structural design as used in light capacity cranes. Fall protection systems come in a variety of configurations that correspond to light capacity cranes but are rated for fall protection rather than lifting. These may include travelling bridge systems, fall protection A-frames, fall protection swing arms, fall protection monorails, and others. 
     Regardless of the type of crane or fall protection system, these traditional systems have several shortcomings resulting from their design. Historically, specific dimensional requirements for length, width and height dictate that custom fabrication take place once an order is received. This results in a lengthy and costly fabrication cycle. 
     In view of the foregoing, there is a need in the art for improved crane system designs in comparison to the prior art. 
     BRIEF SUMMARY 
     In accordance with one embodiment, there is provided an overhead modular crane system. The crane system includes a main track having opposing track ends. The main track includes at least two elongate track sections. Each of the track sections is endwise connectable to an abutting track section. The track sections are endwise connected to each other and defining a track joint thereat. The main track further includes a stiffener passage extending between the track ends and through each of the track sections. The main track further includes a track channel extending between the track ends and through each of the track sections. The track channel is open away from the stiffener passage. The crane system further includes a top cord stiffener having opposing stiffener ends. The top cord stiffener is disposed in and through the stiffener passage. The stiffener ends are respectively aligned with the track ends. The top cord stiffener includes at least three elongate stiffener sections. Each of the stiffener sections is endwise connectable to an abutting stiffener section. The stiffener sections are endwise connected to each other and defining a stiffener joints thereat. None of the stiffener joints being aligned with the track joint. 
     In accordance with various embodiments, the at least two elongate track sections are two elongate track sections, and the at least three elongate track stiffeners are three elongate track stiffeners. The crane system may further include a pair of end caps. Each end cap is sized and configured to receive a stiffener section therein and a track section therein. The end caps are attached to the main track with the main track disposed between the end caps. The end caps are attached to the top cord stiffener with the top cord stiffener disposed between the end caps. The crane system may include a trolley engaged with the main track. The trolley is sized and configured to traverse along the track channel. The crane system may further include an electric motor in electrical communication with the trolley for selectively traversing the trolley along the track channel. The crane system may further include a lift cable engaged with the trolley and extending from the trolley away from the track channel. The crane system may further include a column attached to the main track. The column may be attached to the main track by the column being attached to an end cap. 
     According to another aspect of the invention, there is provided a repositionable crane base support system for use with a central column and anchor bolts extending from a floor. The crane base support system includes a base plate. The crane base support system further includes a central column support extending from the base plate. The central column support is sized and configured to engage the central column. The crane base support system further includes anchor bolt apertures formed through the based plate and distributed about the central column support. Each of the apertures correspond to a respective one of the anchor bolts. The crane base support system further includes circular caps cooperatively sized and configured with the anchor bolt apertures. The circular caps are positioned within a respective one of the anchor bolt apertures and rotatable therein. Each circular cap includes a bolt hole sized and configured to receive an anchor bolt therethrough. Each bolt hole is off-set from a center of each respective circular cap. 
     In accordance with various embodiments, each circular cap may include a cap body extending along a cap central longitudinal axis. Each bolt hole is defined by a bolt hole central longitudinal axis disposed parallel to and offset from the associated central cap longitudinal axis. Each circular cap may include a cap body having a cap body outer surface with each bolt hole being non-concentrically disposed through the cap body with respect to the cap body outer surface. Each circular cap may include a cap body extending along a cap central longitudinal axis. Each circular cap may further include a flanged lip extending radially from the cap body, and each cap body may be disposed in a corresponding one of the anchor bolt apertures. The base plate may include a base plate top side and an opposing base plate bottom side. Each circular cap may be positionable in a corresponding one of the anchor bolt apertures with the flanged lip disposed against the base plate top side with the base plate disposed upon the floor. 
     The base plate may include a base plate top side and an opposing base plate bottom side. Each circular cap is positionable in a corresponding one of the anchor bolt apertures with the flanged lip disposed against the base plate bottom side with the flanged lip upon the floor. The crane base support system may further include support legs each having a distal end and an attachment end. The attachment end of each of the support legs may be attached to the base plate and with the distal ends extendable along the floor away from the base plate. The crane base support system may further include a central column attached to the central column support extending away from the base plate. The crane base support system may further include angle braces corresponding to each support leg, and each angle brace is attached to the distal end of the corresponding support leg and the central column. 
     According to another aspect of the invention, there is provided a crane base support system for use with a parapet wall extending vertically from a floor. The crane base support system includes a base plate positionable upon the floor. The crane base support system further includes a central column extending from the base plate. The crane base support system further includes support legs each having a distal end and an attachment end. The attachment end of each of the support legs is rotatably attached to the base plate. The support legs each have an extended position with the support legs extending radially from the base plate and a folded position with support legs extending generally along the central column. The crane base support system further includes a parapet wall clamp attached to and extending laterally from the central column. The parapet wall clamp has a jaw opening facing generally towards the base plate. The jaw opening is sized and configured to receive and engage the parapet wall. 
     In accordance with various embodiments, the parapet wall clamp may include a clamp arm attached to the central column and disposed between the central column and the jaw. The parapet wall clamp may be selectively laterally positionable from the central column for adjusting a distance of the jaw from the central column. The parapet wall clamp is selectively laterally positionable along the central column for adjusting a height of the jaw from the floor. The base plate may have clevis attachment elements generally extending from the base plate in a direction of the central column. Each attachment end of the support legs may be attached to the base plate via rotational engagement with a respective one of the clevis attachment elements. The central column may include a base end attached to the base plate and a crane end disposed away from the base plate. The system may further include an elongate crane track attached to the crane end of the central column and extending generally in a same direction of the parapet wall clamp. The crane base support system may further include a trolley engaged with the crane track. The trolley may be sized and configured to traverse along the elongate crane track. 
     According to another aspect of the invention, there is provided a crane base support system for use with a parapet wall extending vertically from a floor. The crane base support system includes a first base plate positionable adjacent the floor. The crane base support system further includes a first central column extending from the first base plate. The first central column includes a base end attached to the first base plate and a crane end disposed away from the first base plate. The crane base support system further includes a parapet wall clamp attached to and extending laterally from the first central column. The parapet wall clamp having a jaw opening facing generally towards the first base plate. The jaw opening is sized and configured to receive and engage the parapet wall. The crane base support system further includes a second base plate positionable adjacent the floor. The crane base support system further includes a second central column extending from the second base plate. The second central column includes a base end attached to the second base plate and a track end disposed away from the second base plate. The crane base support system further includes a main track disposed between the first and second central columns, and attached to the crane end of the first central column and attached to the track end of the second central column. 
     In accordance with various embodiments, the crane base support system may further include an elongate crane track attached to the crane end of the first central column and extending generally in a same direction of the parapet wall clamp and away from the main track. The crane base support system may further include a trolley engaged with the crane track, and the trolley may be sized and configured to traverse along the elongate crane track. The parapet wall clamp may include a clamp arm attached to the central column and disposed between the central column and the jaw. The parapet wall clamp may be selectively laterally positionable from the central column for adjusting a distance of the jaw from the central column. The parapet wall clamp may be selectively laterally positionable along the central column for adjusting a height of the jaw from the floor. The crane base support system may further include a counter-weight support and a counter-weight. The counter-weight support may be removeably attached to the second base plate, and the counter-weight may be disposed upon the counter-weight support. The crane base support system may further include first support legs each having a distal end and an attachment end. The attachment end of each of the first support legs is attached to the first base plate and with the distal ends extendable along the floor and away from the first base plate. The crane base support system further includes second support legs each having a distal end and an attachment end. The attachment end of each of the second support legs is attached to the second base plate and with the distal ends extendable along the floor and away from the second base plate. The crane base support system may further include casters attached to the distal ends of the first and second support legs. 
     According to another aspect of the invention, there is provided a combined trolley winch system with lift and traverse selection. The trolley winch system includes an overhead track. The trolley winch system further includes a trolley engaged with the overhead track. The trolley and the track are cooperatively sized and configured to traverse the trolley along the track. The trolley winch system further includes a first winch drum having a lift cable cylindrical surface disposed about a reel axis of rotation. The trolley winch system further includes a lift cable engaged with the winch drum about the lift cable cylindrical surface and engaged with the trolley. The trolley winch system further includes a second winch drum having a traverse cable cylindrical surface disposed about the reel axis of rotation. The trolley winch system further includes a traverse cable engaged with the winch drum about the traverse cable cylindrical surface and engaged with the trolley. The trolley winch system further includes a winding mechanism connected to the first and second drums. The winding mechanism sized and configured to rotate the first drum about the reel axis of rotation for winding the lift cable about the lift cable cylindrical surface independently from rotating the traverse cable cylindrical surface. The winding mechanism sized and configured to rotate the second drum about the reel axis of rotation for winding the traverse cable about the traverse cable cylindrical surface independently from rotating the lift cable cylindrical surface. 
     In accordance with various embodiments, the winding mechanism may include a spline support shaft disposed about the reel axis of rotation between the first and second drums. The first drum may have a first spline receptacle longitudinally extending into the first drum. The second drum may have a second spline receptacle longitudinally extending into the second drum. The spline support shaft may be longitudinally movable along the reel axis of rotation. The first spine receptacle may be sized and configured to receive and engage the spline support shaft therein. The second spine receptacle may be sized and configured to receive and engage the spline support shaft therein. The spine support shaft may be positionable within the first spine receptacle without being within the second spline receptacle. The spine support shaft may be positionable within the second spine receptacle without being within the first spline receptacle. 
     The present invention will be best understood by reference to the following detailed description when read in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
       These and other features and advantages of the various embodiments disclosed herein will be better understood with respect to the following description and drawings, in which: 
         FIG. 1  is a side view of an overhead modular crane system according to an aspect of the present invention; 
         FIG. 2  is an enlarged side view of a portion of the modular crane system of  FIG. 1  depicting a main track; 
         FIG. 3  is an exploded side view of a portion of the modular crane system of  FIG. 2 ; 
         FIG. 4  is a perspective view of a portion of the modular crane system of  FIG. 2 ; 
         FIG. 5  is an exploded perspective view of the modular crane system of  FIG. 4 ; 
         FIG. 6  is a perspective view of an alternative embodiment of an end cap having an electrical component; 
         FIG. 7  is a top view of the modular crane system of  FIG. 1  as viewed along axis  7 - 7 ; 
         FIG. 8  is an end view of the modular crane system of  FIG. 1  as viewed along axis  8 - 8 ; 
         FIG. 9  is an enlarged view of a trolley winch as depicted in  FIG. 8 ; 
         FIG. 10  is an exploded end view of the modular crane system as depicted in  FIG. 8  (as depicted without the trolley winch and cables); 
         FIG. 11  is an assembled view of the portion of the modular crane system of  FIG. 10 ; 
         FIG. 12  is an end view of a base plate and an attached central column support of the modular crane system of  FIG. 11 ; 
         FIG. 13  is a top view of the base plate and the central column support of  FIG. 12 ; 
         FIG. 14  is the top view of the base plate and the central column support of  FIG. 13  with circular caps; 
         FIG. 15  is an enlarged top view of a circular cap of  FIG. 14 ; 
         FIG. 16  is a side view of the circular cap of  FIG. 15 ; 
         FIG. 17  is a cross-sectional side view of a portion of a base plate with a circular cap as engaged with an anchor bolt and a floor as secured with a nut and washer according to an aspect of the present invention; 
         FIG. 18  is an exploded cross-sectional side view of  FIG. 17 ; 
         FIG. 19  is a cross-sectional side view of the portion of the base plate with the circular cap (as flipped over) of  FIG. 17 ; 
         FIG. 20  is an exploded cross-sectional side view of  FIG. 19 ; 
         FIG. 21  is a side view of a base plate and an attached central column support with support legs according to another embodiment of the present invention; 
         FIG. 22  is an exploded side view of the base plate, the central column support and the support legs of  FIG. 21 ; 
         FIG. 23  is a side view of a base plate and an attached central column support with support legs and angle braces according to another embodiment of the present invention; 
         FIG. 24  is an exploded side view of the base plate, the central column support, the support legs and the angle braces of  FIG. 23 ; 
         FIG. 25  is a top view of a base plate and an attached central column support with support legs according to another embodiment of the present invention; 
         FIG. 26  is an exploded top view of the base plate, the central column support, and the support legs of  FIG. 25 ; 
         FIG. 27  is a top view of a modular crane system according to another embodiment of the present invention; 
         FIG. 28  is top view of a central track connector of the crane system of  FIG. 27 ; 
         FIG. 29  is a side view of a modular crane system according to another embodiment of the present invention; 
         FIG. 30  is a side view of the modular crane system of  FIG. 29  with support legs folded as positioned upon a floor and engaged with a parapet wall; 
         FIG. 31  is a top view of the modular crane system of  FIG. 29  the all of the support legs in an extended position; 
         FIG. 32  is a top view of the modular crane system of  FIG. 30  with two support legs in a folded position 
         FIG. 33  is a side view of a track section of  FIG. 1  with a truss kit attached; 
         FIG. 34  is a side view of the track section of  FIG. 33  with the truss kit exploded from the track section; 
         FIG. 35  is an end view of the track section and the truss kit of  FIG. 33  as viewed along axis  35 - 35 ; 
         FIG. 36  is an end view of the track section and the truss kit of  FIG. 34  as viewed along axis  36 - 36 ; 
         FIG. 37  is a side view of a track section and an end cap with a trolley according to another embodiment; 
         FIG. 38  is the side view of the track section, the end cap and the trolley of  FIG. 37  with the end cap exploded from the track section and the trolley positioned along the track section; 
         FIG. 39  is an end view of the track section and the trolley of  FIG. 38  a seen along the axis  39 - 39  along with a hook (depicted in dashed lining); 
         FIG. 40  is an end view similar to the view of  FIG. 39  of a track section and trolley according to another embodiment; 
         FIG. 41  is an end view similar to the view of  FIG. 40  of a track section and trolley according to another embodiment; 
         FIG. 42  is depicted a front view of a trolley winch according to an embodiment; 
         FIG. 43  is a side view of the main track as supported by additional main tracks and columns; 
         FIG. 44  is an enlarged view of a portion of  FIG. 43 ; 
         FIG. 45  is an exploded view of a portion of  FIG. 44 ; 
         FIG. 46  is a side view of a rigid support hanger; 
         FIG. 47  is a cross-sectional side view of the rigid support hanger of  FIG. 46 ; 
         FIG. 48  is an end view of an outer tube of the rigid support hanger; 
         FIG. 49  is a side view of a rigid support hanger with a main rod; 
         FIG. 50  is a cross-sectional side view of the rigid support hanger of  FIG. 49 ; and 
         FIG. 51  is a symbolic view of an overhead modular crane system. 
       Common reference numerals are used throughout the drawings and the detailed description to indicate the same elements. 
     
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION 
     The detailed description set forth below in connection with the appended drawings is intended as a description of certain embodiments of the present disclosure and is not intended to represent the only forms that may be developed or utilized. The description sets forth the various functions in connection with the illustrated embodiments, but it is to be understood, however, that the same or equivalent functions may be accomplished by different embodiments that are also intended to be encompassed within the scope of the present disclosure. It is further understood that the use of relational terms such as top and bottom, first and second, and the like are used solely to distinguish one entity from another without necessarily requiring or implying any actual such relationship or order between such entities. 
     Referring now to  FIG. 1  there is depicted a side view of an overhead modular crane system  10  according to an aspect of the present invention. The crane system  10  is deployed upon a floor  12 . As used herein the term floor  12  is used to refer to any supportive surface upon which the cane system  10  is disposed upon, attached or is otherwise supported.  FIG. 7  is a top view of the modular crane system of  FIG. 1  as viewed along axis  7 - 7 , and  FIG. 8  is an end view of the modular crane system of  FIG. 1  as viewed along axis  8 - 8 . The crane system  10  of this embodiment is depicted in a particular configuration. As will be discussed in detail below it is contemplated that the various components may be reconfigured for a variety of purposes as required. In this regard, the crane system  10  is contemplated to be modular in nature. It is contemplated that crane system  10  as depicted in this particular configuration and as presented in other related configurations and embodiments disclosed herein present various novel features as described in detail below. 
     The general components of the crane system  10  include a first base plate  14 , a first central column support  16  extending from the first base plate  14 , a first central column  18  attached to the first column support  16 , a second base plate  20 , a second central column support  22  extending from the second base plate  20 , a second central column  24  attached to the second central column support  16 , a main track  26  attached to and spanning the first central column  18  and the second central column  24 , a crane track  28  extending from the first central column  18 , and a trolley  30  sized and configured to traverse along the main track  26 . 
     Referring additionally to  FIG. 2  there is depicted an enlarged side view of a portion of the modular crane system  10  of  FIG. 1 .  FIG. 3  is an exploded side view of a portion of the modular crane system  10  of  FIG. 2 .  FIG. 4  is a perspective view of a portion of the modular crane system of  FIG. 2 .  FIG. 5  is an exploded perspective view of the modular crane system of  FIG. 4 . 
     In accordance with one embodiment, there is provided the overhead modular crane system  10 . The crane system includes  10  the main track  26  having opposing track ends  32   a - b.  The main track  26  includes at least two elongate track sections  34   a - b.  Each of the track sections  34   a - b  is endwise connectable to an abutting track section  34   a - b.  The track sections  34   a - b  are endwise connected to each other and defining a track joint  36  thereat. The main track  26  further includes a stiffener passage  38  extending between the track ends  32   a - b  and through each of the track sections  34   a - b.  The main track  26  further includes a track channel  40  extending between the track ends  32   a - b  and through each of the track sections  34   a - b.  The track channel  40  is open away from the stiffener passage  38 . The crane system  10  further includes a top cord stiffener  42  having opposing stiffener ends  44   a - b.  The top cord stiffener  42  is disposed in and through the stiffener passage  38 . The stiffener ends  44   a - b  are respectively aligned with the track ends  32   a - b.  The top cord stiffener  44  includes at least three elongate stiffener sections  46   a - c.  Each of the stiffener sections  46   a - c  is endwise connectable to an abutting stiffener section  46   a - c.  The stiffener sections  46   a - c  are endwise connected to each other and define stiffener joints  48   a - b  thereat. None of the stiffener joints  48   a - b  is aligned with the track joint  36 . 
     As mentioned above, each of the track sections  34   a - b  is endwise connectable to an abutting track section  34   a - b.  It is contemplated that more than two such track section  34   a - b  may be utilized as needed to satisfy any overall length requirements of the main track  26 . In this regard, additional track sections  34   a - b  may be added to readily expand the main track  26  in a modular manner. 
     While it is recognized that the main track  26  may be expanded in this manner, a weak point of the overall main track  26  is at the track joint  36  or additional track joints created with additional track sections. The top cord stiffener  42  is used to structurally strengthen the main track  26  at the track joint  26  (and any others). However, as the expansion of the main track  26  is based upon the modular nature of the track sections  34   a - b,  the top cord stiffener  42  is also modular as it is composed of multiple stiffener sections  46   a - c.  Additional stiffener sections  46  may be added as needed. It is recognized that weak points of the top cord stiffener  42  are at the stiffener joints  48   a - b.  As such, stiffener joints  48   a - b  are specifically configured such that none of the stiffener joints  48   a - b  is aligned with the track joint  36  to ensure that these weak points are not coincident. 
     It is contemplated that the track sections  34  need not be of a same length as depicted in this embodiment and may come in a variety of lengths as may be needed to reconfigure the crane system according to job requirements. Likewise, the stiffener sections  46  need not be of a same length as depicted in this embodiment and may come in a variety of lengths as may be needed to reconfigure the crane system according to job requirement and so that the overall length of the top cord stiffener  42  matches the overall length of the main track  26 . It is contemplated that a consideration for the particular sizing of these track sections  34  and stiffener sections  46  is whether such components and others of the crane system  10  may be readily and efficiently shipped through common carrier services, such as overnight delivery courier services (such as the longer lengths of sections being on the order of  5  to  6  feet long). In this respect an entire crane system  10 , or expansion components to an existing deployed crane system  10  or replacement parts may be sized to be readily shipped and delivered to a user. The track sections  34  and stiffener sections  46  may be formed of any of those materials and constructed according to those methods and techniques which are well known to one of ordinary skill in the art, which may include various metals, plastics, composite laminates and combinations thereof. In the preferred embodiments, the modular components are manufactured from a polymer fiber reinforced plastic (FRP), which resists environmental corrosion and does not require painting. 
     The track sections  34   a - b  may be attached to each other through press fit engagement. However, the track sections  34   a - b  may be connected according to any of those techniques which are well known to one of ordinary skill in the art. The stiffener sections  46   a - c  may be attached to each other through threaded engagement. However, the stiffener sections  46   a - c  may be connected according to any of those techniques which are well known to one of ordinary skill in the art. 
     The overall vertical height of the crane system  10  may be adjustable. In this regard, the first central column  18  may be secured within the first column support  16  at various longitudinal positions to result in various lengths of the combination of the first central column  18  and the first column support  16 . Similarly, the second central column support  24  may be secured within the second column support  22  at various longitudinal positions to result in various longitudinal lengths of the combination of the second central column  24  and the second column support  22 . These adjustments to the longitudinal lengths may be used to position the track sections  34   a - b  at a desired vertical height. Various reference indicia may be placed on the first column support  16 , the first central column  18 , the second column support  22 , and the second central column support  24  to indicate the various longitudinal positions as corresponding to the vertical height of the crane system  10  or any component thereof, such as the track sections  34   a - b.  With reference to  FIG. 8 , an example of such reference indicia is depicted on the second column support  22 , and the second central column support  24 . 
     In accordance with various embodiments, the crane system  10  may further include a pair of end caps  50 ,  52 . Each end cap  50 ,  52  is sized and configured to receive a stiffener section  46  therein and a track section  34  therein. The end caps  50 ,  52  are attached to the main track  26  with the main track  26  disposed between the end caps  50 ,  52 . The end cap  50  is attached to the track end  32   a,  and the end cap  52  is attached to the track end  32   b.  The end caps  50 ,  52  are attached to the top cord stiffener  42  with the top cord stiffener  42  disposed between the end caps  50 ,  52 . The end cap  50  is attached to the stiffener end  44 a, and the end cap  52  is attached to the stiffener end  44   b.  In this regard, the end caps,  50 ,  52  are used to securely join the track end  32   a  with the stiffener end  44   a  and the track end  32   b  with the stiffener end  44   b.  The main track  26  and the top cord stiffener  42  may be press fit with end caps  50 ,  52 . 
     The crane system  10  may include the trolley  30  engaged with the main track  26 . The trolley  30  is sized and configured to traverse along the track channel  40 . The trolley  30  provides locomotion via internal wheels that make contact internally with the main track  26 . In the embodiment depicted, there is provided a trolley winch  54  as will be discussed further below. However, it is contemplated that in another embodiment the crane system  10  may further include an electric motor  56  in electrical communication with the trolley  30  for selectively traversing the trolley  30  along the track channel  40 .  FIG. 6  depicts an end cap  58  that includes an integrated electrical component, such as the electric motor  56  or power supply for powering an electric motor on-board the trolley  30  (not shown). 
     Referring additionally to  FIG. 9  there is depicted an enlarged view of the trolley winch  54  as depicted in  FIG. 8 . The crane system  10  may further include a lift cable  60  engaged with the trolley  30  and extending from the trolley  30  away from the track channel  40 . The lift cable  60  is used to support a load as required. The trolley winch  54  may be used to selective move the lift cable  60  so as to adjust the height of any attached load. The crane system  10  may further include a traverse cable  62 . In this embodiment the traverse cable  62  is engaged with the trolley winch  54  and the trolley  30  to selectively traverse the trolley  30  along the track channel  40 . 
     An elbow connector  64  may be provided to engage the end cap  52  and the second central column  24  to connect the second central column  24  to the main track  26 . A T-connector  66  may also be provided that is engaged with the end cap  50  and the first central column  18  to connect the first central column  18  to the main track  26 . Further, an end cap  68  may be provided that is also engaged with the T-connector  66  to connect crane track  28  to the main track  26  and the first central column  18 . 
     According to another aspect of the invention, there is provided a crane base support system for use with a parapet wall (not depicted) extending vertically from the floor  12 . The crane base support system includes the first base plate  14  positionable adjacent the floor  12 . The crane base support system further includes the first central column  18  extending from the first base plate  14 . The first central column  18  includes a base end  68  attached to the first base plate  14  and a crane end  70  disposed away from the first base plate  14 . The crane base support system further includes a parapet wall clamp  72  attached to and extending laterally from the first central column  18  (as depicted in  FIG. 1 ). The parapet wall clamp  72  has a jaw  74  with a jaw opening  76  facing generally towards the first base plate  14 . The jaw opening  76  is sized and configured to receive and engage the parapet wall. The crane base support system further includes the second base plate  20  positionable adjacent the floor  12 . The crane base support system further includes the second central column  24  extending from the second base plate  20 . The second central column  24  includes a base end  78  attached to the second base plate  20  and a track end  80  disposed away from the second base plate  20 . The crane base support system further includes the main track  26  disposed between the first and second central columns  18 ,  24 . The main track  26  is attached to the crane end  70  of the first central column  18  and attached to the track end  80  of the second central column  24 . 
     In accordance with various embodiments, the crane base support system may further include the elongate crane track  28  attached to the crane end  70  of the first central column  18 . This may be via the end cap  68  and T-connector  66 . The crane track  70  may extend generally in a same direction of the parapet wall clamp  72  and away from the main track  26 . The crane base support system may further include the trolley  30  engaged with the crane track  28 , and the trolley  30  may be sized and configured to traverse along the elongate crane track  28 . The parapet wall clamp  72  may include a clamp arm  82  attached to the central column  18  and disposed between the first central column  18  and the jaw  74 . The parapet wall clamp  72  may be selectively laterally positionable from the first central column  18  for adjusting a distance of the jaw  74  from the first central column  18 . The parapet wall clamp  74  may be selectively laterally positionable along the first central column  18  for adjusting a height of the jaw  74  from the floor  12 . The crane base support system may further include a counter-weight support  84  and a counter-weight  86 . The counter-weight support  84  may be removeably attached to the second base plate  20 , and the counter-weight  86  may be disposed upon the counter-weight support  84 . 
     Referring additionally to  FIG. 10 , there is depicted an exploded end view of the modular crane system  10  as depicted in  FIG. 8  (as depicted without the trolley winch  54  and cables  60 ,  62 .  FIG. 11  is an assembled view of the portion of the modular crane system  10  of  FIG. 10 . 
     The crane base support system may further include first support legs  88   a - b  each having a distal end  90  and an attachment end  92 . The attachment end  92  of each of the first support legs  88   a - b  is attached the first base plate  14  and with the distal ends  90  extendable along the floor  12  and away from the first base plate  14 . The crane base support system further includes second support legs  94   a - b  each having a distal end  96  and an attachment end  98 . The attachment end  98  of each of the second support legs  94   a - b  is attached to the second base plate  20  and with the distal ends  96  extendable along the floor  12  and away from the second base plate  20 . 
     The crane base support system  10  may include first angle braces 100   a - b  and second angle braces  102   a - b.  The first angle braces  100   a - b  are attached to the respective ones of the distal ends  90  of the first support legs  88   a - b.  The first angle braces  100   a - b  are further attached to the first central column  18 . The second angle braces  102   a - b  are attached to the respective ones of the distal ends  96  of the second support legs  94   a - b.  The second angle braces  102   a - b  are further attached to the second central column  24 . In this regard, the first support legs  88   a - b,  the corresponding first angle braces  100   a - b  and the first central column  18  form a structural triangle to rigidly extend the first support legs  88   a - b  from the first base plate  14 . Likewise, the second support legs  94   a - b,  the corresponding second angle braces  102   a - b  and the second central column  24  form a structural triangle to rigidly extend the second support legs  94   a - b  from the second base plate  20 . The crane base support system may further include casters  104   a - d  attached to the distal ends  90 ,  96  of the first and second support legs  88   a - b,    94   a - b.    
     Referring now to  FIG. 12  is an end view of the first base plate  14  and the attached first central column support  16  of  FIG. 11 .  FIG. 13  is a top view of the first base plate  14  and the central column support  16  of  FIG. 12 . According to another aspect of the invention, there is provided a repositionable crane base support system for use with the first central column  18  and anchor bolts (such as anchor bolt  106  depicted in  FIGS. 17-20 ) extending from the floor  12 . It is noted that four such anchor bolts  106  are contemplated in the embodiment disclosed herein and are disposed in a general square configuration (although only a single anchor bolt  106  is depicted). Anchor bolts  106  typically include a threaded shaft and are imbedded in a supportive surface such as a concrete floor and are used to securely attach items at such locations. As used herein the term anchor bolt is used to refer to any fastener component extending from a supportive surface. 
     The crane base support system includes the first base plate  14  and the first central column support  16  extending from the first base plate  14 . The first base plate  14  and the first central column support  16  may be integrated and formed from a continuous piece of material. However, the first base plate  14  and the first central column support  16  may be separated formed and later attached. Anchor bolt apertures  108   a - d  are formed through the first based plate  14  and distributed about the first central column support  16 . In this embodiment there are four such anchor bolt apertures  108   a - d.  Each of the anchor bolt apertures  108   a - d  correspond to a respective one of the anchor bolts  106 . It is contemplated that fewer or more may be anchor bolt apertures  108   a - d  may be used depending upon the number of anchor bolts  106  that may available and loading requirements. 
     Referring additionally to  FIG. 14 , there is depicted a top view of the first base plate  14  and the central column support  16  of  FIG. 13  with circular caps  110   a - d.    FIG. 15  is an enlarged top view of the circular cap  110   a  of  FIG. 14 , and  FIG. 16  is a side view of the circular cap  110   a  of  FIG. 15 . In this regard, the crane base support system further includes the circular caps  110   a - d.  The circular caps  110   a - d  are cooperatively sized and configured with the corresponding anchor bolt apertures  108   a - d.  The circular caps  110   a - d  are positioned within a respective one of the anchor bolt apertures  108   a - d  and rotatable therein. Each circular cap  110   a - d  includes a bolt hole  112   a - d  sized and configured to receive an anchor bolt  106  therethrough. Each bolt hole  112   a - d  is off-set from a center of each respective circular cap  110 a-d. Advantageously, it is contemplated that off-set nature of the bolt holes  112 a-d, allows for minor horizontal adjustments (x and y) to align the bolt holes  112   a - d  on an individual basis. This is significant as often the anchor bolts  106  may not be in a perfect configuration to align with any pre-fabricated bolt hole pattern. 
     In accordance with various embodiments, each circular cap 110   a - d  may include a cap body  114  extending along a cap central longitudinal axis  116 . Each bolt hole  112   a - d  is defined by a bolt hole central longitudinal axis  118  disposed parallel to and offset from the associated central cap longitudinal axis  116  (as best depicted in the top view of  FIG. 15 ). The cap body  114  may have a cap body outer surface  120  with each bolt hole  112   a - d  being non-concentrically disposed through the cap body  114  with respect to the cap body outer surface  120 . Each circular cap  110   a - d  may further include a flanged lip  122  extending radially from the cap body  114 , and each cap body  114  may be disposed in a corresponding one of the anchor bolt apertures  108   a - d.    
     Referring additionally to  FIG. 17  there is depicted a cross-sectional side view of a portion of the first base plate  14  with a circular cap  110   a  as engaged with the anchor bolt  106  and the floor  12  as secured with a nut  128  and a washer  130  according to an aspect of the present invention.  FIG. 18  depicts an exploded cross-sectional side view of  FIG. 17 . The first base plate  14  may include a base plate top side  124  and an opposing base plate bottom side  126 . Each circular cap  110   a - d  may be positionable in a corresponding one of the anchor bolt apertures  108   a - d  with the flanged lip  122  disposed against the base plate top side  124  with the first base plate  14  disposed upon the floor  12 . 
     With additional reference to  FIG. 19 , there is depicted a cross-sectional side view of the portion of the first base plate  14  with the circular cap  110   a  (as flipped over) of  FIG. 17 . 
       FIG. 20  is an exploded cross-sectional side view of  FIG. 19 . Each circular cap  110   a - d  is positionable in a corresponding one of the anchor bolt apertures  108   a - d  with the flanged lip  122  disposed against the base plate bottom side  126  with the flanged lip  122  upon the floor  12 . In this regard, the first base plate  14  may be elevated off of the floor  12  as may be required based upon the operator needs. No additional spacers are needed to facilitate such elevation because the circular caps  110   a - d  are used to engage the anchor bolts  106  regardless of whichever side the circular caps  110   a - d  are flipped. As such, the circular caps  112   a - d  may be used to effect positional adjustments in all horizontal and vertical directions. 
     While the nut  128  and the washer  130  are used in this particular embodiment with the threaded anchor bolts  106 , it is contemplated that any fastener or fastener component that are known to one of ordinary skill in the art may be used. In addition, such fasteners allow the base plate to be easily disposed in a level orientation upon a support surface. 
     Referring now to  FIG. 21  is a side view of the first base plate  14  and the attached first central column support  16  with support legs  132   a - b  according to another embodiment of the present invention.  FIG. 22  is an exploded side view of the first base plate  14 , the first central column support  16  and the support legs  132   a - b  of  FIG. 21 . Each of the support legs  132 a-b may have a distal end  134  and an attachment end  136 . The attachment end  136  of each of the support legs  132   a - b  may be attached to the first base plate  16  and with the distal ends  134  extendable along the floor  12  away from the first base plate  16 . The support legs  132   a - b  may be deployed directly upon the floor  12  and provide additional structural support as may be required beyond the attachment forces of the anchor bolts  106 . 
     With additional reference to  FIG. 23 , there is depicted a side view of the first base plate  16  and the attached central column support  18  with the support legs  132   a - b  and angle braces  138   a - b  according to another embodiment of the present invention.  FIG. 24  is an exploded side view of the first base plate  16 , the first central column support  18 , the support legs  132   a - b  and the angle braces  138   a - b  of  FIG. 23 . The crane base support system may further include the angle braces  138   a - b  corresponding to each support leg  132 a-b, each angle brace  138   a - b  is attached to the distal end  134  of the corresponding support leg  132   a - b  and the first central column support  16 . As indicated above, the first central column  18  is engaged with the first central column support  16 . In this regard, the angle braces  138  may be connected to the first central column  18  via the first central column support  16  as depicted, or connected directly (no shown). 
     Referring additionally to  FIG. 25  there is depicted a top view of the first base plate  14  and the attached central column support  16  with support legs  132   a - d.    FIG. 26  is an exploded top view of the firs base plate  14 , the first central column support  16 , and the support legs  132   a - d  of  FIG. 25 . In this regard the additional support legs  132 c-d may be added as needed. 
     According to another embodiment, the modular crane system may be reconfigured to utilize many of the same modular components as described above and provide additional crane arrangements. As an example,  FIG. 27  depicts another such crane configuration in a top view of a modular crane system according to another embodiment of the present invention. Same reference numerals are used to indicate same components as describe above. In is embodiment there is provided third and fourth base plates  140 ,  142 . The third and fourth base plates  140 ,  142  may be constructed like the first base plate  14 . There are provided third and fourth central column supports  144 ,  146  respectively extend from the third and fourth base plates  140 ,  142 . Central columns (not shown) are provided that are respectively associated with the third and fourth central column supports  144 ,  146 . Top cross bars  148   a - b  may respectively extend from each central column. A central tract connector  150  may be provided that is used to centrally connect such central columns associated with the third and fourth base plates  140 ,  142 , the main track  26 , and the crane track  28 .  FIG. 28  is top view of a central track connector  150  of the crane system of  FIG. 27 . Such a configuration is contemplated to join the main track  26  with the crane track  28  in a manner that would allow the trolley  30  to traverse between the main track  26  and the crane track  28 . 
     Referring now to  FIGS. 29-32 , there is provided a modular crane base support system  152  according to another embodiment of the present invention. Many of the same modular components as described above may be utilized in this embodiment. As such same reference numerals are used to indicate same components as describe above.  FIG. 29  depicts a side view of the modular crane base support system  152  that includes support legs  154   a - d.    FIG. 30  is a side view of the modular crane base support system  152  of  FIG. 29  with support legs  154   a - b  folded as positioned upon the floor  12  and engaged with a parapet wall  156  that extends vertically from the floor  12 .  FIG. 31  is a top view of the modular crane system  152  of  FIG. 29  the all of the support legs  154   1 -d in an extended position.  FIG. 32  is a top view of the modular crane system  152  of  FIG. 30  with two support legs  154   a - b  in a folded position. 
     The crane base support system  152  includes a base plate  158  positionable upon the floor  12 . The crane base support system  152  may further include a central column support  160  extending from the base plate  158 . The crane base support system  152  further includes a central column  162  that may be attached to and supported by the central column support  160  and may extend from the base plate  158  away from the floor  12 . The central column support  160  may be configured to rotate about its longitudinal axis. The central column support  160  may be formed of more than one segment which may rotate relative to each other. The crane base support system  152  further includes the support legs  154   a - d  each having a distal end  166  and an attachment end  168 . 
     The attachment end  168  of each of the support legs  154   a - d  is rotatably attached to the base plate  158 . The support legs  154   a - d  each have an extended position with the support legs  154   a - d  extending radially from the base plate  158  and a folded position with support legs  154   a - d  extending generally along the central column  162 . The crane base support system  152  further includes a parapet wall clamp  170  attached to and extending laterally from the central column. The crane base support system  152  may further include a crane track  164 . The base plate  158 , the central column support  160 , the central column  162 , the crane track  164 , and parapet wall clamp  170  are respectively similar to the first base plate  14 , the first central column support  16 , the first central column  18 , the crane track  28 , and parapet wall clamp  72  as discussed above. 
     The base plate  158  may have clevis attachment elements  172  generally extending from the base plate  158  in a direction of the central column  162 . Each attachment end  168  of the support legs  154   a - d  may be attached to the base plate  158  via rotational engagement with a respective one of the clevis attachment elements  172 . The central column  162  may include a base end  174  attached to the base plate  158  and a crane end  176  disposed away from the base plate  158 . The base end  174  may be secured and fixed relative to the base plate  158  and the crane end  176  may be configured to rotate about a longitudinal axis. Such rotation allows the crane swing arm capability. The crane base support system  152  may further include an elongate crane track  178  attached to the crane end  176  of the central column  162  and extending generally in a same direction of the parapet wall clamp  170  toward the parapet wall  156 . The crane base support system  152  may further include the trolley  30  (as described above) engaged with the crane track  178 . The trolley  30  may be sized and configured to traverse along the elongate crane track  178 . 
     Referring now to  FIG. 33  is a side view of the track section  34   a  of  FIG. 1  with a truss kit  180 .  FIG. 34  is a side view of the track section  34   a  and the truss kit  180  of  FIG. 33  with the truss kit  180  exploded from the track section  34 a.  FIG. 35  is an end view of the track section  34   a  and the truss kit  180  of  FIG. 33 , and  FIG. 36  is an end view of the track section  34   a  and the truss kit  180  of  FIG. 34 . The truss kit  180  may include vertical supports  182   a - c  and horizontal supports  184   a - b.  The vertical supports  182   a - c  are attached track section  34   a  and may be attached with fasteners. The vertical supports  182   a - c  are also respectively attached to the horizontal supports  184   a - b.  The vertical support  182   a  is attached to the horizontal support  184   a.  The vertical support  182   b  is attached to both the horizontal supports  184   a - b.  The vertical support  182   c  is attached the horizontal support  184   c.  The vertical supports  182   a - c  and the horizontal supports  184   a - b  are rigidly attached to each other so as to not rotate relative to each other. The vertical supports  182   a - c  are also rigidly attached to the track section  34   a  so as to not rotate relative to each other. With this configuration the attached truss kit  180  forms are truss-like construction with the track section  34   a  so as to substantially increase the lifting and supporting capacity of the track section  34   a.    
     Referring now to  FIG. 37  there is depicted a track section  186  and an end cap  188 .  FIG. 38  depicts the end cap  188  as exploded from the track section  186 . The track section  186  is similar to track section  34 , and the end cap  188  is similar to the end cap  52 , except for the differences shown and noted below. A trolley  190  may be utilized with the track section  186  which is similar to the trolley  30  described above.  FIG. 39  there is depicted an end view of the track section  186  and the trolley  190  of  FIG. 38  a seen along the axis  39 - 39  along with a hook  200  (depicted in dashed lining). The track section  186  is cooperatively sized and configured with an end cap  188  is a manner which is intended to allow the trolley  190  to traverse along the track section  186  as far as possible to the end of the track section  186  for a greater travel distance. The end cap  188  may be relatively narrow adjacent the lower portion of the track section  186  and substantially engaged with the track section  186  at the upper portion the track section where the end cap  188  does not interfere with movement of the trolley  190 . 
     Referring now to  FIG. 40  there is depicted an end view similar to the view of  FIG. 39  of a track section  194  and a trolleyl 96  according to another embodiment. The track section  194  and the trolley  196  are respectively similar to the track section  186  and the trolley  190 , except for the differences shown and noted below. The track section  194  may include and house an internal rail power supply  198 . The trolley  190  may be readily adaptable to receive power from the from the power supply  198  through a sliding direct electrical contact between the track section  194  and the trolley  196 . 
     Referring now to  FIG. 41  there is depicted an end view similar to the view of  FIG. 40  of a track section  200  and a trolley  202 . The track section  200  and the trolley  202  are respectively similar to the track section  194  and the trolley  196 , except for the differences shown and noted below. The track section  200  may include and house an internal rail power supply  204 . In this embodiment the power supply  204  is used to power the trolley  202  for moving the trolley  202  along the track section  200  in addition to also powering other onboard components as may be required. In this embodiment, the trolley  202  includes an electric motor  206  that is energized by the power supply  204 . The electric motor  206  may be mechanically connected to a gear box  208  for supplying mechanical motion to power the trolley  202 . As such, the trolley  202  and track section  200  are modular in nature allowing for non-electric operation and also being readily transformed to be electrically powered by adding components. 
     Davit and gantry designs utilize two independent operated wire ropes to accomplish lifting and lowering operations, as well as traversing of an associated trolley, such as the trolley  30  that interacts with the lift cable  60  and the traverse cable  62  described above. The lift cable  60  that is used to support a load as required, and the traverse cable  62  that is used to move the trolley  30  along the track  34 . Referring now to  FIG. 42  there is depicted trolley winch  210  that may be used alternatively to the trolley winch  54 . 
     The trolley winch  210  may include a mountable chassis  212 . In this embodiment the trolley  210  is a double-drum trolley, and the mountable chassis  212  supports a first winch drum  214  and a second winch drum  216 . The first winch drum  214  has a lift cable cylindrical surface  218 . The lift cable cylindrical surface  218  is configured to have the lift cable  60  wound about it. The second winch drum  216  has a traverse cable cylindrical surface  220 . The traverse cable cylindrical surface  220  is configured to have the traverse cable  62  wound about it. The first and second winch drums  214  and  216  are configured to rotate about a common reel axis of rotation  222 . The first winch drum  214  includes a first spline receptacle  224 . The first spline receptacle  224  includes internal longitudinal threads. Similarly, the second winch drum  216  includes a second spline receptacle  226 . The second spline receptacle  226  includes internal longitudinal threads. The trolley winch  210  further includes a center shaft  228 . The center shaft  228  and a spline support shaft  230 . The center shaft  228  extends longitudinally through the spline support shaft  230  and is support by the mountable chassis  212 . 
     The spline support shaft  230  includes a first shaft end  232  and a second shaft end  234 . The first and second shaft ends  232 ,  234  are externally longitudinally threaded. The first shaft end  232  is cooperatively formed with the first spline receptacle  224 . The first shaft end  232  may longitudinally slide within the first spline receptacle  224  while being rotationally fixed with the first spline receptacle  224  and the first winch drum  214 . The second shaft end  234  is cooperatively formed with the second spline receptacle  226 . The second shaft end  234  may longitudinally slide within the second spline receptacle  226  while being rotationally fixed with the second support cavity  226  and the second winch drum  216 . 
     The center shaft  228  is longitudinally filed relative to the mountable chassis  212 . With the selection lever  240  in the center position (“B”) (as depicted in  FIG. 42 , both the first shaft end  232  is received and engaged with the first spline receptacle  224  and the second shaft end  234  is received and engaged with the second spline receptacle  226 . This engages the first and second winch drums  214 ,  216  for simultaneous lifting/lowering and traversing functions as the lift cable  60  and the traverse cable  62  are respectively wound and unwound upon the lift cable cylindrical surface  218  and the traverse cable cylindrical surface  220 . 
     The spline support shaft  230  is adjustable in longitudinally position along the center shaft  228  (to the left and right in  FIG. 42 ). The spline support shaft  230  may include first and second flanges  236 ,  238 . A selection lever  240  extends from a collar that is disposed about the spline support shaft  230  between the first and second flanges  236 ,  238 . The first and second flanges  236 ,  238  allow the spline support shaft  230  to index with respect to the first and second winch drums  214 ,  216 . 
     The selection lever  240  may be manually pushed in the left direction (“L”) until the first shaft end  232  of the spline support shaft  230  is received and engaged with the first spline receptacle  224  and the second shaft end  234  is cleared of the second spline receptacle  226 . This engages the first winch drum  214  without engagement of the second winch drum  216  for lifting and lowering functions as the lift cable  60  is wound and unwound upon the lift cable cylindrical surface  218 . The selection lever  240  may be manually pushed in the right direction (“T”) until the second shaft end  234  of the spline support shaft  230  is received and engaged with the second spline receptacle  226  and the first shaft end  232  is cleared of the first spline receptacle  224 . This engages the second winch drum  216  without engagement of the first winch drum  214  for traversing functions as the traverse cable  62  is wound and unwound upon the traverse cable cylindrical surface  220 . 
     The drive source of the trolley winch  210  may be manual in nature. A hand crank  242  may be attached to the center shaft. The drive source may also be powered, such as via a pneumatic or electric motor. The direction of rotational motion for all functions is dependent upon the direction of travel provided the drive source. A gear reduction mechanism  244  may be incorporated with the spline support shaft  230  to provide braking or “lock out” ability of the lift and traverse functions when there is no input from the power source. A slip clutch or similar mechanism may be incorporated with the second winch drum  216  (the traversing side of the system) to allow the traversing function to cease while still allowing the lifting/lowering functions to continue. An example of this would be where the lever  240  is in the “B” position and a hard stop is reached by the trolley  30  but lifting or lower is still engaged. 
     Referring now to  FIG. 43 , there is depicted another embodiment that may include the main track  26  (including track sections  34   a,b ) and the end caps  50 ,  52  as described above.  FIG. 44  is an enlarged of a portion of  FIG. 43 , and  FIG. 45  is an exploded view of a portion of  FIG. 44 . There is provided a first column  246  with a first armature  248  and a second column  250  with a second armature  252 . The first and second columns  246 ,  250  may be adjustable in length to as to allow for changes in the vertical height of the attached first and second armatures  248 ,  252 . The track sections  34   a,b  are attached to and suspended from the first and second armatures  248 ,  252 . Further, the main track  26  may be attached to main tracks  254   a,b  which in turn are respectively attached to the first and second armatures  248 ,  252 . The main tracks  254   a,b  may be similar in construction to the main track  26 . Hanger couplings  256   a,b  are respectively used to attach the main tracks  254   a,b  to the first and second armatures  248 ,  252 . Trolleys  258   a,b  may be operated within each of the main tracks  254   a,b.  The trolleys  258   a,b  may be similar to the trolley  30 . Trolley hangers  260   a,b  may extend from each of the trolleys  258   a,b.  It is understood that additional support structures would be used to support other portions of the main tracks  254   a,b  (which would be into or out of the page in this view). With this construction, it is understood that the trolleys  258   a,b  may be used in unison to move the main track  26  (into and out of the page in this view). Advantageously this configuration allows for freedom of movement in additional horizontal directions. 
     Referring now to  FIG. 46 , there is depicted a side view of a rigid support hanger  262 .  FIG. 47  is a cross-sectional side view of the rigid support hanger  262  of  FIG. 46 . The support hanger  262  may be used to connect the main track  26  to a ceiling or a freestanding support structure. A rigid support hanger  262  includes a main rod  264 , an outer tube  266  and an inner tube  268 .  FIG. 48  is an end view of the outer tube  266  of the rigid support hanger  262 . The main rod  264  is threaded. 
     The outer tube  266  includes first end  270  with a first end opening  272  and a second end  274  with a second end opening  276 . The first end opening  272  is configured to receive the main rod  264  therethrough. The second end opening  276  is configured to receive the inner tube  266  therethrough. The inner tube  268  includes first end  278  with a first end opening  280  and a second end  282  with a second end opening  284 . The first and second end openings  280 ,  284  are configured to receive the main rod  264  therethrough. Retaining nuts  286   a,b,c  are provided that are sized and configured to engage the main rod  264 . The retaining nut  286   a  is engaged with the first end  270  at the first end opening  272 . The retainer nut  286   b  is engaged with the first end  278  at the first end opening  280 . The retaining nut  286   c  is engaged with the second end  282  at the second end opening  284 . 
     The ridge support hanger  262  incorporates a-tube-within-a-tube design such that when assembled, allows the main rod  262  to shorted or lengthen while maintaining torsional rigidity and reducing flex in the connection. The design provides a desired adjustability while at the same time eliminating the need for cross brace supports that require additional time for installation and material. Referring to  FIG. 49  there is provided a main rod  288  that is substantially longer in length than the main rod  264 .  FIG. 50  is a cross-sectional side view of the rigid support hanger  262  of  FIG. 49 . The main rod  288  may be used with the inner and outer tubes  266 ,  288  and the retaining nuts  286   a,b,c.    
     Referring now to  FIG. 51  there is depicted a symbolic view of an overhead modular crane system  290  according to an aspect of the present invention. The crane system  290  may utilize any of those components of the crane system  10  described above in its various embodiments. It is contemplated that various supports  292  of a common size may be used to support and brace various overhead components of the crane system  290 . 
     The particulars shown herein are by way of example only for purposes of illustrative discussion and are presented in the cause of providing what is believed to be the most useful and readily understood description of the principles and conceptual aspects of the various embodiments set forth in the present disclosure. In this regard, no attempt is made to show any more detail than is necessary for a fundamental understanding of the different features of the various embodiments, the description taken with the drawings making apparent to those skilled in the art how these may be implemented in practice.