Patent Description:
The operation of cranes can be a complex and challenging task. Especially, when the operator has to avoid collision with objects that are difficult to strike during movement of the lifting system of the crane. Nowadays, manual control of the lifting structures is applied per default. Accordingly, control of a crane requires full attention of the operator throughout all steps of the lifting tasks.

<CIT> discloses a crane and a method of controlling a crane that comprises a lift system configured to be arranged in a plurality of configurations. The lifting system comprises a plurality of structures that are movably arranged relative to each other and actuator adapted to move the structures relative to each other.

In order to assist the operator and ease the operation of the crane, it would be desirable to provide a method and a crane that allows certain crane tasks to be carried out automatically by the crane.

<CIT> discloses a method for controlling a lorry crane according to the preamble of claim <NUM>. The crane controller is configured to be operated in a first operating mode in which the crane can be freely operated by a user using control commands and in a second operating mode that can be activated by the user, in which the crane geometry is performed in a predetermined sequence of movements by the crane control is changeable. This solution, however, only provides a single fixed path determined at a single fixed initial position.

<CIT> discloses an automatic control system for a telescopic boom. This solution, however, only provides a fixed path determined on the basis of manually selected starting position and a manually selected ending position.

Accordingly, it is desirable to be able to provide an improved controller and a method for controlling a crane in a more sophisticated manner.

Thus, it is an object of the present invention to provide a method and a crane that allows certain crane tasks to be carried out by the crane automatically in a more sophisticated manner.

The object of the present invention can be achieved by a method as defined in claim <NUM> and by a crane having the features as defined in claim <NUM>.

Preferred embodiments are defined in the dependent subclaims, explained in the following description and illustrated in the accompanying drawings.

The method according to the invention is a method for controlling a lorry crane, having a lifting system configured to be arranged in a plurality of configurations, wherein the lifting system comprises a plurality of structures moveably arranged relative to each other and one or more actuators arranged to move the structures relative to each other, wherein the method comprises the following steps:.

wherein the method comprises the step of detecting the length of a structure of the lifting system and/or an angular position of a structure of the lifting system, wherein the control unit applies the length of a structure and/or the angular position a structure to calculate a path, through which path the control unit brings the lifting system from the first configuration into the second configuration by using one or more actuators, wherein the path is determined continuously during the operation of the lifting system, wherein the method comprises the step of keeping the structures in positions, in which the distance between the structures and one or more zones and/or positions is larger than a predefined length.

Hereby, it is possible to bring the lifting system of the crane automatically from the first configuration to the second configuration without any action required from the operator in a more sophisticated manner. The method is capable of continuously determining the most optimum path and automatically operate the crane accordingly. Moreover, the method makes it possible to operate a crane in a safer manner.

The lifting system comprises a plurality of structures moveably arranged relative to each other. These structures may be a crane base, a column being rotatably attached to the crane base, a jib comprising a number of booms. In a preferred embodiment, the structures may comprise a plurality of booms displaceable arranged with respect to each other. The plurality of booms may preferably be arranged in a telescopical manner with respect to each other.

The lifting system comprises one or more actuators arranged to move the structures relative to each other. The actuators may be of any suitable size and type. In a preferred embodiment, the actuators are formed as hydraulic cylinders.

The method comprises the step of selecting a first configuration by means of a control system comprising an operable control unit.

The method comprises the step of selecting a second configuration by means of the control unit.

The first configuration and/or the second configuration may e.g. be selected from a predefined list or may be selected by any indication means e.g. by pointing out a position on a map on a user interface (e.g. a display). The first and/or second configurations may be positions (e.g. lifting positions of a load), it may alternatively be a configuration of a boom/crane arm such as an un-folded configuration of the boom/crane arm or a folded configuration of the boom/crane arm.

The method comprises the step of activating the control unit to automatically bringing the lifting system from the first configuration into the second configuration by using one or more actuators.

It may be an advantage that the first configuration and/or the second configuration is a position of a load being carried by the crane or a position of a structure of the lifting system. This means that the first configuration and/or the second configuration can be defined by the position, at which a load carried by the crane or to be carried by the crane is located.

It may be beneficial that the first configuration and/or the second configuration are selected from a list being visibly available on a user interface. Hereby, the operator can easily select among predefined configurations. The list may include numbers and/or other text or symbols.

In one embodiment, one configuration may be the lifting system in a folded configuration, in which the lifting system takes up less space than during lifting tasks.

In another embodiment, one configuration may be the lifting system in an un-folded configuration, in which the lifting system is ready to lift a load (e.g. from a first position to another position).

It may be advantageous that the method comprises the step of selecting the first configuration and/or the second configuration by indicating a position in a map displayed on a user interface or by using an external transmitter unit. Hereby, the selecting process is eased in a user-friendly manner. Furthermore, in some applications it allows the operator to get an overview over the surrounding.

The method comprises the step of keeping the structures in positions, in which the distance between the structures and one or more zones and/or positions is larger than a predefined length. Hereby, it is possible to avoid collision between the lifting system and objects positioned in said zones or positions. Accordingly, the invention ensures that fragile objects are protected from impacts and contact with the lifting system. This is of major importance if a lorry crane carries fragile cargo that is not resistant to collision with the lifting system of the crane.

The method is furthermore capable of protecting moving objects. The position of moving objects (e.g. a human, an animal or a vehicle) may be detected by any suitable detection units, e.g. visual sensors (e.g. cameras).

It may be an advantage that the method comprises the step of automatically stopping the actuators when the distance between the structures and the one or more zones and/or positions is equal to or smaller than the predefined length. Hereby, it is possible to control the crane in a safe manner, in which collision with objects can be prevented. It is by way of example possible to predefine the cab of a lorry to be a "safe zone", wherein the lifting system is required to be provided within a predefined minimum distance to the safe zone.

It may be beneficial that the method comprises the step of automatically reducing the rotational and/or linear speed of one or more of the structures of the lifting system when the distance between the structures and the one or more zones and/or positions is equal to or smaller than the predefined length. Reducing the speed may be accomplished by controlling one or more of the actuators. Hereby, it is possible to control the crane in an even more safe manner, because the speed of structures of the lifting system can be reduced when the structures approach predefined positions or zones.

It may be advantageous that the method comprises the step of detecting one or more zones and/or positions by using one or more sensors.

It may be beneficial that the zones and/or positions are predefined or are set by default or set by the user/operator of the crane.

It may be advantageous that the one or the one or more sensors is a camera, an ultrasonic sensor, a proximity sensor or an optic distance sensor.

By using one or more cameras, it is possible to visually detect e.g. moving objects and optionally carry out processing in order to determine if the object is a critical object so that the lifting system should be stopped or if the moving object is out of the critical range of the lifting system (e.g. a dog running away from the crane). It may be an advantage that the method comprises the step of carrying out calculations in order to recognise one or more detected objects in order to make decisions according to a predefined scheme.

By using an ultrasonic sensor, it is possible to detect the distance to one or more objects.

By using a proximity sensor, it is possible to detect if an object is within a predefined range from a predefined area (e.g. a structure of the lifting system).

By using an optic distance sensor, it is possible to detect one or more distances optically.

It may be an advantage that the control unit comprises an object recognition unit configured to recognise one or more objects of predefined size and/or geometry and/or speed based on data provided by means of a camera. Hereby, it is possible to recognise one or more objects and take this into account e.g. in order to stop the movement of the lifting system or to move the lifting system away from the object in order to avoid collision. The objects may be moving objects such as a human or an animal. The objects may also be a vehicle such as a car, a bicycle or a motorcycle.

The method comprises the step of detecting the length of a structure of the lifting system and/or an angular position of a structure of the lifting system, wherein the control unit applies the length of a structure and/or the angular position of a structure to calculate a path, through which path the control unit brings the lifting system from the first configuration into the second configuration by using one or more actuators. Due to the constrains in the lifting system, detection of the length and angles of the structures of the lifting system will provide information sufficient to calculate one or more possible paths through which the lifting system can be brought from the first configuration into the second configuration by using one or more actuators.

The term "angular position" may include an angle between adjacent structures or an angle of a structure relative to a predefined orientation (e.g. vertical or horizontal).

It may be an advantage that the method comprises the step of regulating the speed (translation and rotation) of the structures in dependency of the distance between the structures and the one or more zones and/or positions.

The crane according to the invention is a lorry crane that comprises a lifting system configured to be arranged in a plurality of configurations, wherein the lifting system comprises:.

wherein the crane comprises a control system comprising an operable control unit configured to:.

Hereby, it is possible to bring the lifting system of the crane automatically from the first configuration to the second configuration without any action required from the operator in a safer manner. The crane is capable of continuously determining the most optimum path and automatically operate the crane accordingly.

The lifting system comprises a plurality of structures moveably arranged relative to each other. These structures may be a crane base, a column being rotatably attached to the crane base, a jib comprising a number of booms. In a preferred embodiment, the structures may comprise a plurality of booms displaceably arranged with respect to each other. The plurality of booms may preferably be arranged in a telescopically manner with respect to each other.

The control unit enables the operator to select a first configuration by means of the control system comprising the operable control unit.

It may be beneficial that the first configuration and/or the second configuration are selected from a list being visibly available on a user interface. Hereby, the operator can easily select among predefined configurations.

It may be an advantage that the first configuration and/or the second configuration is a position of a load being carried by the crane or a position of a structure of the lifting system. The position may be defined in any suitable coordinate system, e.g. a Cartesian coordinate system, a spherical coordinate system or a polar coordinate system.

It may be advantageous that the crane comprises a user interface, by which it is possible to select the first configuration and/or the second configuration. The use of a user interface makes it easier for the operator to select the configurations.

In one embodiment, the user interface is configured to allow the user to select a first configuration and a second configuration and a third configuration (that may correspond to the first configuration).

It may be an advantage that the crane comprises a user interface configured to visually display a map, by which it is possible to select the first configuration and/or the second configuration. Hereby, it is possible to make the crane user-friendly. The map may be a one-dimensional map or preferably a two-dimensional map or a three-dimensional map.

It may be an advantage that the control system comprises one or more sensors arranged and configured to detect the distance between the structures and one or more zones and/or positions. Hereby, the distance between the structures and one or more zones and/or positions can be detected.

It may be beneficial that the control system is configured to detect when the distance between the structures and the one or more zones and/or positions is larger than a predefined length.

It may be an advantage that the control unit is configured to automatically stop the actuators when the distance between the structures and one or more zones and/or positions is equal to or smaller than the predefined length. Hereby, the crane can carry out movements of the lifting system and automatically avoid collisions with predefined objects positioned in predefined positions or zones.

The zones and/or positions may be predefined if they are set by default or set by the user/operator of the crane.

The one or the one or more sensors may be a camera, an ultrasonic sensor, a proximity sensor or an optic distance sensor.

It may be advantageous that the control unit comprises an object recognition unit configured to recognise one or more objects of predefined size and/or geometry and/or speed based on data provided by means of a camera. The object recognition unit may comprise a computer-implemented system that may be configurable.

The objects may be moving objects such as a human, an animal or a vehicle.

The control unit is configured to detect the length of a structure of the lifting system and/or an angular position of a structure of the lifting system by means of one or more sensors, wherein the control unit is configured to apply the length of a structure and/or the angular position of a structure to calculate a path, through which the control unit brings the lifting system from the first configuration into the second configuration by using one or more actuators. Hereby, the sensors can provide information sufficient to make sure that all positions of the lifting system are known. Put in other words, the position of the lifting system will be known on a continuous basis.

The path is determined continuously during the operation of the lifting system. Hereby, it is possible to change the path if this is suitable, e.g. if a moving object is determined or if the control unit determines that another path is desirable. It may be an advantage that the control unit is configured to on a continuous basis look for the most optimum path based on at least one predefined criterion.

The sensors for detecting the length of a structure of the lifting system and/or an angular position of a structure of the lifting system may be any suitable type of sensors including angle sensors and distance sensors.

The term "angular position" may include the angle between adjacent structures and the angle of a structure relative of a predefined orientation (e.g. a vertical or a horizontal axis).

It may be an advantage that the crane is configured to regulate the speed (translation and rotation) of the structures in dependency of the distance between the structures and the one or more zones and/or positions. This may be done by using the control unit of the crane.

A system according to the invention comprises a lorry crane, an external transmitter unit and a receiving unit, wherein the transmitter unit is configured to transmit its position information to the receiving unit.

Hereby, the external transmitter unit can be positioned in a desirable position (e.g. on the ground at an area in which a cargo has to be delivered) and the position of the external transmitter unit can be detected by the receiving unit so that the position of the external transmitter unit can be used as a setting in the control unit. Accordingly, the crane can deliver the cargo in the right position by selecting the said position as the "second configuration of the lifting system".

In one embodiment, the crane comprises a control unit configured to control the lifting system of the crane in such a manner that the crane can perform an automatic loading process that includes loading of a plurality of objects/loads into a predefined area.

In one embodiment, the crane comprises a control unit configured to control the lifting system of the crane in such a manner that the crane can load a truck bed with objects/loads from a stockpile (e.g. on the ground).

In another embodiment, the crane comprises a control unit configured to control the lifting system of the crane in such a manner that the crane can unload a truck bed and place the objects/loads from the truck bed to a predefined area (e.g. a stockpile on the ground).

In one embodiment, the crane comprises a user interface configured to display a setup that allows the operator to select and perform an automatic loading process.

It may be an advantage that the crane comprises visual detection units (e.g. cameras and/or distance censors) arranged and configured to detect the position and/or orientation of objects/loads to be loaded and/or unloaded (e.g. to a truck bed of a lorry crane). Hereby, it is possible to automatically position the lifting system of the crane in the correct position in order to lift the objects/loads (e.g. pallets) from their initial position (e.g. in a stockpile). This may be visually illustrated by using a user interface.

It may be beneficial that the crane comprises visual detection units (e.g. cameras and/or distance censors) that are arranged and configured to detect the position and/or orientation of receiving areas (e.g. of the truck bed or an area on the ground). It is preferred that the crane comprises a control unit configured to receive and determine the position of receiving areas.

The position of receiving areas may be determined on the basis of knowledge of the size and geometry of the objects/loads and area into which the objects/loads have to be placed.

It may be beneficial that the crane comprises a user interface configured to allow the user to select the size and/or geometry of the objects/loads to be carried, so that the control unit can process this information in order to calculate the size and position of the receiving areas.

The invention will become more fully understood from the detailed description given herein below. The accompanying drawings are given by way of illustration only, and thus, they are not limitative of the present invention. In the accompanying drawings:.

Referring now in detail to the drawings for the purpose of illustrating preferred embodiments of the present invention, a crane <NUM> of the present invention is illustrated in <FIG>.

<FIG> illustrates a side view of a crane <NUM> according to the invention comprising a lifting system <NUM> arranged in a first configuration I. <FIG> illustrates a side view of the crane <NUM> shown in <FIG>, wherein the lifting system <NUM> is arranged in a second configuration II, whereas <FIG> illustrates a side view of the crane <NUM> shown in <FIG>, wherein the lifting system <NUM> is arranged in a third configuration III.

The crane <NUM> is arranged on a lorry comprising a cab <NUM> and a truck bed configured to receive and transport objects as the load <NUM> that is arranged on the cargo <NUM> positioned in the rear side of the truck bed. A fragile member <NUM> is arranged in the central portion of the track bed of the lorry. In <FIG>, a zone Z<NUM> showing an area within a predefined distance to the fragile member <NUM> is indicated. The distance D<NUM> from the lifting system <NUM> to the zone Z<NUM> is shown. In a preferred embodiment, the invention makes it possible to define the zone Z<NUM> in such a manner that the structures of the lifting system <NUM> are kept in positions, in which the distance D<NUM> between the structures and the zone Z<NUM> is larger than a predefined length L<NUM>. The lorry is arranged on the ground G by means of its ground-engaging wheels <NUM>.

The crane <NUM> comprises a lifting system <NUM> arranged in a first configuration. The lifting system <NUM> comprises a crane base <NUM> fixed to the truck bed, a column <NUM> protruding from the crane base <NUM> and a jib <NUM> rotatably attached to the column <NUM>.

The lifting system <NUM> comprises an actuator (a hydraulic cylinder) <NUM> arranged and configured to rotate the jib <NUM> relative to the column <NUM>. The jib <NUM> comprises a plurality of telescopic displaceable booms sections <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>", <NUM>"', <NUM>"". The telescopic displaceable booms sections <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>", <NUM>"', 8ʺʺ are arranged to be displaced relative to each other by means of hydraulic actuators <NUM> extending along the longitudinal axis of the booms sections <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>", <NUM>"', <NUM>"". A hook <NUM> is arranged at the distal end of the distal boom section <NUM>"". In <FIG>, the hook <NUM> holds a sling <NUM> fixed to the load <NUM>. The crane <NUM> moves the load <NUM> from its initial position on the top of the cargo <NUM> (see <FIG>) to the ground G (see <FIG>).

In <FIG>, the lifting system is arranged in a folded configuration. In <FIG>, the lifting system <NUM> has been partly unfolded and the hydraulic actuator <NUM> has increased the angle between the column <NUM> and the jib <NUM>. Moreover, the boom of the jib <NUM> has been partly extended in order to align the hook <NUM> at the top of the sling <NUM>. In <FIG>, the jib <NUM> has been extended further by means of the hydraulic actuators <NUM>. Furthermore, the angle between the column <NUM> and the jib <NUM> has been decreased by using the hydraulic actuator <NUM>.

The crane <NUM> according to the invention is configured to control and bring the lifting system <NUM> from a first configuration to a second configuration. This is accomplished by selecting a first configuration and a second configuration by means of a control system comprising an operable control unit (see <FIG>, <FIG>, <FIG>). The control unit is configured to initiate that the actuators <NUM>, <NUM> brings the lifting system <NUM> from the first configuration (e.g. the figuration arranged in <FIG>) into the second configuration (e.g. the figuration arranged in <FIG>) by using one or more of the actuators <NUM>, <NUM>. This means that the operator can bring the lifting system <NUM> from the first configuration to the second configuration automatically without any manual input required. In one embodiment, the crane is configured to bring the lifting system <NUM> from an un-folded configuration (as shown in <FIG>) to a predefined second configuration. In another embodiment, the crane is configured to bring the lifting system <NUM> from a first configuration to the un-folded configuration (as shown in <FIG>).

In a preferred embodiment, the crane <NUM> is configured to bring the lifting system <NUM> from a first selected configuration to a second selected configuration in a manner in which the lifting system <NUM> avoids collision with one or more predefined areas or objects (e.g. the fragile member <NUM>). In a preferred embodiment, the crane <NUM> comprises a control unit configured to select one or more areas or objects that the lifting system <NUM> and the load <NUM> carried by it should be kept in a distance from (in order to prevent collision).

<FIG> illustrates a view of a crane <NUM> according to the invention having a lifting system <NUM> arranged in a first configuration I. <FIG> illustrates a side view of the crane <NUM> shown in <FIG>, wherein the lifting system <NUM> is arranged in a second configuration II. <FIG> illustrates a side view of the crane <NUM> shown in <FIG>, wherein the lifting system <NUM> is arranged in a third configuration III.

The crane <NUM> is mounted on the rear side of a lorry having a cab <NUM>. A zone Z<NUM> surrounding the cab <NUM> is indicated. The zone Z<NUM> represents a safety zone, from which the lifting system <NUM> should be kept in a distance exceeding a predefined level so that collision with the cab <NUM> can be avoided. A zone Z<NUM> surrounding a fragile member <NUM> arranged on the truck bed is indicated. This zone Z<NUM> represents an area, from which the lifting system <NUM> should be kept in a distance exceeding a predefined level so that collision with the fragile member <NUM> can be avoided. The crane <NUM> comprises a control system (not show) comprising an operable control unit (not shown), by which it is possible to define the position and extension (volume or area) of the zones Z<NUM>, Z<NUM>. The control unit further is configured to be used to define one or more predefined lengths, wherein the control unit controls the actuators <NUM>, <NUM> in a manner, in which the structures of the lifting system <NUM> are kept in positions in which the distance between said structures and the zones Z<NUM>, Z<NUM> is larger than the predefined length(s). Hereby, it is possible to avoid collision between the lifting system <NUM> and objects <NUM>, <NUM> positioned in said zones Z<NUM>, Z<NUM>. Accordingly, the crane <NUM> ensures that fragile objects <NUM>, <NUM> are protected from impacts and contact with the structures of the lifting system <NUM>. The crane <NUM> comprises outrigger legs <NUM>, <NUM>' arranged to increase the stability (and decrease the risk for tipping) of the crane <NUM>.

The crane <NUM> comprises a lifting system <NUM> configured to be arranged in a plurality of configurations I, II, III. The lifting system <NUM> comprises a plurality of structures: a base <NUM>, a column <NUM> and a jib <NUM> comprising a plurality of slidably arranged booms <NUM>, <NUM>', <NUM>", <NUM>"'. The structures are moveably arranged relative to each other by means of actuators <NUM>, <NUM> arranged to move the structures relative to each other. The crane <NUM> is configured to select a first configuration I by means of the control system comprising the operable control unit, select a second configuration II by means of the control unit and activate the control unit to automatically bring the lifting system <NUM> from the first configuration I into the second configuration II or from the second configuration II to the third configuration III by using the actuators <NUM>, <NUM>. Thus, the crane <NUM> makes it possible for the operator to let the crane <NUM> carry out selected crane tasks automatically.

<FIG> illustrates a view of a portion of a crane <NUM> according to the invention having a lifting system <NUM> arranged in a first configuration I. <FIG> illustrates a side view of the crane <NUM> shown in <FIG>, wherein the lifting system <NUM> is arranged in a second configuration II. <FIG> illustrates a side view of the crane <NUM> shown in <FIG>, wherein the lifting system <NUM> is arranged in a third configuration III and <FIG> illustrates a side view of the crane <NUM> shown in <FIG>, wherein the lifting system <NUM> is arranged in a fourth configuration IV.

The crane <NUM> is brought from an unfolded configuration I into a folded configuration IV during the steps shown in <FIG>. The crane <NUM> comprises a lifting system comprising a jib <NUM> rotatably attached to a column <NUM> that is rotatably attached to a crane base <NUM>. The crane <NUM> comprises actuators <NUM>, <NUM>', <NUM> arranged and configured to move structures of the lifting system <NUM> relative to each other. A hook <NUM> is arranged in the distal end of the outermost boom of the jib <NUM>.

In a preferred embodiment, the crane <NUM> and method for controlling the crane <NUM> is configured to bring the lifting system <NUM> into the folded configuration IV shown in <FIG>. This may be done when the lifting system <NUM> is arranged in the first configuration I as shown in <FIG>, when the lifting system <NUM> is arranged in the second configuration II as shown in <FIG> or when the lifting system <NUM> is arranged in the third configuration III as shown in <FIG>. Hereby, the operator can automatically (without any required operator control action) bring the lifting system <NUM> into the folded configuration IV shown in <FIG> in a simple and user-friendly manner. Besides, collision with objects can automatically be avoided.

The crane <NUM> and the method for controlling the crane <NUM> may preferably be configured to automatically bring the lifting system <NUM> from into any of the configurations I, II, III, IV to any of the configurations I, II, III, IV shown in <FIG>.

<FIG> illustrates a view of a lifting system <NUM> of a crane <NUM> according to the invention and a moving object <NUM> passing by. The moving object is a running man <NUM>. The lifting system <NUM> of the crane <NUM> comprises a jib <NUM> comprising booms slidably arranged with respect to each other. The jib <NUM> is rotatably attached to a column <NUM>. The lifting system <NUM> comprises a number of actuators <NUM>, <NUM> arranged and configured to move structures of the lifting system <NUM> relative to each other.

A plurality of cameras <NUM>, <NUM>', <NUM>", <NUM>‴ are provided on the jib <NUM>. The cameras <NUM>, <NUM>', <NUM>", <NUM>‴ are arranged and configured to visually detect objects such as the running man <NUM>. In a preferred embodiment, the crane <NUM> comprises a control unit (not shown) comprising an object recognition unit (not shown) configured to recognise one or more objects <NUM> of predefined size and/or geometry and/or speed based on data provided by means of one or more of the cameras <NUM>, <NUM>', <NUM>", <NUM>'". Accordingly, it may be predefined that objects having a volume that exceeds a certain size (e.g. <NUM>, <NUM> or more) should cause the actuators to stop or move the structures of the lifting system in another direction in order to avoid collision with the object, if these objects are in predefined distance from the structures of the lifting system <NUM>. Furthermore, it may be predefined that objects moving with a speed exceeding a predefined level should cause the actuators to stop or move the structures of the lifting system <NUM> in another direction in order to avoid collision with the object.

In a preferred embodiment, the crane <NUM> comprises a control unit configured to stop or move the structures of the lifting system <NUM> in another direction in order to avoid collision with the object <NUM> by using the actuators <NUM>, <NUM>, if the distance D<NUM> between a structure of the lifting system <NUM> or a load <NUM> carried by the lifting system <NUM> is equal to or below a predefined length L<NUM> as illustrated. Hereby, it is possible to avoid collision with the object <NUM>.

The first camera <NUM> arranged in the distal end of the jib <NUM> receives detected signals <NUM> indicated with dotted lines. Likewise, two of the other cameras <NUM>", <NUM>‴ receives detected signals <NUM>", <NUM>"'.

<FIG> illustrates a crane <NUM> according to the invention and a transmitter unit <NUM> used to detect the position, in which a load <NUM> has to be positioned. The crane <NUM> comprises a front-mounted lifting system <NUM> provided on a lorry comprising wheels <NUM> arranged on the ground. The crane <NUM> comprises a lifting system <NUM> comprising a crane base <NUM>, a column <NUM> rotatably attached to the crane base <NUM> and a jib <NUM> rotatably attached to the column <NUM>. The jib <NUM> comprises a plurality of booms telescopically arranged with respect to each other. The lifting system <NUM> comprises a hydraulic actuator <NUM> arranged to rotate the jib <NUM> relative to the column <NUM> and another actuator <NUM>' arranged to rotate structures of the jib <NUM> relative to each other. The jib <NUM> moreover comprises a hydraulic actuator <NUM> arranged to displace the telescopically arranged booms with respect to each other.

The lorry comprises a cab <NUM> that may be selected as a safe zone as default in a preferred embodiment in order to avoid collision of the lifting structure <NUM> and loads <NUM> carried by the lifting structure <NUM> with the cab <NUM>.

The jib <NUM> comprises a hook <NUM> mounted in its distal end. The hook <NUM> carries a load <NUM>. The transmitter unit <NUM> is arranged at the end of a rod. The transmitter unit <NUM> transmits signals that are received by a receiving unit <NUM> connected to the control unit <NUM> of the crane <NUM>. Accordingly, the transmitter unit <NUM> can be used to determine the position of the transmitter unit <NUM> in order to select the place of delivery. By using the control unit, it is possible to deliver the load <NUM> in the position marked by means of the transmitter unit <NUM>.

<FIG> illustrates a schematic top view of a crane <NUM> according to the invention having a front end mounted lifting system <NUM>, wherein <FIG> illustrates a schematic top view of a crane <NUM> according to the invention having a front end mounted lifting system <NUM>. Both the crane <NUM> shown in <FIG> and in <FIG> is mounted on a lorry having ground-engaging wheels <NUM> and outrigger legs <NUM>, <NUM>', <NUM>, <NUM>'. The lifting system <NUM> comprises a jib <NUM> rotatably attached to a column.

In <FIG>, a first zone Z<NUM> is indicated. It can be seen that when the jib <NUM> is moved from the first configuration I to the second configuration II, the jib <NUM> is moved in a path P<NUM> indicated by a dotted line. In the first configuration II, the distance D<NUM> between the lifting system <NUM> (the distal portion of the jib <NUM>) and the zone Z<NUM> is indicated. As this distance D<NUM> is larger than the required minimum length L<NUM> between the lifting system and the zone Z<NUM>, movement of the jib <NUM> along the shown path P<NUM> will not cause the control unit to stop the actuators causing the movement. However, if the distance D<NUM> would be equal to or smaller than the required minimum length L<NUM>, the control unit of the crane would stop the actuator(s) (not shown) or cause the actuator(s) to reverse the motion. The distance D<NUM> may be detected by using any suitable means, e.g. by using sensors detecting the position and/or angle of the structures of the lifting system <NUM> including the jib <NUM> and/or sensors configured to determine the position of the zone Z<NUM>.

In <FIG>, a second zone Z<NUM> is illustrated. It can be seen that when the jib <NUM> is moved from the first configuration I to the second configuration II, the jib <NUM> is moved in a path P<NUM> indicated by a dotted line. In the first configuration II, the distance D<NUM> between the lifting system <NUM> (the distal portion of the jib <NUM>) and the zone Z<NUM> is indicated. As this distance D<NUM> is larger than the required minimum length L<NUM> between the lifting system and the zone Z<NUM>, movement of the jib <NUM> along the shown path P<NUM> will not cause the control unit (not shown) to stop the actuators (not shown) causing the movement.

<FIG> illustrates a view of a display of a user interface <NUM> according to the invention, whereas <FIG> illustrates a view of a display of another user interface <NUM> according to the invention.

The user interface <NUM> shown in <FIG> comprises a left column, from which the operator can select a start position (configuration I). The user interface <NUM> shown in <FIG> moreover comprises a right column, from which the operator can select an end position (configuration II). The operator has selected "Position B36" as the first configuration I. "Position B36" may be a default start position or configuration. The operator has selected "Position E12" as the second configuration II. "Position E12" may be a default end position or configuration.

In <FIG>, the user interface <NUM> shows a map with a crane <NUM> positioned on the street next to a building <NUM>. The operator can select the start configuration I and the end configuration II by using the user interface <NUM>. It can be seen that the operator has selected an end configuration II on the flagstones outside the building <NUM>. Accordingly, the crane <NUM> enables the operator to bring the load <NUM> carried by the jib of the crane <NUM> to move into a position in which the load <NUM> is delivered on the selected position (configuration II).

The user interface <NUM> shown in <FIG> and in <FIG> comprises a start button <NUM>, a pause button <NUM>' and a stop button <NUM>", that the operator can apply if desired. In a preferred embodiment, the use of any of these buttons <NUM>, <NUM>', <NUM>" will "over rule" the control unit.

<FIG> illustrates an operator <NUM> applying a user interface <NUM> according to the invention to control a crane <NUM> according to the invention. The crane <NUM> comprises a lifting system <NUM> comprising a column <NUM> and a jib <NUM> moveably attached to said column <NUM>. The jib <NUM> comprises a displaceably mounted boom section <NUM>. The lifting system <NUM> comprises actuators <NUM>, <NUM>', <NUM> arranged and configured to move structures of the lifting system <NUM> relative to each other.

By using the user interface <NUM>, the operator <NUM> is capable of selecting a first configuration (start configuration of the crane <NUM>) and a second configuration (end configuration of the crane <NUM>) and initiate a control system (not shown) of the crane <NUM> to bring the lifting system <NUM> of the crane <NUM> from the first configuration to the second configuration. A hook <NUM> arranged in the distal end of the boom section <NUM> is attached to the sling of a load <NUM>. The load <NUM> is arranged in a distance D<NUM> from a zone Z<NUM> surrounding a lamp that is fragile and thus cannot be brought into contact with either the load <NUM> or the lifting system <NUM>. A predefined minimum "allowable" length L2 is indicated. The crane <NUM> is configured to prevent that the load <NUM> or the lifting system is brought into a distance D<NUM> that is equal to or shorter than L<NUM>. Accordingly, collision with the lamp can be avoided.

<FIG> illustrates a view of a crane <NUM> according to the invention having a lifting system <NUM> arranged in a first configuration I, whereas <FIG> illustrates a view of the crane <NUM> shown in <FIG>, wherein the lifting system <NUM> is arranged in another configuration II.

The crane <NUM> comprises a lifting system <NUM> comprising a crane base <NUM> and a column <NUM> rotatably attached thereto. A jib <NUM> is moveably attached to the column <NUM>. The jib <NUM> comprises displaceably mounted boom sections <NUM>, <NUM>'. The lifting system <NUM> comprises actuators <NUM> arranged and configured to move structures of the lifting system <NUM> relative to each other. A hook <NUM> is arranged in the distal end of the outermost boom section <NUM>'. A load <NUM> is carried by the crane <NUM>. The load <NUM> is attached to the hook <NUM>.

The crane <NUM> comprises a cab <NUM> that may be defined as a zone from which the lifting system <NUM> and the load <NUM> carried by the lifting system <NUM> should be kept within a distance exceeding a predefined minimum level. The crane <NUM> is mounted in the front end of a truck bed of a lorry having wheels engaging the ground G.

The crane <NUM> comprises a control unit <NUM> configured to receive control signals transmitted by a user interface <NUM> handled by an operator <NUM>. Hereby, the operator <NUM> can control the crane <NUM> by selecting a start configuration I and an end configuration II and make the crane <NUM> move the load <NUM> from the position shown in <FIG> to the position shown in <FIG>.

<FIG> illustrates a view of a crane <NUM> according to the invention performing an automatic lifting task comprising the step of loading the truck bed <NUM> of a lorry. <FIG> illustrates the crane <NUM> shown in <FIG>, wherein the truck bed <NUM> has almost been loaded. The crane <NUM> basically corresponds to the crane explained with reference to <FIG>, however, the hook has been replaced by a fork <NUM> arranged to lift pallets <NUM>' and load the truck bed <NUM> of the lorry. In <FIG>, the pallets <NUM>' are arranged in a stockpile <NUM> on the ground G next to the lorry. In <FIG>, a plurality of the pallets <NUM>' have been moved from the stockpile <NUM> and are arranged on the truck bed <NUM> of the lorry.

<FIG> illustrates a view of a display of a user interface <NUM> according to the invention, wherein the user interface <NUM> allows the operator to select and perform an automatic loading process. <FIG> illustrates a view of the user interface <NUM> shown in <FIG>, when the loading process has been accomplished.

The loading process includes loading pallets <NUM>'. The pallets may by way of example contain a building material roof tile, bricks, flagstone. In case the size and geometry of the pallets is predetermined, it is possible to forecast where to arrange the pallets on the truck bed <NUM>. Accordingly, it is possible to carry out an automatic loading process.

In a preferred embodiment, the crane <NUM> comprises visual detection units (e.g. cameras and/or distance censors) arranged and configured to detect the position and/or orientation of the pallets <NUM>' to be loaded on the truck bed <NUM>. Hereby, it is possible to automatically position the lifting system of the crane <NUM> in the correct position in order to lift the pallets from their initial position in a stockpile <NUM> as indicated in the user interface <NUM>. Moreover, it is preferred that the visual detection units (e.g. cameras and/or distance censors) are arranged and configured to detect the position and/or orientation of receiving areas <NUM>, <NUM>', <NUM>" on the truck bed <NUM>. It is preferred that the crane <NUM> comprises a control unit configured to receive and determine the position of receiving areas <NUM>, <NUM>', <NUM>" of the truck bed <NUM>. The position of receiving areas <NUM>, <NUM>', <NUM>" of the truck bed <NUM> may be determined on the basis of knowledge of the size and geometry of the pallets <NUM>' and the truck bed <NUM>. In <FIG>, it can be seen that the truck bed <NUM> is divided into <NUM> receiving areas <NUM>, <NUM>', <NUM>" indicated by dotted lines. These receiving areas <NUM>, <NUM>', <NUM>" can each receive a pallet <NUM>' of the stockpile <NUM>.

It is preferred that the user interface <NUM> is configured to allow the user to select the size and/or geometry of the load <NUM>' to be carried, so that the control unit can process this information in order to calculate the size and position of the receiving areas <NUM>, <NUM>', <NUM>". In case the pallets <NUM>' were smaller than the one shown in <FIG>, the number of the receiving areas <NUM>, <NUM>', <NUM>" may have been higher, whereas the size of the receiving areas <NUM>, <NUM>', <NUM>" may have been smaller.

The operator selects the option "Automatic load of <NUM> pallets" in the menu and presses the start button <NUM>. Hereafter, the automatic loading process is initiated. The operator hereby defines the start configuration I, as to load pallets <NUM>' from the stockpile <NUM> and the second configuration II, as to load the truck bed <NUM>.

The operator has the option of pausing the loading process by pressing the pause button <NUM>' or stopping the loading process by pressing the stop button <NUM>".

Claim 1:
A method for controlling a lorry crane (<NUM>), having a lifting system (<NUM>) configured to be arranged in a plurality of configurations (I, II, III), wherein the lifting system (<NUM>) comprises a plurality of structures (<NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>) moveably arranged relative to each other and one or more actuators (<NUM>, <NUM>) arranged to move the structures (<NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>) relative to each other, wherein the method comprises the following steps:
- selecting a first configuration (I) among a plurality of configurations by means of a control system comprising an operable control unit (<NUM>);
- selecting a second configuration (II) among a plurality of configurations by means of the control unit (<NUM>);
- activating the control unit (<NUM>) to automatically bringing the lifting system (<NUM>) from the first configuration (I) into the second configuration (II) by using one or more actuators (<NUM>, <NUM>),
characterised in that
the method comprises the step of detecting the length of a structure (<NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>) of the lifting system (<NUM>) and/or an angular position of a structure (<NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>) of the lifting system (<NUM>), wherein the control unit (<NUM>) applies the length of a structure (<NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>) and/or the angular position a structure (<NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>) to calculate a path (P<NUM>, P<NUM>), through which path (P<NUM>, P<NUM>) the control unit (<NUM>) brings the lifting system (<NUM>) from the first configuration (I) into the second configuration (II) by using one or more actuators (<NUM>, <NUM>), wherein the path (P<NUM>, P<NUM>) is determined continuously during the operation of the lifting system,
wherein the method comprises the step of keeping the structures (<NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>) in positions, in which the distance (D<NUM>, D<NUM>) between the structures (<NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>) and one or more zones (Z<NUM>, Z<NUM>) and/or positions is larger than a predefined length (L<NUM>, L<NUM>, L<NUM>).