EP4051619A1 - Lift system for heat pumps and method for installing a heat pump - Google Patents

Lift system for heat pumps and method for installing a heat pump

Info

Publication number
EP4051619A1
EP4051619A1 EP20820279.6A EP20820279A EP4051619A1 EP 4051619 A1 EP4051619 A1 EP 4051619A1 EP 20820279 A EP20820279 A EP 20820279A EP 4051619 A1 EP4051619 A1 EP 4051619A1
Authority
EP
European Patent Office
Prior art keywords
plateau
lift system
frame
traveller
outrigger
Prior art date
Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
Pending
Application number
EP20820279.6A
Other languages
German (de)
French (fr)
Inventor
Ted Weenink
Current Assignee (The listed assignees may be inaccurate. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation or warranty as to the accuracy of the list.)
Novon Benelux BV
Original Assignee
Novon Benelux BV
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Application filed by Novon Benelux BV filed Critical Novon Benelux BV
Publication of EP4051619A1 publication Critical patent/EP4051619A1/en
Pending legal-status Critical Current

Links

Classifications

    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B66—HOISTING; LIFTING; HAULING
    • B66F—HOISTING, LIFTING, HAULING OR PUSHING, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR, e.g. DEVICES WHICH APPLY A LIFTING OR PUSHING FORCE DIRECTLY TO THE SURFACE OF A LOAD
    • B66F9/00—Devices for lifting or lowering bulky or heavy goods for loading or unloading purposes
    • B66F9/06—Devices for lifting or lowering bulky or heavy goods for loading or unloading purposes movable, with their loads, on wheels or the like, e.g. fork-lift trucks
    • B66F9/075—Constructional features or details
    • B66F9/12—Platforms; Forks; Other load supporting or gripping members
    • B66F9/18—Load gripping or retaining means
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B66—HOISTING; LIFTING; HAULING
    • B66C—CRANES; LOAD-ENGAGING ELEMENTS OR DEVICES FOR CRANES, CAPSTANS, WINCHES, OR TACKLES
    • B66C23/00—Cranes comprising essentially a beam, boom, or triangular structure acting as a cantilever and mounted for translatory of swinging movements in vertical or horizontal planes or a combination of such movements, e.g. jib-cranes, derricks, tower cranes
    • B66C23/18—Cranes comprising essentially a beam, boom, or triangular structure acting as a cantilever and mounted for translatory of swinging movements in vertical or horizontal planes or a combination of such movements, e.g. jib-cranes, derricks, tower cranes specially adapted for use in particular purposes
    • B66C23/20—Cranes comprising essentially a beam, boom, or triangular structure acting as a cantilever and mounted for translatory of swinging movements in vertical or horizontal planes or a combination of such movements, e.g. jib-cranes, derricks, tower cranes specially adapted for use in particular purposes with supporting couples provided by walls of buildings or like structures
    • B66C23/208—Cranes comprising essentially a beam, boom, or triangular structure acting as a cantilever and mounted for translatory of swinging movements in vertical or horizontal planes or a combination of such movements, e.g. jib-cranes, derricks, tower cranes specially adapted for use in particular purposes with supporting couples provided by walls of buildings or like structures with supporting couples provided from the side, e.g. by walls of buildings
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B66—HOISTING; LIFTING; HAULING
    • B66C—CRANES; LOAD-ENGAGING ELEMENTS OR DEVICES FOR CRANES, CAPSTANS, WINCHES, OR TACKLES
    • B66C23/00—Cranes comprising essentially a beam, boom, or triangular structure acting as a cantilever and mounted for translatory of swinging movements in vertical or horizontal planes or a combination of such movements, e.g. jib-cranes, derricks, tower cranes
    • B66C23/18—Cranes comprising essentially a beam, boom, or triangular structure acting as a cantilever and mounted for translatory of swinging movements in vertical or horizontal planes or a combination of such movements, e.g. jib-cranes, derricks, tower cranes specially adapted for use in particular purposes
    • B66C23/36—Cranes comprising essentially a beam, boom, or triangular structure acting as a cantilever and mounted for translatory of swinging movements in vertical or horizontal planes or a combination of such movements, e.g. jib-cranes, derricks, tower cranes specially adapted for use in particular purposes mounted on road or rail vehicles; Manually-movable jib-cranes for use in workshops; Floating cranes
    • B66C23/48—Manually-movable jib cranes for use in workshops
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B66—HOISTING; LIFTING; HAULING
    • B66F—HOISTING, LIFTING, HAULING OR PUSHING, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR, e.g. DEVICES WHICH APPLY A LIFTING OR PUSHING FORCE DIRECTLY TO THE SURFACE OF A LOAD
    • B66F9/00—Devices for lifting or lowering bulky or heavy goods for loading or unloading purposes
    • B66F9/06—Devices for lifting or lowering bulky or heavy goods for loading or unloading purposes movable, with their loads, on wheels or the like, e.g. fork-lift trucks
    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F24—HEATING; RANGES; VENTILATING
    • F24D—DOMESTIC- OR SPACE-HEATING SYSTEMS, e.g. CENTRAL HEATING SYSTEMS; DOMESTIC HOT-WATER SUPPLY SYSTEMS; ELEMENTS OR COMPONENTS THEREFOR
    • F24D17/00—Domestic hot-water supply systems
    • F24D17/02—Domestic hot-water supply systems using heat pumps
    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F24—HEATING; RANGES; VENTILATING
    • F24H—FLUID HEATERS, e.g. WATER OR AIR HEATERS, HAVING HEAT-GENERATING MEANS, e.g. HEAT PUMPS, IN GENERAL
    • F24H9/00—Details
    • F24H9/0094—Details having means for transporting the boiler

Definitions

  • the invention relates to the field of lift systems for lifting heat pumps during installation.
  • the invention further relates to the field of methods for installing heat pumps with the help of a lift system.
  • Heat pumps transfer heat from the outside to the inside for heating the house or building.
  • Heat pumps may weigh over 150 kg. Heat pumps are typically placed at locations where the heat pumps are not that much in the way or cannot be damaged that quickly. Damage may for example occur when (pad) animals deposit defecation on a heat pump. Damage may also occur when people can walk into the apparatus. And when heat pumps are installed on the ground, dirt and dust may invest the heat pump, shortening their lifetime.
  • Heat pumps are typically placed at empty spaces or empty locations. Heat pumps are typically placed (high) on walls, roofs, or unused balconies. Part of the heat pump may even be installed at an inside location, whereby the installation is done via a window opening. For installing a heat pump at an elevated empty location, the heat pump is to be hoisted to that location.
  • a disadvantage is that due to the weight of the heat pump the area below the heat pump is to be cleared, such that a temporal support may be placed during installation.
  • the hoist system may comprise a large counter weight to balance the weight of the heat pump during installation having the disadvantage of making the hoist system bulky and heavy.
  • An object of the invention is to mitigate the disadvantages as mentioned above.
  • a lift system for lifting a heat pump during installation comprising:
  • a hoist part arranged for hoisting the plateau;
  • a traveller frame arranged for coupling the plateau to the hoist part for supporting the plateau;
  • first rail arrangement and the second rail arrangement are arranged such that they run independent from each other.
  • the plateau is suitable for placing a heat pump on.
  • Other products may be placed on the plateau, preferably products that need to be installed or mounted on a wall or products that need to be placed at a distance from the hoist part.
  • the hoist part of the lift system is capable of hoisting a load comprising of the traveller frame, the plateau and the product, such as a heat pump, to a certain height.
  • the load has a centre of gravity.
  • the main part of the load is typically formed by the heat pump or product on the plateau.
  • the centre of gravity of the load is typically close to or at the heat pump, product or plateau.
  • the hoisting is typically done with the traveller frame in a retracted position.
  • the traveller frame In the retracted position, the traveller frame is typically centred around the hoist part.
  • the traveller frame In the retracted position, the traveller frame is typically arranged to extend the least from the hoist part. In the retracted position, the traveller frame is typically retracted from the installation surface.
  • the traveller frame may be placed in an extended position.
  • the traveller frame In the extended position, the traveller frame is off- centre relative to the hoist part.
  • the traveller frame In the extended position, the traveller frame is arranged to extend from the hoist part. In the extended position, the traveller frame is typically adjacent, next to or in contact with the installation surface.
  • an installation surface comprises a suspension frame for suspending the heat pump from the installation surface; and wherein the lift system comprises:
  • a heat pump is typically such heavy that the heat pump is not mounted directly on a wall or installation surface.
  • a suspension frame is mounted first. Thereafter the heat pump is hung in the suspension frame, minimizing the complexity and time that the heat pump needs to be handled.
  • the hook advantageously provides a countermeasure for an outrigger failure when the traveller frame is in an extended position and the plateau is off centre from the hoist part, preferably when the plateau is arranged to an extended end of the traveller frame.
  • the hook may be in the shape of a meat hook and/or a support having a projection and/or a cavity or opening hooking into the suspension frame.
  • the lift system comprises a support, such as a pole, a pile or stand, for arranging the support under an extended end of the traveller frame in an extended position to advantageously prevent an outrigger failure when the plateau is slid off-centre, such as to the extended end of the traveller frame.
  • the plateau has an off-centred position wherein the plateau is adjacent to an end of the traveller frame, such as the extended end of the traveller frame; and the plateau has a centred position wherein the plateau is adjacent, close or next to or at the hoist part.
  • an outrigger failure is not likely when the plateau is adjacent to the hoist part. This is because the hoist part is the support whereupon the load rests. As long as the centre of gravity of the load is at least adjacent, close or next to or at the hoist part an outrigger failure is not likely. Further, typically, an outrigger failure is much more likely when the plateau has an off- centred position wherein the plateau is adjacent, close or next to or at an end of the traveller frame. This is because the centre of gravity is slid away from the hoist part.
  • the lift system comprises a locking arrangement arranged for locking the plateau in a centred position when the hook is unhooked and unlocking the plateau for allowing the plateau to slide along the traveller frame from the centred position to the off-centred position.
  • the locking arrangement advantageously causes the plateau to be slid to an off-centre position only when the hook is hooked preferably into the suspension system. This advantageously prevents outrigger failures and thus provides increased safety.
  • the at least one hook comprises an adjustment element for adjusting the height of the plateau relative to the suspension frame.
  • the heat pump has to be slid into place into the suspension frame. Different manufacturers of heat pumps may provide different suspension frames in different shapes and forms.
  • suspension frames may cause that the height between the suspension frame and the plateau becomes different. Furthermore, the height the heat pump is to be held during installation may be different due to a different suspension frame or a different type of heat pump.
  • the adjustment element advantageously allows to adjust the height.
  • the lift system comprises a replaceable hook. This provides the advantage that if the height of the plateau relative to the suspension frame needs a coarse adjustment, the hook may be replaced by a different hook providing an instant change of height.
  • the adjustment element is arranged for adjusting when the plateau is in the off-centred position and the heat pump is in the extended position.
  • the heat pump is placed above the suspended position in the suspension frame and thereafter lowered into the suspended position.
  • the adjustment element advantageously supports this part of the installation procedure of the heat pump.
  • the adjustment element may only support lowering the traveller frame and/or the plateau.
  • the adjustment element may also support hoisting the traveller frame and/or the plateau. This hoisting provides the advantage of being able to also remove heat pumps from its installed position or other products from a location.
  • the adjustment element may advantageously comprise a nut being screwed over a bolt for lowering the plateau relative to the suspension frame.
  • the at least one hook comprises an insert, and opening and/or cavity shaped for cooperating with the suspension frame, wherein the at least one hook and/or the insert are replaceable, or the cavity or opening is adaptable.
  • Different manufacturers of heat pumps may provide different suspension frames in different shapes and forms. These different suspension frames may require different shapes of the hook hooking into or onto the suspension frame. If the insert is not replaceable or the cavity or the opening is not adaptable, typically the hook as a whole is replaced, such that the lift system can be used for different types of suspension frames.
  • the heat pump typically also defines a hook in the sense that the heat pump leaves a particular space between the installation surface and the heat pump when installed. The hook and typically also the insert, the cavity or the opening therefore also need to be adapted to this space behind the heat pump when installed.
  • the insert is replaceable, or the cavity or the opening is adaptable, replacing the insert, or adapting the cavity or the opening for different suspension frames advantageously allows the lift system to work with different types of suspension frames without the need for multiple different hooks.
  • the lift system comprises an outrigger arrangement comprising at least one outrigger leg, wherein the outrigger arrangement is arranged for preventing outrigger failure of the hoist part.
  • the outrigger arrangement extends substantially radial from the hoist part.
  • the outrigger arrangement advantageously extends the stable region, wherein when the centre of gravity of the lift system including the heat pump or product placed on the plateau is within this stable region, an outrigger failure is prevented.
  • the outrigger arrangement is arranged for preventing outrigger failure in the centred position; and the at least one hook is arranged for preventing outrigger failure in the extended position and the off-centred position.
  • the outrigger arrangement provides stability to the lift system when the centre of gravity is close to or at the hoist part.
  • the hook arranged for preventing outrigger failure is typically a hook hooked into or onto the suspension frame on the installation surface. Any other element wherein the hook may be hooked may suffice.
  • the hook arranged for preventing outrigger failure advantageously provides stability to the lift system when the centre of gravity is close to or at the extended end of the traveller frame.
  • the combination provides the advantage that the stable region provided by the outrigger arrangement is extended beyond what the outrigger arrangement may provide on its own. Furthermore, the outrigger arrangement does not need to extend far while still providing the possibility that the centre of gravity is arranged to an extended end of the traveller frame.
  • the first rail arrangement is arranged for radially extending the traveller frame beyond the outrigger arrangement.
  • a typical situation is that the space on the ground under the installation surface is occupied by some other device or is at least not suitable for accommodating the outrigger arrangement or is accessible for the outrigger arrangement e.g. due to another device being located under the installation surface.
  • This combination provides the technical effect that the outrigger arrangement does not have to extend up to a location under the installation surface while still preventing outrigger failure due to the extension of the stable region by the hooked hook.
  • the outrigger arrangement comprises at least three outrigger legs arranged to radially extend from the hoist part and substantially evenly distributed over the circumference of the hoist part; and each of the outrigger legs comprises a braked wheel, preferably a braked caster wheel, arranged for relocating the lift system.
  • the at least three outrigger legs that are substantially evenly distributed over the circumference of the hoist part provide a stable region around the hoist part in all directions.
  • the outrigger arrangement comprises four outrigger legs.
  • the braked wheel provides a means to advantageously move the lift system e.g. towards the installation surface for correctly positioning the lift system for e.g. installation of a heat pump on the plateau when the brakes are off.
  • the lift system may even be moved while the hoist part hoisted the load.
  • the lift system is fixated such that the lift system advantageously provides a stable and safe platform to e.g. install a heavy product, such as a heat pump from.
  • the outrigger arrangement comprises at least two outrigger legs; and the at least two outrigger legs are adjustably arranged in a tangential direction relative to the hoist part for adjusting the width of the lift system.
  • the at least two outrigger legs are arranged on both sides and in a direction the traveller frame may extend.
  • the lift system in total is made narrower, smaller or slenderer, such that the lift system may advantageously fit through a door in a house.
  • the at least two outrigger legs are adjustable to a position such that the lift system has a width of less than 120 centimetres, preferably 100 centimetres, more preferably 90 centimetres.
  • the traveller frame and the plateau are arranged substantially horizontal in use.
  • the traveller frame and the plateau may be arranged such that they are advantageously releasable from the hoist part or foldable to the hoist part, such that the lift system can be compacted during transport.
  • the rail systems are having preferably low friction
  • the traveller frame and the plateau when arranged horizontally result in the respective rail systems arrangements to also be arranged horizontally.
  • this embodiment provides the advantage that if the plateau and/or traveller frame is not braked or secured, the plateau and/or the traveller frame don’t start to directly slide to an extreme of the respective rail arrangement.
  • the respective rail arrangement in a preferred embodiment has a friction such that the skew does not overcome this friction, such that the plateau and/or the traveller frame when released don’t start to slide to an extreme of the respective rail arrangement.
  • the respective rail arrangement has a brake or fixation that prevents the plateau and/or the traveller frame to slide to an extreme of the respective rail arrangement when braked or fixed.
  • the first rail arrangement and the second rail arrangement are arranged for providing a horizontal slidable coupling. This embodiment provides the same advantages as stated above.
  • the hoist part is arranged substantially vertical in use and/or wherein the traveller frame is substantially perpendicular to the hoist part in use.
  • the first rail arrangement and the second rail arrangement are arranged for providing a substantially parallel slidable arrangement. This embodiment provides the same advantages as stated above.
  • the first rail arrangement comprises:
  • the second rail arrangement comprises:
  • the first rail arrangement comprises:
  • an extended abutment for abutting the traveller frame or the hoist part in an extended position, wherein one end of the frame extends radially more from the hoist part compared to the contracted position.
  • at least one of the abutments is removable for allowing the runner wheels to be released from the guide rail. This allows that the traveller frame is released from or folded onto the hoist part. This allows for the system to be compacted and/or split up in lighter components, such that the lift system may be more easily transported.
  • the second rail arrangement comprises:
  • the hoist part defines a longitudinal axis, wherein the hoist part hoists along this longitudinal axis.
  • the longitudinal axis is during hoisting typically vertical for advantageously allowing the plateau to gain the most height. Furthermore, advantageously radial stress is prevented.
  • the hoist part comprises multiple telescopic hoist elements for hoisting the plateau to a height higher than the length of one of the telescopic hoist elements.
  • the hoist part comprises a pully arrangement and a winch, preferably a braked winch, arranged for controlling the height of the plateau.
  • a pully arrangement in combination with the telescopic hoist elements provide the advantage of a compact hoist part, while also providing the advantage of relatively low forces that need to be exerted on the winch for hoisting the load.
  • a method for lifting a heat pump during installation comprising the steps of:
  • the method comprises the step of:
  • Figure 1 schematically shows a perspective side view of a lift system
  • Figure 2 schematically shows a perspective bottom view of a part of the lift system
  • Figure 3 schematically shows a perspective top view of a part of the lift system
  • Figure 4 schematically shows a cross-section of the lift system
  • Figure 5 schematically shows a perspective view of a traveller frame a and a first embodiment of a hook
  • Figure 6 schematically shows a cross-section of a second embodiment of a second hook
  • Figure 7 schematically shows a cross-section of a runner wheel
  • Figure 8 schematically shows a perspective bottom view of a part of the lift system
  • Figure 9 schematically shows a perspective side view of a lift system
  • Figure 10 schematically shows a perspective side view of a third embodiment of a hook
  • Figure 11 schematically shows a perspective view of the third embodiment of the hook.
  • Figure 12 schematically shows a perspective view of the adjustment element and the coupling protrusion.
  • the figures are purely diagrammatic and not drawn to scale. In the figures, elements which correspond to elements already described may have the same reference numerals.
  • Figure 1 schematically shows a side perspective view of a lift system 100.
  • the lift system comprises a hoist part 110, a plateau 160 and a traveller frame 140.
  • the lift system is suitable for carrying a product 20, such as heat pumps.
  • Heat pumps may have a weight in excess of 150kg. Heat pumps have typically a weight below 200kg, preferably below 180kg, more preferably below 160kg.
  • the plateau is typically arranged for carrying the product, such as the heat pump.
  • the hoist part is typically arranged substantially vertical.
  • the traveller frame is typically arranged substantially horizontal and/or substantially perpendicular to the hoist part.
  • the traveller frame is typically elongated to provide during installation a horizontal platform where along the plateau may slide.
  • the lift system further comprises a first rail arrangement 150 arranged for providing a slidable coupling between the traveller frame and the hoist part in a direction A.
  • Figure 1 shows the traveller frame in an extended position wherein the traveller frame may contact a wall 5 comprising the installation surface 10.
  • Figure 1 further shows that the traveller frame may reach over for example a ground obstacle 15.
  • the lift system further comprises a second rail arrangement 170 arranged for providing a slidable coupling between the traveller frame and the plateau in a direction B.
  • Figure 1 shows the plateau adjacent to the hoist part in a centred position.
  • the second rail arrangement allows the plateau to slide from the centred position to an off-centred position wherein the plateau is arranged to an extended end 141 of the traveller frame and as shown in figure 1 in contact or adjacent to the installation surface.
  • the first rail arrangement and the second rail arrangement are arranged such that they run independent from each other is that the traveller frame may be slid between an extended position and a contracted position while the plateau is held in a centred position.
  • the traveller frame is relatively light compared to the other parts of the lift system and the product, bringing the traveller frame in an extended position will not cause the centre of gravity of the lift system or the lift system and product to shift such that an outrigger failure will occur.
  • the traveller frame In the extended position the traveller frame may be secured or supported by several countermeasures such as a support placed on the ground or a hook attached to the installation surface. The technical effect is that after arranging this countermeasure the plateau may be safely slid to the off-centre position without causing an outrigger failure.
  • the invention therefore provides an increased safety. Furthermore, the invention provides the advantage that if a protrusion of the wall is in the way while hoisting the traveller frame, the plateau and the product, an end of the traveller frame may be temporarily contracted for vertically passing this obstacle while hoisting. Further, as the traveller frame is typically light weight, the traveller frame may be placed in an extended position without requiring a relatively large counter weight. Flence, providing the advantage of a relative light weight and/or relatively small lift system and/or without a bulky counterweight. This technical effect is enhanced as the hoist part is relatively heavy compared to the traveller frame, and the at least one forward facing outrigger legs arrange the hoist part counter balancing the extended traveller frame. The weight of the hoist part may be more than 5 times, less preferably 4 times, more less preferably 3 times, even more less preferably 2 times, the weight of the traveller frame.
  • the hoist part is typically arranged to hoist the traveller frame, plateau and product from ground to a height of over 2 metres, such as up to 5 metres, preferably less than 4 metres, more preferably less than 3 metres.
  • the hoist part may comprise a first hoist element and a second hoist element.
  • the hoist part may comprise a plurality of hoist elements.
  • the first and the second hoist element may have a telescopic effect, wherein the second hoist element is telescopically hoisted in a vertical direction by the first hoist element.
  • the lift system typically comprises an outrigger arrangement 180 for preventing outrigger failure at least in some positions of the lift system.
  • a position may be when the plateau is arranged in the centred position and preferably the lift system is arranged on a level or substantially level ground.
  • the outrigger arrangement may comprise a first forward facing outrigger leg 181 and a second forward facing outrigger leg 183.
  • the first forward facing outrigger leg may comprise a first braked carter wheel 182.
  • the second forward facing outrigger leg may comprise a second braked carter wheel 184.
  • the first forward facing outrigger leg and the second forward facing outrigger leg face forward and are spread out to reduce the change of outrigger failure sideways for the lift system having the traveller frame in an extended position.
  • the outrigger arrangement may comprise a first backward facing outrigger leg 185 and a second backward facing outrigger leg 187.
  • the first backward facing outrigger leg may comprise a third braked carter wheel 186.
  • the second backward facing outrigger leg may comprise a second braked carter wheel 188.
  • the first backward facing outrigger leg and the second backward facing outrigger leg face backward and are spread out to reduce the change of outrigger failure sideways for the lift system having the traveller frame in a contracted position.
  • the lift system is placed on the ground close to the installation surface. But also, typically, the lift system is not directly in the right spot or can not be placed in the right spot during the hoist.
  • the cater wheels provide the advantage that the lift system, also when the traveller frame is hoisted, may be moved in all directions over the ground to position the lift system such that the traveller frame may extend to the installation surface.
  • the brakes on the respective carter wheels advantageously allow for the lift system to position the lift system for the installation and after positioning fixating this position by applying the brakes of the respective carter wheels.
  • the hoist part may comprise spoons 116 whereto the traveller frame is coupled, preferably releasably coupled. Having the traveller frame releasable from the hoist part provides the advantage of compacting the lift system during transport.
  • the hoist part may further comprise a high spoon holder 115 and a low spoon holder 114.
  • Figure 1 shows the spoons in the high spoon holder.
  • the high spoon holder provides the advantage that the hoist part may reach higher.
  • the low spoon holder provides the advantage that the product when placed on the plateau only needs to be lifted a small height from the ground for placing the product on the plateau.
  • the combination of the low and high spoon holder provides the advantage that a heavy product may be easily placed on the plateau with the spoons in the low spoon holder, then hoisted to and placed on an elevated platform temporarily for thereafter replacing the heavy product on the plateau and hoisting the heavy product to a higher height with the spoons in the high spoon holder.
  • the lift system may comprise transport wheels 190 and/or a slide bar 195.
  • the outrigger arrangement is removable from the hoist part.
  • the outrigger arrangement may be arranged for transport by attaching the outrigger arrangement substantially parallel to the hoist elements to advantageously compact a part of the lift system for transport.
  • the traveller frame and the plateau may be removably coupled to the hoist part.
  • the hoist part is typically the heavy part of the lift system.
  • the transport wheels are arranged such that if at least the outrigger arrangement is detached, the hoist part may be tilted such that the transport wheels, hoist part and slide bar form a hand truck, wherein the slide bar is the handle.
  • the hand truck may advantageously be easily maneuvered. In an advantageous embodiment, this hand truck may even be used to carry the product.
  • the slide bar provides the advantage that during transport, such as in a wagon or transport van, the hoist part may be placed horizontally on the slide bar for more stability. Furthermore, the slide bar allows to hoist part to be slid over the slide bar for a small distance.
  • Figure 2 schematically shows a perspective bottom view a part of the lift system 100.
  • Figure shows the traveller frame 140 arranged substantially perpendicular to the hoist part 110.
  • the hoist part comprises in this embodiment three sets of telescopic elements wherein the outer first set of telescopic hoist elements 111, 11 T remain at the same height relative to the ground while hoisting.
  • the second set of telescopic hoist elements 112, 112’ may be hoisted relative to the first set of telescopic elements.
  • the third set of telescopic hoist elements 113, 113’ may be hoisted relative to the second set of telescopic elements.
  • the third set of telescopic elements extend the highest.
  • the telescopic hoist elements are arranged such that the set of outer hoist elements remain below, for allowing the outrigger arrangement and the slide bar to advantageously be coupled to the hoist part at a wider and thus more stable position.
  • the traveller frame has the plateau 160 arranged on top.
  • the traveller frame and the plateau are slidable coupled to each other via the second rail arrangement 170, 170’.
  • the second rail arrangement may be a set of runner wheels in a guide on both sides of the traveller frame and plateau for providing a stable slidable coupling.
  • the hoist part may comprise spoons 116, 116’.
  • the spoons may be arranged in the low spoon holder 114.
  • the spoons may be slidable coupled to the traveller frame by the first rail arrangement 150, 150’.
  • the first rail arrangement may be a set of runner wheels in a guide on both sides of the traveller frame and spoons for providing a stable slidable coupling.
  • the traveller frame comprises beams 142, 142’ advantageously shaped to provide guides for the runner wheels on both sides of the beam.
  • the traveller frame is shown in an extended position having beams having extended ends 141, 14T.
  • the plateau is positioned next to the hoist part and is in a centred position. Furthermore, the traveller frame and plateau are shown hoisted halfway the hoist part, while the sets of telescopic elements do not extend.
  • the direction of travel or slidable coupling of the traveller frame relative to the hoist part or spoons is indicated A.
  • the direction of travel or slidable coupling of the plateau relative to the traveller frame is indicated B.
  • Figure 3 schematically shows a perspective top view of a part of the lift system 100.
  • the part of the lift system shown is shown without the sets of telescopic elements 111, 111’, 112, 112’, 113, 113’.
  • the traveller frame 140 comprises cross beams on both ends which may advantageously provide abutments for abutting the traveller frame on the hoist part in the extended and contracted position respectively.
  • the traveller frame is shown in a contracted position or almost in a contracted position.
  • the plateau is shown in a centred position or almost in a centred position.
  • the dashed line IV shows the position of the cross-section for figure 4.
  • Figure 4 schematically shows a cross-section of a part of the lift system 100.
  • the figure shows the plateau enveloping the beams 142, 142’ of the traveller frame 140.
  • the beams may have second guide rails 143, 143’ arranged for holding and allowing plateau runner wheels 161, 16T to run in the second guide rails for providing a slidable coupling between the plateau and the traveller frame.
  • the beams may have first guide rails 144, 144’ arranged for holding and allowing spoon runner wheels 117,
  • the first rail arrangement may comprise the first guide rails and the spoon runner wheels.
  • the second rail arrangement may comprise the second guide rails and the plateau runner wheels.
  • the runner wheels are identical for simplifying production.
  • the beams are point symmetric around a centre point for providing identical guide rails further simplifying production.
  • Figure 5 schematically shows a perspective view of a traveller frame 140 a and a first embodiment of a hook 145.
  • the hook is arranged to an end of the traveller frame which extends in the extended position of the traveller frame.
  • the hook comprises two downward facing protruding plates 147, 147’ arranged in one plane.
  • the hook may further comprise a hook opening arranged between the two planes.
  • the plates typically have a thickness for fitting into a slot or trench of the suspension frame for cooperating therewith.
  • the protruding plates typically prevent the traveller frame to slide or move in a direction A.
  • the suspension frame may comprise a protrusion shaped to cooperate with the hook opening for together with the protruding plates providing a coupling preventing the traveller frame to move or slide in any direction in the horizontal plane.
  • FIG. 6 schematically shows a cross-section of a second embodiment of a second hook 145’.
  • the second hook comprises an elongated body 148, a top hook 148 shaped for cooperating with a suspension frame and arranged at the top of the elongated body and a threaded part 149’ of the hook body arranged at a bottom part of the elongated body.
  • the second hook further comprises a bottom hook 148’ arranged for cooperating with the traveller frame directly or indirectly.
  • the bottom hook also comprises a bottom hook opening wherethrough the elongated body is arranged.
  • the second hook further comprises an adjustment element, such as a nut, preferably a nut with on the outer side of the nut a surface adapted for being manually rotated.
  • the adjustment element is arranged to prevent the bottom hook from sliding of the elongated body.
  • the bottom hook relates to the height of the plateau.
  • the top hook relates to the height of the suspension frame.
  • This second embodiment of the hook 145’ may be arranged to the first embodiment of the hook for adapting the height of the plateau relative to the suspension frame when hooked.
  • the second hook may cooperate with an opening at the bottom and at an extended end of the beam or traveller frame for hooking into the beam or the traveller frame.
  • FIG. 7 schematically shows a cross-section of a runner wheel 117, 117’, 161, 161’.
  • the runner wheel 16T may comprise a wheel 162, an axle 163, a nut 164 and a washer.
  • the wheel is rotatably arranged to an end of the axle.
  • the nut is arranged to another end of the axle.
  • the axle may be arranged through an opening in a plate with the nut on one side of the plate and the wheel and washer on the other side of the plate.
  • the washer is arranged between the wheel and plate and has a thickness that the wheel is free from the plate.
  • the plate is typically a section of the guide rail for together with the runner wheel forming a slidable coupling and a part of the rail arrangement.
  • An outrigger failure is typically used in the context of hoisting devices, such as cranes.
  • a hosting device including the load carried by the hoisting device has a centre of gravity.
  • a hosting device typically has support legs or support beams resting on the ground placed at some distance from the hoisting device.
  • these support legs substantially radially extend from the hoisting device for creating a stable region.
  • the centre of gravity of the hoisting device and load is outside the stable region, the hoisting device and load topple or fall over. This toppling or tipping of the hoisting device and the load is named an outrigger failure.
  • Figure 8 schematically shows a perspective bottom view of a part of the lift system 100.
  • the lift system in Figure 8 is similar to the lift system in Figure 2.
  • the lift system in Figure 8 has a hook 200, which is different from the hook 145’ shown in Figure 2.
  • the hook 200 in Figure 8 will be detailed below.
  • Figure 9 schematically shows a perspective side view of a lift system 100.
  • the lift system comprises a traveller frame 140, a plateau 160, and a hoist part 110.
  • the hoist part is during hoisting substantially vertical.
  • the traveller frame is during use substantially horizontal.
  • the heat pump is typically suspended from a suspension frame 30 comprising at least one horizontal strip 31.
  • the lift system further comprises a hook 200 shown coupling the traveller frame to the suspension frame or horizontal strip.
  • the traveller frame is shown in the extended position, wherein one end of the traveller frame extends from the hoist part and arranges this end next or adjacent to the suspension frame or installation surface.
  • Figure 10 schematically shows a perspective side view of a third embodiment of a hook 200.
  • the hook couples the traveller frame 140 and a wall 5, typically a suspension frame 30 mounted on the wall, both shown in Figure 1.
  • a suspension frame 30 typically comprises two horizontal strips 31 spaced apart above each other, as shown in Figure 1 and 9.
  • the horizontal strips each have an undercut at the top side and an undercut at the bottom side of the strip.
  • the suspension frame further comprises two L-shaped brackets.
  • the L- shaped bracket has a vertical leg and a horizontal leg.
  • the vertical leg comprises two openings for cooperating with the horizontal strips for suspending the L-shaped bracket from the horizontal strips.
  • the two openings are further shaped such that the L-shaped brackets are horizontally slidable over the horizontal strips.
  • the two openings are shaped such that the L-shaped brackets are only couplable with the horizontal strips at an end of the horizontal strips, more specific the L-shaped brackets cannot be taken from the horizontal strips in a horizontal direction perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the horizontal strips.
  • the horizontal legs of the L- shaped brackets are arranged for carrying a load, such as a heater, an air-conditioning device, or heat pump. This load is then suspended from the ground and in close proximity of the wall whereon the suspension frame is mounted.
  • the third embodiment of the hook comprises an elongated body 210, typically arranged in a vertical position in use.
  • the hook further comprises an undercut opening 220 at one end of the elongated body.
  • the undercut opening is shaped to cooperate with one of the horizontal strips of the suspension frame.
  • the horizontal strips extend on both sides beyond the position where the L-shaped brackets are placed or will be placed.
  • the horizontal strips are longer, such as much longer, compared to the distance between the horizontal legs of the L-shaped brackets when holding the load.
  • the undercut opening is typically shaped to allow the hook to slide sideways onto the horizontal strip with the L-shaped brackets in between.
  • the horizontal strip of the suspension frame coupling with the hook may be the top or the bottom strip of the suspension frame.
  • the hook further comprises a traveller coupling 230.
  • the traveller coupling may comprise a coupling protrusion 231.
  • the traveller frame may comprise a cavity shaped to cooperate with the coupling protrusion for coupling the hook to the traveller frame and thus the lift system.
  • the coupling protrusion is typically shaped and arranged to coop with the forces exerted on the coupling protrusion when the plateau travels over the traveller frame to the off-centre position, typically when the traveller frame is in the extended position, thereby preventing an outrigger failure.
  • the traveller coupling may further comprise a safety lock through hole 232.
  • the safety lock through hole typically cooperates with a safety lock through hole in the traveller frame for allowing in a coupled position a locking pin through both through holes for fixating the coupling of the hook to the traveller frame.
  • FIG 11 schematically shows a perspective view of the third embodiment of the hook 200.
  • the hook typically comprises an adjustment element 240 for adjusting the height of the traveller coupling when suspended.
  • the adjustment element may comprise a threaded rod 241.
  • the threaded rod is typically held inside the elongated body, is rotatable along its axis, and/or is arranged through a threaded through hole in the traveller coupling, such as the coupling protrusion.
  • the adjustment element may further comprise an adjustment coupling for turning the threaded rod with a tool.
  • the adjustment coupling may be a hexagon socket head.
  • the tool may be a drill with a hexagon socket bit fitting into the hexagon socket head.
  • the adjustment element typically allows adjusting when the hook is coupled to the suspension frame and the lift system for advantageously allowing last moment adjustments just before the plateau is placed over the horizontal legs of the L-shaped brackets.
  • the adjustment element may also be used to lower the load on the plateau onto the horizontal legs of the L-shaped brackets.
  • the lift system may also be used to remove loads from a suspension frame and make these loads easily accessible for example for servicing and/or replacing a heater, an air-conditioning device, or heat pump.
  • Figure 9 schematically shows a side view of an embodiment of a traveller coupling 200 also shown in Figure 8.
  • FIG 12 schematically shows a perspective view of the adjustment element 240 and the coupling protrusion 230.
  • the adjustment element comprises a threaded rod 241 and holders 243, 244. The ends of the threaded rod are placed in holders for holding the threaded rod in place and allowing the threaded rod to rotate. Rotation of the threaded rod will move the coupling protrusion closer to one of the holders depending on the direction of rotation of the threaded rod.
  • the adjustment element further comprises an adjustment opening, allowing a tool to be inserted for turning or rotating the threaded rod and thereby adjusting the height of the coupling protrusion in use or coupled relative to the suspension frame.
  • the shapes may be any type of shape suitable to achieve the desired effect.
  • Devices functionally forming separate devices may be integrated in a single physical device.
  • any reference signs placed between parentheses shall not be construed as limiting the claim.
  • the word ‘comprising’ or ‘including’ does not exclude the presence of other elements or steps than those listed in a claim.
  • the terms “a” or “an,” as used herein, are defined as one or as more than one.

Abstract

The invention provides a lift system (100) for lifting a heat pump during installation, comprising: a plateau (160) sized for receiving the heat pump; a hoist part (110) arranged for hoisting the plateau; a traveller frame (140) arranged for coupling the plateau to the hoist part for supporting the plateau; a first rail arrangement (150) arranged for providing a slidable coupling between the traveller frame and the hoist part; and a second rail arrangement (170) arranged for providing a slidable coupling between the traveller frame and the plateau; and wherein the first rail arrangement and the second rail arrangement are arranged such that they run independent from each other.

Description

LIFT SYSTEM FOR HEAT PUMPS AND METHOD FOR INSTALLING A HEAT PUMP
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
The invention relates to the field of lift systems for lifting heat pumps during installation. The invention further relates to the field of methods for installing heat pumps with the help of a lift system.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
New types of heating systems for houses and buildings are becoming common. One such a new type of heating system is a heat pump. Heat pumps transfer heat from the outside to the inside for heating the house or building.
Heat pumps may weigh over 150 kg. Heat pumps are typically placed at locations where the heat pumps are not that much in the way or cannot be damaged that quickly. Damage may for example occur when (pad) animals deposit defecation on a heat pump. Damage may also occur when people can walk into the apparatus. And when heat pumps are installed on the ground, dirt and dust may invest the heat pump, shortening their lifetime.
Heat pumps are typically placed at empty spaces or empty locations. Heat pumps are typically placed (high) on walls, roofs, or unused balconies. Part of the heat pump may even be installed at an inside location, whereby the installation is done via a window opening. For installing a heat pump at an elevated empty location, the heat pump is to be hoisted to that location. A disadvantage is that due to the weight of the heat pump the area below the heat pump is to be cleared, such that a temporal support may be placed during installation. Alternatively, the hoist system may comprise a large counter weight to balance the weight of the heat pump during installation having the disadvantage of making the hoist system bulky and heavy.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
An object of the invention is to mitigate the disadvantages as mentioned above.
According to a first aspect of the invention, a lift system for lifting a heat pump during installation, comprising:
- a plateau sized for receiving the heat pump;
- a hoist part arranged for hoisting the plateau; - a traveller frame arranged for coupling the plateau to the hoist part for supporting the plateau;
- a first rail arrangement arranged for providing a slidable coupling between the traveller frame and the hoist part; and
- a second rail arrangement arranged for providing a slidable coupling between the traveller frame and the plateau; and wherein the first rail arrangement and the second rail arrangement are arranged such that they run independent from each other.
The plateau is suitable for placing a heat pump on. Other products may be placed on the plateau, preferably products that need to be installed or mounted on a wall or products that need to be placed at a distance from the hoist part. The hoist part of the lift system is capable of hoisting a load comprising of the traveller frame, the plateau and the product, such as a heat pump, to a certain height. The load has a centre of gravity. The main part of the load is typically formed by the heat pump or product on the plateau. Thus, the centre of gravity of the load is typically close to or at the heat pump, product or plateau.
The hoisting is typically done with the traveller frame in a retracted position. In the retracted position, the traveller frame is typically centred around the hoist part. In the retracted position, the traveller frame is typically arranged to extend the least from the hoist part. In the retracted position, the traveller frame is typically retracted from the installation surface.
At the required height set by the hoist part, the traveller frame may be placed in an extended position. In the extended position, the traveller frame is off- centre relative to the hoist part. In the extended position, the traveller frame is arranged to extend from the hoist part. In the extended position, the traveller frame is typically adjacent, next to or in contact with the installation surface.
And after that the traveller frame is in the extended position, the plateau may slide along the traveller frame from the centred to the off-centred position. This provides the advantage of that the traveller frame is not scraping over the installation surface during hoisting. This provides the further advantage that the centre of gravity of the load is close to or at the hoist part during hoisting, such that an outrigger failure is prevented or minimized, while only at the moment of installation, when further countermeasures preventing an outrigger failure may be taken, the centre of gravity of the load is moved to a position off centre from the hoist part. In an embodiment of the lift system, an installation surface comprises a suspension frame for suspending the heat pump from the installation surface; and wherein the lift system comprises:
- at least one hook shaped for hooking the traveller frame to the suspension frame and arranged for supporting the weight of the lift system and the heat pump.
A heat pump is typically such heavy that the heat pump is not mounted directly on a wall or installation surface. To minimize the weight to be handled, typically a suspension frame is mounted first. Thereafter the heat pump is hung in the suspension frame, minimizing the complexity and time that the heat pump needs to be handled.
The hook advantageously provides a countermeasure for an outrigger failure when the traveller frame is in an extended position and the plateau is off centre from the hoist part, preferably when the plateau is arranged to an extended end of the traveller frame. The hook may be in the shape of a meat hook and/or a support having a projection and/or a cavity or opening hooking into the suspension frame.
In an alternative embodiment, the lift system comprises a support, such as a pole, a pile or stand, for arranging the support under an extended end of the traveller frame in an extended position to advantageously prevent an outrigger failure when the plateau is slid off-centre, such as to the extended end of the traveller frame.
In an embodiment of the lift system, the plateau has an off-centred position wherein the plateau is adjacent to an end of the traveller frame, such as the extended end of the traveller frame; and the plateau has a centred position wherein the plateau is adjacent, close or next to or at the hoist part. Typically, an outrigger failure is not likely when the plateau is adjacent to the hoist part. This is because the hoist part is the support whereupon the load rests. As long as the centre of gravity of the load is at least adjacent, close or next to or at the hoist part an outrigger failure is not likely. Further, typically, an outrigger failure is much more likely when the plateau has an off- centred position wherein the plateau is adjacent, close or next to or at an end of the traveller frame. This is because the centre of gravity is slid away from the hoist part.
In an embodiment of the lift system, the lift system comprises a locking arrangement arranged for locking the plateau in a centred position when the hook is unhooked and unlocking the plateau for allowing the plateau to slide along the traveller frame from the centred position to the off-centred position. The locking arrangement advantageously causes the plateau to be slid to an off-centre position only when the hook is hooked preferably into the suspension system. This advantageously prevents outrigger failures and thus provides increased safety.
In an embodiment of the lift system, the at least one hook comprises an adjustment element for adjusting the height of the plateau relative to the suspension frame. The heat pump has to be slid into place into the suspension frame. Different manufacturers of heat pumps may provide different suspension frames in different shapes and forms.
These different suspension frames may cause that the height between the suspension frame and the plateau becomes different. Furthermore, the height the heat pump is to be held during installation may be different due to a different suspension frame or a different type of heat pump. The adjustment element advantageously allows to adjust the height.
In an alternative embodiment, the lift system comprises a replaceable hook. This provides the advantage that if the height of the plateau relative to the suspension frame needs a coarse adjustment, the hook may be replaced by a different hook providing an instant change of height.
In an embodiment of the lift system, the adjustment element is arranged for adjusting when the plateau is in the off-centred position and the heat pump is in the extended position. Typically, the heat pump is placed above the suspended position in the suspension frame and thereafter lowered into the suspended position. The adjustment element advantageously supports this part of the installation procedure of the heat pump. The adjustment element may only support lowering the traveller frame and/or the plateau. The adjustment element may also support hoisting the traveller frame and/or the plateau. This hoisting provides the advantage of being able to also remove heat pumps from its installed position or other products from a location. The adjustment element may advantageously comprise a nut being screwed over a bolt for lowering the plateau relative to the suspension frame.
In an embodiment of the lift system, the at least one hook comprises an insert, and opening and/or cavity shaped for cooperating with the suspension frame, wherein the at least one hook and/or the insert are replaceable, or the cavity or opening is adaptable. Different manufacturers of heat pumps may provide different suspension frames in different shapes and forms. These different suspension frames may require different shapes of the hook hooking into or onto the suspension frame. If the insert is not replaceable or the cavity or the opening is not adaptable, typically the hook as a whole is replaced, such that the lift system can be used for different types of suspension frames. The heat pump typically also defines a hook in the sense that the heat pump leaves a particular space between the installation surface and the heat pump when installed. The hook and typically also the insert, the cavity or the opening therefore also need to be adapted to this space behind the heat pump when installed.
If the insert is replaceable, or the cavity or the opening is adaptable, replacing the insert, or adapting the cavity or the opening for different suspension frames advantageously allows the lift system to work with different types of suspension frames without the need for multiple different hooks.
In an embodiment of the lift system, the lift system comprises an outrigger arrangement comprising at least one outrigger leg, wherein the outrigger arrangement is arranged for preventing outrigger failure of the hoist part. Typically, the outrigger arrangement extends substantially radial from the hoist part. The outrigger arrangement advantageously extends the stable region, wherein when the centre of gravity of the lift system including the heat pump or product placed on the plateau is within this stable region, an outrigger failure is prevented.
In an embodiment of the lift system, the outrigger arrangement is arranged for preventing outrigger failure in the centred position; and the at least one hook is arranged for preventing outrigger failure in the extended position and the off-centred position. The outrigger arrangement provides stability to the lift system when the centre of gravity is close to or at the hoist part. The hook arranged for preventing outrigger failure is typically a hook hooked into or onto the suspension frame on the installation surface. Any other element wherein the hook may be hooked may suffice. The hook arranged for preventing outrigger failure advantageously provides stability to the lift system when the centre of gravity is close to or at the extended end of the traveller frame. The combination provides the advantage that the stable region provided by the outrigger arrangement is extended beyond what the outrigger arrangement may provide on its own. Furthermore, the outrigger arrangement does not need to extend far while still providing the possibility that the centre of gravity is arranged to an extended end of the traveller frame.
In an embodiment of the lift system, the first rail arrangement is arranged for radially extending the traveller frame beyond the outrigger arrangement. A typical situation is that the space on the ground under the installation surface is occupied by some other device or is at least not suitable for accommodating the outrigger arrangement or is accessible for the outrigger arrangement e.g. due to another device being located under the installation surface. This combination provides the technical effect that the outrigger arrangement does not have to extend up to a location under the installation surface while still preventing outrigger failure due to the extension of the stable region by the hooked hook.
In an embodiment of the lift system, the outrigger arrangement comprises at least three outrigger legs arranged to radially extend from the hoist part and substantially evenly distributed over the circumference of the hoist part; and each of the outrigger legs comprises a braked wheel, preferably a braked caster wheel, arranged for relocating the lift system.
The at least three outrigger legs that are substantially evenly distributed over the circumference of the hoist part provide a stable region around the hoist part in all directions. In a preferred embodiment the outrigger arrangement comprises four outrigger legs. The braked wheel provides a means to advantageously move the lift system e.g. towards the installation surface for correctly positioning the lift system for e.g. installation of a heat pump on the plateau when the brakes are off. The lift system may even be moved while the hoist part hoisted the load. And when the brakes are on, the lift system is fixated such that the lift system advantageously provides a stable and safe platform to e.g. install a heavy product, such as a heat pump from.
In an embodiment of the lift system, the outrigger arrangement comprises at least two outrigger legs; and the at least two outrigger legs are adjustably arranged in a tangential direction relative to the hoist part for adjusting the width of the lift system. Typically, the at least two outrigger legs are arranged on both sides and in a direction the traveller frame may extend. The more the at least two outrigger legs extend in a direction different from the direction the traveller frame may extend, the more the outrigger arrangement advantageously provides sideway stability. The more the at least two outrigger legs extend parallel or in the direction of the traveller frame, the more the outrigger arrangement advantageously provides stability in the direction of the traveller frame may extend. Also, the lift system in total is made narrower, smaller or slenderer, such that the lift system may advantageously fit through a door in a house. Typically, the at least two outrigger legs are adjustable to a position such that the lift system has a width of less than 120 centimetres, preferably 100 centimetres, more preferably 90 centimetres.
In an embodiment of the lift system, the traveller frame and the plateau are arranged substantially horizontal in use. The traveller frame and the plateau may be arranged such that they are advantageously releasable from the hoist part or foldable to the hoist part, such that the lift system can be compacted during transport. As the rail systems are having preferably low friction, the traveller frame and the plateau when arranged horizontally result in the respective rail systems arrangements to also be arranged horizontally. Thus, this embodiment provides the advantage that if the plateau and/or traveller frame is not braked or secured, the plateau and/or the traveller frame don’t start to directly slide to an extreme of the respective rail arrangement.
It should also be noted that a slight amount of skew from the horizontal is typical for the plateau and/or the traveller frame. The respective rail arrangement in a preferred embodiment has a friction such that the skew does not overcome this friction, such that the plateau and/or the traveller frame when released don’t start to slide to an extreme of the respective rail arrangement. In an alternative embodiment, the respective rail arrangement has a brake or fixation that prevents the plateau and/or the traveller frame to slide to an extreme of the respective rail arrangement when braked or fixed.
In an embodiment of the lift system, the first rail arrangement and the second rail arrangement are arranged for providing a horizontal slidable coupling. This embodiment provides the same advantages as stated above.
In an embodiment of the lift system, the hoist part is arranged substantially vertical in use and/or wherein the traveller frame is substantially perpendicular to the hoist part in use. This embodiment provides the same advantages as stated above.
In an embodiment of the lift system, the first rail arrangement and the second rail arrangement are arranged for providing a substantially parallel slidable arrangement. This embodiment provides the same advantages as stated above.
In an embodiment of the lift system, the first rail arrangement comprises:
- a first runner wheel connected to one of the traveller frame and the hoist part;
- a second runner wheel connected to the same of the traveller frame and the hoist part; and
- a guide rail arranged for guiding both the runner wheels inside the guide rail for providing the slidable coupling, and connected to the other of the traveller frame and the hoist part. The runner wheels are typically spaced some distance apart for providing stability. Also, any play in the rail arrangement is advantageously minimized by spacing the runner wheels apart. By arranging the runner wheels inside a guide rail, the runner wheels are encased by the guide rail. This encasing provides the advantage that wheel runner whereupon a gravity force is exerted and a force opposite to the direction of gravity are both held inside the guide rail. In an embodiment of the lift system, the second rail arrangement comprises:
- a first runner wheel connected to one of the traveller frame and the plateau;
- a second runner wheel connected to the same of the traveller frame and the plateau; and
- a guide rail arranged for guiding both the runner wheels inside the guide rail for providing the slidable coupling, and connected to the other of the traveller frame and the plateau. This embodiment provides the same advantages as stated above for the first rail arrangement.
In an embodiment of the lift system, the first rail arrangement comprises:
- a contracted abutment for abutting the traveller frame or the hoist part in a contracted position; and
- an extended abutment for abutting the traveller frame or the hoist part in an extended position, wherein one end of the frame extends radially more from the hoist part compared to the contracted position. In a further embodiment, at least one of the abutments is removable for allowing the runner wheels to be released from the guide rail. This allows that the traveller frame is released from or folded onto the hoist part. This allows for the system to be compacted and/or split up in lighter components, such that the lift system may be more easily transported.
In an embodiment of the lift system, the second rail arrangement comprises:
- a centred abutment for abutting the traveller frame or the plateau in the centred position; and
- an off-centre abutment for abutting the traveller frame or the plateau in the off-centre position. This embodiment provides the same advantages as stated above for the first rail arrangement having abutments. In this case the plateau can be released from or folded onto the traveller frame.
In an embodiment of the lift system, the hoist part defines a longitudinal axis, wherein the hoist part hoists along this longitudinal axis. The longitudinal axis is during hoisting typically vertical for advantageously allowing the plateau to gain the most height. Furthermore, advantageously radial stress is prevented.
In an embodiment of the lift system, the hoist part comprises multiple telescopic hoist elements for hoisting the plateau to a height higher than the length of one of the telescopic hoist elements. This provides the advantage that the lift system is compact enough to be moved around a building or house, while it extends high enough to allow installation of a heat pump even one floor up. In an embodiment of the lift system, the hoist part comprises a pully arrangement and a winch, preferably a braked winch, arranged for controlling the height of the plateau. A pully arrangement in combination with the telescopic hoist elements provide the advantage of a compact hoist part, while also providing the advantage of relatively low forces that need to be exerted on the winch for hoisting the load.
According to another aspect of the invention, a method for lifting a heat pump during installation, wherein the method comprises the steps of:
- providing a lift system according to any of the preceding or following embodiments;
- hoisting the plateau and traveller frame;
- extending the traveller frame such that an end of the traveller frame is adjacent to the location where the heat pump is to be installed;
- sliding the plateau along the traveller frame such that the heat pump is adjacent to the location; and
- mounting the heat pump. The method provides the advantages as mentioned throughout this text.
In an embodiment of the method, the method comprises the step of:
- hooking the hook to the suspension frame before sliding the plateau.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
The invention will be apparent from and elucidated further with reference to the embodiments described by way of example in the following description and with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:
Figure 1 schematically shows a perspective side view of a lift system;
Figure 2 schematically shows a perspective bottom view of a part of the lift system;
Figure 3 schematically shows a perspective top view of a part of the lift system;
Figure 4 schematically shows a cross-section of the lift system;
Figure 5 schematically shows a perspective view of a traveller frame a and a first embodiment of a hook;
Figure 6 schematically shows a cross-section of a second embodiment of a second hook;
Figure 7 schematically shows a cross-section of a runner wheel; Figure 8 schematically shows a perspective bottom view of a part of the lift system;
Figure 9 schematically shows a perspective side view of a lift system; Figure 10 schematically shows a perspective side view of a third embodiment of a hook;
Figure 11 schematically shows a perspective view of the third embodiment of the hook; and
Figure 12 schematically shows a perspective view of the adjustment element and the coupling protrusion. The figures are purely diagrammatic and not drawn to scale. In the figures, elements which correspond to elements already described may have the same reference numerals.
LIST OF REFERENCE NUMERALS
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EXEMPLARY EMBODIMENTS
Figure 1 schematically shows a side perspective view of a lift system 100. The lift system comprises a hoist part 110, a plateau 160 and a traveller frame 140. The lift system is suitable for carrying a product 20, such as heat pumps.
Heat pumps may have a weight in excess of 150kg. Heat pumps have typically a weight below 200kg, preferably below 180kg, more preferably below 160kg.
The plateau is typically arranged for carrying the product, such as the heat pump. During installation or when carrying a heat pump on the plateau, the hoist part is typically arranged substantially vertical. The traveller frame is typically arranged substantially horizontal and/or substantially perpendicular to the hoist part. The traveller frame is typically elongated to provide during installation a horizontal platform where along the plateau may slide.
The lift system further comprises a first rail arrangement 150 arranged for providing a slidable coupling between the traveller frame and the hoist part in a direction A. Figure 1 shows the traveller frame in an extended position wherein the traveller frame may contact a wall 5 comprising the installation surface 10. Figure 1 further shows that the traveller frame may reach over for example a ground obstacle 15. The lift system further comprises a second rail arrangement 170 arranged for providing a slidable coupling between the traveller frame and the plateau in a direction B. Figure 1 shows the plateau adjacent to the hoist part in a centred position. The second rail arrangement allows the plateau to slide from the centred position to an off-centred position wherein the plateau is arranged to an extended end 141 of the traveller frame and as shown in figure 1 in contact or adjacent to the installation surface.
The first rail arrangement and the second rail arrangement are arranged such that they run independent from each other is that the traveller frame may be slid between an extended position and a contracted position while the plateau is held in a centred position. As the traveller frame is relatively light compared to the other parts of the lift system and the product, bringing the traveller frame in an extended position will not cause the centre of gravity of the lift system or the lift system and product to shift such that an outrigger failure will occur. In the extended position the traveller frame may be secured or supported by several countermeasures such as a support placed on the ground or a hook attached to the installation surface. The technical effect is that after arranging this countermeasure the plateau may be safely slid to the off-centre position without causing an outrigger failure. The invention therefore provides an increased safety. Furthermore, the invention provides the advantage that if a protrusion of the wall is in the way while hoisting the traveller frame, the plateau and the product, an end of the traveller frame may be temporarily contracted for vertically passing this obstacle while hoisting. Further, as the traveller frame is typically light weight, the traveller frame may be placed in an extended position without requiring a relatively large counter weight. Flence, providing the advantage of a relative light weight and/or relatively small lift system and/or without a bulky counterweight. This technical effect is enhanced as the hoist part is relatively heavy compared to the traveller frame, and the at least one forward facing outrigger legs arrange the hoist part counter balancing the extended traveller frame. The weight of the hoist part may be more than 5 times, less preferably 4 times, more less preferably 3 times, even more less preferably 2 times, the weight of the traveller frame.
The hoist part is typically arranged to hoist the traveller frame, plateau and product from ground to a height of over 2 metres, such as up to 5 metres, preferably less than 4 metres, more preferably less than 3 metres. The hoist part may comprise a first hoist element and a second hoist element. In a further embodiment, the hoist part may comprise a plurality of hoist elements. The first and the second hoist element may have a telescopic effect, wherein the second hoist element is telescopically hoisted in a vertical direction by the first hoist element.
The lift system typically comprises an outrigger arrangement 180 for preventing outrigger failure at least in some positions of the lift system. Such a position may be when the plateau is arranged in the centred position and preferably the lift system is arranged on a level or substantially level ground.
The outrigger arrangement may comprise a first forward facing outrigger leg 181 and a second forward facing outrigger leg 183. The first forward facing outrigger leg may comprise a first braked carter wheel 182. The second forward facing outrigger leg may comprise a second braked carter wheel 184. The first forward facing outrigger leg and the second forward facing outrigger leg face forward and are spread out to reduce the change of outrigger failure sideways for the lift system having the traveller frame in an extended position.
The outrigger arrangement may comprise a first backward facing outrigger leg 185 and a second backward facing outrigger leg 187. The first backward facing outrigger leg may comprise a third braked carter wheel 186. The second backward facing outrigger leg may comprise a second braked carter wheel 188. The first backward facing outrigger leg and the second backward facing outrigger leg face backward and are spread out to reduce the change of outrigger failure sideways for the lift system having the traveller frame in a contracted position.
Typically, the lift system is placed on the ground close to the installation surface. But also, typically, the lift system is not directly in the right spot or can not be placed in the right spot during the hoist. The cater wheels provide the advantage that the lift system, also when the traveller frame is hoisted, may be moved in all directions over the ground to position the lift system such that the traveller frame may extend to the installation surface.
The brakes on the respective carter wheels advantageously allow for the lift system to position the lift system for the installation and after positioning fixating this position by applying the brakes of the respective carter wheels.
The hoist part may comprise spoons 116 whereto the traveller frame is coupled, preferably releasably coupled. Having the traveller frame releasable from the hoist part provides the advantage of compacting the lift system during transport. The hoist part may further comprise a high spoon holder 115 and a low spoon holder 114. Figure 1 shows the spoons in the high spoon holder. The high spoon holder provides the advantage that the hoist part may reach higher. The low spoon holder provides the advantage that the product when placed on the plateau only needs to be lifted a small height from the ground for placing the product on the plateau. The combination of the low and high spoon holder provides the advantage that a heavy product may be easily placed on the plateau with the spoons in the low spoon holder, then hoisted to and placed on an elevated platform temporarily for thereafter replacing the heavy product on the plateau and hoisting the heavy product to a higher height with the spoons in the high spoon holder.
The lift system may comprise transport wheels 190 and/or a slide bar 195. Typically, the outrigger arrangement is removable from the hoist part. The outrigger arrangement may be arranged for transport by attaching the outrigger arrangement substantially parallel to the hoist elements to advantageously compact a part of the lift system for transport. Also, the traveller frame and the plateau may be removably coupled to the hoist part. The hoist part is typically the heavy part of the lift system.
The transport wheels are arranged such that if at least the outrigger arrangement is detached, the hoist part may be tilted such that the transport wheels, hoist part and slide bar form a hand truck, wherein the slide bar is the handle. The hand truck may advantageously be easily maneuvered. In an advantageous embodiment, this hand truck may even be used to carry the product. Furthermore, the slide bar provides the advantage that during transport, such as in a wagon or transport van, the hoist part may be placed horizontally on the slide bar for more stability. Furthermore, the slide bar allows to hoist part to be slid over the slide bar for a small distance.
Figure 2 schematically shows a perspective bottom view a part of the lift system 100. Figure shows the traveller frame 140 arranged substantially perpendicular to the hoist part 110. The hoist part comprises in this embodiment three sets of telescopic elements wherein the outer first set of telescopic hoist elements 111, 11 T remain at the same height relative to the ground while hoisting. During hoisting the second set of telescopic hoist elements 112, 112’ may be hoisted relative to the first set of telescopic elements. And further during hoisting the third set of telescopic hoist elements 113, 113’ may be hoisted relative to the second set of telescopic elements. Thus, in the most extended position of the hoist part, the third set of telescopic elements extend the highest. The telescopic hoist elements are arranged such that the set of outer hoist elements remain below, for allowing the outrigger arrangement and the slide bar to advantageously be coupled to the hoist part at a wider and thus more stable position.
The traveller frame has the plateau 160 arranged on top. The traveller frame and the plateau are slidable coupled to each other via the second rail arrangement 170, 170’. The second rail arrangement may be a set of runner wheels in a guide on both sides of the traveller frame and plateau for providing a stable slidable coupling. The hoist part may comprise spoons 116, 116’. The spoons may be arranged in the low spoon holder 114. The spoons may be slidable coupled to the traveller frame by the first rail arrangement 150, 150’. The first rail arrangement may be a set of runner wheels in a guide on both sides of the traveller frame and spoons for providing a stable slidable coupling. Typically, the traveller frame comprises beams 142, 142’ advantageously shaped to provide guides for the runner wheels on both sides of the beam.
The traveller frame is shown in an extended position having beams having extended ends 141, 14T. The plateau is positioned next to the hoist part and is in a centred position. Furthermore, the traveller frame and plateau are shown hoisted halfway the hoist part, while the sets of telescopic elements do not extend. The direction of travel or slidable coupling of the traveller frame relative to the hoist part or spoons is indicated A. The direction of travel or slidable coupling of the plateau relative to the traveller frame is indicated B.
Figure 3 schematically shows a perspective top view of a part of the lift system 100. The part of the lift system shown is shown without the sets of telescopic elements 111, 111’, 112, 112’, 113, 113’. Further, the traveller frame 140 comprises cross beams on both ends which may advantageously provide abutments for abutting the traveller frame on the hoist part in the extended and contracted position respectively.
The traveller frame is shown in a contracted position or almost in a contracted position. The plateau is shown in a centred position or almost in a centred position. The dashed line IV shows the position of the cross-section for figure 4.
Figure 4 schematically shows a cross-section of a part of the lift system 100. The figure shows the plateau enveloping the beams 142, 142’ of the traveller frame 140.
The beams may have second guide rails 143, 143’ arranged for holding and allowing plateau runner wheels 161, 16T to run in the second guide rails for providing a slidable coupling between the plateau and the traveller frame. The beams may have first guide rails 144, 144’ arranged for holding and allowing spoon runner wheels 117,
117’ to run in the first guide rails for providing a slidable coupling between the spoons and the traveller frame. The first rail arrangement may comprise the first guide rails and the spoon runner wheels. The second rail arrangement may comprise the second guide rails and the plateau runner wheels. In an advantageous embodiment, the runner wheels are identical for simplifying production. In an advantageous embodiment, the beams are point symmetric around a centre point for providing identical guide rails further simplifying production.
Figure 5 schematically shows a perspective view of a traveller frame 140 a and a first embodiment of a hook 145. The hook is arranged to an end of the traveller frame which extends in the extended position of the traveller frame. The hook comprises two downward facing protruding plates 147, 147’ arranged in one plane.
The hook may further comprise a hook opening arranged between the two planes. The plates typically have a thickness for fitting into a slot or trench of the suspension frame for cooperating therewith. When the hook is arranged to the suspension frame the protruding plates typically prevent the traveller frame to slide or move in a direction A. Furthermore, the suspension frame may comprise a protrusion shaped to cooperate with the hook opening for together with the protruding plates providing a coupling preventing the traveller frame to move or slide in any direction in the horizontal plane.
Figure 6 schematically shows a cross-section of a second embodiment of a second hook 145’. The second hook comprises an elongated body 148, a top hook 148 shaped for cooperating with a suspension frame and arranged at the top of the elongated body and a threaded part 149’ of the hook body arranged at a bottom part of the elongated body. The second hook further comprises a bottom hook 148’ arranged for cooperating with the traveller frame directly or indirectly. The bottom hook also comprises a bottom hook opening wherethrough the elongated body is arranged. The second hook further comprises an adjustment element, such as a nut, preferably a nut with on the outer side of the nut a surface adapted for being manually rotated. The adjustment element is arranged to prevent the bottom hook from sliding of the elongated body. The bottom hook relates to the height of the plateau. The top hook relates to the height of the suspension frame. When the adjustment element is adjusted, the height between the bottom hook and the top hook is adjusted and thus advantageously the height of the plateau relative to the suspension frame. This has the technical effect that the product, such as the heat pump, is arranged at a height for installing the product on the suspension frame. The adjustment element also advantageously allows the product or heat pump to be lowered into the suspension frame.
This second embodiment of the hook 145’ may be arranged to the first embodiment of the hook for adapting the height of the plateau relative to the suspension frame when hooked. Alternatively, the second hook may cooperate with an opening at the bottom and at an extended end of the beam or traveller frame for hooking into the beam or the traveller frame.
Figure 7 schematically shows a cross-section of a runner wheel 117, 117’, 161, 161’. The runner wheel 16T may comprise a wheel 162, an axle 163, a nut 164 and a washer. The wheel is rotatably arranged to an end of the axle. The nut is arranged to another end of the axle. The axle may be arranged through an opening in a plate with the nut on one side of the plate and the wheel and washer on the other side of the plate. The washer is arranged between the wheel and plate and has a thickness that the wheel is free from the plate. The plate is typically a section of the guide rail for together with the runner wheel forming a slidable coupling and a part of the rail arrangement.
An outrigger failure is typically used in the context of hoisting devices, such as cranes. A hosting device including the load carried by the hoisting device has a centre of gravity. Furthermore, a hosting device typically has support legs or support beams resting on the ground placed at some distance from the hoisting device. Typically, these support legs substantially radially extend from the hoisting device for creating a stable region. Typically, if the centre of gravity of the hoisting device and load is outside the stable region, the hoisting device and load topple or fall over. This toppling or tipping of the hoisting device and the load is named an outrigger failure.
Figure 8 schematically shows a perspective bottom view of a part of the lift system 100. The lift system in Figure 8 is similar to the lift system in Figure 2. The lift system in Figure 8 has a hook 200, which is different from the hook 145’ shown in Figure 2. The hook 200 in Figure 8 will be detailed below.
Figure 9 schematically shows a perspective side view of a lift system 100. The lift system comprises a traveller frame 140, a plateau 160, and a hoist part 110. The hoist part is during hoisting substantially vertical. The traveller frame is during use substantially horizontal. The heat pump is typically suspended from a suspension frame 30 comprising at least one horizontal strip 31. The lift system further comprises a hook 200 shown coupling the traveller frame to the suspension frame or horizontal strip. The traveller frame is shown in the extended position, wherein one end of the traveller frame extends from the hoist part and arranges this end next or adjacent to the suspension frame or installation surface. Further, the plateau is arranged in the off- centre position, wherein the plateau is arranged above the end of the of the traveller frame extending form the hoist part and next to or adjacent to the suspension frame or installation surface. Figure 10 schematically shows a perspective side view of a third embodiment of a hook 200. The hook couples the traveller frame 140 and a wall 5, typically a suspension frame 30 mounted on the wall, both shown in Figure 1.
A suspension frame 30 typically comprises two horizontal strips 31 spaced apart above each other, as shown in Figure 1 and 9. Typically, the horizontal strips each have an undercut at the top side and an undercut at the bottom side of the strip. Typically, the suspension frame further comprises two L-shaped brackets. The L- shaped bracket has a vertical leg and a horizontal leg. The vertical leg comprises two openings for cooperating with the horizontal strips for suspending the L-shaped bracket from the horizontal strips. The two openings are further shaped such that the L-shaped brackets are horizontally slidable over the horizontal strips. Typically, the two openings are shaped such that the L-shaped brackets are only couplable with the horizontal strips at an end of the horizontal strips, more specific the L-shaped brackets cannot be taken from the horizontal strips in a horizontal direction perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the horizontal strips. Further, when the L-shaped brackets are suspended from the horizontal strips and spaced apart, the horizontal legs of the L- shaped brackets are arranged for carrying a load, such as a heater, an air-conditioning device, or heat pump. This load is then suspended from the ground and in close proximity of the wall whereon the suspension frame is mounted.
The third embodiment of the hook comprises an elongated body 210, typically arranged in a vertical position in use. The hook further comprises an undercut opening 220 at one end of the elongated body. The undercut opening is shaped to cooperate with one of the horizontal strips of the suspension frame. Typically, the horizontal strips extend on both sides beyond the position where the L-shaped brackets are placed or will be placed. Typically, the horizontal strips are longer, such as much longer, compared to the distance between the horizontal legs of the L-shaped brackets when holding the load. The undercut opening is typically shaped to allow the hook to slide sideways onto the horizontal strip with the L-shaped brackets in between. The horizontal strip of the suspension frame coupling with the hook may be the top or the bottom strip of the suspension frame.
The hook further comprises a traveller coupling 230. The traveller coupling may comprise a coupling protrusion 231. The traveller frame may comprise a cavity shaped to cooperate with the coupling protrusion for coupling the hook to the traveller frame and thus the lift system. The coupling protrusion is typically shaped and arranged to coop with the forces exerted on the coupling protrusion when the plateau travels over the traveller frame to the off-centre position, typically when the traveller frame is in the extended position, thereby preventing an outrigger failure. The traveller coupling may further comprise a safety lock through hole 232. The safety lock through hole typically cooperates with a safety lock through hole in the traveller frame for allowing in a coupled position a locking pin through both through holes for fixating the coupling of the hook to the traveller frame.
Figure 11 schematically shows a perspective view of the third embodiment of the hook 200. The hook typically comprises an adjustment element 240 for adjusting the height of the traveller coupling when suspended. The adjustment element may comprise a threaded rod 241. The threaded rod is typically held inside the elongated body, is rotatable along its axis, and/or is arranged through a threaded through hole in the traveller coupling, such as the coupling protrusion. The adjustment element may further comprise an adjustment coupling for turning the threaded rod with a tool. The adjustment coupling may be a hexagon socket head. The tool may be a drill with a hexagon socket bit fitting into the hexagon socket head. The adjustment element typically allows adjusting when the hook is coupled to the suspension frame and the lift system for advantageously allowing last moment adjustments just before the plateau is placed over the horizontal legs of the L-shaped brackets. The adjustment element may also be used to lower the load on the plateau onto the horizontal legs of the L-shaped brackets. It will be clear to the skilled reader that the lift system may also be used to remove loads from a suspension frame and make these loads easily accessible for example for servicing and/or replacing a heater, an air-conditioning device, or heat pump. Figure 9 schematically shows a side view of an embodiment of a traveller coupling 200 also shown in Figure 8.
Figure 12 schematically shows a perspective view of the adjustment element 240 and the coupling protrusion 230. The adjustment element comprises a threaded rod 241 and holders 243, 244. The ends of the threaded rod are placed in holders for holding the threaded rod in place and allowing the threaded rod to rotate. Rotation of the threaded rod will move the coupling protrusion closer to one of the holders depending on the direction of rotation of the threaded rod. The adjustment element further comprises an adjustment opening, allowing a tool to be inserted for turning or rotating the threaded rod and thereby adjusting the height of the coupling protrusion in use or coupled relative to the suspension frame.
In the foregoing specification, the invention has been described with reference to specific examples of embodiments of the invention. It will, however, be evident that various modifications and changes may be made therein without departing from the scope of the invention as set forth in the appended claims. For example, the shapes may be any type of shape suitable to achieve the desired effect. Devices functionally forming separate devices may be integrated in a single physical device.
However, other modifications, variations and alternatives are also possible. The specifications and drawings are, accordingly, to be regarded in an illustrative rather than in a restrictive sense.
In the claims, any reference signs placed between parentheses shall not be construed as limiting the claim. The word ‘comprising’ or ‘including’ does not exclude the presence of other elements or steps than those listed in a claim. Furthermore, the terms “a” or “an,” as used herein, are defined as one or as more than one. Also, the use of introductory phrases such as “at least coupling one” and “one or more” in the claims should not be construed to imply that the introduction of another claim element by the indefinite articles "a" or "an" limits any particular claim containing such introduced claim element to inventions containing only one such element, even when the same claim includes the introductory phrases "one or more" or "at least one" and indefinite articles such as "a" or "an." The same holds true for the use of definite articles. Unless stated otherwise, terms such as “first” and “second” are used to arbitrarily distinguish between the elements such terms describe. Thus, these terms are not necessarily intended to indicate temporal or other prioritization of such elements. The mere fact that certain measures are recited in mutually different claims does not indicate that a combination of these measures cannot be used to advantage.

Claims

1. Lift system (100) for lifting a heat pump during installation, comprising:
- a plateau (160) sized for receiving the heat pump;
- a hoist part (110) arranged for hoisting the plateau;
- a traveller frame (140) arranged for coupling the plateau to the hoist part for supporting the plateau;
- a first rail arrangement (150, 150’) arranged for providing a slidable coupling between the traveller frame and the hoist part; and
- a second rail arrangement (170, 170’) arranged for providing a slidable coupling between the traveller frame and the plateau; and wherein the first rail arrangement and the second rail arrangement are arranged such that they run independent from each other.
2. Lift system according to the preceding claim, wherein an installation surface (10) comprises a suspension frame for suspending the heat pump from the installation surface; and wherein the lift system comprises:
- at least one hook (145, 145’, 200) shaped for hooking the traveller frame to the suspension frame and arranged for supporting the weight of the lift system and the heat pump.
3. Lift system according to the preceding claim, wherein the plateau has an off-centred position wherein the plateau is adjacent to an end of the traveller frame; and wherein the plateau has a centred position wherein the plateau is adjacent to the hoist part.
4. Lift system according to the preceding claims, comprising a locking arrangement arranged for locking the plateau in a centred position when the hook is unhooked and unlocking the plateau for allowing the plateau to slide along the traveller frame from the centred position to the off-centred position.
5. Lift system according to any of the preceding claims 2-4, wherein the at least one hook comprises an adjustment element for adjusting the height of the plateau relative to the suspension frame.
6. Lift system according to the preceding claim and depending on claim 3, wherein the adjustment element is arranged for adjusting when the plateau is in the off-centred position and the heat pump is in the extended position.
7. Lift system according to any of the preceding claims 2-6, wherein the at least one hook comprises an insert, an opening and/or cavity shaped for cooperating with the suspension frame, wherein the at least one hook and/or the insert are replaceable, or the cavity or opening is adaptable.
8. Lift system according to any of the preceding claims, comprising an outrigger arrangement comprising at least one outrigger leg, wherein the outrigger arrangement is arranged for preventing outrigger failure of the hoist part.
9. Lift system according to the preceding claim, depending on claim 3, wherein the outrigger arrangement is arranged for preventing outrigger failure in the centred position; and wherein the at least one hook is arranged for preventing outrigger failure in the extended position and the off-centred position.
10. Lift system according to the preceding claim, wherein the first rail arrangement is arranged for radially extending the traveller frame beyond the outrigger arrangement.
11. Lift system according to any of the preceding claims 8-10, wherein the outrigger arrangement comprises at least three outrigger legs arranged to radially extend from the hoist part and substantially evenly distributed over the circumference of the hoist part; and wherein each of the outrigger legs comprises a braked wheel, preferably a braked caster wheel, arranged for relocating the lift system.
12. Lift system according to any of the claims 8-11 , wherein the outrigger arrangement comprises at least two outrigger legs; and wherein the at least two outrigger legs are adjustably arranged in a tangential direction relative to the hoist part for adjusting the width of the lift system.
13. Lift system according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the traveller frame and the plateau are arranged substantially horizontal in use.
14. Lift system according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the first rail arrangement and the second rail arrangement are arranged for providing a horizontal slidable coupling.
15. Lift system according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the hoist part is arranged substantially vertical in use and/or wherein the traveller frame is substantially perpendicular to the hoist part in use.
16. Lift system according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the first rail arrangement and the second rail arrangement are arranged for providing a substantially parallel slidable arrangement.
17. Lift system according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the first rail arrangement comprises:
- a first runner wheel connected to one of the traveller frame and the hoist part;
- a second runner wheel connected to the same of the traveller frame and the hoist part; and
- a guide rail arranged for guiding both the runner wheels inside the guide rail for providing the slidable coupling, and connected to the other of the traveller frame and the hoist part; and/or wherein the second rail arrangement comprises:
- a first runner wheel connected to one of the traveller frame and the plateau;
- a second runner wheel connected to the same of the traveller frame and the plateau; and
- a guide rail arranged for guiding both the runner wheels inside the guide rail for providing the slidable coupling, and connected to the other of the traveller frame and the plateau.
18. Lift system according to the preceding claim, depending on claim 3, wherein the first rail arrangement comprises:
- a contracted abutment for abutting the traveller frame or the hoist part in a contracted position; and
- an extended abutment for abutting the traveller frame or the hoist part in an extended position, wherein one end of the frame extends radially more from the hoist part compared to the contracted position; and/or wherein the second rail arrangement comprises:
- a centred abutment for abutting the traveller frame or the plateau in the centred position; and
- an off-centre abutment for abutting the traveller frame or the plateau in the off- centre position.
19. Lift system according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the hoist part defines a longitudinal axis, wherein the hoist part hoists along this longitudinal axis.
20. Lift system according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the hoist part comprises multiple hoist elements for hoisting the plateau to a height higher than the length of one of the telescopic hoist elements.
21. Lift system according to the preceding claim, wherein the hoist part comprises a pully arrangement and a winch, preferably a braked winch, arranged for controlling the height of the plateau.
22. Method for lifting a heat pump during installation, wherein the method comprises the steps of:
- providing a lift system according to any of the preceding claims;
- hoisting the plateau and traveller frame;
- extending the traveller frame such that an end of the traveller frame is adjacent to the location where the heat pump is to be installed;
- sliding the plateau along the traveller frame such that the heat pump is adjacent to the location; and
- mounting the heat pump.
23. Method according to the preceding claim, wherein the method comprises the step of hooking the hook to the suspension frame before sliding the plateau.
EP20820279.6A 2019-11-03 2020-11-03 Lift system for heat pumps and method for installing a heat pump Pending EP4051619A1 (en)

Applications Claiming Priority (2)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
NL2024153 2019-11-03
PCT/NL2020/050682 WO2021086195A1 (en) 2019-11-03 2020-11-03 Lift system for heat pumps and method for installing a heat pump

Publications (1)

Publication Number Publication Date
EP4051619A1 true EP4051619A1 (en) 2022-09-07

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ID=73726863

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Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
EP20820279.6A Pending EP4051619A1 (en) 2019-11-03 2020-11-03 Lift system for heat pumps and method for installing a heat pump

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* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US5090667A (en) * 1990-12-03 1992-02-25 Summer Mfg. Co., Inc. Collapsible mobile base for cable hoists
JPH0960793A (en) * 1995-08-21 1997-03-04 Kurashiki Kako Co Ltd Wall face frame
JP4896606B2 (en) * 2006-07-04 2012-03-14 株式会社日立プラントテクノロジー Transfer machine
US8167528B2 (en) * 2008-09-30 2012-05-01 Keeven Ronald A Back saver lift
NL2009481C2 (en) * 2012-09-18 2014-03-19 Peinemann Equipment Bv DEVICE FOR LIFTING OBJECTS.
DE102013008020B4 (en) * 2013-05-08 2016-02-18 Hoerbiger Holding Ag loader
DE102015114411B4 (en) * 2015-08-28 2019-01-10 Hoerbiger Holding Ag Cargo transport trolley
IL256019B (en) * 2017-11-30 2019-03-31 Softenlift Ltd Pallet shelfing apparatus

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