3D CAD Modeling and Graphical Simulation of Mobile Cranes

by Parmanand V. Dharwadkar, Univ of Texas at Austin, Austin, United States,
James T. O'Connor, Univ of Texas at Austin, Austin, United States,
Thomas M. Gatton, Univ of Texas at Austin, Austin, United States,



Document Type: Proceeding Paper

Part of: Computing in Civil Engineering

Abstract:

This paper describes the research performed to lay a foundation for developing a graphical simulation system which can be used in the planning of heavy lifts using mobile cranes. Mobile crane components are represented as different objects and each object is given a unique name and number. A common terminology is developed to represent objects of different crane configurations. This decomposition of mobile cranes into standard objects is used for developing a standard crane model. A methodology is developed for creating a 3D CAD crane model based on crane specifications obtained from the crane manufacturers. Intergraph's MicroStation (3D CADD Package) is used to create the crane geometry. A procedure is presented for creating a fully animated mobile crane model based on the created 3D CAD crane geometry. Bechtel's Walkthru (Walkthrough Animation Package) is used to create the animated models and perform graphical simulation of mobile cranes. The hierarchical kinematics relationships between different crane objects is defined, and crane motion menus are developed for the nine possible degrees of freedom. A library of crane models is developed which includes crawler cranes, truck carrier cranes, crawler cranes with tower, and all-terrain carrier cranes.

Subject Headings: Cranes | Computer aided design | Three-dimensional models | Graphic methods | Computer models | Simulation models | Construction equipment

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