CRANE, METHOD FOR ASSEMBLING A CRANE AND METHOD FOR DISASSEMBLING A CRANE

Abstract

The invention pertains to a crane, a method for assembling a crane and a method for disassembling a crane. The crane comprises: a first mast which is tiltable relative to the crane base around a first mast pivot axis into an inclined mast operating position; and a receiving device, which is adapted to receive the mast section of the first mast, which receiving device has a receiving device central axis parallel to the central mast axis, and a mast section guide which is adapted to guide movement of the mast section relative to the receiving device in the direction of the receiving device central axis, wherein the receiving device is connected to the crane base and the first mast is tiltable relative to the crane base around the first mast pivot axis.

Claims

1. A Crane, which crane comprises: a crane base; a first mast having a central mast axis, wherein the first mast comprises a mast section, and the first mast is tiltable relative to the crane base around a first mast pivot axis within a range of angular positions, wherein the range of angular positions includes a mast construction position and an inclined mast operating position, wherein the first mast pivot axis extends perpendicular to the central mast axis; a receiving device adapted to receive the mast section of the first mast, wherein the receiving device has a receiving device central axis which is perpendicular to the first mast pivot axis and parallel to the central mast axis, and a mast section guide adapted to guide movement of the mast section relative to the receiving device in the direction of the receiving device central axis; a transfer device adapted to move the mast section of the first mast relative to the receiving device in the direction of the receiving device central axis from a receiving position into a transfer position; a locking device adapted to releasably lock the position of the mast section of the first mast relative to the receiving device in the transfer position; and a first mast fixing device (60) adapted to releasably fix the first mast in the mast construction position.

2. The Crane according to claim 1, wherein the crane further comprises a second mast, wherein optionally the first mast is a main boom and the second mast is a back mast.

3. The Crane according to claim 1, wherein the transfer device is provided with one or more cables to bring the mast section from the receiving position to the transfer position.

4. The Crane according to claim 1, wherein the crane is a high capacity crane.

5. The Crane according to claim 1, wherein an imaginary assembly space is defined as extending vertically upwards above the crane base and having outer borders in horizontal direction extending vertically upwards from outer borders of the crane base, wherein the first mast is configured to be completely within said assembly space when the first mast is in the mast construction position, and wherein preferably the first mast is configured to be completely within said assembly space during assembly of the first mast.

6. The Crane according to claim 5, wherein the receiving device, the transfer device and the locking device are configured to be completely within said assembly space when the first mast is in the mast construction position and during assembly of the first mast.

7. The Crane according to claim 1, wherein the receiving device is connected to the crane base and tiltable along with the first mast relative to the crane base around the first mast pivot axis.

8. The Crane according to claim 1, wherein the first mast comprises a lower mast section (14) which is connected to the crane base and tiltable relative to the crane base around the first mast pivot axis.

9. The Crane according to claim 1, wherein the central mast axis of the first mast extends vertically when the first mast is in the construction position.

10. The Crane according to claim 1, wherein a mast section of the first mast is provided with at least a part of a hoisting system.

11. The Crane according to claim 1, wherein the first mast comprises a tilting member which allows an upper portion (18) of the first mast to tilt away from the central mast axis of the first mast.

12. A Method for assembling a crane, which crane comprises a first mast having a central mast axis, wherein the first mast comprises a mast section, and the first mast is tiltable relative to a crane base around a first mast pivot axis within a range of angular positions, which range includes a mast construction position and an inclined mast operating position, wherein the first mast pivot axis extends perpendicular to the central mast axis, which method comprises the following steps: connecting a receiving device which is adapted to receive a mast section of the first mast and which has a receiving device central axis to the crane base, wherein first mast pivot axis extends perpendicular to the receiving device central axis; fixing the receiving device in a position in which the receiving device central axis is parallel to the central mast axis of the first mast in the mast construction position; arranging a mast section of a first mast of the crane in the receiving device; moving the mast section of the first mast relative to the receiving device in the direction of the receiving device central axis from a receiving position into a transfer position, wherein the mast section of the first mast is in an angular position which corresponds to the mast construction position of the first mast; and locking the position of the mast section relative to the receiving device in the transfer position to build up the first mast.

13. The Method according to claim 12, wherein each of the mast section of the first mast remains within an imaginary assembly space, at least from the moment that said mast section is arranged in the receiving device until the first mast is assembled in the mast construction position, wherein the assembly space is defined as extending vertically upwards above the crane base and having outer borders in horizontal direction extending vertically upwards from outer borders of the crane base.

14. The Method according to claim 12, further comprising the steps of releasing the fixing of the receiving device and removing the receiving device.

15. The Method according to claim 14, wherein the method comprises the following steps, after assembling the first mast and the removing of the receiving device: connecting the receiving device to the crane base on a position where a second mast is to be assembled, said position being offset from the first mast, wherein the receiving device is adapted to receive a mast section of the second mast, wherein optionally the receiving device is connected tiltably to the crane base, therewith making the receiving device tiltable relative to the crane base around a second mast pivot axis, which second mast pivot axis extends perpendicular to the receiving device central axis; fixing the receiving device in a position in which the receiving device central axis is parallel to the central mast axis of the second mast in the mast construction position; arranging a mast section of the second mast of the crane in the receiving device; moving the mast section of the second mast relative to the receiving device in the direction of the receiving device central axis from a receiving position into a transfer position, wherein the mast section of the second mast is in an angular position which corresponds to the second mast construction position; and locking the position of the mast section relative to the receiving device in the transfer position to build up the second mast; and optionally releasing the fixing of the receiving device and tilting the second mast, optionally together with the receiving device, around the second mast pivot axis into an angular position which corresponds to the inclined mast operating position.

16. The Method according to claim 14, wherein the method further comprises the following steps, after assembling the first mast and the removing of the receiving device: connecting the receiving device to a further crane base, wherein the receiving device is adapted to receive a mast section of a further first mast, wherein optionally the receiving device is connected tiltably to the further crane base, therewith making the receiving device tiltable relative to the further crane base around a further first mast pivot axis, which further first mast pivot axis extends perpendicular to the receiving device central axis; fixing the receiving device in a position in which the receiving device central axis is parallel to a central mast axis of the further first mast in the mast construction position; arranging a mast section of the further first mast of the crane in the receiving device; moving the mast section of the further first mast relative to the receiving device in the direction of the receiving device central axis from a receiving position into a transfer position, wherein the mast section of the further first mast is in an angular position which corresponds to the further first mast construction position; locking the position of the mast section relative to the receiving device in the transfer position to build up the further first mast; and optionally releasing the fixing of the receiving device and tilting the further first mast, optionally together with the receiving device, around the further first mast pivot axis into an angular position which corresponds to the inclined mast operating position.

17. The Method according to claims 12, wherein the step of connecting the receiving device to the crane base includes: tiltably connecting the receiving device to the crane base, therewith making the receiving device tiltable relative to the crane base around the first mast pivot axis, wherein the method further includes: releasing the fixing of the receiving device and tilting the receiving device and the first mast together around the first mast pivot axis into an angular position which corresponds to the inclined mast operating position.

18. The Method according to claim 12, wherein the method further comprises the following steps: after the step of locking the position of the mast section relative to the receiving device in the transfer position and before the step of releasing the fixing of the receiving device and optionally tilting the receiving device and the mast section of the first mast together around the first mast pivot axis into an angular position which corresponds to inclined mast operating position: arranging a further mast section (13, 14) of a first mast of the crane in the receiving device; connecting the further mast section (13, 14) of the first mast to the mast section of the first mast that is locked in the transfer position; unlocking the mast section (11, 12, 13) of the first mast in the transfer position; moving the further mast section (13, 14) of the first mast relative to the receiving device in the direction of the receiving device central axis from a receiving position into the transfer position, wherein the mast section of the first mast is in an angular position which corresponds to the mast construction position of the first mast, and therewith moving the mast section (11, 12, 13) which was in the transfer position away from the transfer position in a direction that is parallel to the central mast axis to further build up the first mast; and locking the position of the further mast section (13, 14) relative to the receiving device in the transfer position.

19. The Method according to claim 12, wherein the method further comprises the following steps: after the step of locking the position of the mast section relative to the receiving device in the transfer position and before the step of releasing the fixing of the receiving device and optionally tilting the receiving device and the mast section of the first mast together around the first mast pivot axis into an angular position which corresponds to inclined mast operating position: arranging a lower mast section of the first mast of the crane in the receiving device; connecting the lower mast section (14) of the first mast to the mast section or further mast section of the first mast that is locked in the transfer position to further build up the first mast; and connecting the lower mast section (14) of the first mast to the crane base and making the lower mast section (14) of the first mast tiltable relative to the crane base around the first mast pivot axis.

20. The Method according to claim 12, wherein the mast section is an intermediate mast section, wherein optionally multiple intermediate mast sections and/or at least one intermediate mast section and a lower mast sections are assembled together, wherein the method further comprises a step of arranging a top mast sections on top of the intermediate section, or the highest intermediate section, e.g. with an external crane.

21. The Method according to claim 12, wherein at least one mast section of the first mast comprises at least a part of a hoisting system, which method further comprises the following steps: connecting a hoisting cable (73) which is connected to the at least part of the hoisting system of the mast section of the first mast to a mast section (21, 22, 23, 24) of a second mast; and connecting the mast section (21, 22, 23, 24) of the second mast to the crane base to build up the second mast and making the second mast tiltable relative to the crane base around a second mast pivot axis (26), which is parallel to the first mast pivot axis.

22. The Method according to claim 21, wherein the step of connecting a hoisting cable (73) which is connected to the at least part of the hoisting system of the mast section of the first mast (10) to a mast section (21, 22, 23, 24) of the second mast takes place before releasing the fixing of the receiving device and optionally tilting the receiving device and the mast of the first mast together around the first mast pivot axis into an angular position which corresponds to the inclined mast operating position.

23. The Method according to claim 21, wherein the method further comprises the step of tilting the second mast into an inclined second mast operating position.

24. The Method according to claim 12, wherein in the step of fixing the receiving device in a position in which the receiving device central axis is parallel to the central mast axis of the first mast in the mast construction position, the receiving device is fixed in a position in which the receiving device central axis extends vertically.

25. The Method according to claim 12, wherein the method further comprises the step of tilting an upper portion (18) of the first mast away from the central mast axis of the first mast.

26. A Method for disassembling a crane, which crane is a crane according to claim 1, which method comprises the following steps: tilting the first mast, optionally together with the receiving device, around the first mast pivot axis into an angular position which corresponds to the mast construction position; fixing the receiving device in a position in which the receiving device central axis is parallel to the central mast axis of the first mast in the mast construction position; and removing a mast section of the first mast which is present in the receiving device from the receiving device.

27. The Method according to claim 26, which further comprises the following steps: after the step of fixing the receiving device in a position in which the receiving device central axis is parallel to the central mast axis of the first mast in the mast construction position, and prior to the step of removing the mast section of the first mast which is present in the receiving device from the receiving device, releasing the locking of the mast section which is in the transfer position and moving this mast section from the transfer position into the receiving position in the receiving device; and then, still prior to the step of removing the mast section of the first mast which is present in the receiving device from the receiving device, locking the position of a subsequent mast section relative to the receiving device in the transfer position.

Description

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0166] The invention will be described in more detail below under reference to the drawing, in which in a non-limiting manner exemplary embodiments of the invention will be shown.

[0167] FIG. 1a schematically illustrates a first embodiment of a crane according to the invention.

[0168] FIG. 1b schematically illustrates a second embodiment of a crane according to the invention.

[0169] FIG. 2 schematically illustrates a third embodiment of a crane according to the invention.

[0170] FIG. 3 schematically illustrates a first stage of a first embodiment of the method according to the invention, in a side view.

[0171] FIG. 4 shows the stage of FIG. 3 in front view.

[0172] FIG. 5 schematically shows a subsequent stage of a first embodiment of the method according to the invention, in a side view.

[0173] FIG. 6 shows the stage of FIG. 5 in front view.

[0174] FIG. 7 shows the first mast as assembled in accordance with the first embodiment of the method according to the invention, in a side view.

[0175] FIG. 8 shows the first mast as assembled in accordance with the first embodiment of the method according to the invention, in a front view.

[0176] FIG. 9 shows a subsequent stage in the first embodiment of the method according to the invention.

[0177] FIG. 10 shows a further subsequent stage in the first embodiment of the method according to the invention.

[0178] FIG. 11 shows a further subsequent stage in the first embodiment of the method according to the invention.

[0179] FIG. 12 shows a step in a first variant of the first embodiment of the method according to the invention.

[0180] FIG. 13 shows a subsequent step in the first variant of the first embodiment of the method according to the invention.

[0181] FIG. 14 shows a step in a second variant of the first embodiment of the method according to the invention.

[0182] FIG. 15 shows a step in a second embodiment of the method according to the invention.

[0183] In the drawings, the same reference numerals are used for the same or similar parts of various embodiments of the crane.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0184] FIG. 1a shows, schematically, an embodiment of a crane 1 according to the invention.

[0185] The crane 1 of FIG. 1a comprises a crane base 2. The crane base 2 can for example be the chassis of a crawler crane, and/or a foot assembly of e.g. a ringer crane. The crane base 2 is arranged on a support surface 3 of a working area. The crane base 2 is pivotable about a substantially vertical crane base pivot axis (not shown)

[0186] The crane according to the invention has a first mast 10 which in the embodiment of FIG. 1a comprises multiple mast sections 11. In this embodiment, a top mast section 12, multiple intermediate mast sections 13 and a lower mast section 14 are present. As can be seen, the lower mast section 14 is tapered in the direction of the crane base 2.

[0187] The first mast 10 has a central axis 15, which extends in the longitudinal direction of the first mast 10. The first mast 10 is tiltable relative to the crane base 2 around a first mast pivot axis 16 within a range of angular positions. The first mast pivot axis 16 extends perpendicular to the central mast axis 15. In the embodiment of FIG. 1a, the first mast pivot axis 16 extends in horizontal direction.

[0188] The range of angular positions of the first mast 10 includes a mast construction position and an inclined mast operating position. The mast construction position is the angular position of the first mast when the first mast is assembled. The mast operating position is the angular position which the first mast has or can have when a load is lifted by the crane during a hoisting operation. FIG. 1a shows the crane 1 with the first mast 10 in a mast operating position. The crane 1 according to FIG. 1a is suitable for hoisting a load when the first mast 10 is in the inclined mast operating position shown in FIG. 1a.

[0189] In the embodiment of FIG. 1a, the first mast 10 is the main boom of the crane 1.

[0190] In the embodiment of FIG. 1a, the lower mast section 14 is connected to the crane base 2 and tiltable relative to the crane base 2 around the first mast pivot axis 15. Therewith, the mechanical loads that are exerted on the first mast 10 during operation of the crane 1 are borne fully or almost fully by the first mast 10.

[0191] In the embodiment of FIG. 1, the crane 1 further comprises a second mast 20. In this embodiment, the second mast 20 is a back mast.

[0192] The second mast 20 has a central second mast axis 25, and is tiltable relative to the crane base 2 around a second mast pivot axis 26 which extends perpendicular to the central second mast axis 25. The second mast 20 is tiltable relative to the crane base 2 around the second mast pivot axis 26 within a range of angular positions, which range optionally includes a second mast construction position and an inclined second mast operating position.

[0193] In the embodiment of FIG. 1a, the first mast pivot axis 16 and the second mast pivot axis 26 are positioned close to each other. This allows a small footprint of the crane 1, which is advantageous when the crane 1 has to be used at hoisting locations where there is little space for the crane 1.

[0194] The second mast 20 comprises multiple mast sections 21, including a top mast section 22, multiple intermediate mast sections 23 and a lower mast section 24. The lower mast section 24 is tiltably connected to the crane base 2.

[0195] In the embodiment of FIG. 1a, the crane 1 further comprises a receiving device 30, which is adapted to receive a mast section 11, 12, 13, 14 of the first mast 10. During the assembly of the first mast 10, the receiving device 30 receives a mast section 11, 12, 13,14 which is to be added to the first mast 10. In the embodiment of FIG. 1a, the receiving device 30 successively receives multiple mast sections 11, 12, 13,14.

[0196] The receiving device 30 has a receiving device central axis 35 which is perpendicular to the first mast pivot axis 16 and parallel to the central mast axis 15. In the embodiment of FIG. 1a, the central mast axis 15 and the receiving device mast axis 35 are coaxial with each other.

[0197] The receiving device 30 further comprises a mast section guide 31 which is adapted to guide movement of the mast section 11, 12, 13, 14 relative to the receiving device 30 in the direction of the receiving device central axis 30. In the embodiment of FIG. 1a, the mast section guide 31 extends in a direction which is parallel to the central mast axis 15 and to the receiving device central axis 35.

[0198] The crane 1 according to FIG. 1a further comprises a transfer device 40. The transfer device 40 is adapted to engage the mast section 11, 12, 13, 14 of the first mast 10 (either directly or indirectly) and move the mast section 11, 12, 13, 14 of the first mast 10 relative to the receiving device 30 in the direction of the receiving device central axis 35 from a receiving position into a transfer position.

[0199] The transfer device 40 is for example provided with one or more hydraulic cylinders and/or one or more cables to bring the mast section from the receiving position to the transfer position.

[0200] In the embodiment of FIG. 1a, the transfer device is mounted onto the receiving device 30.

[0201] The crane 1 according to FIG. 1a further comprises a locking device 50, which is adapted to releasably lock the position of the mast section 11, 12, 13, 14 of the first mast 10 relative to the receiving device 30 in the transfer position. The locking device 50 therewith prevents that a mast section 11, 12, 13, 14 slides back from the transfer position into the receiving position. When the locking device 50 locks the mast section 11, 12, 13, 14 in the transfer position, a subsequent mast section 11, 13, 14 can be safely placed in the receiving position in the receiving device 30.

[0202] For example, the locking device 40 may comprises moveable pens which block movement of the mast section 11, 12, 13, 14 from the transfer position towards the receiving position. The pens may for example be hydraulically or pneumatically operated.

[0203] In the embodiment of FIG. 1a, the locking device 50 is mounted onto the receiving device 30.

[0204] The crane 1 according to FIG. 1a further comprises a first mast fixing device 60, which is adapted to releasably fix the first mast 10 in the mast construction position. During the assembly and optionally also during disassembly of the first mast 10, the first mast fixing device 60 holds the first mast in the mast construction position. When the first mast 10 is to be tilted into the inclined mast operating position, the first mast fixing device 60 releases the first mast 10 to allow the tilting of the first mast 10. In the embodiment of FIG. 1a, the first mast fixing device 60 engages the receiving device 30 when the first mast 10 is in the mast construction position.

[0205] In the embodiment of FIG. 1, the first mast fixing device 60 is adapted to function as a boom stop when the first mast 10 is in the inclined operating position.

[0206] In crane 1 of FIG. 1a, the receiving device 30 is connected to the crane base 2. FIG. 1a further shows that optionally the receiving device 30 is tiltable along with the first mast 10 relative to the crane base 2 around the first mast pivot axis 16.

[0207] So, the receiving device 30 moves along with the first mast 10 when the first mast 10 is tilted into the inclined mast operating position. The receiving device central axis 35 remains parallel to and coaxial with the central mast axis 15. Both the receiving device 30 and the first mast tilt 10 about the same pivot axis 16.

[0208] The mast section guide 31 forms part of the receiving device 30 and therewith also tilts along with the first mast 10. This way, the mast section guide 31 does not have to be disconnected from and moved out of the way of the first mast 10 before tilting the first mast 10 into the inclined mast operating position.

[0209] In the embodiment of FIG. 1a, the top mast section 12 of the first mast 10 is provided with at least a part of a hoisting system 70. The hoisting system is used for hoisting loads during the operation of the crane 1, and it can also be used for assembling the second mast 20 of the crane 1.

[0210] In the embodiment of FIG. 1a, the hoisting system 70 of the crane 1 is provided with a cable system having multiple sheaves. A sheave 71 of the cable system is arranged on the receiving device 30. The hoisting device 70 further comprises a winch 72. Also the winch 72 is arranged on the receiving device 30.

[0211] In the inclined mast operating position the first mast 10 is tilted in the first direction relative to the mast construction position. In the shown embodiment, the first mast 10 tilts away from the second mast 20 in the first direction, which is to the right in FIG. 1a. The sheave 71 and the winch 72 are arranged on a first side of the first mast 10 which corresponds with the first direction, i.e. the right side in FIG. 1a.

[0212] FIG. 1b shows a second embodiment of a crane 1 according to the invention. In FIG. 1b, the same reference numerals are used as in FIG. 1b. The crane 1 of FIG. 1b comprises a crane base 2. The crane base 2 can for example be the chassis of a crawler crane, and/or a foot assembly of e.g. a ringer crane. The crane base 2 is arranged on a support surface 3 of a working area. The crane base 2 is pivotable about a substantially vertical crane base pivot axis (not shown).

[0213] The crane according to the invention has a first mast 10 which in the embodiment of FIG. 1b comprises multiple mast sections 11. In this embodiment, a top mast section 12, multiple intermediate mast sections 13 and a lower mast section 14 are present. As can be seen, the lower mast section 14 is tapered in the direction of the crane base 2.

[0214] The first mast 10 has a central axis 15, which extends in the longitudinal direction of the first mast 10. The first mast 10 is tiltable relative to the crane base 2 around a first mast pivot axis 16 within a range of angular positions. The first mast pivot axis 16 extends perpendicular to the central mast axis 15. In the embodiment of FIG. 1b, the first mast pivot axis 16 extends in horizontal direction.

[0215] The range of angular positions of the first mast 10 includes a mast construction position and an inclined mast operating position. The mast construction position is the angular position of the first mast when the first mast is assembled. The mast operating position is the angular position which the first mast has or can have when a load is lifted by the crane during a hoisting operation. FIG. 1b shows the crane 1 with the first mast 10 in a mast operating position. The crane 1 according to FIG. 1b is suitable for hoisting a load when the first mast 10 is in the inclined mast operating position shown in FIG. 1b.

[0216] In the embodiment of FIG. 1b, the first mast 10 is the main boom of the crane 1.

[0217] In the embodiment of FIG. 1b, the lower mast section 14 is connected to the crane base 2 and tiltable relative to the crane base 2 around the first mast pivot axis 15. Therewith, the mechanical loads that are exerted on the first mast 10 during operation of the crane 1 are borne fully or almost fully by the first mast 10.

[0218] In the embodiment of FIG. 1, the crane 1 further comprises a second mast 20. In this embodiment, the second mast 20 is a back mast.

[0219] The second mast 20 has a central second mast axis 25, and is tiltable relative to the crane base2 around a second mast pivot axis 26 which extends perpendicular to the central second mast axis 25. The second mast 20 is tiltable relative to the crane base 2 around the second mast pivot axis 26 within a range of angular positions, which range optionally includes a second mast construction position and an inclined second mast operating position.

[0220] In the embodiment of FIG. 1b, the first mast pivot axis 16 and the second mast pivot axis 26 are positioned close to each other. This allows a small footprint of the crane 1, which is advantageous when the crane 1 has to be used at hoisting locations where there is little space for the crane 1.

[0221] The second mast 20 comprises multiple mast sections 21, including a top mast section 22, multiple intermediate mast sections 23 and a lower mast section 24. The lower mast section 24 is tiltably connected to the crane base 2.

[0222] In the embodiment of FIG. 1b, the crane 1 further comprises a receiving device 30, which is adapted to receive a mast section 11, 12, 13, 14 of the first mast 10. During the assembly of the first mast 10, the receiving device 30 receives a mast section 11, 12, 13,14 which is to be added to the first mast 10. In the embodiment of FIG. 1b, the receiving device 30 successively receives multiple mast sections 11, 12, 13,14.

[0223] The receiving device 30 has a receiving device central axis 35. In the embodiment of FIG. 1b, the central mast axis 15 and the receiving device mast axis 35 are coaxial with each other during assembly of the first mast 10, but not in the situation shown in FIG. 1b.

[0224] The receiving device 30 further comprises a mast section guide 31 which is adapted to guide movement of the mast section 11, 12, 13, 14 relative to the receiving device 30 in the direction of the receiving device central axis 30. In the embodiment of FIG. 1b, the mast section guide 31 extends in a direction which is parallel to the central mast axis 15 and to the receiving device central axis 35.

[0225] The crane 1 according to FIG. 1b further comprises a transfer device 40. The transfer device 40 is adapted to engage the mast section 11, 12, 13, 14 of the first mast 10 (either directly or indirectly) and move the mast section 11, 12, 13, 14 of the first mast 10 relative to the receiving device 30 in the direction of the receiving device central axis 35 from a receiving position into a transfer position.

[0226] The transfer device 40 is for example provided with one or more hydraulic cylinders and/or one or more cables to bring the mast section from the receiving position to the transfer position.

[0227] In the embodiment of FIG. 1b, the transfer device is mounted onto the receiving device 30.

[0228] The crane 1 according to FIG. 1b further comprises a locking device 50, which is adapted to releasably lock the position of the mast section 11, 12, 13, 14 of the first mast 10 relative to the receiving device 30 in the transfer position. The locking device 50 therewith prevents that a mast section 11, 12, 13, 14 slides back from the transfer position into the receiving position. When the locking device 50 locks the mast section 11, 12, 13, 14 in the transfer position, a subsequent mast section 11, 13, 14 can be safely placed in the receiving position in the receiving device 30.

[0229] For example, the locking device 40 may comprises moveable pens which block movement of the mast section 11, 12, 13, 14 from the transfer position towards the receiving position. The pens may for example be hydraulically or pneumatically operated.

[0230] In the embodiment of FIG. 1b, the locking device 50 is mounted onto the receiving device 30.

[0231] The crane 1 according to FIG. 1b further comprises a first mast fixing device 60, which is adapted to releasably fix the first mast 10 in the mast construction position. During the assembly and optionally also during disassembly of the first mast 10, the first mast fixing device 60 holds the first mast in the mast construction position. When the first mast 10 is to be tilted into the inclined mast operating position, the first mast fixing device 60 releases the first mast 10 to allow the tilting of the first mast 10. In the embodiment of FIG. 1b, the first mast fixing device 60 engages the receiving device 30 when the first mast 10 is in the mast construction position.

[0232] In the embodiment of FIG. 1, the first mast fixing device 60 is adapted to function as a boom stop when the first mast 10 is in the inclined operating position.

[0233] In crane 1 of FIG. 1b, the receiving device 30 is connected to the crane base 2. FIG. 1b further shows that, different from the embodiment shown in FIG. 1a, optionally the receiving device 30 does not tilt along with the first mast 10 relative to the crane base 2 around the first mast pivot axis 16.

[0234] So, the receiving device 30 remains substantially upright, in the same position as during assembly of the first mast 10.

[0235] In the embodiment of FIG. 1b, the top mast section 12 of the first mast 10 is provided with at least a part of a hoisting system 70. The hoisting system is used for hoisting loads during the operation of the crane 1, and it can also be used for assembling the second mast 20 of the crane 1.

[0236] In the embodiment of FIG. 1b, the hoisting system 70 of the crane 1 is provided with a cable system having multiple sheaves. A sheave 71 of the cable system is arranged on the receiving device 30. The hoisting device 70 further comprises a winch 72. Also the winch 72 is arranged on the receiving device 30.

[0237] In the inclined mast operating position the first mast 10 is tilted in the first direction relative to the mast construction position. In the shown embodiment, the first mast 10 tilts away from the second mast 20 in the first direction, which is to the right in FIG. 1b. The sheave 71 and the winch 72 are arranged on a first side of the first mast 10 which corresponds with the first direction, i.e. the right side in FIG. 1b.

[0238] FIG. 2 shows, schematically, a third embodiment of a crane according to the invention. In FIG. 2, the same reference numerals are used as in FIG. 1a and FIG. 1b for the same or similar parts of the crane 1.

[0239] The crane 1 of FIG. 2 comprises a crane base 2. The crane base 2 can for example be the chassis of a crawler crane, and/or a foot assembly of e.g. a ringer crane. The crane base 2 is arranged on a support surface 3 of a working area. The crane base 2 is pivotable about a substantially vertical crane base pivot axis (not shown)

[0240] The crane according to the invention has a first mast 10 which in the embodiment of FIG. 2 comprises multiple mast sections 11. In this embodiment, a top mast section 12, multiple intermediate mast sections 13 and a lower mast section 14 are present.

[0241] The first mast 10 has a central axis 15, which extends in the longitudinal direction of the first mast 10. The first mast 10 is tiltable relative to the crane base 2 around a first mast pivot axis 16 within a range of angular positions. The first mast pivot axis 16 extends perpendicular to the central mast axis 15. In the embodiment of FIG. 2, the first mast pivot axis 16 extends in horizontal direction.

[0242] The range of angular positions of the first mast 10 includes a mast construction position and an inclined mast operating position. The mast construction position is the angular position of the first mast when the first mast is assembled. The mast operating position is the angular position which the first mast has or can have when a load is lifted by the crane during a hoisting operation. FIG. 2 shows the crane 1 with the first mast 10 in a mast operating position. The crane 1 according to FIG. 2 is suitable for hoisting a load when the first mast 10 is in the inclined mast operating position shown in FIG. 2.

[0243] In the embodiment of FIG. 2, the first mast 10 is the main boom of the crane 1.

[0244] In the embodiment of FIG. 2, the first mast 10 comprises a tilting member 17 which allows an upper portion 18 of the first mast 10 to tilt away from the central mast axis 15 of the first mast 10.

[0245] In the embodiment of FIG. 2, the upper portion 18 of the first mast 10 comprises the top mast section 12 and one intermediate mast section 13, but a different number of intermediate mast sections 13 is possible as well. It is also possible that the upper mast section 18 comprises only the top mast section 12.

[0246] For example, the tilting member 17 is a tilting member as described in NL 2019511.

[0247] In the embodiment of FIG. 2, the lower mast section 14 is connected to the crane base 2 and tiltable relative to the crane base 2 around the first mast pivot axis 16. Therewith, the mechanical loads that are exerted on the first mast 10 during operation of the crane 1 are borne fully or almost fully by the first mast 10.

[0248] In the embodiment of FIG. 2, the crane 1 further comprises a second mast 20. In this embodiment, the second mast 20 is a back mast.

[0249] The second mast 20 has a central second mast axis 25, and is tiltable relative to the crane base 2 around a second mast pivot axis 26 which extends perpendicular to the central second mast axis 25. The second mast 20 is tiltable relative to the crane base 2 around the second mast pivot axis 26 within a range of angular positions, which range optionally includes a second mast construction position and an inclined second mast operating position.

[0250] In the embodiment of FIG. 2, the first mast pivot axis 16 and the second mast pivot axis 26 are positioned close to each other. This allows a small footprint of the crane 1, which is advantageous when the crane 1 has to be used at hoisting locations where there is little space for the crane1.

[0251] The second mast 20 comprises multiple mast sections 21, including a top mast section 22, multiple intermediate mast sections 23 and a lower mast section 24. The lower mast section 24 is tiltably connected to the crane base 2.

[0252] In the embodiment of FIG. 2, the crane 1 further comprises a receiving device 30, which is adapted to receive a mast section 11, 12, 13, 14 of the first mast 10. During the assembly of the first mast 10, the receiving device 30 receives a mast section 11, 12, 13,14 which is to be added to the first mast 10. In the embodiment of FIG. 2, the receiving device 30 successively receives multiple mast sections 11, 12, 13,14.

[0253] The receiving device 30 has a receiving device central axis 35 which is perpendicular to the first mast pivot axisl6 and parallel to the central mast axis 15. In the embodiment of FIG. 2, the central mast axis 15 and the receiving device mast axis 25 are coaxial with each other.

[0254] The receiving device 30 further comprises a mast section guide 31 which is adapted to guide movement of the mast section 11, 12, 13, 14 relative to the receiving device 30 in the direction of the receiving device central axis 30. In the embodiment of FIG. 2, the mast section guide 31 extends in a direction which is parallel to the central mast axis 15 and to the receiving device central axis 35.

[0255] The crane 1 according to FIG. 2 further comprises a transfer device 40. The transfer device 40 is adapted to engage the mast section 11, 12, 13, 14 of the first mast 10 (either directly or indirectly) and move the mast section 11, 12, 13, 14 of the first mast 10 relative to the receiving device 30 in the direction of the receiving device central axis 35 from a receiving position into a transfer position.

[0256] The transfer device 40 is for example provided with one or more hydraulic cylinders and/or one or more cables to bring the mast section from the receiving position to the transfer position.

[0257] In the embodiment of FIG. 2, the transfer device is mounted onto the receiving device 30.

[0258] The crane 1 according to FIG. 2 further comprises a locking device 50, which is adapted to releasably lock the position of the mast section 11, 12, 13, 14 of the first mast 10 relative to the receiving device 30 in the transfer position. The locking device 50 therewith prevents that a mast section 11, 12, 13, 14 slides back from the transfer position into the receiving position. When the locking device 50 locks the mast section 11, 12, 13, 14 in the transfer position, a subsequent mast section 11, 13, 14 can be safely placed in the receiving position in the receiving device 30.

[0259] For example, the locking device 40 may comprises moveable pens which block movement of the mast section 11, 12, 13, 14 from the transfer position towards the receiving position. The pens may for example be hydraulically or pneumatically operated.

[0260] In the embodiment of FIG. 2, the locking device 50 is mounted onto the receiving device 30.

[0261] The crane 1 according to FIG. 2 further comprises a first mast fixing device 60, which is adapted to releasably fix the first mast 10 in the mast construction position. During the assembly and optionally also during disassembly of the first mast 10, the first mast fixing device 60 holds the first mast in the mast construction position. When the first mast 10 is to be tilted into the inclined mast operating position, the first mast fixing device 60 releases the first mast 10 to allow the tilting of the first mast 10. In the embodiment of FIG. 2, the first mast fixing device 60 engages the receiving device 30 when the first mast 10 is in the mast construction position.

[0262] In the embodiment of FIG. 1, the first mast fixing device 60 is adapted to function as a boom stop when the first mast 10 is in the inclined operating position.

[0263] In crane 1 of FIG. 2, the receiving device 30 is connected to the crane base 2 and tiltable along with the first mast 10 relative to the crane base 2 around the first mast pivot axis 16.

[0264] So, the receiving device 30 moves along with the first mast 10 when the first mast 10 is tilted into the inclined mast operating position. The receiving device central axis 35 remains parallel to and coaxial with the central mast axis 15. Both the receiving device 30 and the first mast tilt 10 about the same pivot axis 16.

[0265] The mast section guide 31 forms part of the receiving device 30 and therewith also tilts along with the first mast 10. This way, the mast section guide 31 does not have to be disconnected from and moved out of the way of the first mast 10 before tilting the first mast 10 into the inclined mast operating position.

[0266] In the embodiment of FIG. 2, the top mast section 12 of the first mast 10 is provided with at least a part of a hoisting system 70. The hoisting system is used for hoisting loads during the operation of the crane 1, and it can also be used for assembling the second mast 20 of the crane 1.

[0267] In the embodiment of FIG. 2, the hoisting system 70 of the crane 1 is provided with a cable system having multiple sheaves. A sheave 71 of the cable system is arranged on the receiving device 30. The hoisting device 70 further comprises a winch 72. Also the winch 72 is arranged on the receiving device 30.

[0268] It is noted that although in FIG. 1a, FIG. 1b and FIG. 2 the second mast 20 is connected to the crane base 2, in practice during operation the second mast 20 may be connected to a ballast (not shown). Optionally, the crane 1 is configured to move the ballast closer or further away from the crane base 2. Tilting of the second mast 20 allows to connect the second mast 20 to the ballast in any of those configurations.

[0269] FIG. 3 shows a first stage of a first embodiment of the method according to the invention, in side view. FIG. 4 shows the stage of FIG. 3 in front view.

[0270] In the stage of the embodiment of the method according to the invention as shown in FIG. 3 and FIG. 4, a crane base 2 has been arranged on a support surface 3 of a working area. The crane base 2 can for example be the chassis of a crawler crane, and/or a foot assembly of e.g. a ringer crane.

[0271] A receiving device 30 which is adapted to receive a mast section 11, 12, 13, 14 of the first mast 10 of a crane, e.g. a crane according to the invention, and which has a receiving device central axis 35, is tiltably connected to the crane base 2. The receiving device 30 is tiltable relative to the crane base 2 around first mast pivot axis 16. The first mast pivot axis 16 extends perpendicular to the receiving device central axis 35.

[0272] A transfer device 40, a locking device 50, a sheave 71 of hoisting system 70 and a winch of hoisting system 70 are arranged on the receiving device 30. The transfer device 40 comprises hydraulic cylinders 41.

[0273] The receiving device 30 is fixed in a position in which the receiving device central axis 35 is parallel to the central mast axis 15 of the first mast 10 in the mast construction position. The first mast 10 is not fully present at this stage of the method, but the receiving device 30 is fixed in a position in which the receiving device central axis 35 is parallel to the direction the central mast axis 15 of the first mast 10 will be in when the first mast is in the mast construction position. First mast fixing device 60 engages the receiving device 30 in order to fix the receiving device 30 in this position.

[0274] In this embodiment, the mast construction position is vertical, i.e. the central mast axis 15 of the first mast 10 extends vertically when the first mast 10 is in the mast construction position. In this embodiment therefore, the receiving device 30 is fixed in a position in which the receiving device central axis 35 extends vertically.

[0275] FIG. 3 and FIG. 4 further show that an imaginary assembly space 100 can be defined. The assembly space 100 extends vertically upwards above the crane base 2. Outer borders 101 of the assembly space 100 extend vertically upwards from outer borders of the crane base 2. As can be seen, in the stage of FIG. 3 and FIG. 4, the first mast 10 is arranged completely within the assembly space 100. Although the assembly space 100 in not shown in all figures for the sake of clarity, it will be clear that the first mast 10 remains within the assembly space 100 until the first mast 100 is assembled in the mast construction position.

[0276] In the stage of FIG. 3 and FIG. 4, a mast section 11 of a first mast 10 of the crane is arranged in the receiving device 30. In this example, the mast section 11 is a top mast section 12.

[0277] The top mast section 12 comprises a part of hoisting system 70. The hoisting system 70 further comprise sheave 71 and winch 72. Hoisting cable 73 runs over winch 71, sheave 71 and is connected to the parts of the hoisting system 70 on the top mast section 12.

[0278] FIG. 3 and FIG. 4 show the top mast section 12 in the receiving position. The top mast section 12 is engaged by the mast section guides 31.

[0279] In the embodiment of the method as shown in FIGS. 3-11, there is sufficient space in the receiving device 30, to arrange an intermediate mast section 13 below the top mast section 12 which is in the receiving position. This is however not necessary. In other embodiments, the receiving position may be closer to the crane base 2.

[0280] In the example of FIG. 3 and FIG. 4, in the receiving position, the mast section guide 31 (which in this example comprises two guide elements, arranged on opposite sides of the receiving device 30) engages the top mast section 12 which is arranged in the receiving device 30.

[0281] FIG. 5 shows a subsequent stage of a first embodiment of the method according to the invention, in side view. FIG. 6 shows the stage of FIG. 5 in front view.

[0282] In this stage of the first embodiment of the method according to the invention, the top mast section 12 of the first mast 10 is moved by a transfer device 40 relative to the receiving device 30 in the direction of the receiving device central axis 35 from the receiving position into a transfer position. FIG. 5 and FIG. 6 show the top mast section 12 in the transfer position. In this example, the top mast section 12 projects from the receiving device 30. The transfer device 40, which comprises hydraulic cylinders 41, engages the top mast section 12 directly. In an alternative embodiment, the transfer device may engage the top mast section 12 indirectly, for example by engaging a part of the first mast 10 which is connected to the top mast section 12.

[0283] When the transfer device 40 moves the top mast section 12 from the receiving position to the transfer position, the top mast section 12 of the first mast 10 is in an angular position which corresponds to the first mast construction position, which is in this embodiment vertical.

[0284] When the top mast section 12 is in the transfer position, the position of the top mast section 12 relative to the receiving device 30 is locked by locking device 50 in the transfer position to build up the first mast 10.

[0285] In this embodiment, a subsequent mast section, which is in this case an intermediate mast section 13, is connected to the top mast section 12 before the top mast section 12 is moved from the receiving position into the transfer position. This way, when the top mast section 12 is moved into the transfer position, the intermediate mast section 13 that is attached to the top mast section 12 is at the same time moved into the receiving position in the receiving device 30.

[0286] When the intermediate mast section 13 is held in the receiving position, the top mast section may be released by the locking device 50 so that it can be moved further upwards when more mast sections are added to the first mast 10.

[0287] The intermediate mast section 13 is then moved from the receiving position into the transfer position. This movement takes place in the direction of the receiving device central axis 35. The position of the intermediate mast section 13 is then locked by the locking device 50 relative to the receiving device 30 in the transfer position.

[0288] When the transfer device 40 moves the intermediate mast section 13 from the receiving position to the transfer position, the intermediate mast section 13 of the first mast 10 is in an angular position which corresponds to the first mast construction position, in this example vertical. The top mast section 12 which was in the transfer position is therewith moved away from the transfer position in a direction that is parallel to the central mast axis 15 to further build up the first mast 10.

[0289] From the situation shown in FIG. 5 and FIG. 6, further intermediate mast sections 13 may be added to further build up the first mast 10.

[0290] In the embodiment of FIGS. 3-11, a further intermediate mast section 13* of the first mast 10 is connected to the intermediate mast section directly above it. In the situation shown in FIG. 5, the further intermediate mast section 13* is connected to the intermediate mast sectionl3 which is in the first mast 10 just below the top mast section 12.

[0291] The intermediate mast section 13 is then moved from the receiving position into the transfer position. The further intermediate mast section 13* moves along with the intermediate mast section 13, and is therewith arranged in the receiving position in the receiving device 30. The intermediate mast 13 section is locked in the transfer position.

[0292] These steps are repeated as often as necessary to obtain the desired length of the first mast 10.

[0293] In the embodiment of FIGS. 3-11, a lower mast section 14 (see FIG. 7) is added to the first mast 10. This lower mast section 14 is connected to the crane base 2 and tiltable relative to the crane base 2 around the first mast pivot axis 16. In this embodiment, the mechanical loads that are exerted on the first mast during operation of the crane 1 are borne by the first mast 10, and not or only to a limited extent by the receiving device 30.

[0294] The lower mast section 14 is the last mast section that is added to the first mast 10. It is arranged in the receiving device 30 and connected to the lowest of the intermediate mast sections 13* of the first mast. This lowest of the intermediate mast sections 13* of the first mast is for example at that time locked in the transfer position. Alternatively, another mast section is at that time locked in the transfer position, and the lower mast section is connected to that locked mast section via the lowest intermediate mast section.

[0295] The lower mast section of the first mast is connected to the crane base 2 and made tiltable relative to the crane base 2 around the first mast pivot axis 16.

[0296] This results in the situation that is shown in FIG. 7 and FIG. 8. FIG. 7 shows the first mast in side view, FIG. 8 shows the first mast in front view.

[0297] FIG. 9 shows a subsequent stage in the first embodiment of the method according to the invention.

[0298] In the embodiment of FIGS. 3-11, the first mast 10 comprises at least a part of a hoisting system 70. This part of the hoisting system 70 can be used to build up the second mast 20 of the crane 1. The hoisting system comprises a cable 73 and a connector 74. The second mast 20 in this example comprises multiple mast sections 21, including a top mast section 22, multiple intermediate mast sections 23 and a lower mast section 24. The second mast 20 is tiltable around a second mast pivot axis 26, which is parallel to the first mast pivot axis 16.

[0299] As shown in FIG. 9, in this embodiment, the top mast section 22 of the second mast 20 is connected to the hoisting system 70, e.g. by lowering the connector 74 of the hoisting system 70 and connecting the connector to the top mast section of the second mast.

[0300] Then, this top mast section 22 is moved upwards into a position which allows to connect an intermediate mast section 23 to the top mast section 22 of the second mast 20, in particular to the lower edge of this top mast section 22. The intermediate mast section 23 is then arranged below the top mast section 22 of the second mast 20 and connected to this top mast section 22 of the second mast 20.

[0301] In this embodiment, more intermediate mast sections 23 are added. The top mast section 22 and intermediate mast sections 23 which are connected thereto are lifted higher and further intermediate mast sections 23 are added and connected to the mast sections 21, 22, 23 of the second mast 20 which are already hanging from the connector 74 of the hoisting system 70.

[0302] The last mast section 21 that is added is the lower mast section 24 of the second mast 20. This lower mast section 24 is connected to the lowest of the intermediate mast sections 22 that are suspended from the connector 74 of the hoisting system 70 and the lower mast section 24 of the second mast 20 is connected to the crane base 2 and made tiltable relative to the crane base 2 around the second mast pivot axis 26.

[0303] FIG. 9 also shows the assembly space 100. As can be seen, the second mast 20 is within the assembly space 100. It will become clear that the second mast 20 remains in the assembly space 100 during assembly of the second mast 20. It can also be seen in FIG. 9 that the first mast 10 is completely in the assembly space 100 when the first mast 10 is arranged vertically, i.e. corresponding with the mast construction position in the shown embodiment.

[0304] FIG. 10 shows a further subsequent stage in the first embodiment of the method according to the invention.

[0305] In this stage, the second mast 20 is tilted around the second mast pivot axis 26 into its second mast operating position, which is an inclined second mast operating position (i.e. an angular position which is at an angle other than 0° and also other than 90° relative to the vertical).

[0306] The second mast pivot axis 26 is then optionally moved toward the first mast pivot axis 16.

[0307] FIG. 11 shows a further subsequent stage in the first embodiment of the method according to the invention.

[0308] In this stage, the fixing of the receiving device 30 is released. The receiving device 30 and the first mast 10 are tilted together around the first mast pivot axis 16 into an angular position which corresponds to the inclined mast operating position.

[0309] FIG. 12 and FIG. 13 pertain to a first variant of the first embodiment of the method in accordance with FIGS. 3-11.

[0310] In the variant of FIG. 12 and FIG. 13, the initial steps of the assembly of the crane are carried out in conformity with FIG. 3-8.

[0311] After carrying out the steps as described in relation to FIG. 3-8, in this variant a subsequent step is carried out, which is shown in FIG. 12.

[0312] In the variant of FIGS. 12-13, the first mast 10 comprises at least a part of a hoisting system 70. This part of the hoisting system 70 can be used to build up the second mast 20 of the crane 1. The hoisting system comprises a cable 73 and a connector 74. The second mast 20 in this example comprises multiple mast sections 21, including a top mast section 22, multiple intermediate mast sections 23 and a lower mast section 24. The second mast 20 is tiltable around a second mast pivot axis 26, which is parallel to the first mast pivot axis 16.

[0313] As shown in FIG. 12, in this variant, the top mast section 22 of the second mast 20 is connected to the hoisting system 70, e.g. by lowering the connector 74 of the hoisting system 70 and connecting the connector to the top mast section of the second mast.

[0314] Then, this top mast section 22 is moved upwards into a position which allows to connect an intermediate mast section 23 to the top mast section 22 of the second mast 20, in particular to the lower edge of this top mast section 22. The intermediate mast section 23 is then arranged below the top mast section 22 of the second mast 20 and connected to this top mast section 22 of the second mast 20.

[0315] In this embodiment, more intermediate mast sections 23 are added. The top mast section 22 and intermediate mast sections 23 which are connected thereto are lifted higher and further intermediate mast sections 23 are added and connected to the mast sections 21, 22, 23 of the second mast 20 which are already hanging from the connector 74 of the hoisting system 70.

[0316] Either before, during or after the connection of the top mast section 22 of the second mast 20 is to the hoisting system 70 and/or the connection and addition of one or more intermediate mast sections 23, a lower mast section 24 is connected to the crane base 2 and made tiltable relative to the crane base 2 around the second mast pivot axis 26.

[0317] In this embodiment, the second mast pivot axis 26 is already in the position relative to the first mast pivot axis 16 that it will have during operation of the crane 1.

[0318] The lower mast section 24 of the second mast 20 may be arranged in an inclined position, as is shown in FIG. 12.

[0319] FIG. 13 shows a subsequent step in this variant of the first embodiment.

[0320] In this step, a first upper part 24a of the lower mast section 24 is pivotably connected to a first lower part 23a of the lowest of the intermediate sections 23. This results in the situation shown in FIG. 13.

[0321] Then, the top mast section 22 and the intermediate mast sections 23 (which are all connected to each other) are tilted relative to the lower mast section 24, which results in a tilting of the central mast axis 25 of the second mast 20. This tilting for example takes place around the connection between first upper part 24a of the lower mast section 24 and a first lower part 23a of the lowest of the intermediate sections 23.

[0322] When this tilting is done, a second upper part 24b of the lower mast section 24 and a second lower part 23b of the lowest of the intermediate sections 23 are connected to each other, preferably in a non-tiltable way.

[0323] This results in the situation which is shown in FIG. 11.

[0324] It is noted that in the variant of FIG. 12 and FIG. 13, the hoisting system 70 of the crane 1 is provided with a cable system having multiple sheaves. In this variant, a sheave 71 of the cable system is arranged on the crane base 2. The hoisting device 70 further comprises a winch 72. Also the winch 72 is arranged on the crane base 2. The position of the sheave 71 and the winch is not specifically coupled to the variant shown in FIG. 12 and FIG. 13, the same position can be applied in other embodiments of the method and the crane according to the invention as well. Likewise, it is possible to arrange sheave 71 an winch 72 on the receiving device 30 in the variant of FIG. 12 and FIG. 13 as well.

[0325] FIG. 14 shows a second variant of the first embodiment of the method according to the invention.

[0326] In the variant of FIG. 14, the central mast axis 15 of the first mast 10 extends at an angle relative to the vertical, which angle is not 0° and also not 90°, when the first mast 10 is in the construction position.

[0327] FIG. 14 shows an alternative for the stage of the first embodiment of the method according to the invention which is shown in FIG. 3 and FIG. 4.

[0328] In the variant of FIG. 14, a crane base 2 has been arranged on a support surface 3 of a working area. The crane base 2 can for example be the chassis of a crawler crane, and/or a foot assembly of e.g. a ringer crane.

[0329] A receiving device 30 which is adapted to receive a mast section 11, 12, 13, 14 of the first mast 10 of a crane, e.g. a crane according to the invention, and which has a receiving device central axis 35, is tiltably connected to the crane base 2. The receiving device 30 is tiltable relative to the crane base 2 around first mast pivot axis 16. The first mast pivot axis 16 extends perpendicular to the receiving device central axis 35.

[0330] A transfer device 40 and a locking device 50, are arranged on the receiving device 30. The transfer device 40 for example comprises hydraulic cylinders 41. A sheave 71 of hoisting system 70 and a winch of hoisting system 70 are arranged on the crane base 2 in this example, but alternatively they may be arranged on the receiving device 30.

[0331] The receiving device 30 is fixed in a position in which the receiving device central axis 35 is parallel to the central mast axis 15 of the first mast 10 in the mast construction position. The first mast 10 is not fully present at this stage of the method, but the receiving device 30 is fixed in a position in which the receiving device central axis 35 is parallel to the direction the central mast axis 15 of the first mast 10 will be in when the first mast is in the mast construction position. First mast fixing device 60 engages the receiving device 30 in order to fix the receiving device 30 in this position.

[0332] In this embodiment, the mast construction position is inclined, i.e. the central mast axis 15 of the first mast 10 extends at an angle relative to the vertical which angle is not 0° or 90° when the first mast 10 is in the mast construction position. In this embodiment therefore, the receiving device 30 is fixed in a position in which the receiving device central axis 35 extends under the same angle as the central mast axis 15.

[0333] In the stage of FIG. 14, a mast section 11 of a first mast 10 of the crane is arranged in the receiving device 30. In this example, the mast section 11 is a top mast section 12.

[0334] The top mast section 12 comprises a part of hoisting system 70. The hoisting system 70 further comprise sheave 71 and winch 72. Hoisting cable 73 runs over winch 71, sheave 71 and is connected to the parts of the hoisting system 70 on the top mast section 12.

[0335] FIG. 14 shows the top mast section 12 in the receiving position. The top mast section 12 is engaged by the mast section guides 31.

[0336] In this second variant of the first embodiment of the method according to the invention, there is sufficient space in the receiving device 30, to arrange an intermediate mast section 13 below the top mast section 12 which is in the receiving position. This is however not necessary. In other embodiments, the receiving position may be closer to the crane base 2.

[0337] In this second variant of the first embodiment of the method according to the invention, in the receiving position, the mast section guide (which in this example comprises two guide elements, arranged on opposite sides of the receiving device 30) engages the top mast section 12 which is arranged in the receiving device 30.

[0338] FIG. 15 shows a step in a second embodiment of the method according to the invention.

[0339] In this embodiment, the crane 1 which is assembled comprises a first mast 10 and a second mast 20.

[0340] In this embodiment, at least a part of the first mast 10 of the crane 1 is assembled as shown in FIG. 3-6. Optionally, the entire first mast 10 is assembled as is shown in FIG. 3-8.

[0341] Then, the second mast 20 is assembled. This is done in the same way as the assembly of the first mast 10.

[0342] In this embodiment, a second mast receiving device 30-2 is pivotably connected to the crane base 2. The second mast receiving device 30-2 is adapted to receive a mast section 22, 23 of the second mast 10, and has a second mast receiving device central axis 35-2. Therewith, the second mast receiving device 35-2 is made tiltable relative to the crane base 2 around the second mast pivot axis 26. The second mast pivot axis 26 extends perpendicular to the receiving device central axis 35-2. In this embodiment, the second mast pivot axis 26 extends parallel to the first mast pivot axis 16, i.e. in horizontal direction.

[0343] Then, the second mast receiving device 35-2 is fixed in a position in which the second mast receiving device central axis 35-2 is parallel to the central mast axis 25 of the second mast 20 in the mast construction position by a second mast fixing device 60-2. The second mast fixing device 60-2 can be connected to the crane base 2, for example in a similar way as the first mast fixing device 60 is shown in FIG. 15. Alternatively, the second mast fixing device 60-2 connected the second mast receiving device 30-2 to the receiving device 30 which is associated with the first mast 10.

[0344] In this embodiment, the central mast axis 25 of the second mast 20 extends in vertical direction in the mast construction position. Optionally, the central mast axis 25 of the second mast 20 in the mast construction position of the second mast 20 extends parallel to the central mast axis 15 of the first mast 10 in the mast construction position of the first mast 10.

[0345] Then, the top mast section 22 of a second mast 20 of the crane 1 is arranged in the second mast receiving device 30-2.

[0346] The top mast section 22 of the second mast 20 is moved relative to the second mast receiving device 35-2 in the direction of the second mast receiving device central axis 35-2 from a receiving position into a transfer position. The top mast section 22 of the second mast 20 is in an angular position which corresponds to the second mast construction position.

[0347] When the top mast section 22 of the second mast 20 is in the transfer position, the position of the top mast section 22 of the second mast 20 relative to the second mast receiving device 30-2 is locked by the second mast locking device 50-2 in the transfer position to build up the second mast 10.

[0348] Optionally, a subsequent mast section, which is in this case an intermediate mast section 23 of the second mast 20, is connected to the top mast section 22 of the second mast 20 before the top mast section 22 of the second mast 20 is moved from the receiving position into the transfer position. This way, when the top mast section 22 is moved into the transfer position, the intermediate mast section 23 that is attached to the top mast section 22 is at the same time moved into the receiving position in the second mast 20 receiving device 30-2.

[0349] When the intermediate mast section 23 of the second mast 20 is held in the receiving position, the top mast section 22 of the second mast 20 may be released by the locking device 50-2 so that it can be moved further upwards when more mast sections are added to the second mast 20.

[0350] The intermediate mast section 23 of the second mast 20 is then moved from the receiving position into the transfer position. This movement takes place in the direction of the second mast receiving device central axis 35-2. The position of the intermediate mast section 23 is then locked by the locking device 50-2 relative to the second mast receiving device 30-20 in the transfer position.

[0351] When the transfer device 40-2 which is associated with the second mast 20 moves the intermediate mast section 23 from the receiving position to the transfer position, the intermediate mast section 23 of the second mast 20 is in an angular position which corresponds to the second mast construction position, in this example vertical. The top mast section 22 of the second mast 20 which was in the transfer position is therewith moved away from the transfer position in a direction that is parallel to the central mast axis 25 of the second mast 20 to further build up the second mast 20.

[0352] Further intermediate mast sections 23 may be added to further build up the second mast 20.

[0353] Then, a lower mast section is added to the second mast 20. This lower mast section 14 is connected to the crane base 2 and tiltable relative to the crane base 2 around the second mast pivot axis 26.

[0354] Then, the fixing of the second mast receiving device 30-2 is released and the second mast receiving device 35-2 and the second mast 20 are tilted together around the second mast pivot axis 26 into an angular position which corresponds to the inclined mast operating position.

[0355] So, the second mast may 20 be built up in the same way as the first mast.

[0356] Optionally, in the step of fixing the second mast receiving device 30-2 in a position in which the second mast receiving device central axis 35-2 is parallel to the central mast axis 25 of the second mast 20 in the mast construction position, the second mast receiving device 30-2 is fixed in a position in which the second receiving device central axis 35-2 extends vertically.

[0357] In an alternative embodiment, the central mast axis 25 of the second mast 20 extends at an angle relative to the vertical, which angle is not 0° and also not 90°, when the second mast 20 is in the construction position.

[0358] In a variant of this embodiment, the second mast 20 is build up before the first mast 10 is finished. For example, intermediate mast sections 13, 23 are added the first mast 10 and the second mast 20 simultaneously. Alternatively, intermediate mast sections 13, 23 are added to the first mast 10 and the second mast 20 in an alternating way, for example first an intermediate mast section 13 is added to the first mast 10, then an intermediate mast section 23 is added to the second mast 20, and then optionally an intermediate mast section 13 is added to the first mast 10 again.

[0359] The crane 1 may then be further assembled as shown in FIGS. 10 and 11.

[0360] The crane 1 which has been assembled in accordance with the first or second embodiment of the method according to the invention, including the variants of the first embodiment as described above, can be disassembled in accordance the method according to the invention for disassembling a crane.

[0361] In an embodiment of the method according to the invention for disassembling a crane 1, the starting point is the situation as shown in FIG. 11.

[0362] From this situation, the receiving device 30 and the first mast 10 are tilted together around the first mast pivot axis 16 into an angular position which corresponds to the mast construction position. The receiving device 30 is fixed in a position in which the receiving device central axis 35 is parallel, in this example coaxial, to the central mast axis 15 of the first mast 10 in the mast construction position This results in the situation of FIG. 10.

[0363] Then, the second mast 20 is brought into an upright position and disconnected from the second mast pivot axis 26 and/or from the crane base 2. The second mast 20 can be first brought into the upright position and then disconnected, or vice versa. This results in the situation of FIG. 10.

[0364] Then, the second mast can be disassembled by disconnecting the mast sections 21, 24, 233, 22 from each other, e.g. while gradually lowering the connector 74. When the second mast is disassembled, the situation of FIG. 7 and FIG. 8 results.

[0365] Then, if there is a mast section 11, 12, 13, 14 of the first mast present in the receiving position in the receiving device 30, the mast section just above that mast section in the receiving position is locked in the transfer position, e.g. by the locking device 50.

[0366] The mast section in the receiving device 30 is then disconnected from the remainder of the first mast 10 and removed from the receiving device 30.

[0367] Then, the position of the mast section in the transfer position is unlocked and that mast section is moved from the transfer position into the receiving position, e.g. by the transfer device 40. The mast section just above that mast section in the receiving position is locked in the transfer position, e.g. by the locking device 50.

[0368] The mast section in the receiving device 30 is then disconnected from the remainder of the first mast 10 and removed from the receiving device 30.

[0369] This is repeated until the first mast is disassembled.

[0370] If desired, the receiving device 30 can be disconnected from the crane base 2.

[0371] The invention may e.g. be summarized by the following clauses:

[0372] 1. Crane, which crane (1) comprises: a crane base (2), a first mast (10) having a central mast axis (15), wherein the first mast (10) comprises a mast section (11, 12, 13, 14), and the first mast (10) is tiltable relative to the crane base (2) around a first mast pivot axis (16) within a range of angular positions, which range of angular positions includes a mast construction position and an inclined mast operating position, wherein the first mast pivot axis (16) extends perpendicular to the central mast axis (15), a receiving device (30), which is adapted to receive the mast section (11, 12, 13, 14) of the first mast (10), which receiving device (30) has a receiving device central axis (35) which is perpendicular to the first mast pivot axis (16) and parallel to the central mast axis (15), and a mast section guide (31) which is adapted to guide movement of the mast section (11, 12, 13, 14) relative to the receiving device (30) in the direction of the receiving device central axis (35), a transfer device (40), which is adapted to move the mast section (11, 12, 13, 14) of the first mast (10) relative to the receiving device (30) in the direction of the receiving device central axis (35) from a receiving position into a transfer position, a locking device (50), which is adapted to releasably lock the position of the mast section (11, 12, 13, 14) of the first mast (10) relative to the receiving device (30) in the transfer position, a first mast fixing device (60), which is adapted to releasably fix the first mast (10) in the mast construction position, wherein the receiving device (30) is connected to the crane base (2) and tiltable along with the first mast (10) relative to the crane base (2) around the first mast pivot axis (16).

[0373] 2. Crane according to clause 1, wherein the first mast (10) comprises a lower mast section (14) which is connected to the crane base (2) and tiltable relative to the crane base (2) around the first mast pivot axis (16).

[0374] 3. Crane according to any of the preceding clauses, wherein the central mast axis (15) of the first mast (10) extends vertically when the first mast (10) is in the construction position.

[0375] 4. Crane according to any of the preceding clauses, wherein a mast section of the first mast (10) is provided with at least a part of a hoisting system (70).

[0376] 5. Crane according to any of the preceding clauses, wherein the crane (1) further comprises a second mast (20), wherein optionally the first mast (10) is a main boom and the second mast (20) is a back mast.

[0377] 6. Crane according to any of the preceding clauses, wherein the first mast (10) comprises a tilting member (17) which allows an upper portion (18) of the first mast (10) to tilt away from the central mast axis (15) of the first mast (10).

[0378] 7. Method for assembling a crane, which crane comprises a first mast (10) having a central mast axis (15), wherein the first mast (10) comprises a mast section (11, 12, 13, 14), and the first mast (10) is tiltable relative to a crane base (2) around a first mast pivot axis (16) within a range of angular positions, which range includes a mast construction position and an inclined mast operating position, wherein the first mast pivot axis (16) extends perpendicular to the central mast axis (15), which method comprises the following steps: tiltably connecting a receiving device (30) which is adapted to receive a mast section (11, 12, 13, 14) of the first mast (10) and which has a receiving device central axis (35) to the crane base (2), therewith making the receiving device (30) tiltable relative to the crane base (2) around the first mast pivot axis (16), which first mast pivot axis (16) extends perpendicular to the receiving device central axis (35), fixing the receiving device (30) in a position in which the receiving device central axis (35) is parallel to the central mast axis (15) of the first mast (10) in the mast construction position, arranging a mast section (11, 12, 13, 14) of a first mast (10) of the crane (1) in the receiving device (30), moving the mast section (11, 12, 13, 14) of the first mast (10) relative to the receiving device (30) in the direction of the receiving device central axis (35) from a receiving position into a transfer position, wherein the mast section of the first mast (10) is in an angular position which corresponds to the mast construction position of the first mast (10), locking the position of the mast section (11, 12, 13, 14) relative to the receiving device (30) in the transfer position to build up the first mast (10), releasing the fixing of the receiving device (30) and tilting the receiving device (30) and the first mast (10) together around the first mast pivot axis (16) into an angular position which corresponds to the inclined mast operating position.

[0379] 8. Method according to clause 7, wherein the method further comprises the following steps: after the step of locking the position of the mast section (11, 12, 13, 14) relative to the receiving device (30) in the transfer position and before the step of releasing the fixing of the receiving device (30) and tilting the receiving device (30) and the mast section (11, 12, 13, 14) of the first mast (10) together around the first mast pivot axis (16) into an angular position which corresponds to inclined mast operating position, arranging a further mast section (13, 14) of a first mast (10) of the crane (1) in the receiving device (30), connecting the further mast section (13, 14) of the first mast (10) to the mast section (11, 12, 13) of the first mast (10) that is locked in the transfer position, unlocking the mast section (11, 12, 13) of the first mast (10) in the transfer position, moving the further mast section (13, 14) of the first mast (10) relative to the receiving device (30) in the direction of the receiving device central axis (35) from a receiving position into the transfer position, wherein the mast section of the first mast (10) is in an angular position which corresponds to the mast construction position of the first mast, and therewith moving the mast section (11, 12, 13) which was in the transfer position away from the transfer position in a direction that is parallel to the central mast axis (15) to further build up the first mast (10), locking the position of the further mast section (13, 14) relative to the receiving device (30) in the transfer position.

[0380] 9. Method according to any of the clauses 7-8, wherein the method further comprises the following steps: after the step of locking the position of the mast section relative to the receiving device (30) in the transfer position and before the step of releasing the fixing of the receiving device (30) and tilting the receiving device (30) and the mast section of the first mast (10) together around the first mast pivot axis (16) into an angular position which corresponds to inclined mast operating position, arranging a lower mast section (14) of the first mast (10) of the crane in the receiving device, connecting the lower mast section (14) of the first mast (10) to the mast section or further mast section of the first mast (10) that is locked in the transfer position to further build up the first mast (10), connecting the lower mast section (14) of the first mast (10) to the crane base (2) and making the lower mast section (14) of the first mast (10) tiltable relative to the crane base (2) around the first mast pivot axis (16).

[0381] 10. Method according to any of the clauses 7-9, wherein at least one mast section of the first mast (10) comprises at least a part of a hoisting system (70), which method further comprises the following steps: connecting a hoisting cable (73) which is connected to the at least part of the hoisting system of the mast section of the first mast (10) to a mast section (21, 22, 23, 24) of a second mast (20), connecting the mast section (21, 22, 23, 24) of the second mast to the crane base (2) to build up the second mast (20) and making the second mast (20) tiltable relative to the crane base (2) around a second mast pivot axis (26), which is parallel to the first mast pivot axis (16).

[0382] 11. Method according to clause 10, wherein the step of connecting a hoisting cable (73) which is connected to the at least part of the hoisting system (70) of the mast section of the first mast (10) to a mast section (21, 22, 23, 24) of the second mast (20) takes place before releasing the fixing of the receiving device (30) and tilting the receiving device (30) and the mast of the first mast (10) together around the first mast pivot axis (16) into an angular position which corresponds to the inclined mast operating position.

[0383] 12. Method according to clause 10, wherein the method further comprises the step of tilting the second mast (20) into an inclined second mast operating position.

[0384] 13. Method according to any of the clauses 7-11, wherein in the step of fixing the receiving device (30) in a position in which the receiving device central axis (35) is parallel to the central mast axis (15) of the first mast (10) in the mast construction position, the receiving device (30) is fixed in a position in which the receiving device central axis (35) extends vertically.

[0385] 14. Method according to any of the clauses 7-13, wherein the method further comprises the step of tilting an upper portion (18) of the first mast (10) away from the central mast axis (15) of the first mast (10).

[0386] 15. Method for disassembling a crane, which crane is a crane (1) according to clause 1, which method comprises the following steps: tilting the receiving device (30) and the first mast (10) together around the first mast pivot axis (16) into an angular position which corresponds to the mast construction position, fixing the receiving device (30) in a position in which the receiving device central axis(35) is parallel to the central mast axis (15) of the first mast (10) in the mast construction position, removing a mast section of the first mast (10) which is present in the receiving device (30) from the receiving device (30).

[0387] 16. Method according to clause 15, which further comprises the following steps: after the step of fixing the receiving device (30)in a position in which the receiving device central axis (35) is parallel to the central mast axis (15) of the first mast (10) in the mast construction position, and prior to the step of removing the mast section of the first mast (10) which is present in the receiving device (30) from the receiving device (30), releasing the locking of the mast section which is in the transfer position and moving this mast section from the transfer position into the receiving position in the receiving device (30), then, still prior to the step of removing the mast section of the first mast (10) which is present in the receiving device (30) from the receiving device, locking the position of a subsequent mast section relative to the receiving device (30) in the transfer position.