SCHILLING aluminium gantry crane as a ball launching machine – when mobile lifting technology meets football
As the FIFA World Cup kicks off, we at SCHILLING are revisiting a special project from our archives related to UEFA EURO 2024, showcasing just how versatile aluminium gantry cranes can be.
Our mobile aluminium gantry cranes are typically used wherever loads need to be lifted, moved, or positioned safely. Occasionally, however, applications emerge that surprise and inspire even experienced lifting technology professionals.
An aluminium gantry crane as the basis for a ball launching machine
For an exceptional research project, a SCHILLING aluminium gantry crane was used as the foundation for a ball launching machine. In this case, the focus was not on traditional lifting operations, but on the controlled and repeatable movement of footballs for scientific research.
The project demonstrates how flexibly mobile aluminium gantry cranes can be used beyond their intended purpose. Characteristics such as stability, mobility, and the ability to precisely position components made the gantry crane an ideal platform for this unique application.
Research project by the German Sport University Cologne
The concept and implementation of the project were developed by the German Sport University Cologne. The objective was to launch footballs under defined and repeatable conditions in order to scientifically analyse various game situations and movement patterns.
For this purpose, the SCHILLING aluminium gantry crane was integrated into the test setup and supported the technical implementation of the project. The result demonstrates how technical systems from different fields can be successfully combined to create innovative solutions.
Mobile aluminium gantry cranes for industry and special applications
Although being used as a ball launching machine is certainly one of the more unusual applications, the project highlights the versatility of modern aluminium gantry cranes.
In addition to their traditional use in industry, manufacturing, maintenance, servicing, and assembly operations, mobile crane systems are frequently employed for special applications, research projects, and customised technical solutions. Their flexible design and mobility open up a wide range of possibilities that extend far beyond conventional lifting tasks.
Versatile lifting solutions from SCHILLING
The core strength of SCHILLING aluminium gantry cranes lies in the safe lifting, moving, and positioning of loads. The ball launching machine project demonstrates in an exciting way how adaptable our products can be to a wide variety of requirements.
With the FIFA World Cup underway, we are pleased to look back on this special project and wish all football fans exciting matches, outstanding teamwork, and plenty of spectacular goals.
Because sometimes the most interesting applications emerge where lifting technology and creativity come together.
You can watch the film here on YouTube, from minute 10:40 you can see our ball machine.
Looking for a mobile lifting solution for a specific application?
Whether you require a standard product or a customised solution, SCHILLING develops and manufactures aluminium gantry cranes, lifting beams, tripod systems and other mobile lifting equipment for a wide range of applications. Our experts will be happy to help you find the right solution for your requirements.
Contact us today to learn more about the possibilities of modern aluminium lifting technology.
