LYNX

red dot
red dot award: design concept 2008

design:

Jiri Kubec

LYNX is a mobile four-axle crane concept with a lifting capacity of 80 tonnes. Its single cabin can be lifted up to give the driver a better view of the construction site.

LYNX brings fresh thinking to cranes, which have undergone little change in recent decades. With the aim of being functional, manufacturable and cost-effective, the designer adopted the main chassis and boom
dimensions from current four-axle machines. LYNX’s point of difference is that its cabin is on a two-piece hydraulic folding arm and can be lifted up to a height of 8.4 metres or docked on a superstructure in the same position as a conventional crane operator’s cabin. All
driving and crane functions are controlled via a joystick utilising drive-by-wire technology. A small platform automatically slides out when the cabin is not in the transport position and this platform serves as a support for the operator’s feet.

Another innovation sees the front part of the crane which gains a storage space for the hook. An electric winch helps to pull the hook to the storage area. This ensures a better view when the crane is driven on public roads and simplifies the hook storing process which is usually quite complicated. On the front, beside the cabin, there is an auxiliary ladder that can be put anywhere around the platform to ease access to the superstructure platform. Engaged outriggers are integrated with warning stripe panels. All aesthetics are the result of an effort to design a modern appearance which is not contrary to functionality.