Ground Anchor Strap Tensioner Tool for Erosion Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
The installation of erosion control mats is cumbersome and time-consuming due to the manual process of pulling, tensioning, and cutting ground anchor straps, which limits the tension that can be applied and inefficiencies in the installation process.
Innovation Solution
A tool that automates the tensioning and cutting of ground anchor straps by using a slide tensioning subassembly with an eccentric clamp and a rotary cutting mechanism, allowing for upright installation and efficient tensioning without manual holding of the retaining washer.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Force
If manual pulling and tensioning of the strap is used, then the installer can create some tension in the strap, but the process is cumbersome and time-consuming and limits the amount of tension that can be created
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the manual mechanical pulling system with a powered winch mechanism that automatically winds the strap onto a drum, generating high tension forces without manual effort. The winch motor provides the mechanical force needed to tension the strap to specified levels, eliminating the limitations of hand-pulling while significantly reducing the time required for tensioning.
Solution Approach 2:
The tool is designed to perform multiple operations automatically in sequence: the winch tensions the strap, the cutter automatically sever's the excess strap, and the device can reposition itself without continuous manual intervention. This self-service capability reduces the time loss associated with multiple manual operations while maintaining proper tension application.
2Ease of operation
If manual pulling and tensioning of the strap is used, then the installer can create some tension in the strap, but the process is cumbersome and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The manual pulling operation is replaced by a powered winch mechanism that automatically winds the strap onto a drum, generating high tension forces without manual effort. The winch motor provides the mechanical force needed to tension the strap to specified levels, eliminating the limitations of hand-pulling while significantly reducing the time required for tensioning.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a winch mechanism as an intermediary device between the installer and the strap tensioning process. This intermediary automates the tensioning operation, making it easier to operate while reducing the time required. The winch serves as a mechanical mediator that translates electrical power into the mechanical tension needed for proper strap installation.
3Force
If the installer manually pulls the strap to create tension, then some tension can be achieved, but the amount of tension that can be created is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The manual pulling operation is replaced by a powered winch mechanism that automatically winds the strap onto a drum, generating high tension forces without manual effort. The winch motor provides the mechanical force needed to tension the strap to specified levels, eliminating the limitations of hand-pulling while significantly reducing the time required for tensioning.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs a hydraulic motor to power the winch mechanism, providing high torque and force generation capability. The hydraulic system delivers powerful mechanical force to the winch drum, enabling the strap to be tensioned to high levels that would be impossible through manual pulling alone, while the system remains easy to operate through simple control inputs.
4Productivity
If manual cutting of the strap tail is performed, then the strap can be severed, but the process is time-consuming and requires additional manual steps
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the tensioning and cutting functions into a single integrated device. The winch mechanism tensions the strap, and the automatic cutter immediately follows to sever the excess strap tail. By combining these operations in one tool, the overall installation process becomes faster without requiring the installer to switch between multiple tools, effectively increasing productivity despite the added complexity of integrating multiple functions.
Solution Approach 2:
The automatic cutter acts as an intermediary mechanism that automatically performs the cutting operation after tensioning. This intermediary device eliminates the need for manual cutting steps, speeding up the installation process. The cutter is triggered automatically by the winch mechanism, creating a seamless transition from tensioning to cutting without requiring additional manual intervention.
5Productivity
If the installer must hold the retaining washer in place during tensioning, then the washer can be properly positioned, but the process becomes more complex and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The foot member with vertical passage serves as an intermediary device that automatically positions and holds the retaining washer during the tensioning operation. The washer is placed in the foot member's passage, which keeps it securely positioned without requiring the installer to manually hold it. This intermediary mechanism simplifies the operation while maintaining proper washer positioning throughout the automated tensioning process.
Solution Approach 2:
The foot member with its vertical passage is designed to self-position the retaining washer during installation. As the installer inserts the washer into the foot member, the passage automatically guides and secures it in the correct position. This self-service feature eliminates the need for manual holding or adjustment of the washer during tensioning, speeding up the installation process while ensuring proper positioning.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The tool enables efficient and automated tensioning and cutting of ground anchor straps, ensuring proper installation of erosion control mats with consistent tension, reducing installation time and improving the longevity and performance of the mats.
Implementation Method 1
The handle pulled back upwardly by spring tension induced during the downward movement which causes the jaws to release the strap and return to the released or starting position
Data Source
AI summary
A tool for advancing and tensioning a strap of an erosion control system through an aperture of a retaining washer to provide hold down pressure to an erosion control mat is described. The tool has a foot member that is positioned atop the retaining washer and serves to hold it in place during the installation operation. An upright support bar extends above the foot member and a slide tensioning subassembly is mounted for sliding movement on the support bar. A clamp is carried on the slide tensioning subassembly for releasably grasping the strap. A handle is mounted on the upright support bar for up and down sliding movement and interconnected to the slide tensioning subassembly and the clamp so that downward movement of the handle closes the clamp to grasp the strap and pull the slide member upwardly to advance the strap through the washer.