Cable Impact Damping with Segmented Longitudinal Elements
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing devices for overload shock absorption in cable structures, such as those for rockfall, debris flow, and snow barriers, exhibit scatter in their shock absorption curves, making them unsuitable for precise applications.
Innovation Solution
An intermediate piece with longitudinal elements, such as ribbons, rods, or wires, is integrated into the cable, which maintains a defined deflection angle and absorbs impact loads through deformation and friction, allowing for customizable shock absorption by varying the number, thickness, and material properties of these elements.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If an intermediate piece with a single deflection bolt is used, then the device complexity is reduced, but the shock absorption precision deteriorates due to scatter in the shock absorption curve
Solution Approach 1:
The intermediate piece is segmented into multiple longitudinal elements (at least two) instead of using a single element. This segmentation allows the shock absorption characteristics to be optimized and made more repeatable while maintaining a relatively simple device structure with a single deflection bolt.
Solution Approach 2:
The longitudinal elements are given specific local qualities through their material properties (yield point, modulus of elasticity), dimensions (thickness, width), and arrangement. This allows precise control over the shock absorption curve while keeping the overall device simple.
2Manufacturing precision
If multiple rollers with ball bearings are used, then the shock absorption precision is improved, but the device complexity and bulkiness increase
Solution Approach 1:
The complex ball bearing mechanism is extracted and replaced with a simpler deflection bolt system. The essential function of controlled deflection and friction-based shock absorption is maintained without the need for multiple rollers and ball bearings, thus reducing device complexity and bulkiness.
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of using multiple rollers with adjustable ball bearings, the invention changes the parameters of a single deflection system by varying the number, dimensions, and material properties of the longitudinal elements to achieve precise shock absorption characteristics.
3Manufacturing precision
If the number, thickness, or material properties of longitudinal elements are varied, then the shock absorption precision is improved, but the manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The invention systematically varies parameters of the longitudinal elements (number, thickness, width, material properties like yield point and modulus of elasticity) to optimize the shock absorption curve. These parameter changes are implemented in a standardized manner that maintains ease of manufacture while achieving precise shock absorption characteristics.
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
This solution provides a repeatable and optimized shock absorption curve, effectively dissipating kinetic energy from impacts like falling rocks or snow masses, ensuring the rope's full strength is utilized while adapting to specific energy absorption needs.
Implementation Method 1
their deformation and friction dampen the impact load on the cable
Implementation Method 2
their deformation and friction dampen the impact load on the cable
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3~4
AI summary
A device for the impact damping of cable constructions, in particular for barrier structures for falling rock, mud flows and snow, is provided with at least one intermediate component (1; 1') which is deformable by means of tensile forces and is accommodated in a cable which is subjected to a tensile stress. The intermediate component (1, 1') comprises one or more longitudinal elements (7, 8, 20), which can each be designed as a band, bar, wire, cable and/or strand. The longitudinal element or longitudinal elements (7, 8, 20) is/are connected at one end (7a, 8a; 20a) to one end of the cable. At the other end, they are guided about a deflecting element (10; 10') connected to the other end of the cable. Means are provided to substantially maintain the formed deflecting angle of the longitudinal element or longitudinal elements upon loading of the intermediate component (1, 1'). The impact damping profile can therefore be better defined or optimized.