Cable Puller Pivot Adjuster for Upward Downward Mode Switching

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing cable pullers require cumbersome and time-consuming methods to switch between upward and downward pulling modes, often involving heavy component inversion, additional costly parts, or increased friction, which are inefficient and costly.

Innovation Solution

A cable puller design featuring a removably attached attachment system, a moveable puller head, and a base that allows easy conversion between upward and downward pulling positions by adjusting the position of the attachment system and the puller head relative to the boom, eliminating the need for component inversion and additional pulleys.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If the entire cable pulling assembly is flipped upside down to switch from upward to downward pulling, then the pulling direction is changed, but the user has to move heavy components which is time consuming and burdensome

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvepulling directionVSAvoidconversion time
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The cable puller is divided into separable components: a puller head assembly that can be detached from the boom, and a boom with conduit attachment device. This segmentation allows the puller head to be removed and reattached in a different orientation without moving the entire assembly, enabling quick switching between upward and downward pulling modes.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The invention introduces a movable and adjustable puller head assembly that can be positioned at different locations along the boom and oriented in different directions. This dynamic configuration allows the puller to adapt to both upward and downward pulling requirements without requiring physical inversion of the entire device.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

2Adaptability or versatility

If an additional pulley or sheave is added to the boom to change cable pulling direction, then downward pulling is enabled, but the cost increases and extra drag and friction are created

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvepulling directionVSAvoidfriction
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSLoss of energy

Solution Approach 1:

The puller head assembly is designed as a universal component that can perform both upward and downward pulling functions without requiring additional pulleys or sheaves. By repositioning and reorienting the existing puller head on the boom, the system achieves multi-functionality while avoiding the energy losses associated with extra friction points.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

3Adaptability or versatility

If an additional pulley or sheave is added to the boom to change cable pulling direction, then downward pulling is enabled, but extra time is needed to feed the rope around the additional pulley

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvepulling directionVSAvoidcable pulling speed
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

By segmenting the cable puller into a removable puller head and a boom structure, the system allows the puller head to be quickly repositioned along the boom to change pulling direction. This eliminates the need to route the cable through additional fixed pulleys, thereby maintaining high productivity and avoiding time-consuming rope feeding operations.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

4Adaptability or versatility

If an idler wheel is added in front of the capstan to interchange the side of the boom on which the rope is positioned, then downward pulling is enabled, but the cost and time consumption increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improverope positioningVSAvoiddevice cost
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The invention employs a dynamic puller head assembly that can be moved to different positions and orientations on the boom, replacing the need for a fixed idler wheel mechanism. This dynamic repositioning capability achieves the same rope positioning flexibility at lower cost and without adding manufacturing complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

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

Enables quick and efficient switching between pulling modes without inverting the entire device, reducing operational time and costs, and minimizing friction, thus improving usability and efficiency.

Implementation Method 1

a pivot adjuster positioned between the puller head and the boom and configured to change a spatial orientation of the puller head relative to the boom

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectPivoting: Hinge

Implementation Method 2

The capstan is powered by a motor and acts as a frictional force multiplier. The motor and capstan are usually referred to as being part of the puller head of the cable puller. This relatively small force is translated into a large force of several thousand pounds

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectFriction: Friction

Data Source

PatentUS8246009B2Cable puller with pivot adjuster for converting between upward and downward cable pulling
Publication Date: 2012.08.21 GREENLEE TEXTRON INC
  • US8246009B2 patent drawing
  • US8246009B2 patent drawing
  • US8246009B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A puller head and cable puller including the puller head are provided for pulling cable in an upward or a downward direction. The puller head includes a frame, a capstan mounted to the frame, and first and second retaining shaft apertures. The puller head is pivotally mounted to a boom of the cable puller through a pivot shaft. The capstan of the puller head is positioned rearward of the boom. The position of an upper most surface of the capstan relative to the boom is changed by pivoting the puller head between upward and downward pulling positions. The puller head is maintained in either the upward or downward pulling position through the use of a retaining shaft.