Collapsible Tree Stand Hoist for Single-Person Operation

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing tree stand hoists are heavy and cumbersome, requiring multiple people for assembly and use, which defeats the purpose of maintaining secret locations for hunters and nature watchers.

Innovation Solution

A collapsible tree stand hoist with a support structure formed from assembled members, featuring a U-shaped frame, a flexible member with a pulley, and a vertical support assembly, allowing single-person operation and portability.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If traditional hoists are used to lift tree stands, then the hoisting function is achieved, but the hoist becomes heavy and cumbersome requiring multiple people for assembly and use

Engineering Contradiction:
ImproveSingle-person operation capabilityVSAvoidHoist weight
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSWeight of moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The hoist is divided into multiple collapsible support members that can be separated into smaller segments for easy carrying and assembly by a single person, yet form a stable structure when assembled for hoisting operations

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The support members are designed to be collapsible and reconfigurable, allowing the hoist to transition between a compact portable state for transport and an extended operational state for tree stand installation

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

2Reliability

If traditional hoists are used to lift tree stands, then the hoisting function is achieved, but the hoist requires multiple people for assembly which defeats the purpose of maintaining secret locations

Engineering Contradiction:
ImproveLocation secrecyVSAvoidAssembly complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The hoist is segmented into portable components that can be easily assembled by one person using simple connection mechanisms, eliminating the need for multiple people and maintaining location secrecy

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The hoist is designed to be self-assembled by a single user through intuitive connection mechanisms, requiring no assistance from others and enabling independent operation at secret locations

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

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 a lightweight, portable tree stand hoist that can be easily assembled and used by one person, facilitating discreet and efficient installation of tree stands.

Implementation Method 1

A pulley is attached to the flexible member

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectPulley: Pulley

Implementation Method 2

The frame is hingedly attached to the frame end of the support structure

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectHinge: Hinge

Data Source

PatentUS9902601B1Tree stand hoist
Publication Date: 2018.02.27 DIMOND RONALD W
  • US9902601B1 patent drawing
  • US9902601B1 patent drawing
  • US9902601B1 patent drawing

AI summary

In described embodiments, the present invention is a collapsible tree stand hoist having a support structure having a ground end and a frame end. The support structure is formed from a plurality of assembled members. A generally “U-shaped” frame is hingedly attached to the frame end of the support structure. The frame includes a flexible member releasably secured to at least one end of the frame. A pulley is attached to the flexible member.