Controllable Hook Assembly for Automated Payload Capture
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional devices for picking up external payloads using helicopters or other lifting devices require attendants, posing risks to personnel and increasing costs, as they need to be physically present near the lifting platform and can be injured by swinging payloads.
Innovation Solution
A controllable hook assembly that eliminates the need for ground or attendant personnel by allowing the lifting device operator to control the position of load-capture arms, enabling payload capture and release without additional special equipment, and can be installed on any platform for use in various environments, including ground, air, or water, using a wireless controller for operational status and condition-based maintenance.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Extent of automation
If conventional devices are used for picking up external payloads, then payload capture can be achieved, but ground or attendant personnel are required to secure the load, increasing cost and risk
Solution Approach 1:
The grappling hook assembly is designed to automatically capture and secure payloads without requiring attendant personnel. The system self-services the payload capture function through its automated arm actuation and locking mechanisms, eliminating the need for human intervention in the capture process.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention extracts and eliminates the attendant personnel from the payload capture operation. By removing the human element from the securing process, the system achieves automation while reducing operational complexity associated with personnel management and safety protocols.
2Reliability
If attendants are used to secure the load, then payload capture is possible, but the risk of injury to personnel increases due to proximity to lifting platform and swinging payload
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs the hazardous payload securing function autonomously, removing personnel from the danger zone. The automated grappling hook assembly handles all operations that would otherwise require attendant presence near the lifting platform and swinging payload.
Solution Approach 2:
The controllable hook assembly serves as an intermediary device between the lifting platform and the payload. It mediates the capture and securing operations, allowing the lifting device to handle payloads without requiring direct human involvement in the hazardous zone.
3Productivity
If conventional securing methods are used, then payload capture can be achieved, but additional cost for attendant personnel is required
Solution Approach 1:
The grappling hook assembly eliminates the need for attendant personnel by performing the securing function autonomously. This self-service capability improves productivity by removing time-consuming manual operations while reducing operational complexity associated with personnel coordination.
4Productivity
If the lifting device operator controls the position of load-capture arms, then repeated load capture without extensive setup is enabled, but the accuracy requirement for the operator increases
Solution Approach 1:
The hook arms are made dynamically controllable, allowing the operator to adjust their position and orientation in real-time. This dynamic control capability enables repeated load capture operations by adapting to different payload positions and conditions, reducing the need for extensive setup procedures.
Solution Approach 2:
The system incorporates feedback mechanisms that provide real-time information about hook arm position and payload capture status. This feedback enables the operator to make precise adjustments and maintain accurate control during repeated capture operations, reducing the accuracy burden on the operator.
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention is a controllable hook assembly having an actuator connected by a clutch to a drive assembly configured to limit the connection to a predetermined linear force applied to the actuator. The drive assembly and actuator of the controllable hook assembly also is configured to move a plurality of hook arms between an open and closed position and is adapted capturing a line attached to a load. A controller is configured to operate the drive assembly to move gear teeth in the hook arms cooperating with screw threads in said actuator to provide rotation about a pivot point, drive an actuator output shaft such that when the actuator is energized the linear motion of the actuator output shaft moves the hook arms between an open and a closed position so as to allow for repeated capture of loads by helicopter or other lifting devices without the need for extensive setup for such load capture.