U-Shaped Crossbow Cocking Sled Eliminating String Interference
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing crossbow cocking systems face issues with interference between the sled and launch string during disengagement and re-engagement, leading to precision and reliability problems due to protrusions and stacking tolerances.
Innovation Solution
A 'U' shaped cocking sled with a design that eliminates protrusions below the upper string engagement surface, allowing easy removal and re-engagement by using a flexible member and a mechanical device to move the sled through defined positions, ensuring no interference with the launch string.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a large protrusion is added to the sled to extend below the string, then the sled can engage the string more effectively during cocking, but it creates significant interference between the protrusion and launch string during disengagement and re-engagement
Solution Approach 1:
The patent removes the problematic protrusion element from the sled design. By eliminating the large protrusion that extended below the string, the invention resolves the interference issue during disengagement and re-engagement while maintaining effective string engagement through alternative means such as the sled's upper surface and engagement features.
2Ease of manufacture
If stacking tolerances are relaxed to ease manufacturing, then the cocking system becomes easier to manufacture, but precision and reliability of the trigger and trigger lever coupling deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the cocking system into separate, modular components including the sled, trigger assembly, and rail system. This segmentation allows each component to be manufactured independently with standard tolerances, then assembled together, eliminating the need for tight stacking tolerances across multiple stacked parts while maintaining overall precision through careful design of individual components and their interfaces.
3Ease of operation
If the sled design is simplified to remove protrusions, then removal and re-engagement becomes easier, but string engagement effectiveness may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by concentrating string engagement features at specific locations on the sled such as the upper surface and designated engagement points, rather than relying on a large protrusion. This allows the sled to maintain effective string engagement through localized features while keeping the overall design simple and free of interfering protrusions.
Data Source
AI summary
A cocking sled for a crossbow that is easier to remove from the bowstring once the crossbow is cocked, and easier to re-engage the bowstring in an effort to de-cock the crossbow.