Plastically Deformable Load Indicator for Lifting Rings
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing load indicator devices for lifting accessories lack simplicity, adaptability, and accuracy in visually detecting overload, often requiring complex manufacturing, limited flexibility, and potential inaccuracies in overload detection.
Innovation Solution
A purely mechanical load indicator device with a plastically deformable member that triggers a visible indicator when a predetermined force threshold is exceeded, allowing for easy identification of overload on various lifting accessories without requiring complex installation or additional parts.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If a visual indicator is integrated into the ring's shape, then the device is simple to install and requires no extra parts, but the indicator is difficult to visually identify and requires close inspection
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies color changes by providing the indicator with a color different from the rest of the lifting accessory (preferably red or fluorescent). This makes the indicator easily distinguishable and visible from a distance, resolving the contradiction between simple integration and visual detectability.
2Difficulty of detecting and measuring
If electronic sensors and indicator lights are used, then visual detection of overload is clear and can be monitored externally, but the device becomes complex and expensive to manufacture
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces electronic sensors and indicator lights with a purely mechanical solution: a deformable element that physically moves an indicator when subjected to excessive load. This mechanical approach achieves clear visual detection while avoiding the complexity and cost of electronic components.
Solution Approach 2:
The lifting accessory itself serves as the sensing element through its deformation under load, which directly actuates the indicator mechanism. This self-service approach eliminates the need for separate electronic sensors and complex monitoring systems.
3Difficulty of detecting and measuring
If a mechanical fuse is integrated into the chain design, then overload is visually identifiable, but the device cannot be disconnected, adapted to different accessories, or replaced during maintenance
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the overload detection function into a separate, removable indicator device that can be independently attached to or detached from the lifting accessory. This allows the indicator to be adapted to different accessories and replaced during maintenance while maintaining clear visual identification of overload.
Solution Approach 2:
The indicator device is designed with universal applicability to work with different types of lifting accessories through standardized attachment mechanisms (such as clamping around the lifting portion). This enables the same indicator device to be used across multiple accessory types, providing adaptability and versatility.
4Device complexity
If the indicator detects deformation in a small part, then the device structure is simple, but the user must have close access to the parts and assessment becomes imprecise
Solution Approach 1:
The patent positions the indicator on the outer surface of the lifting accessory at a location optimized for visibility and accessibility. By moving the indicator from an internal deformation point to an external, accessible position, users can inspect the overload status from a distance without needing close access to the deforming components.
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
The device provides a simple, adaptable, and accurate visual indication of overload, ensuring user safety by alerting operators in real-time with a conspicuous indicator visible from multiple angles, while allowing for easy disassembly and reuse on different accessories.
Implementation Method 1
a plastically deformable member (14) associated with the body (12) and positioned so as to be, in use, in compression between said lifting part and a lifting element coupled to the lifting accessory to transmit a lifting force
Data Source
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AI summary
A load indicator device (10) for a lifting accessory comprising a body (12) adapted to be attached to a lifting portion (P) of a lifting accessory (22); and a plastically deformable member (14) associated with the body (12) and positioned so as to be, in use, in compression between said lifting portion (P) and a lifting element coupled to the lifting accessory (22) to transmit a lifting force. The device (10) includes a cover (20) which, in an initial position, conceals an indicator (18). The deformable member (14) is designed such that, when the transmitted force exceeds a predetermined threshold (Fs), the deformable member (14) deforms plastically and causes the cover (20) to move so as to at least partially reveal the indicator (18).