Drill-Driven Capstan Puller for Portable Cable Pulling
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing cable pulling methods are strenuous, time-consuming, and often require large, costly machines or significant manual effort, especially for heavier duty rope pulls, which can strain operators and limit portability.
Innovation Solution
A portable drill puller with a frame, capstan, and drill attachment that allows for spooling and unwinding of lightweight pull strings, enabling operators to use a conventional hand drill for easier and more efficient cable pulling.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Force
If a conventional cable puller is used for heavier duty rope pulls, then the pulling force capability is improved, but the device size, cost, and portability deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The capstan is nested within the frame structure, and the roller is integrated into the boom assembly. The head attaches to the boom, creating a compact nested configuration that reduces overall device size while maintaining pulling force capability through the capstan mechanism.
Solution Approach 2:
The device is segmented into modular components: a frame, a capstan assembly, a boom with head, and a roller. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized independently and enables the device to be more compact and portable while still delivering high pulling force through the capstan's mechanical advantage.
2Device complexity
If manual pulling by hand is used, then the device complexity is reduced, but the operator strain and time required increase
Solution Approach 1:
The capstan mechanism provides self-service by automatically gripping the rope through its threaded design, eliminating the need for operators to manually grip and pull the rope. The drill motor drives the capstan, which self-regulates the pulling action, reducing operator strain and time required.
Solution Approach 2:
The manual mechanical pulling action is replaced with a drill motor-driven capstan system. The drill's rotational power is converted to linear pulling force through the capstan's threaded mechanism, significantly reducing operator effort and time while maintaining device simplicity.
3Force
If a large cable puller is used for high force pulls, then the pulling force is improved, but the setup requirements and portability deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The device is designed with universal adaptability: the head can attach to various boom positions, the capstan can handle different rope diameters, and the entire assembly can be configured for different pulling scenarios. This multi-functionality allows the compact device to deliver high pulling force across diverse applications without requiring large machinery or extensive setup.
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 portable drill puller reduces operator strain and time required for cable pulling by allowing for hands-free operation and efficient spooling/unspooling of pull strings, enhancing portability and reducing the need for large machinery.
Implementation Method 1
the capstan having an upstanding end flange at the first end and a body extending from the end flange, the body having an angled wall portion which has a greatest diameter proximate to the first end and a smallest diameter proximate to the second end
Data Source
AI summary
A puller in accordance with some example embodiments includes a frame and a capstan rotatably mounted on the frame. The capstan has a body having an angled wall portion and a movable end wall. A boom is mounted to the frame and has a head at an end thereof which can be positioned in a variety of positions.