Force Measuring Ratchet Tie-Down with Strain Gauge Sensor
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional tie-downs used in logistics transportation lack the ability to accurately measure and control the tensioning force of binding belts, leading to inefficient and laborious binding processes, potential damage to goods, and variability in tension due to movement during transport.
Innovation Solution
A force measuring ratchet tie-down with a resistance strain gauge sensor and signal processing circuit that detects and displays the tensioning force in real-time, allowing for precise control and adjustment, and includes a wireless transmission module for remote monitoring and warning systems.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If conventional tie-downs are used to bind goods, then the binding process is simple and the structure is compact, but the tensioning force cannot be measured or controlled, leading to potential damage to goods or insufficient binding
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the purely mechanical tie-down system with an electromechanical system by integrating a strain gauge sensor that converts mechanical tension into electrical signals. This substitution enables precise measurement of tensioning force while maintaining the core mechanical functionality of the ratchet and scroll mechanism.
Solution Approach 2:
The strain gauge sensor acts as an intermediary element between the mechanical binding belt and the measurement system. It is integrated into the forced part of the tie-down structure, converting mechanical deformation into measurable electrical signals without interfering with the primary binding function.
2Reliability
If the tensioning force is increased to ensure goods are bound tightly, then the binding reliability improves, but the goods may be damaged or the binding belt may break due to over-tightening
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a feedback mechanism where the strain gauge continuously monitors the tensioning force and provides real-time measurement data. This feedback loop allows operators to adjust the binding force to optimal levels, ensuring sufficient tightness without exceeding the damage threshold for goods or the breaking strength of the binding belt.
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of applying excessive force to ensure binding reliability, the patent enables precise application of partial force through real-time measurement. The strain gauge allows operators to apply just enough tension to secure goods reliably without the need for over-tightening, thereby preventing damage while maintaining binding security.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the tie-down is used to bind different kinds of goods or same goods at different positions, then the versatility improves, but the difficulty in controlling the tensioning force increases because different forces are required
Solution Approach 1:
The strain gauge provides real-time feedback on the actual tensioning force being applied, allowing operators to adapt to different goods and positions by monitoring the measured force and making precise adjustments. This feedback mechanism simplifies the control process by providing objective measurement data rather than relying on subjective judgment.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent enables dynamic adjustment of the tensioning force parameter based on the specific requirements of different goods and binding positions. The strain gauge measurement allows operators to change the force parameter appropriately for each application, achieving optimal binding for diverse scenarios while maintaining ease of control through real-time monitoring.
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 timely and precise control of tensioning force, improving safety and efficiency in binding goods, reducing the risk of over-tightening or under-tightening, and maintaining a compact structure with low manufacturing costs.
Implementation Method 1
A force measuring device comprising a resistance strain gauge sensor and a signal processing circuit is provided in the technical solution
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention provides a force measuring ratchet tie down in the field of goods holding. The force measuring ratchet tie down of the invention addresses the technical problems such has insufficiently tight binding, severe difficulty in control and trouble in adjustment. The force measuring ratchet tie down includes a body assembly, a handle, a teeth stop board, a catch and a scroll. The handle is connected with the body assembly through the scroll. A binding belt having a fixable outer end is connected to the body assembly. Another binding belt having a fixable outer end is rolled on the scroll. A ratchet is fixed on the scroll. The body assembly is movably connected with a teeth stop board the end of which could be embedded among the teeth of the ratchet. The handle is movably connected with a catch the end of which could be embedded among the teeth of the ratchet. A sensor is placed at a forced part of the tie down, which is linked with a signal processing circuit and could generate a signal corresponding to the size of the tensioning force of the binding belt when the tie down is in operation. A display device is connected to the signal processing circuit. The force measuring ratchet tie down of the invention has advantages including a high safety property, a compact structure and a low manufacturing cost.