Front-Loading Arbor Structure to Prevent Counterweight Brick Ejection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing counterweight rigging systems face issues with unwieldy counterweight bricks, difficult installation and removal, potential for arbor rod bowing under stress leading to brick ejection, and unnecessary height of arbor apparatuses.
Innovation Solution
A front-loading arbor apparatus with a rigid support structure, shelf members for stacked counterweight bricks, and a gate mechanism to prevent ejection, allowing for easier handling and installation, and adjustable connectors for suspension.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Weight of moving object
If traditional counterweight bricks are used in existing rigging systems, then the system can support heavy loads, but the bricks are unwieldy and difficult to install and remove
Solution Approach 1:
The counterweight system is segmented into individual modular bricks that can be independently handled, installed, and removed. Each brick is a discrete unit that can be easily manipulated, contrasting with traditional monolithic counterweights. This segmentation allows operators to work with smaller, more manageable units while maintaining overall load capacity through stacking multiple bricks.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a front-loading dimension to the arbor apparatus, allowing counterweight bricks to be accessed and installed from the front rather than requiring top-down or side-loading approaches. This dimensional change in the loading interface significantly improves ease of operation while maintaining vertical load-bearing capacity.
2Strength
If arbor rods are used to support counterweight bricks, then the system can maintain structural integrity, but the rods may bow under stress leading to brick ejection
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the counterweight bricks from direct contact with the arbor rods by introducing shelf members as an intermediate support structure. The bricks rest on the shelves rather than directly on the rods, eliminating the bowing problem while maintaining structural integrity. This separation removes the source of reliability issues caused by rod deformation.
Solution Approach 2:
The shelf members act as a protective intermediary that prevents the harmful effect of rod bowing from transferring to the counterweight bricks. By providing a stable, flat bearing surface beforehand, the system cushions against the potential failure mode of brick ejection due to rod deformation.
3Device complexity
If existing counterweight systems are designed to accommodate standard brick sizes, then the system structure is simplified, but the system cannot easily handle varying brick sizes and weights
Solution Approach 1:
The arbor apparatus with its shelf members and front-loading design creates a universal interface that can accommodate counterweight bricks of varying sizes and weights. The same basic structure handles different brick configurations without requiring design changes, achieving multi-functionality while maintaining relative structural simplicity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent enables parameter changes in the counterweight system by allowing operators to vary the size, weight, and quantity of individual bricks while maintaining compatibility with the same arbor structure. The shelf-based support system adapts to different brick parameters without compromising structural integrity or requiring redesign.
4Quantity of substance
If traditional counterweight systems are designed with sufficient height to accommodate all bricks, then all bricks can be stored, but the system requires excessive vertical space
Solution Approach 1:
The front-loading arbor design changes the dimensional approach to brick storage by providing front access to the carrying section. This allows bricks to be loaded and unloaded from the front rather than requiring the entire vertical height to be accessible, effectively reducing the functional height requirement while maintaining full storage capacity.
Solution Approach 2:
The counterweight bricks are segmented into individual units that can be selectively added or removed from the front of the arbor. This segmentation allows the system to store the required quantity of bricks without needing excessive vertical space, as bricks can be managed in smaller increments rather than requiring full-height access for all operations.
Data Source
AI summary
An arbor apparatus for use in a counterweight rigging system includes a support structure for supporting counterweight bricks in stacked arrangement. The arbor apparatus can be front-loading with left side, back and right side supports. The arbor apparatus can include a plurality of shelf members spaced apart in a longitudinal direction between the top and bottom ends. The arbor apparatus can also include a gate mechanism. The arbor apparatus can be implemented as a retrofit to existing manual counterweight rigging systems.