Hook Overload Distortion Detection Using Triangle Geometry
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for detecting overload distortion in lifting apparatus, such as hoist hooks, are not well-suited for everyday workshop conditions and lack accuracy due to the need for precise measurements and alignment, often requiring access to calibrated tools and known dimensions.
Innovation Solution
The method involves providing a hook with three reference points forming an isosceles or equilateral triangle, allowing for the comparison of dimensions using a simple string or calliper to determine if overload distortion has occurred, enabling safe use without the need for conventional length-measurement gear.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If conventional measurement methods (printed tables, forged marks, gap measurement) are used to detect overload distortion, then measurement capability is provided, but measurement precision and ease of operation deteriorate due to requirements for calibrated tools, known dimensions, and precise alignment
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a simplified copy of the measurement function by using the hook's own geometry (waisted portion and open mouth dimensions) as the reference standard, eliminating the need for external calibrated tools or lookup tables. The user simply compares the current state against the known original dimensions of these fixed geometric features.
Solution Approach 2:
The hook structure itself provides the measurement reference through its inherent geometric features (waisted portion width, open mouth dimensions). The system serves its own measurement needs without requiring external calibration standards, making the detection method self-contained and easily operable in workshop conditions.
2Ease of operation
If a straight line segment on the waisted portion is used for alignment measurement, then a reference is provided, but measurement precision deteriorates because the segment length is minimal and difficult to align accurately
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses the asymmetric relationship between the waisted portion and the open mouth dimensions to create a more robust measurement reference. Instead of relying on a single short segment, the method compares the waisted portion width with the open mouth dimension, creating a larger, more easily measurable reference relationship that is less sensitive to alignment errors.
3Reliability
If gap measurement between formations across the open mouth is used, then overload detection is enabled, but ease of operation deteriorates due to the need for calibrated linear measurement means and known standard dimensions
Solution Approach 1:
The patent copies the reference measurement function from external calibrated tools to the hook's own geometric features. The waisted portion width and open mouth dimension serve as built-in reference standards that eliminate the need for separate calibrated measurement tools, while still providing reliable overload detection capability.
Data Source
AI summary
A method and apparatus for detecting overload distortion in lifting and the like gear is disclosed. The apparatus includes a hook with two reference points thereon defining, in the undistorted state of the hook, a reference dimension. The hook also has a standard dimension provided on the hook and conveniently accessible for reference purposes. The standard dimension is also a pair of points and one of this pair is coincident with one of the reference points thereby forming a triangle of points on the hook.