Linear Winch Gripper Mechanism for Cable Connector Passage
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing linear winch assemblies require dismantling and the use of cranes to safely pass cable connectors, which is time-consuming and dangerous, especially when dealing with tensioned cables of varying lengths and loads.
Innovation Solution
A linear winch assembly with gripper blocks that can move out of the pathway of cable connectors, allowing them to pass through without the need for cranes, using mechanisms like hydraulic cylinders to laterally, vertically, or horizontally offset the gripper blocks, enabling safe and efficient passage of connectors while maintaining cable tension.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If conventional reel winches are used for long cable lengths with heavy loads, then the winch can accommodate the cable, but the drum experiences unacceptable loading and the tensioning control becomes inaccurate
Solution Approach 1:
The system divides the winching function into two separate components: a linear winch for tensioning and cable positioning, and a reel winch for cable storage and deployment. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized for its specific function, with the linear winch handling tensioned cable management and the reel winch handling cable reels, thereby avoiding excessive drum loading while maintaining adaptability to various cable lengths
2Ease of operation
If the linear winch uses fixed gripper blocks in the pathway, then the cable can be gripped and pulled, but the cable connector cannot pass through the winch assembly
Solution Approach 1:
The gripper blocks are designed to be movable rather than fixed, capable of shifting between a first position where they grip the cable and a second position where they clear the cable connector pathway. This dynamic repositioning allows the system to alternately perform cable gripping operations and connector passage operations without requiring system dismantling or external lifting equipment
Solution Approach 2:
Before the cable connector needs to pass through the winch assembly, the控制系统 preemptively moves the gripper blocks from the first position to the second position, clearing the pathway in advance. This preliminary action prevents operational delays and safety hazards by ensuring the pathway is clear before connector insertion or passage is attempted
3Adaptability or versatility
If the winch assembly is dismantled to pass the cable connector, then the connector can be lifted clear, but the operation becomes time-consuming and dangerous
Solution Approach 1:
The movable gripper blocks eliminate the need for complete assembly dismantling by providing a localized, quick-positioning mechanism. The gripper blocks can be rapidly moved between positions using the positioning mechanism, allowing connector passage to be accomplished in minutes rather than requiring time-consuming disassembly and reassembly of the entire winch structure
Solution Approach 2:
The positioning mechanism acts as an intermediary system that enables connector passage without requiring external lifting equipment or complete dismantling. It provides a controlled, integrated method for moving gripper blocks out of the pathway and back into position, maintaining system integrity while facilitating connector changes
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 the safe and efficient passage of cable connectors through the winch assembly without cranes, improving productivity and safety by allowing the winching of various cable lengths and loads while prolonging the winch assembly's lifespan.
Implementation Method 1
using mechanisms like hydraulic cylinders to laterally, vertically, or horizontally offset the gripper blocks
Data Source
Figure 1A~1B
Figure 2A
Figure 2B
AI summary
The invention provides a linear winch assembly (10), gripper assembly (14, 16) and a method of use. The linear winch assembly comprises a first gripper assembly comprising a first gripper block (28b) operable to grip a cable and a second gripper assembly comprising a second gripper block operable to grip a cable (17). The winch assembly comprises a first mechanism (30, 31, 32) operable to move at least part of the first gripper block out of the pathway of a cable connector to allow the connector (19) to pass through the first gripper assembly. The winch assembly also comprises a second mechanism operable to move at least part of the second gripper block out of the pathway of a cable connector to allow the connector to pass through the second gripper assembly. It also comprises a pivotable lid (28a).