Load Binder Chain Drive for 90-Degree Tensioning
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing load binders face challenges in ergonomics, adjustment time, cost, and durability in harsh environments, particularly when using bevel gears for 90-degree rotational direction changes.
Innovation Solution
A load binder system utilizing a looping drive mechanism with flexible couplers, such as link chains, to achieve a 90-degree drive system, which is more ergonomic, reduces adjustment time, and is cost-effective and durable in unclean environments.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If bevel gears are used for 90-degree rotational direction changes, then the drive system can change direction, but the device complexity increases and durability decreases in harsh environments
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the bevel gear component from the drive system and replaces it with a flexible coupler (link chain) that achieves the same 90-degree rotational direction change without the complexity and durability issues of bevel gears. The flexible coupler is a simpler, more robust component that can be easily installed and maintained in harsh environments.
2Adaptability or versatility
If bevel gears are used for 90-degree rotational direction changes, then the drive system can change direction, but maintenance efficiency decreases in unclean environments
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a flexible coupler (link chain) that is simpler in construction and easier to replace than bevel gears. In unclean environments where contamination is inevitable, the flexible coupler can be quickly replaced without complex disassembly, improving maintenance efficiency and reducing downtime.
3Productivity
If existing load binder mechanisms are used, then the binding function is achieved, but adjustment time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a flexible coupler as an intermediary element in the drive system that enables smoother and quicker transmission of motion between the drive shaft and the threaded shafts. This intermediary component reduces adjustment time by eliminating the mechanical complexity and friction associated with bevel gears, while also improving ergonomics through more efficient force transmission.
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 looping drive mechanism with link chains provides a more ergonomic operation, reduces adjustment times, and enhances durability and maintenance efficiency while maintaining the twin eyebolt power screw and threaded barrel retraction system, offering cost savings and improved performance in harsh conditions.
Implementation Method 1
threading in the internally threaded tube and on the threaded shafts adapted to provide common contraction and extension of the threaded shafts when the internally threaded tube is rotated
Implementation Method 2
a ratchet mechanism, wherein the ratchet mechanism engages the handle with the drive shaft
Implementation Method 3
a link chain movably engaged with the driven link chain sheave, the primary link chain drive sheave, the internally threaded tube idler sheave, and the shaft idler sheave
Data Source
AI summary
A load binding tool for securing a load, the load binder including an elongated threaded contraction expansion assembly including an elongated threaded member having opposing ends with opposite screw threading, and having opposing engaging ends, and enabling common contraction or extension of the respective opposing engaging ends when the elongated threaded member is rotated one direction or another, and a driven sheave, a drive shaft, a primary drive sheave, and a closed loop of chain or other flexible coupler movably engaged with the driven sheave and the primary drive sheave, wherein the drive shaft can be rotated to turn the primary drive sheave and move the opposing engaging ends closer together or further apart. The drive shaft can be coupled with an external drive coupling that can be engaged with a separate drive tool to rotate the drive shaft and operate the load binding tool.