Motorized Spool Tensioning System for Cargo Restraint
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional load securing systems for curtain-sided vehicles are inefficient, time-consuming, and prone to user error, leading to inadequate load restraint and potential safety issues during transportation.
Innovation Solution
A tensioning system comprising a spool with a torque generator and brake, allowing for continuous rotation and controlled tensioning of a line, which is designed to be compact, user-friendly, and capable of applying force at various angles without jamming, featuring a gap between hubs and connecting members for unrestricted line movement.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If a conventional ratchet and strap mechanism is used, then load securing can be achieved, but the system is time-consuming and prone to user error leading to inadequate restraint
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the conventional mechanical ratchet and strap system with a motorized winch system that uses electrical/motor control to tension the load securing strap. This substitution enables automated or semi-automated tensioning, significantly reducing the time required for load securing while improving reliability through precise control of tension forces, eliminating user error in manual operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The winch system incorporates automatic tension control capabilities where the motor automatically tensions the strap to predetermined levels, reducing dependence on operator skill and judgment. The system can self-regulate tension forces and maintain consistent restraint levels across different operations.
2Ease of operation
If the main strap is maintained on a radial plane to the winding axis, then the ratchet mechanism can function, but any deviation causes the strap to interfere with the hub leading to jamming and premature locking
Solution Approach 1:
The spool is segmented into a hub portion and a flange portion, with the flange extending radially outward to provide a bearing surface for the strap. This segmentation allows the strap to wrap around the flange in a controlled manner, preventing interference with the hub and eliminating jamming while maintaining ease of operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The flange acts as an intermediary element between the hub and the strap, providing a transition surface that guides the strap away from the hub area. This intermediary structure prevents direct contact between the strap and hub, eliminating the jamming problem while allowing smooth strap operation.
3Force
If high torques are generated by increasing the radial distance, then torque generation improves, but the device size increases
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of increasing torque purely by expanding radial distance (one dimension), the patent utilizes the axial dimension by extending the flange outward. This allows the strap to wrap around the flange and create effective torque leverage without significantly increasing the overall device volume, as the torque-generating structure extends in the axial direction rather than radially outward.
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 system provides quick, efficient, and reliable load restraint with reduced wear and increased longevity of the tensioning line, minimizing operator effort and preventing premature locking, thus enhancing safety and operational efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
The torque generator is suitable for transmitting torque to the spool
Implementation Method 2
The brake is suitable for imparting rotational resistance to the spool
Implementation Method 3
The spool is a rotating member for engagement with a line (i.e. a tensioning line) to be tensioned
Data Source
AI summary
An improved tensioning system and method of restraining cargo is provided. The tensioning system is easy and quick to operate. The tensioning system is compact and minimises space within a cargo bay. The tensioning system allows a greater angular displacement of a tensioning line over conventional tensioning system, such as a ratchet and strap mechanism.