Multiple-Hole Rope Thimble Bend Radius
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Solution Overview
Problem
Circular thimbles for ropes have a bend radius that is too small, causing strain on the rope and reducing its usable life due to the insufficient radius for typical rope configurations.
Innovation Solution
A multiple-hole rope thimble with a body featuring a plurality of holes and a perimeter groove, where the holes can be arranged linearly or non-linearly, and the groove extends completely around the body to accommodate the rope, ensuring a convex perimeter and secure rope retention through splicing or knotting.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If a circular thimble is used, then the thimble structure is simple and easy to manufacture, but the bend radius is too small causing strain on the rope and reducing its usable life
Solution Approach 1:
The thimble body is segmented into multiple sections defined by a plurality of holes arranged in a specific pattern. This segmentation allows the thimble to achieve a larger effective bend radius while maintaining structural integrity and manufacturability. The holes create distinct zones that distribute the rope's bending stress across multiple points rather than concentrating it at a single small radius.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention transitions from a traditional two-dimensional circular or teardrop thimble profile to a three-dimensional structure with multiple holes arranged in a pattern that creates an extended bend path. This dimensional change allows the rope to follow a longer, gentler curve around the thimble, effectively increasing the bend radius without significantly complicating the manufacturing process.
2Duration of action of moving object
If the bend radius is increased to reduce rope strain, then the thimble size increases, but the rope retention and security may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The multiple holes in the thimble body create multiple contact zones where the rope can be retained and secured. Instead of relying on a single large-radius curve that might compromise retention, the segmented structure provides multiple points of interaction between the rope and thimble, distributing the retention force across these zones while maintaining the larger bend radius.
Solution Approach 2:
Different regions of the thimble body have different functional qualities - the holes create localized zones for rope contact and retention, while the overall body shape maintains the larger bend radius. This local differentiation allows the thimble to simultaneously achieve both increased bend radius for rope protection and adequate retention security at specific contact points.
Data Source
AI summary
A multiple-hole rope thimble with a body, a plurality of holes, and a perimeter groove. The holes can be arranged linearly or non-linearly arranged and can be the same or different sizes. The hole wall is curved toward the center of the hole to eliminate any sharp edges that can damage a rope. The groove extends completely around the perimeter of the body. A rope fits into the groove and is secured around the thimble by a splice or a knot. Optionally, the rope is secured by a thread extending through an aperture in the partition between holes.