Non-Frangible Load Release Assembly With Preset Tension Release
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional load release assemblies are frangible, leaving a portion attached to the object, increasing its weight and requiring replacement pins or wires, and often lack reliability in providing a distinct and repeatable load value for release.
Innovation Solution
A non-frangible load release assembly utilizing a snap shackle with a quick release mechanism actuated by a spring and an actuating line of selected length, which provides a pre-set tension for releasing loads without frangible components, allowing for adjustable and interchangeable configurations to achieve consistent and repeatable load release.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a frangible load release assembly is used, then the assembly can release at a predetermined load, but a portion of the assembly remains attached to the object increasing its weight and requiring replacement
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the frangible component from the load release assembly, replacing it with a non-frangible mechanism. The spring-loaded actuating line is removed from the object side, leaving only the snap shackle and release mechanism attached to the object, thereby eliminating the weight penalty of remaining frangible components while maintaining predetermined load release functionality
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the fundamental parameter of the release mechanism from frangible (breaking at predetermined load) to non-frangible (using spring tension and actuating line geometry). By selecting specific spring rates and actuating line lengths, the system achieves predetermined load release without component failure, eliminating the need for replacement and avoiding additional weight
2Reliability
If a frangible load release assembly is used, then the assembly can release at a predetermined load, but the components require replacement after use
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a self-service mechanism where the spring automatically resets the actuating line to its original position after release. The snap shackle can be reused without replacement of critical components, as the spring-loaded system self-reconfigures for the next use, eliminating the need for manual replacement of pins or wires
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces dynamic elements (spring and movable actuating line) that allow the assembly to adapt and reset automatically after release. This dynamic mechanism replaces the static frangible component, enabling repeated use without replacement while maintaining reliable predetermined load release functionality
3Device complexity
If a conventional frangible assembly is used, then the structure is simple, but it lacks precision in providing a distinct and repeatable load value
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses precise control of spring rate and actuating line length parameters to achieve exact predetermined load values. By carefully selecting these parameters, the system provides distinct and repeatable load release points that are more precise than conventional frangible assemblies, while maintaining relatively simple overall structure
Solution Approach 2:
The spring-loaded mechanism provides inherent feedback through its elastic deformation, ensuring that the actuating line is pulled at the exact predetermined load. This feedback mechanism enhances measurement precision by automatically sensing and responding to the specific load threshold, making the release point distinct and repeatable
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 solution enables reliable, repeatable, and adjustable load release without additional weight, allowing the assembly to be reused without replacing components, providing a precise and consistent release mechanism.
Implementation Method 1
a spring having a spring rate, the spring attached to the link of the snap shackle
Data Source
AI summary
A non-frangible load release assembly having a pre-set tension for release is presented. The load release assembly comprises a snap shackle having a quick release and a link, a spring having a spring rate, and an actuating line with a length selected based on the spring rate to provide the pre-set tension for the load release assembly. The spring is attached to the link of the snap shackle. The actuating line is connected to the quick release of the snap shackle.