Panel Puller System with Self-Binding Tension Line
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Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional methods for installing panels, such as Structured Insulated Panels (SIPs), are inefficient and often result in damage due to the use of tools like crow bars, sledge hammers, and ratchet straps, which provide limited leverage and require additional personnel.
Innovation Solution
A panel puller system comprising an anchor, a tension line, and a puller with a lever and rollers, which self-binds the tension line to efficiently pull panels into place without causing damage, using a mechanism that distributes force over a broad area.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Force
If traditional tools like crow bars, sledge hammers, and ratchet straps are used to install panels, then panels can be moved into approximate position, but the panels suffer minor to major damage to their sides and ends
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a panel puller device as an intermediary tool between the installation personnel and the panel. This device includes a puller body with a panel engagement surface that contacts the panel, a tensioning mechanism with a tension line, and an anchor. The tension line is threaded through the puller body and secured to the panel, allowing force to be applied through the tensioning mechanism rather than directly through damaging tools like crow bars and sledge hammers. This intermediary system distributes the force more evenly and controllably, preventing damage to the panel edges while still achieving the necessary movement and positioning.
2Force
If come-a-longs and ratchet straps are used for panel installation, then panels can be pulled into place, but the process becomes very time consuming and frustrating
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the essential function of tensioning from complex ratchet strap systems and come-a-longs, isolating it into a simpler, dedicated tensioning mechanism within the panel puller device. This mechanism includes a tension line threaded through the puller body with a securing mechanism that can be quickly engaged and disengaged. By removing the unnecessary complexity of traditional systems while retaining the core tensioning capability, the installation process becomes significantly faster and less frustrating, eliminating the need for multiple personnel and complex setup procedures.
3Force
If traditional panel installation methods are used, then panels can be positioned, but additional personnel are required to perform the task
Solution Approach 1:
The patent designs the panel puller device to be self-sufficient in generating and applying the necessary force for panel positioning. The device includes an integrated tensioning mechanism that can be operated by a single person to generate sufficient pulling force through the tension line. The anchor secures the tension line to provide a fixed reference point, eliminating the need for additional personnel to hold or stabilize the system. This self-service capability allows one person to perform the entire panel positioning task that previously required multiple workers coordinating traditional tools.
4Force
If crow bars and sledge hammers are used to pry and move panels, then panels can be moved into place, but limited leverage is provided
Solution Approach 1:
The patent incorporates a dynamic tensioning mechanism that allows for progressive force application and adjustment. The tension line can be incrementally tightened through the tensioning mechanism, allowing the operator to build up leverage gradually rather than relying on static, fixed-position tools like crow bars. The system allows for continuous adjustment of the pulling force, enabling the operator to optimize leverage as the panel moves into position, making the process easier and more controlled compared to the rigid leverage limits of traditional prying tools.
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 panel puller system simplifies and expedites the installation process, reducing damage to panels and minimizing the need for additional personnel, while providing greater leverage and efficiency compared to traditional methods.
Implementation Method 1
a lever rotatably mounted about the pivot joint, and a roller or rollers mounted on the lever, wherein the puller is configured to receive the tension line threaded about the puller and the pivot joint, and to self-bind the tension line at the puller and tense the tension line between the puller and the anchor, when the lever is rotated
Implementation Method 2
a roller or rollers mounted on the lever, wherein the puller is configured to receive the tension line threaded about the puller and the pivot joint
Data Source
AI summary
A panel assembly system is disclosed, which includes an anchor; a tension line, secured to the anchor; and a puller, comprising an engaging face, a pivot joint secured to the engaging face, a lever rotatably mounted about the pivot joint, and a roller mounted on the lever, wherein the puller is configured to receive the tension line threaded about the puller and the pin, and to self-bind the tension line at the puller and tense the tension line between the puller and the anchor, when the lever is rotated.