Parallel Shaft Strap Tie-Down Self-Tightening Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current vehicle transport trailer tie-down systems rely on manual tightening mechanisms that can loosen under forces like gravity and centripetal forces, requiring frequent adjustments and lacking a self-tightening mechanism for secure vehicle restraint.
Innovation Solution
A parallel shaft strap tie-down apparatus featuring a central shaft with a ratchet wheel and pawl, along with a parallel shaft that rotates within support plates or U-shaft, creating a self-tightening action by pinching the strap between the central and parallel components as the central shaft rotates.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If manual ratchet and pawl mechanisms are used to tighten straps, then the straps can be secured to the vehicle, but the mechanisms can loosen under forces like gravity and centripetal forces during transport
Solution Approach 1:
The parallel shaft mechanism enables the system to automatically tighten the strap itself without requiring external manual intervention. As the vehicle moves and the strap experiences forces, the parallel shaft mechanism converts these forces into self-tightening action, allowing the system to service itself and maintain tension automatically
Solution Approach 2:
The mechanism transitions from a static manual ratchet system to a dynamic parallel shaft system that actively responds to forces during transport. The parallel shafts are designed to move and interact dynamically, converting the dynamic forces of vehicle transport into useful tightening action that adapts to changing conditions
2Extent of automation
If a single shaft with ratchet mechanism is used, then the strap can be tightened, but the mechanism lacks self-tightening capability and requires manual tightening
Solution Approach 1:
The single shaft is segmented into two parallel shafts that work independently yet cooperatively. This segmentation allows each shaft to perform a specific function while together they create the self-tightening effect, breaking down the complex function into manageable components that achieve greater overall capability
Solution Approach 2:
The two parallel shaft mechanisms are merged with the strap routing system to create a unified self-tightening apparatus. The combination of the parallel shafts, struts, and strap routing works together as an integrated system where the complexity of multiple components is justified by the emergent self-tightening capability
3Reliability
If straps are arranged around vehicle wheels with locking mechanisms, then vehicles can be restrained to the platform, but the mechanisms may loosen under transport forces
Solution Approach 1:
The forces that previously caused loosening (gravity, centripetal forces, vibration) are converted into beneficial tightening forces. The parallel shaft mechanism is designed so that these transport forces directly drive the self-tightening action, turning harmful loosening forces into useful tightening forces that improve security
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 a secure, self-tightening mechanism that maintains strap tension without manual adjustment, ensuring stable vehicle transport by utilizing a ratchet and pawl mechanism to incrementally tighten the strap with each rotation of the central shaft.
Implementation Method 1
a ratchet wheel coupled to an end of the shaft
Implementation Method 2
the second shaft is radially moveable with respect to the first shaft
Data Source
AI summary
A parallel shaft strap tie down apparatus and system. Exemplary embodiments include a parallel shaft strap tie down apparatus and system for vehicle transports. Exemplary embodiments include a central shaft having a ratchet wheel and a pawl configured to wrap a strap around the central shaft. A parallel shaft is positioned parallel to the central shaft. The strap can be inserted between a variable gap between the central shaft and the parallel shaft. When the central shaft is rotated the strap is wound around the central shaft and the parallel shaft, both of which cooperate to create a self-tightening response of the strap on the central and parallel shafts.