Pivotable Bollard Friction Load Support
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional load support devices have limitations in controlling the speed of raising and lowering loads, as they often rely on binary free-flow and locked positions, and may require manual levers or control systems, which can be costly and impractical for positioning in rigging systems.
Innovation Solution
A load support device that applies friction to a line without locking it, using a pivotable bollard and biasing elements to transition between nonactivated and activated positions, allowing for controlled movement without the need for manual levers or control systems, enabling versatile positioning and cost-effective manufacturing.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional load support devices use binary free-flow and locked positions with manual levers or control systems, then the device can reliably control load movement, but the device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The load support device uses a self-actuating friction mechanism that automatically engages and disengages based on load weight without requiring manual levers or external control systems. The friction bollard self-regulates to provide reliable load control while eliminating complex control mechanisms.
2Speed
If conventional load support devices use manual levers or control systems, then the device can control load speed, but the ease of operation and positioning versatility decrease
Solution Approach 1:
The friction bollard automatically adjusts friction levels based on the load weight, enabling the device to control load speed without manual intervention. This self-regulating mechanism allows versatile positioning at various heights while maintaining ease of operation, as the device adapts automatically to different loading conditions.
3Reliability
If conventional load support devices use manual levers or control systems, then the device can prevent unintended movement, but the manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The self-actuating friction mechanism prevents unintended load movement through automatic friction engagement based on load weight, eliminating the need for expensive manual levers or control systems. This approach maintains safety and reliability while significantly reducing manufacturing complexity and cost.
4Ease of manufacture
If a pivotable bollard is used to apply friction without locking, then the ease of manufacture and positioning versatility improve, but the control precision over load movement decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The friction bollard controls load movement by dynamically adjusting friction parameters based on load weight rather than using precise mechanical locking. This parameter-based control achieves adequate precision for load support applications while maintaining ease of manufacture and positioning versatility.
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 device provides controlled friction for load movement, enhancing safety and reliability by preventing unintended movement and reducing user error, while being more cost-effective and positionally versatile than conventional devices.
Implementation Method 1
The movable bollard and the first fixed bollard may be configured such that friction is applied to a line between the first fixed bollard and the movable bollard without locking the line to preclude movement
Data Source
AI summary
A load support device and load support systems. The load support device may include a body. The body may include a first fixed bollard. The body may additionally include a pivotable bollard. The pivotable bollard and the first fixed bollard may be configured such that friction is applied to a line between the first fixed bollard and the pivotable bollard without locking the line to preclude movement in response to a force applied to the pivotable bollard. A load support system may include a load support device and a line threaded through a body of the load support device in one of several different line configurations.