Ratchet Wheel Lock Catch for Snow Skid Chains
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing snow skid chain tightening devices are inconvenient to install, remove, and adjust for tightness, posing safety risks due to loose chains during vehicle operation.
Innovation Solution
An automatic locking device with a ratchet wheel mechanism, energy storage elastic members, and a release button system that allows for quick installation, adjustment of tightness, and easy removal, enabling one-handed operation without removing gloves.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If conventional fast-buckling devices are used for snow skid chains, then the chain can be fastened to tires, but the operation method is inconvenient and difficult to install, remove, and adjust
Solution Approach 1:
The fast-buckling device is divided into separate functional components: a ratchet wheel for tightening, a locking buckle for securing, and a release button for operation. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function efficiently, making the overall device easier to operate despite the added components.
Solution Approach 2:
The ratchet wheel mechanism provides automatic one-way locking without requiring manual intervention for securing. Once the chain is tightened by rotating the ratchet wheel, it automatically locks in place, eliminating the need for additional manual fastening steps and simplifying the operation.
2Adaptability or versatility
If conventional fast-buckling devices are used, then the chain can be secured, but self-adjusting function for tightness degree cannot be achieved
Solution Approach 1:
The ratchet wheel can rotate freely in the tightening direction to allow continuous adjustment of chain tightness, and automatically locks in the reverse direction to maintain the adjusted position. This dynamic mechanism provides adaptability for different tightness requirements without complex adjustment controls.
Solution Approach 2:
The manual adjustment mechanism is replaced with a ratchet wheel that uses mechanical advantage and one-way locking to provide both adjustment and locking functions. This substitution eliminates the need for threaded adjustments or multiple fastening steps, simplifying the overall adjustment process.
3Reliability
If conventional fast-buckling devices are used, then the chain can be fastened, but safety risks occur due to loose chains during vehicle operation
Solution Approach 1:
The ratchet wheel is pre-configured with asymmetric teeth that engage with the locking buckle in one direction but cannot engage in the reverse direction. This preliminary design ensures that once tightened, the chain cannot loosen during vehicle operation, providing inherent safety without requiring additional securing actions.
Solution Approach 2:
The release button acts as an intermediary mechanism that controls the engagement and disengagement of the locking buckle with the ratchet wheel. This intermediary provides a single, simple operational action for both securing and releasing the chain, improving ease of operation while maintaining reliability through the controlled release mechanism.
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 facilitates quick and efficient installation and removal of snow skid chains, allowing for self-adjustment of tightness, enhancing operational efficiency and safety by enabling single-handed operation in cold weather conditions.
Implementation Method 1
The bottom of the release button is connected with the rotation ratchet wheel through the first compression spring
Implementation Method 2
The top end of the rotary buckle is connected with the bottom of the release button through the second compression spring
Data Source
AI summary
This invention discloses an automatic locking device for snow anti-skid chains. Wherein the snow anti-skid chain comprises a ratchet wheel lock catch and a anti-skid chain; the anti-skid chain is respectively fixed at the buckle and the outer part of the housing aforesaid, and extends towards three directions. The ratchet wheel lock catch is used to make the anti-skid chain to attach to automobile tires firmly and is controlled by pressing two buttons on its lower side, which is different from existing operational actions of braking off and twisting. The pressing action is simple and available for one hand operation. The overall structure is simple and reliable, conforming to use habits of control actions by users.