Ratchet Ring Deflection for Anti-Skid Chain Locking
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing deflection devices for anti-skid chains, such as snow chains, are complex and demand high precision, with complicated operation and inadequate blocking security, particularly when used for truck tire chains, and lack a simple mechanism to release the chain when necessary.
Innovation Solution
A deflection device featuring a rotationally fixed ratchet ring with projections engaging a sprocket to inhibit movement in one direction, combined with an unlocking element that allows movement in both directions by deflecting the ratchet ring and utilizing elastic deformation for automatic return to the locked position, and a chain guide to prevent chain fallout.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a double ratchet wheel with three positions is used to block movement in both directions, then blocking security is improved, but device complexity increases and operation becomes complicated
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts and eliminates the complex double ratchet wheel mechanism with three positions. Instead, it uses a simple single-direction ratchet (KLR) that only blocks movement in one direction, while allowing free movement in the other direction. This extraction of the unnecessary complexity resolves the contradiction by maintaining adequate blocking security through the simplified single-direction mechanism.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent inverts the conventional approach by not trying to block both directions with a complex mechanism. Instead, it blocks only one direction with a simple ratchet and allows the other direction to move freely. This inversion simplifies the device while maintaining the essential blocking function needed for chain tensioning.
2Reliability
If a double ratchet wheel with three positions is used to block movement in both directions, then blocking security is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent removes the complicated three-position double ratchet mechanism and replaces it with a simple single-direction ratchet. This extraction eliminates the need for users to understand and operate multiple positions, dramatically improving ease of operation while maintaining the necessary blocking security through the simpler mechanism.
3Ease of operation
If mechanical components are exposed for easy access, then ease of operation is improved, but reliability deteriorates due to inadequate protection
Solution Approach 1:
The patent nests the ratchet mechanism (KLR, ZKR) inside the sprocket structure. The ratchet ring is positioned within the sprocket's internal space, and the chain wheel pockets enclose the mechanical components. This nesting provides mechanical protection and prevents contamination while maintaining reliable blocking function, as the components remain accessible but protected within the nested structure.
4Volume of moving object
If the device is made compact by reducing space, then volume is reduced, but reliability deteriorates due to inadequate mechanical protection
Solution Approach 1:
The patent achieves compactness by nesting the ratchet mechanism within the sprocket's internal space. The ratchet ring fits inside the sprocket structure, and the chain wheel pockets provide enclosure. This nested arrangement reduces the overall device volume while simultaneously providing mechanical protection, resolving the contradiction between compactness and reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent utilizes the internal dimensional space of the sprocket structure to house the ratchet mechanism. By arranging components in the radial and axial dimensions within the existing sprocket volume, rather than extending outward, the design achieves compactness without sacrificing protection or reliability.
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
This solution provides improved blocking security, robustness, and compactness with simplified operation, enabling secure one-directional locking and easy unlocking of the chain, while preventing chain removal issues due to enhanced mechanical protection and design.
Implementation Method 1
a ratchet ring (KLR) arranged in a rotationally fixed manner in the housing (GHS); the ratchet ring (KLR) is formed with a number of projections (KLN) which engage from the inside in a ring gear (ZKR) and inhibit movement of the sprocket (KTR) in the opposite direction
Implementation Method 2
The deflection of the ratchet ring can favorably be accompanied by an elastic deformation of the annular body of the ratchet ring, which results in an automatic return to the locked position
Data Source
Figure 1~4
Figure 5~8
AI summary
The device has a chain wheel (KTR) supported in a housing, and a chain inserted in the chain wheel, where the movement of the chain wheel is possible in one direction. A latch ring (KLR) is arranged in the housing in a torque-proof manner, where the latch ring has a set of projections (KLN). The geared rim (ZKR) is provided in a side of the chain wheel, where the geared rim blocks the movement of the chain wheel in an opposite direction.