Remote Cable Winch Coupling for Steep Terrain
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Manual attachment of cable winch cables to anchorage points on steep terrain is hazardous and physically demanding, as it requires drivers to exit their vehicles, exposing them to challenging conditions like steepness and icy surfaces.
Innovation Solution
A remote-controlled coupling and decoupling system for the cable winch arrangement allows the cable to be automatically connected to external anchorage points from within the vehicle, using a winch arm with hydraulic operation and 360° rotation, along with a magnet or hook-shaped device for secure attachment, enabling control from the driver's cab.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If manual attachment of cable to anchorage point is performed, then coupling device can be securely attached, but driver must exit vehicle exposing them to hazardous conditions and physical strain
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual mechanical coupling operations with an automated remote-controlled system. The coupling device is equipped with a magnet that automatically attaches to the anchorage point when the winch arm is positioned correctly, eliminating the need for manual handling of the heavy cable and coupling device while exposing the driver to hazardous conditions.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a remote-controlled winch arm system as an intermediary between the driver and the coupling device. This intermediary system allows the driver to control the coupling operation from inside the vehicle, transferring the hazardous manual attachment task to an automated mechanism that can be controlled remotely.
2Ease of operation
If manual attachment of cable to anchorage point is performed, then coupling can be achieved, but high physical demands are placed on driver due to substantial weight of cable and coupling element
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual mechanical coupling operations with an automated remote-controlled system. The coupling device is equipped with a magnet that automatically attaches to the anchorage point when the winch arm is positioned correctly, eliminating the need for manual handling of the heavy cable and coupling device while exposing the driver to hazardous conditions.
Solution Approach 2:
The coupling device is designed to attach itself to the anchorage point automatically through magnetic attraction when positioned correctly by the winch arm. This self-service mechanism eliminates the need for the driver to manually lift and attach the heavy cable and coupling element, significantly reducing physical demands.
3Productivity
If driver gets out of vehicle to attach cable, then manual coupling can be performed, but time is lost and operational efficiency is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling device is pre-positioned on the winch arm, and the winch arm is designed to automatically extend and position the coupling device at the anchorage point through remote control. This preliminary preparation of the coupling system eliminates the time-consuming process of the driver exiting the vehicle, manually handling the cable, and performing the attachment operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces manual mechanical coupling operations with an automated remote-controlled system. The coupling device is equipped with a magnet that automatically attaches to the anchorage point when the winch arm is positioned correctly, eliminating the need for manual handling of the heavy cable and coupling device while exposing the driver to hazardous conditions.
4Adaptability or versatility
If winch arm is made movable with 360° rotation and lateral tilting, then mobility and positioning flexibility are improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The winch arm is designed with dynamic capabilities, including 360° rotation and lateral tilting, allowing it to adapt to various terrain conditions and anchorage point positions. This dynamic design enables the winch arm to reach and position the coupling device at different locations and angles, significantly improving positioning flexibility and adaptability.
Solution Approach 2:
The winch arm's movable components are actuated by hydraulic or pneumatic systems that provide the necessary force and control for 360° rotation and lateral tilting. These fluid-power systems enable smooth, controlled movement of the winch arm while managing the complexity through standardized hydraulic components and control mechanisms.
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
Facilitates safer and faster cable attachment, reducing physical strain on drivers and improving operational efficiency by allowing remote operation of the winch arm and coupling device, even at distant anchorage points, thus enhancing mobility and reducing manual intervention.
Implementation Method 1
the coupling device has at least one magnet by means of which the coupling device can be coupled to the external anchorage point. In principle, however, there are several possibilities for realization of the coupling device. A provision may advantageously be made whereby the at least one magnet is an electromagnet which can be activated through the means for remote-controlled coupling and/or decoupling.
Implementation Method 2
The locking means may be realized with a hydraulically operated locking bolt, which cooperates with a corresponding device on the external anchorage point.
Data Source
AI summary
A cable winch arrangement for a vehicle (1), particularly for a piste preparation vehicle (1), includes a cable winch (2) and a cable (3), and includes a coupling device (4), disposed on the cable (3), for coupling to and decoupling from an external anchorage point (5), with the arrangement having a means for remote-controlled coupling and/or decoupling of the coupling device (4).