Retainer Apparatus With Self-Service Hook For Load Handling
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing load-bearing hook systems face challenges in efficiently and safely raising, lowering, and releasing large loads, such as game animals or meat carcasses, as they often require manual intervention and rely on gravity, making the process cumbersome and labor-intensive.
Innovation Solution
A retainer apparatus featuring a beam with an open-ended hook and a flexible finger extension that automatically retains loads via a bias mechanism, allowing for easy engagement and release by pivoting the hook, enabling manual intervention to open the hook and release the load.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a traditional load-bearing hook system is used, then the load can be suspended, but manual intervention is required for engagement and release making the process labor-intensive
Solution Approach 1:
The hook system automatically engages with the load through its own weight and gravitational force, eliminating the need for manual intervention. The retainer member self-activates when the load is placed on the hook, and self-releases when the hook is rotated to the release position, making the system serve itself without human operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The hook system transitions from a static structure to a dynamic one where the retainer member can move between engaged and disengaged positions. The rotatable connection between the hook and beam allows the system to change its configuration dynamically, enabling automatic engagement and release mechanisms to function.
2Extent of automation
If a simple hook structure is used, then the device is easy to manufacture, but it lacks automatic retention capability requiring continuous manual control
Solution Approach 1:
The retainer member automatically engages with the load-bearing surface of the hook through gravitational force when the load is placed, and automatically releases when the hook is rotated. This self-service mechanism eliminates the need for continuous manual control while providing automatic retention capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses the weight of the load itself to activate the retention mechanism. When the load is placed on the hook, its weight causes the retainer member to move into the engaged position, using the load's own weight as the activating force for automatic retention.
3Productivity
If manual intervention is required for release, then the structure can be simple, but the process becomes cumbersome and labor-intensive
Solution Approach 1:
The hook system performs the release action automatically when rotated to the release position, eliminating the need for additional manual intervention. The system uses its own mechanical configuration to self-release the load, improving productivity by reducing the steps and effort required for the release operation.
4Ease of operation
If the hook is designed for easy rotation, then release is simplified, but the retention stability during suspension may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses dynamic positioning where the hook has two stable rotational positions: one for secure retention and one for release. The retainer member is positioned to engage with the load-bearing surface in the suspension position, providing stable retention, while the rotatable connection allows easy transition to the release position when needed.
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 apparatus provides a stable and efficient means to hold and release loads, reducing manual effort and improving safety by allowing automatic retention and manual release, facilitating easier handling of large or heavy items.
Implementation Method 1
a flexible finger extension constructed of an elongated element that is bent to form an open ended perimeter
Implementation Method 2
the eyelet facilitates a first pivotal movement about a first pivotal axis that is perpendicular to the longitudinal axis
Data Source
AI summary
A retainer apparatus for removably engaging a first article to a second article, the apparatus including a beam with a first end having an eyelet plus an open ended hook and a second end having a cavity. Operationally, the eyelet is pivotally attached the first article, thus the open ended hook is solely removably engagable with the second article. Also, a flexible finger extension constructed of an elongated element to form an open ended perimeter that closes the hook, wherein the elongated element terminates in a primary end portion pivotally connected to the first end, going to a perimeter section, and terminates in an opposing secondary end that is pivotally connected to the first end. Wherein operationally, the finger is urged to close the hook retaining the second article and the finger can be manually opened to release the second article with the cavity moved away from the second article.