Retracting Load Pin Assembly for Integrated Rigging Plate Connections
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing securement devices for rigging systems lack efficient mechanisms for connecting and disconnecting system components without the need for separate connectors, leading to complexity and increased weight.
Innovation Solution
A securement device with retracting pins, featuring a load pin and track pin system within a yoke configuration, biased by a spring for secure locking and easy retraction, allowing for direct integration of connector functions into the rigging plate, reducing the need for external connectors and enabling more complex arrangements.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If separate connectors are used for connecting system components, then connection reliability is improved, but device complexity and weight increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the connector functions directly into the rigging plate by integrating load pins and track pins with locking assemblies into the plate structure itself, eliminating the need for separate external connectors while maintaining connection reliability
Solution Approach 2:
The rigging plate is designed with multiple load pins and track pins that can accept various system components, making the plate itself a multi-functional device that serves both as structural support and connection mechanism, reducing overall system complexity
2Strength
If separate connectors are used for connecting system components, then connection strength is improved, but weight increases
Solution Approach 1:
By merging the connector functions into the rigging plate structure, the patent eliminates redundant components and their associated weights, achieving connection strength through the integrated pin and locking assembly design without the added weight of separate connectors
3Reliability
If load pins are secured with locking assemblies, then connection reliability is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The locking assembly incorporates a movable lock pin that can transition between locked and unlocked positions, allowing the connection to be secure during operation but easily released when needed, balancing reliability with operational ease
Solution Approach 2:
The biasing member automatically maintains the lock pin in the locked position and enables easy release through the track slot mechanism, reducing the effort required for operation while ensuring reliable locking during service
4Reliability
If biasing members are used to maintain locked position, then connection reliability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The biasing member creates a self-acting locking mechanism that automatically maintains the lock pin in the locked position without requiring external actuators or complex control systems, achieving reliability through simple passive mechanical means
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
Simplifies system connections, reduces weight, and allows for more intricate arrangements by integrating connector functions into the rigging plate, enhancing operational efficiency and safety.
Implementation Method 1
a biasing member configured to bias the load pin in a locked position
Implementation Method 2
a biasing member configured to bias the load pin in a locked position
Data Source
AI summary
A securement device is disclosed to aid in the movement or suspension of equipment or people through the air or along inclined surfaces using rope, cable, wire, or similar component and associated lifting, winching, lowering devices, mechanical advantage systems or manual power by retaining a system component between a yoke and a load pin using a load pin assembly. The load pin is biased into a locked position through the use of a biasing member but may be moved from a locked position to a retracted position by journaling a lock pin through a lock slot. Some embodiments restrict movement of the load pin using a track pin and a track slot, while other embodiments use the interaction of a lock ring and a keyed recess formed in the yoke. The securement device may be incorporated as part of a rigging plate.