Self-Locking Actuator for Automatic Sail Leech Line Tensioning
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Solution Overview
Problem
Manual trimming of the leech line on sails, especially on larger sailing yachts, is difficult and dangerous, leading to inconsistent tension and potential damage due to the need for manual adjustment and the risk of the leech line coming loose during maneuvers.
Innovation Solution
A device with a self-locking actuator powered by an electric motor, connected to a power supply, which automatically tensions or relaxes the leech line, eliminating the need for manual intervention and ensuring consistent tension without the use of clamps.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If manual trimming of the leech line is used, then the device complexity is low, but the ease of operation deteriorates due to difficulty in reaching the leech line end on larger yachts
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the manual mechanical trimming system with an automated electric motor-driven actuator system. The electric motor (22) drives a gear mechanism (26) that in turn operates the tensioning device (14), eliminating the need for manual intervention to reach and adjust the leech line end on larger yachts.
Solution Approach 2:
The system enables self-service trimming where the automated actuator performs the trimming operation without requiring the sailor to manually reach for the leech line end. The self-locking gear mechanism (26) maintains the set tension automatically, allowing the system to service itself without continuous manual adjustment.
2Reliability
If manual trimming is used, then the device complexity is low, but the reliability deteriorates due to risk of leech line becoming detached during maneuvers
Solution Approach 1:
The self-locking gear mechanism (26) creates a mechanical copy of the locked position that maintains the tension setting even when the electric motor stops. The gear's self-locking property ensures that the tensioning device (14) remains in its set position, preventing the leech line from becoming detached during maneuvers.
Solution Approach 2:
The self-locking gear mechanism (26) provides beforehand cushioning by automatically maintaining the tension setting before any potential detachment can occur. The gear's locking mechanism prevents unintended movement of the tensioning device (14), cushioning against the risk of the leech line becoming detached during sailing maneuvers.
3Productivity
If manual trimming is used, then the device complexity is low, but the productivity deteriorates due to need for frequent re-trimming after sail position changes
Solution Approach 1:
The automated actuator system (22, 26, 14) enables continuous monitoring and adjustment of the leech line tension. The system can automatically re-trim the leech line after sail position changes without interrupting the sailing operation, maintaining continuous useful action compared to manual trimming which requires stopping and manual intervention.
Solution Approach 2:
The system incorporates feedback mechanisms that monitor the leech line tension and automatically adjust the actuator (22) to maintain optimal tension settings. This feedback loop allows the system to automatically respond to sail position changes and maintain productivity without requiring manual re-trimming operations.
4Ease of operation
If a clamp is used to secure the leech line, then the ease of operation is improved, but the device complexity increases due to additional securing components
Solution Approach 1:
The self-locking gear mechanism (26) creates a mechanical copy of the locked position that maintains the tension setting without requiring additional clamps or securing components. The gear's self-locking property inherently provides the securing function, eliminating the need for separate clamps while maintaining ease of operation.
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
Enables safe and efficient automatic trimming of the leech line, maintaining optimal tension and preventing damage from excessive or insufficient tension, while allowing for remote control and sensor-aided adjustments for precise trimming.
Implementation Method 1
The actuator has an electric motor which is connected or connectable to a power supply source
Implementation Method 2
The actuator of the device according to the invention is self-locking, so that the currently set tension of the leech line is maintained when the electric motor is not running
Data Source
Figure 1
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AI summary
A device for trimming a leech line (114) of a sail (100) comprises a tensioning device (14) to which the leech line (114) can be connected, and an actuator (16) for moving the tensioning device (14) in a first direction to tension the leech line (114) and in a second direction opposite to the first direction to release the leech line (114). The actuator (16) comprises an electric motor (22) which is connected or connectable to a power supply source (24). The actuator (16) is self-locking.