Single-Pull Latch Pin Release with Sequential Cable Retraction
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing cable pull mechanisms require multiple hand actions to perform sequential or simultaneous mechanical lock-in or release actions, leading to inefficiencies and potential cable malfunctions due to twisting, which can cause binding and damage.
Innovation Solution
A cable pull apparatus with a control handle that decouples rotational motion from control cables, allowing a single pull to effect sequential or simultaneous releases at multiple points through adjustable latch pin assemblies and cable guides, preventing cable twisting and enabling differential retraction distances.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If multiple hand actions are used to perform sequential or simultaneous mechanical lock-in or release actions, then each action can be performed independently and reliably, but worker productivity decreases and worker fatigue increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple cable pull actions into a single integrated mechanism. The control handle is connected to multiple cables through a common mounting structure, allowing one hand to simultaneously or sequentially actuate multiple locking or releasing actions that previously required separate hand operations. This merging of actions directly increases productivity while maintaining operational simplicity.
Solution Approach 2:
The control handle assembly serves multiple functions: it can actuate different cables at different times (sequential operation) or simultaneously, and can be adjusted to control different numbers of cables. This multi-functional design allows a single component to replace multiple separate control mechanisms, improving productivity without complicating the operation.
2Productivity
If a single control handle is used to actuate multiple cables, then worker productivity increases and one-handed operation is enabled, but cable twisting and binding may occur
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the cable routing paths by providing separate guide structures for each cable. The control handle mounting structure includes individual cable guides or channels that keep each cable's path distinct and prevent them from crossing or twisting around each other. This segmentation maintains cable reliability while enabling multi-cable control from a single handle.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces cable guide structures as intermediary elements between the control handle and the cables. These guides mediate the cable routing to ensure proper alignment and prevent twisting. The guides act as intermediaries that maintain cable integrity while transmitting the actuating force from the single control handle to multiple cables.
3Ease of operation
If control cables are twisted during handle rotation, then the mechanism can be actuated, but cable damage and binding occur
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the rotational motion from the cable actuation mechanism. Instead of rotating the control handle to actuate cables, the handle performs a linear pulling motion. The rotational degree of freedom is removed or decoupled from the cable routing, eliminating the harmful twisting effect while maintaining ease of operation through simple pull actions.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent inverts the traditional rotary control mechanism into a linear pull mechanism. Rather than rotating a handle to wind or unwind cables (which causes twisting), the handle is pulled in a straight line to directly tension and actuate the cables. This inversion eliminates the harmful twisting effect while achieving the same actuation purpose.
Data Source
AI summary
A cable release comprises a control handle, at least one retractable latch pin, and cables connected from the handle to the latch pins. The handle assembly includes a cup with a non-round orifice at one end. A rod within the cup passes through the handle allowing it to spin, so twisting the handle does not cross up its attached control lines. The latch pin assembly includes another cup and a set screw so that a stop tube may be inserted adjustably to establish a gap length between the stop tube and the retractable latch pin in the cup. A spring between the stop tube and a flange of the pin extends the pin when not pulled into a retracted position by the handle. Varying pin lengths and stop tube gaps allows a single pull of the handle to effect simultaneous or sequential releases of articles retained by the pins.