Step Release Tension Assembly Incremental Load Control

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing tension assemblies for securing cargo lack a safe and efficient method for incremental release of tension, leading to potential hazards when loads shift or fall during tension release.

Innovation Solution

A tension assembly with a step release track that allows incremental release of load tension by moving a handle assembly along a cam lobe's step release track, transferring tension between upper and lower pawls to control the release of tension incrementally.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If tension is released all at once using conventional tension assemblies, then the release process is simple and quick, but the load may shift or fall creating safety hazards

Engineering Contradiction:
Improverelease operationVSAvoidsafety hazard from load shift
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The release operation is segmented into discrete steps through the step release track with multiple positions. The handle assembly can be moved to different positions (first position, second position, etc.) along the track, allowing tension to be released incrementally rather than all at once. Each position corresponds to a specific level of tension release, enabling controlled step-by-step operation that maintains safety while preserving ease of use.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

2Reliability

If incremental release mechanism is added to tension assembly, then safety and control are improved, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecontrolled tension releaseVSAvoidassembly structure
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The incremental release functionality is merged into the existing handle assembly and cam lobe structure. The step release track is integrated with the cam lobe, and the handle assembly serves dual purposes: for applying tension and for controlling the incremental release. This merging approach allows the patent to add controlled tension release capability without significantly increasing overall device complexity, as the new features are combined with existing components rather than adding entirely separate mechanisms.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

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 a safer, efficient, and versatile incremental release of tension, preventing uncontrolled load shifts and enhancing safety by allowing controlled release of tension one tooth at a time, thereby reducing the risk of accidents and damage.

Implementation Method 1

A tension assembly with a step release track that allows incremental release of load tension by moving a handle assembly along a cam lobe's step release track, transferring tension between upper and lower pawls to control the release of tension incrementally

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectMechanical Advantage: Mechanical Advantage

Data Source

PatentUS9771014B2Step release tension assembly
Publication Date: 2017.09.26 BROWN RAYMOND
  • US9771014B2 patent drawing
  • US9771014B2 patent drawing
  • US9771014B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A tension assembly comprising a step release track for an incremental release of a load tension, is disclosed herein.