Target Carrier Cable Tensioning and Suspension Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing target carrier systems for shooting ranges face challenges in providing a simple, reliable, and robust means for adjusting cable tension while ensuring smooth movement and easy maintenance, as loose cables lead to jerky motion, tangling, and strain on components, and current solutions are complex and require frequent lubrication.
Innovation Solution
A track-mounted target carrier system equipped with a tension bracket assembly featuring a winding shaft connected to a ratchet, a suspension mechanism, and a cable end clamp with friction slots, allowing for quick adjustment of cable tension and suspension, with visible tension markers and a safety bolt for secure operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If cable tension is increased to prevent jerky motion and tangling, then target carrier movement smoothness is improved, but strain on motors and components increases
Solution Approach 1:
The cable tensioning system employs a dynamic adjustment mechanism that allows the cable tension to be optimized for different operating conditions. The system can adaptively adjust tension levels based on the specific operational requirements, target weight, and speed, thereby maintaining smooth movement while minimizing unnecessary strain on motors and components during different phases of operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The system enables modification of cable tension parameters through adjustable tensioning devices and selection of appropriate cable specifications. By changing physical parameters such as cable diameter, material properties, and tensioning force, the system achieves optimal balance between movement smoothness and component strain for different shooting range applications.
2Ease of operation
If cable tension is decreased to reduce strain on components, then ease of operation is improved, but target carrier movement becomes jerky and uncontrollable
Solution Approach 1:
The system incorporates preliminary tensioning adjustments during installation and setup phases, allowing the cable to be pre-tensioned to optimal levels before operation. This preliminary action ensures that the cable is properly tensioned to prevent jerky motion and maintain control, while the adjustment mechanisms remain accessible for future modifications if needed.
Solution Approach 2:
The cable tensioning system includes self-adjusting features such as automatic tension maintenance devices and self-lubricating components that reduce the need for frequent manual intervention. The system maintains proper tension automatically during operation, reducing the burden on operators while ensuring reliable movement control.
3Manufacturing precision
If complex cable tensioning mechanisms are used to maintain proper tension, then target carrier movement precision is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system extracts and separates the cable tensioning function into independent, modular components such as dedicated tensioning devices, adjustment mechanisms, and monitoring systems. This extraction allows each component to be optimized for its specific function while simplifying the overall system architecture, making the tensioning mechanism easier to understand, maintain, and adjust for precise target carrier movement.
Solution Approach 2:
The cable tensioning system is divided into segmented functional modules including tension generation devices, adjustment mechanisms, and maintenance components. This segmentation allows for simplified design of individual modules while achieving precise overall control, reducing device complexity through modular architecture that is easier to manufacture and service.
4Ease of repair
If target carrier is removed from cable for cable adjustment, then cable tension adjustment is possible, but servicing time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system incorporates pre-positioned access points, quick-release mechanisms, and pre-assembled cable tensioning modules that allow maintenance personnel to adjust cable tension without completely removing the target carrier from the cable. These preliminary design features enable rapid adjustment during scheduled maintenance windows, minimizing disruption to range operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The system employs quick-adjust mechanisms and skip-step adjustment procedures that allow cable tension to be modified in place during brief maintenance intervals. The design enables critical tension adjustments to be completed rapidly without full disassembly, allowing servicing to be performed during shorter downtime periods while maintaining cable adjustment capability.
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 system enables precise and easy adjustment of cable tension, reducing maintenance complexity and ensuring smooth target movement, while minimizing strain on components and allowing for quick servicing without disturbing the target carrier frame.
Implementation Method 1
a spring suspension mechanism
Implementation Method 2
absorbs and dampens mechanical shocks and vibrations
Implementation Method 3
a ratchet and pawl mechanism
Implementation Method 4
converts rotational motion into linear cable tension
Implementation Method 5
a cable end clamp with friction slots
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention relates to equipment for target ranges, and more specifically, to moveable track-mounted target carriers having means for adjusting suspension or cushioning. The present disclosure also relates to target carriers with cable tension adjusting means which can be accessed without disturbing or disassembling the target carrier.