Synthetic Tensile Member Preconditioning for Precise Stable Length
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Solution Overview
Problem
Producing synthetic tensile members with consistent and predictable overall length is challenging due to varying mechanical properties of synthetic filaments, accumulation of manufacturing tolerances, and unpredictable length changes during the bedding process, especially with friction-based termination methods, leading to uneven load distribution in complex applications.
Innovation Solution
A method involving attaching terminations to synthetic filaments, subjecting them to a predefined loading process to stabilize length, measuring, and adding a length-adjustment component to achieve a precise and stable length, applicable across various synthetic filament-based tensile members and termination methods without the need for field adjustment devices.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If synthetic filaments are used to create tensile members, then strength-to-weight ratio is improved, but manufacturing precision of length deteriorates due to varying mechanical properties and accumulation of tolerances
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by pre-conditioning the synthetic tensile member through a controlled loading process before final assembly. This involves subjecting the member to a predefined loading sequence that stabilizes the filaments and terminations, establishing a predictable baseline length before any field adjustments are needed
Solution Approach 2:
The patent utilizes parameter changes by systematically varying the loading parameters (magnitude, duration, sequence) during the conditioning process. This transforms the mechanical properties of the synthetic filaments and terminations, stabilizing them at known states that enable precise length control
2Ease of manufacture
If traditional friction-based termination methods are used, then ease of manufacture is improved, but stability of length deteriorates due to unpredictable length changes during bedding
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by performing a controlled bedding process during manufacturing where the termination is gradually loaded and settled into its final position. This preliminary settling eliminates unpredictable length changes that would occur during field use, stabilizing the termination before the product leaves the factory
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements feedback by measuring the length of the tensile member at various stages of the conditioning process and using this information to adjust subsequent loading parameters. This closed-loop approach ensures the termination settles predictably while maintaining ease of manufacture
3Manufacturing precision
If field adjustment devices are added to correct length variations, then manufacturing precision is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the length adjustment function from separate field-adjustment devices and integrates it into the manufacturing process itself. By establishing precise length control during production through controlled conditioning, the need for complex field adjustment mechanisms is eliminated entirely
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies self-service by designing the tensile member to self-stabilize at a precise length through the controlled loading process. The member conditions itself during manufacturing without requiring external adjustment devices or field intervention, achieving precision through its own response to predefined loading
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
Ensures the creation of synthetic tensile members with precise and stable lengths, addressing the issues of length consistency and stability, enabling reliable performance in applications like crane booms and bridge stays without the need for cumbersome length-adjusting mechanisms.
Implementation Method 1
The tensile member is then attached to a loading apparatus that subjects the tensile member to a pre-defined loading process. The tensile member is thereby conditioned to a stable length.
Implementation Method 2
Producing synthetic tensile members with consistent and predictable overall length is challenging due to varying mechanical properties of synthetic filaments, accumulation of manufacturing tolerances, and unpredictable length changes during the bedding process
Data Source
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AI summary
A method for producing a synthetic tensile member having a precisely known and stable length. The invention also comprises equipment configured to carry out the method. A tensile member is prepared by attaching terminations to an assembly of synthetic filaments. The tensile member is then attached to a loading apparatus that subjects the tensile member to a pre-defined loading process. The tensile member is thereby conditioned to a stable length. The length is then measured and a length adjusting component is incorporated into the tensile member to create a precise and stabilized length that is configured for the tensile member's particular application.