Lightweight Titanium Rigging Hardware for Synthetic Lines
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing rigging hardware for sailing vessels is heavy and inefficient, particularly when using stainless steel cables and turnbuckles, which do not allow for easy adjustment of synthetic lines that may stretch, leading to weight and strength issues.
Innovation Solution
Development of lightweight titanium or aluminum hardware optimized for synthetic lines, featuring a terminator and distributor design with large radius slots to prevent kinking, and a cam system for easy tightening and loosening, allowing for secure attachment and adjustment of lines without the need for heavy turnbuckles.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If traditional stainless steel hardware and turnbuckles are used, then strength and durability are improved, but weight increases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the material parameter from stainless steel to titanium or aluminum alloys, maintaining strength while reducing weight. The hardware is designed with optimized thickness and structural parameters to achieve the required strength-to-weight ratio
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses composite construction combining titanium or aluminum hardware with synthetic line materials, creating a lightweight yet strong rigging system that outperforms traditional all-steel configurations
2Ease of operation
If fixed-end lines are used with heavy turnbuckles for adjustment, then line tension adjustment is possible, but device complexity and weight increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the adjustment function into separate components: the hardware body with slots for positioning, and the lashing line for tensioning. This segmentation eliminates the need for a complex integrated turnbuckle mechanism while maintaining adjustment capability
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a lashing line as an intermediary element to transfer and adjust tension. The lashing line acts as a mediator between the hardware components, allowing simple adjustment without complex mechanical devices
3Ease of manufacture
If small radius slots are used in hardware, then manufacturing is easier, but line kinking and wear increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent specifies that slots in the hardware must have a radius of curvature of at least 0.5 inches, preferably 0.75 inches or more. This curvature requirement prevents sharp bends in the line, eliminating kinking and wear while remaining manufacturable
4Strength
If stainless steel cable and hardware are used, then strength is maintained, but weight and cost increase compared to synthetic lines
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the material parameter from metallic (stainless steel) to synthetic polymer materials. Synthetic lines provide equivalent or superior strength-to-weight ratio, UV resistance, and corrosion resistance while being significantly lighter than steel cable
Data Source
AI summary
Various connectors are shown and disclosed for attaching rope, cable or synthetic lines to fixed surfaces. Lashing line is used between the connector on the line and the connector attached to the fixed surface. Alternative embodiments are shown that use a cleat or a cam for securing the lashing line for adjusting the overall line length. The lines and connectors can be used for rigging in sailing vessels and for any other application requiring strong lines, connectors and light weight.