Two-Handle Ratchet Load Binder with Segmented Mechanism
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing load binders with ratchet mechanisms are difficult to operate manually, suffer from increased wear, and lack efficiency in tightening or releasing loads due to high peak forces and torque requirements.
Innovation Solution
A load binder design featuring two handles and separate ratchet wheels, with screw threads of lower pitch and strategically positioned handles to distribute force evenly, reducing peak forces and torque, and allowing for simultaneous operation to enhance efficiency and durability.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a single handle and ratchet mechanism is used, then the device structure is simpler, but the peak forces during operation are high and manual operation is difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The single handle and ratchet mechanism is segmented into two separate handles, each with its own ratchet wheel. This allows the operator to distribute force across two hands and two operations per cycle, reducing peak forces and improving manual operability while maintaining structural integrity through modular design
2Productivity
If a single handle is used, then the device is more compact, but the operational speed is reduced due to one operation per cycle
Solution Approach 1:
The single cyclic operation is segmented into two parallel operations by providing two handles that can be alternately operated. This doubles the operational throughput per unit time while keeping each individual operation simple and compact, achieving productivity improvement without excessive complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The two-handle design enables continuous alternating operation where one handle can be operated while the other is in use, eliminating idle time and maintaining continuous useful action. This doubles the effective operational speed compared to single-handle devices that must complete one full cycle before repeating
3Speed
If high pitch screw threads are used, then the tightening distance per operation is greater, but the peak force and torque requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The screw thread pitch parameter is reduced (lower pitch threads) to decrease the mechanical advantage ratio. This reduces the peak force and torque required per operation while the two-handle alternating operation compensates by providing two tightening actions per cycle, maintaining overall tightening speed without excessive force requirements
4Reliability
If a rigid tie down locking mechanism is used, then the locking is secure, but the mechanism is difficult to operate and suffers increased wear
Solution Approach 1:
The complex rigid tie down locking mechanism is extracted and replaced with a simpler ratchet wheel and pawl system. The ratchet mechanism provides secure locking through its inherent one-way engagement while being much easier to operate manually, reducing both operational difficulty and wear on the locking components
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 design reduces operator effort and wear on the load binder, increases operational speed, and allows for a lighter, more compact and easier-to-use device with reduced risk of damage, while maintaining overall speed and efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
said rotation of said member is effected by a ratchet mechanism which involves the provision of said first ratchet wheel which is suitably secured intermediate the ends of the member and is rotatably mounted between mutually spaced first side members which project from said first handle
Implementation Method 2
said member comprising end portions comprising inner screw threads in relatively opposite directions so as to accommodate said shanks which are correspondingly screw-threaded
Data Source
AI summary
The current invention relates to a load binder comprising an axially extending elongate, preferably tubular, member, two shanks, a first and second ratchet wheel, a first and second oscillatory handle; said member comprising end portions comprising inner screw threads in relatively opposite directions so as to accommodate said shanks which are correspondingly screw-threaded and which comprise distal ends, preferably eyes; whereby rotation of the member in one direction causes the distal ends to draw together and rotation of the member in relatively opposite direction causes the distal ends to spread apart; whereby said rotation of said member is effected by a ratchet mechanism which involves the provision of said first and said second ratchet wheel which are suitably secured intermediate the ends of the member and are rotatably mounted between mutually spaced first side members which project from said first and second handle.