Universal Level Wind System for Winch Assemblies
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing winch level wind systems are complex, apply uneven forces, and struggle with direct load measurement, leading to potential damage and inefficiency, especially in marine environments where moment arms and multiple supports complicate the operation.
Innovation Solution
A compact, single-support level wind system with a hollow support, leadscrew, guide, and motor configuration that reduces complexity and moment arms, enabling direct tension member metering and load sensing through a shuttle and load sensor mechanism.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Stability of the object's composition
If multiple supports and offset structures are used in level wind systems, then the structural stability is improved, but the device complexity and moment arm forces increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple support functions into a single integrated support structure. The single support member integrates the functions of multiple offset supports into one unified component that directly bears the load from the sheave, eliminating the need for separate offset support structures and reducing overall system complexity while maintaining structural stability
Solution Approach 2:
The single support structure is designed to perform multiple functions simultaneously: it supports the sheave, accommodates the leadscrew mechanism, provides a mounting structure for load sensors, and serves as the primary load-bearing element. This multi-functional design replaces the need for multiple specialized components
2Force
If multiple support structures with offset configurations are used, then the load distribution is improved, but the moment arm forces and structural complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts and eliminates the offset configuration from the support structure, placing the support directly beneath the sheave's center of gravity. This removes the moment arm that caused additional structural complexity while maintaining proper load distribution through direct vertical loading
3Ease of operation
If traditional level wind systems are used, then the line wrapping function is achieved, but the system complexity and maintenance requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the level wind system into distinct functional modules: a single support structure, a sheave assembly, a leadscrew mechanism, and a motor assembly. This modular segmentation allows for easier operation, maintenance, and replacement of individual components without affecting the entire system
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 simplifies the winch operation by reducing the number of supports, minimizing moment arms, and providing accurate load measurement, thereby enhancing the reliability and safety of the winching process.
Implementation Method 1
A level wind system for applying a tension member onto a winch includes a support, a leadscrew, a guide, a motor, and a shuttle. The motor being connected to the leadscrew and configured to apply a motive force onto the leadscrew.
Implementation Method 2
The shuttle is designed to transfer the motive force from the leadscrew onto the guide
Data Source
AI summary
A small-footprint level wind system enabling a winch to accept and operate tension members of differing sizes, simplifying the system, and reducing the system weight. Comprising an elongate support, a leadscrew, a guide substantially supported by the support, the guide adapted to accept a tension member. The guide designed to move along the support and to transfer tension member forces onto the support. Further comprising a motor, adapted to apply a motive onto the leadscrew, a shuttle connected the guide and leadscrew and adapted to transfer the motive force to the guide, moving the guide along the support. In many embodiments more than one component share the same longitudinal axis. Another aspect is providing direct tension member metering and load sensing within the guide. Another embodiment provides a load-bearing leadscrew without an additional support, instead having a direct connection between guide and leadscrew.