Universal Winder With Self-Actuating Clutch for Interchangeable Spools
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing systems lack a universal and efficient method for winding various long, slender, and flexible items around different-sized spools, as they often require specific tools and are not adaptable for easy handling and storage.
Innovation Solution
A hand-held, manually operated universal winder with a handle, enclosure, and coil spring mechanism that allows for easy winding and unwinding of items around interchangeable spools of different sizes, using a trigger to control spindle rotation and prevent unwinding, and incorporating various clutch mechanisms for secure engagement.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If existing winding systems are used for different-sized spools, then specific tools are required for each spool size, but this increases device complexity and reduces adaptability
Solution Approach 1:
The winder is designed with a universal spindle and clutch mechanism that can accommodate spools of various sizes through interchangeable spool assemblies. The clutch mechanism automatically adapts to different spool diameters, allowing a single winder device to wind items on spools ranging from small to large sizes without requiring multiple specialized tools.
Solution Approach 2:
The winder system is divided into separable components including the main winder body, interchangeable spool assemblies, and modular clutch mechanisms. This segmentation allows the spool component to be changed based on the required size while keeping the core winder mechanism unchanged, reducing overall device complexity while maintaining adaptability.
2Reliability
If manual winding without clutch mechanism is used, then the device structure is simpler, but the item may unwind insecurely and reliability is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The clutch mechanism is designed to automatically engage and disengage based on the rotation direction of the spindle. When the user pulls the cord to rotate the spindle in the winding direction, the clutch automatically engages to secure the winding. When rotation reverses, the clutch automatically disengages to allow unwinding. This self-actuating mechanism provides reliable security without requiring complex control systems.
3Productivity
If quick winding is achieved through optimized mechanism, then productivity increases, but ease of operation may be reduced due to complex controls
Solution Approach 1:
The clutch mechanism automatically responds to the direction of spindle rotation without requiring user intervention. When the user pulls the cord, the clutch self-activates to engage the braking mechanism, providing quick and secure winding. The system self-regulates based on the mechanical energy from the user's pulling action, maintaining ease of operation while achieving high productivity.
Solution Approach 2:
The winding process utilizes periodic pulling and releasing of the cord, where each pull cycle automatically engages the clutch for winding and disengages for unwinding. This periodic mechanical action creates a rhythm that is easy to operate while achieving rapid winding through the cumulative effect of multiple quick cycles.
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
Enables quick and efficient winding and unwinding of flexible items across multiple spool sizes, ensuring secure storage and versatility in handling diverse elongated objects.
Implementation Method 1
The enclosure 120 may also house a coil spring 145, as illustrated in greater detail below. The cord 130 may include a pull handle 135, which may be pulled by a user to unwind the cord 130 against spring pressure caused by unwinding the coil spring 145. Unwinding the cord in this manner may spin the spindle 140.
Implementation Method 2
The winder 100 may also include a trigger 150. As described in greater detail below, actuating the trigger 150 may cause friction to slow or stop the rotation of spindle 140.
Data Source
AI summary
A winder may include a body, a spindle, and a manually actuated winding mechanism. The spindle may be coupled to the body and constructed and arranged to be rotatable with respect to the body and to be removably coupled to at least one spool. The manually actuated winding mechanism may be coupled to the spindle and constructed and arranged to rotate the spindle and the at least one spool.