Wedge Surface Stop Element Prevents Slipping Under Low Tension
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing slinging elements used for lifting and transporting large, tubular items like wind turbine tower elements and pipeline sections are prone to slipping due to inadequate tensioning of fastening means, leading to sudden and dangerous overloading from lateral forces, as the line of action of lifting forces is misaligned with gravity.
Innovation Solution
Incorporating a wedge surface aligned at an acute angle within the fastening section of the slinging element, which diverts forces to enhance clamping and prevent slipping, combined with a fastening means featuring a wedge-shaped element or adapter piece that supports the clamping element, ensuring secure attachment even under unfavorable loads.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the fastening means is not tightened with sufficient force to simplify assembly, then the assembly process is easier and faster, but the stop element may slip under load causing dangerous overloading
Solution Approach 1:
The wedge surface automatically generates clamping force through the wedging effect when load is applied. The system self-regulates by converting the lifting force into clamping pressure, eliminating the need for pre-tensioning adjustments by the operator while ensuring reliable fastening under load
Solution Approach 2:
The wedge surface changes the force vector parameters by redirecting the lifting force at an acute angle, transforming a portion of the vertical lifting force into horizontal clamping force. This parameter transformation ensures that even with minimal initial tensioning, sufficient clamping pressure is generated under operational load
2Reliability
If the fastening means is tightened with sufficient force to prevent slipping, then the fastening reliability is improved, but the assembly and alignment process becomes more difficult and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The wedge surface automatically generates clamping force through the wedging effect when load is applied. The system self-regulates by converting the lifting force into clamping pressure, eliminating the need for pre-tensioning adjustments by the operator while ensuring reliable fastening under load
Solution Approach 2:
The fastening system transitions from a static pre-tensioned state to a dynamic self-adjusting state under load. The wedge surface activates under operational conditions, automatically increasing clamping force as load is applied, thereby simplifying the assembly process while maintaining reliability
3Power
If the line of action of lifting forces is aligned with gravity for optimal lifting efficiency, then the lifting power is maximized, but the stop element cannot be properly fastened to horizontal surfaces
Solution Approach 1:
The wedge surface is positioned asymmetrically at an acute angle relative to the vertical centerline of the stop element. This asymmetric geometry enables the wedge surface to engage with the flange surface at an angle, allowing the lifting force vector to be decomposed into vertical and horizontal components that simultaneously provide lifting power and clamping force
Solution Approach 2:
The wedge surface introduces a directional component by orienting forces in multiple dimensions. The acute angle of the wedge surface causes the vertical lifting force to generate both vertical support and horizontal clamping components, enabling fastening to horizontal surfaces while maintaining lifting capability
4Reliability
If the wedge surface is positioned at a larger angle to the vertical axis for stronger clamping effect, then the anti-slipping performance is improved, but the lifting power is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The wedge surface angle is optimized to balance force decomposition between vertical and horizontal components. By selecting an appropriate acute angle, the system achieves sufficient clamping force to prevent slipping while maintaining adequate vertical lifting capacity, optimizing the trade-off between reliability and power
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 wedge surface design effectively prevents slipping and ensures secure fastening by aligning forces to maximize clamping pressure, reducing the risk of sudden overloading and providing reliable attachment during lifting and alignment of heavy, elongated items.
Implementation Method 1
a wedge surface aligned in the longitudinal direction of the elongated opening of the fastening section is formed on the fastening section. This wedge surface runs in a plane which intersects the longitudinal axis of the opening at an acute angle
Implementation Method 2
After overcoming the friction prevailing between the stop element and the respective flange, this slipping occurs abruptly in many cases
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3~5
AI summary
The invention relates to a stop element and to a combination for coupling a stop means, such as a shackle, hook or ring, or a lifting means, such as a band, a rope, a chain or a belt, to a product to be transported. The stop element according to the invention makes it possible to minimize the risk of the respective fastening means slipping, even under insufficient tension. Furthermore, the combination according to the invention enables a permanently secure fastening of the stop element even under unfavorable loads. This is achieved in that a wedge surface (14a-17b) aligned in the longitudinal direction (L3, L4) of the opening (7, 8) of the fastening section (3, 4) is formed on the fastening section (3, 4) that runs in a plane (E1-E4) that intersects the longitudinal axis (L3, L4) of the opening (7, 8) under an acute angle ß and is designed as a support for a fastening means (20, 21) that is provided to tension the stop element (1) on the product to be transported.