Winch Cable Guide Automation for Operator Safety
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing winch control arrangements require manual and visual intervention to move the cable guide between the centric and eccentric parts, exposing operators to potential hazards, especially in volatile conditions like at sea.
Innovation Solution
A winch control arrangement with a retaining device featuring a rotatable drum and an automatic movement system for the cable guide, controlled remotely via electronic or wireless means, allowing the cable guide to move between positions without manual operation, using push-pull devices and rods for reliable positioning and hydraulic actuators for quick movement.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If manual operation of the cable guide is used, then the device complexity is reduced, but the operator safety deteriorates due to exposure to volatile movement and injury risk
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual mechanical operation with an automated cable guide actuating mechanism that can be controlled remotely. This substitution eliminates the need for operators to physically interact with moving parts, thereby maintaining simplicity while dramatically improving operator safety by removing them from hazardous zones near volatile moving components.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces remote control means as an intermediary between the operator and the cable guide mechanism. This intermediary allows the operator to control the cable guide from a safe distance, transmitting control signals without physical contact, thus resolving the contradiction between operational simplicity and operator safety.
2Object-affected harmful factors
If remote control means are implemented, then the operator safety improves by eliminating visual control requirements, but the device complexity increases due to additional control systems
Solution Approach 1:
The remote control means are designed to perform multiple functions: controlling cable guide movement, monitoring system status, and providing operational feedback. By consolidating these functions into a single integrated control system, the patent minimizes the increase in complexity while achieving significant safety improvements.
Solution Approach 2:
The system incorporates automatic movement means that can operate autonomously based on pre-programmed sequences or sensor inputs, reducing the complexity of manual remote control while maintaining safety benefits. The automated system serves itself by making decisions based on operational parameters, minimizing the need for complex human-in-the-loop control.
3Reliability
If automated movement means are used, then the operational reliability increases, but the ease of operation deteriorates due to reduced manual control
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a hybrid control system that dynamically adapts between manual and automated modes. The automated movement means provide reliable operation for routine functions, while retaining the capability for manual override when operators need direct control. This dynamic flexibility resolves the contradiction by providing both automated reliability and manual ease of operation as needed.
Solution Approach 2:
The system incorporates feedback mechanisms that provide real-time information about cable guide position, drum rotation, and system status to the operator. This feedback loop maintains ease of operation by keeping the operator informed and engaged, while the automated movement means ensure reliable and precise execution of control commands.
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 safe and reliable operation of the winch control arrangement from a distance, reducing operator risk and increasing operational reliability, especially in harsh conditions, by automating the cable guide movement with remote control, allowing single-signal operation and precise positioning.
Implementation Method 1
hydraulic actuators for quick movement
Data Source
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AI summary
A winch control arrangement comprising a retaining device (1) for a cable (21), comprising a rotatable drum (2) having a rotational axis (X), comprising a circular storage part (4) with a storage surface, wherein the distance of the storage surface to the rotational axis is substantially constant, and an eccentric holding part (3) with a holding surface, wherein the distance of the holding surface to the rotational axis varies around the circumference of the holding part, wherein a cable guide (7) is arranged at a distance from the rotational axis and movable in a movement direction (18) substantially parallel to the rotational axis between a first position (I) for allowing the cable to be wound up on the centric storage part and a second position (II) for allowing the cable to be wound up on the eccentric part. The cable guide is connected to automatic movement means (8) for moving the cable guide between the first and the second positions and controllable to automatically cause the automatic movement means to move the cable guide from one position to the other position when a signal is given via a remote control means to start or stop paying in or paying out of the cable.