Free-fall Winch Dual Brake Segmentation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing free-fall winches face a design compromise between compactness and effective braking, as service brakes need to be oversized to prevent creeping when used as holding brakes, leading to increased size and complexity.
Innovation Solution
A winch design incorporating two brakes, a first brake for service braking and a second brake for holding braking, where both brakes are dimensioned to be smaller, with the first brake capable of slowing the winch drum and the second brake used in conjunction for holding functions, allowing for a compact design by optimizing braking torque distribution.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the service brake is oversized to prevent creeping when used as a holding brake, then the holding brake function is reliable, but the winch size increases and compactness is compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The braking function is segmented into two separate brakes: a service brake for slowing the winch drum and a holding brake for preventing rotation. This segmentation allows each brake to be optimally sized for its specific function, eliminating the need for an oversized service brake and achieving compact winch dimensions while maintaining reliable holding capability.
2Volume of moving object
If the service brake is dimensioned for ordinary service brake function only, then the winch design is compact, but there is a risk of creeping between the brake discs when used as a holding brake
Solution Approach 1:
The braking system is divided into two independent brakes with distinct functions. The service brake is properly sized for slowing operations, while the holding brake is specifically designed for preventing rotation. This functional segmentation eliminates creeping risk by assigning the holding function to a brake specifically designed for that purpose.
Solution Approach 2:
The holding brake acts as an intermediary component that specifically addresses the holding function, working in conjunction with the service brake. This intermediary holding brake prevents creeping by providing dedicated holding capability without requiring the service brake to be oversized.
3Device complexity
If a single brake performs both service brake and holding brake functions, then the device complexity is reduced, but the brake must be oversized leading to increased device complexity in overall design
Solution Approach 1:
The braking system is segmented into two separate brakes, which initially appears to increase component count. However, this segmentation allows each brake to be compactly sized for its specific function, resulting in a more space-efficient overall design compared to a single oversized brake that would require larger housing and mounting space.
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
This configuration enables a compact winch design while maintaining effective braking performance, as the first brake handles service braking and the second brake, when combined, provides the necessary torque for holding functions, preventing creeping and ensuring secure operation.
Implementation Method 1
The at least one first brake body and the at least one second brake body can be pressed against each other, in order to achieve a braking effect based on a frictional engagement
Data Source
AI summary
A winch is provided that includes a frame and a winch drum mounted for rotation relative to the frame; a gearing via which the winch drum can be rotated by a drive motor attached to the winch, wherein the gearing includes a gear shaft; a first brake that includes a first brake body and a second brake body which is non-rotationally connected to the gear shaft. The first and second brake bodies can be pressed against each other in order to achieve a braking effect based on frictional engagement. A second brake is also provided that includes a third brake body and a fourth brake body which is non-rotationally connected to the gear shaft and/or the second brake body. The third and fourth brake bodies can be pressed against each other in order to achieve a braking effect based on frictional engagement.