US 6,607,182 B1 · Winching apparatus

Abstract

A winching arrangement is disclosed for winching a cable comprising a winching frame; a capstan (11) for winding the cable onto; a drive motor (3) for driving the capstan; and a first clutch mechanism for disengaging the capstan from the clutch when the torsional load on the cable exceeds a first predetermined limit. Preferably, the first clutch mechanism (6) is located within the capstan and ideally the clutch mechanism is an adjustable cone clutch mechanism. The winching arrangement can further include a second adjustable clutch mechanism located adjacent the motor for providing secondary disengagement of the motor from the capstan when the cable exceeds a second predetermined limit. Further, a gear reducer (8) can be interconnected between the capstan and the drive motor. Preferably, the arrangement also includes a fixing arm (15, 18) for fixing the winch to an object wherein the cable, the capstan and the fixing arm are aligned substantially concentrically during operation.

Claims21

Dependent claims

A winching apparatus for winching a cable comprising:

(a) a winching frame;
(b) a capstan for winding the cable to be winched;
(c) a drive motor for driving said capstan;
and
(d) a first mechanical torque limiting mechanism for limiting the maximum torque on a winching load in operation to a first predetermined limit and for maintaining a substantially constant torque under load at said maximum torque, wherein said first mechanical torque limiting mechanism is located within said capstan.

2 more elements

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.

Winching apparatus

Life of this patent

Winching apparatus

Life of this patent

Abstract

Claims21