Slack Line Detection Systems for Winches

摘要

In at least one illustrative embodiment, a winch may include first and second end frames, a drum coupled between the first and second end frames and configured to rotate to wind or unwind a cable, a brake configured to resist rotation of the drum when engaged, a switch configured to cause the brake to engage the drum when the switch is activated, a slack arm frame having a first end engaged with the cable and a second end pivotally coupled between the first and second end frames, where the slack arm frame is configured to pivot between a first position when the cable is taut and a second position when the cable is slack, and a cam coupled to the slack arm frame and configured to rotate with the slack arm frame to activate the switch when the slack arm frame is in the second position.

主权项

1. A winch comprising:
a first end frame and a second end frame; a drum coupled between the first and second end frames and configured to rotate to wind or unwind a cable; a brake configured to resist rotation of the drum when engaged; a switch configured to cause the brake to engage the drum when the switch is activated; a slack arm frame having a first end engaged with the cable and a second end pivotally coupled between the first and second end frames, wherein the slack arm frame is configured to pivot between a first position when the cable is taut and a second position when the cable is slack; a cam coupled to the slack arm frame and configured to rotate with the slack arm frame to activate the switch when the slack arm frame is in the second position; and a mounting bracket coupling the switch to the first end frame, wherein the mounting bracket is adjustable between a plurality of locations on the first end frame by loosening and tightening a single fastener, each of the plurality of locations positioning the switch at a different distance from the cam.