Gas Winch

grabcad

An update from December 19th reveals that a compression mechanism was built using a 20" travel bottle jack from Harbor Freight. The force was effective when components were aligned correctly, but compressing it safely proved challenging, requiring a custom mechanism. Friction issues and twisting concerns led to the realization that this design wasn't suitable for their purposes. A new direction is needed: one without parallel struts and capable of fitting inside a 2"x2" square tube. Key features include a robust latch and release system, servo-activated release, and the ability to pull a string with around 275 lbs over 4 ft while being released by a pneumatic actuator with 60 psi of pressure. With help from friend Artur and some FEA analysis, design improvements were made, such as upgrading to 1" tubes and adding a stronger bracket. A loading mechanism also needs to be designed due to the over 1600 lbs required to load it. The latest ZIP file includes Solidworks files with simple drawings for easy access. Stay tuned for further updates.