Claims:WE CLAIM:
1. A self-winding cable apparatus (100), comprising:
a cable storage hub (102) configured to store cable for electrical connection;
an automatic retractor (104) connecting the cable storage hub (102) and a cable spool component (106), wherein the automatic retractor (104) is configured to:
actuate winding of the cable stored within the cable spool component (106) into the cable storage hub (102) upon receiving first set of torque information; and
actuate unwinding of the cable from the cable spool component (106) into connected cable harness L guide (108) upon receiving second set of torque information;
wherein the automatic retractor (104) is actuated by an electrically coupled stepper motor (112);
one or more torque sensors configured to sense torque force at the cable harness L guide (108) and the cable spool component (106); and
a power socket (110) coupled with the cable and configured to electrically couple the self-winding cable apparatus (100) to an electric energy source.
2. The apparatus (100) as claimed claim 1, further comprising:
a hardware processor (208); and
a memory (202) coupled to the hardware processor (208), wherein the memory (202) comprises a set of program instructions in the form of a plurality of subsystems, configured to be executed by the hardware processor (208), wherein the plurality of subsystems comprises:
a torque sensing subsystem (212) configured to sense torque force from the one or more torque sensors;
a processing subsystem (214) is configured to:
compare sensed torque force at the cable harness L guide (108) and the cable spool component (106) with a pre-stored torque information;
estimate the first set of torque information from compared torque force at the cable spool component (106);
estimate the second set of torque information from compared torque force at the cable harness L guide (108); and
actuate the automatic retractor (104) for winding operation and unwinding operation based on the first set of torque information and the second set of torque information.
3. The apparatus (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the first set of torque information activates torque differential transmitter (TDX) component associated with the cable spool component (106), wherein the activated torque differential transmitter (TDX) component triggers torque differential receiver (TDR) component associated with the automatic retractor (104) for winding operation.
4. The apparatus as claimed in claim 1, wherein the second set of torque information activates torque differential transmitter (TDX) component associated with the cable spool component (106), wherein the activated torque differential transmitter (TDX) component triggers torque differential receiver (TDR) component associated with the automatic retractor (104) for unwinding operation.
5. The apparatus (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the apparatus (100) is electrically coupled to an agricultural machine for connecting the agricultural machine to an electrical energy source.
6. The apparatus (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the first set of torque information comprises information representative of loose winding of the cable with the cable spool component (106).
7. The apparatus (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the second set of torque information comprises information representative of tight winding of the cable within the cable spool component (106).
8. A method (400) for operating a self-winding cable apparatus, the method (400) comprising:
sensing, by a processor (208), a torque force from one or more torque sensors (410);
comparing, by the processor (208), sensed torque force at a cable harness L guide (108) and a cable spool component (106) with a pre-stored torque information;
estimating, by the processor (208), the first set of torque information from compared torque force at the cable spool component (106);
estimating, by the processor (208), the second set of torque information from compared torque force at the cable harness L guide (108); and
actuating, by the processor (208), automatic retractor (104) for winding operation and unwinding operation based on the first set of torque information and the second set of torque information.
Dated this 21st day of December 2021

Vidya Bhaskar Singh Nandiyal
Patent Agent (IN/PA-2912)
Agent for applicant
, Description:FIELD OF INVENTION
[0001] Embodiments of the present disclosure relates to a cable reel apparatus, and more particularly to a self-winding cable apparatus.
BACKGROUND
[0002] For agricultural operations, an agricultural machine is mechanically coupled to a tractor, which runs on non-renewable, or fossil fuel based prime mover. Such usage of fossil fuels always leads to high pollution and affects the environment. Moreover, the lifecycle of agricultural machines also decreases with constant use of fossil fuels.
[0003] Direct clean electrical energy connection may be used to provide an effective alternative measure for the stated pollution problem. For operations of the agricultural machines, electrical energy can be supplied directly via electrical cable wires. Thereby agricultural machines implement zero carbon emission feature as they can be hand driven.
[0004] The winding and the unwinding of such electrical cable wires should be efficient as long and tangle free wires are needed for operations. Furthermore, the attached electrical wires should be efficiently reeled in or reeled out without hassle as it directly affects portability of the attached agriculture machine.
[0005] Hence, there is a need for a self-winding cable apparatus and a method to operate the same and therefore address the aforementioned issues.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION
[0006] In accordance with one embodiment of the disclosure, a self-winding cable apparatus is disclosed. The self-winding cable apparatus includes a cable storage hub. The cable storage hub is configured to store cable for electrical connection. The self-winding cable apparatus also includes an automatic retractor connecting the cable storage hub and a cable spool component. The automatic retractor is configured to actuate winding of cable stored within the cable spool component into the cable storage hub upon receiving first set of torque information. The automatic retractor is configured to actuate unwinding of the cable from the cable spool component into connected cable harness L guide upon receiving second set of torque information.
[0007] The self-winding cable apparatus also includes one or more torque sensors. The one or more torque sensors is configured to sense torque force at the cable harness L guide and the cable spool component. The self-winding cable apparatus also includes a power socket coupled at one end of the cable. The power socket is configured to electrically couple the self-winding cable assembly to an electric energy source.
[0008] In accordance with one embodiment of the disclosure, a method for operating a self-winding cable apparatus is disclosed. The method includes sensing torque force from one or more torque sensors. The method also includes comparing sensed torque force at a cable harness L guide and a cable spool component with a pre-stored torque information. The method also includes estimating the first set of torque information from compared torque force at the cable spool component. The method also includes estimating the second set of torque information from compared torque force at the cable harness L guide. The method also includes actuating an automatic retractor for winding and unwinding operation based on the first set of torque information and the second set of torque information.
[0009] To further clarify the advantages and features of the present disclosure, a more particular description of the disclosure will follow by reference to specific embodiments thereof, which are illustrated in the appended figures. It is to be appreciated that these figures depict only typical embodiments of the disclosure and are therefore not to be considered limiting in scope. The disclosure will be described and explained with additional specificity and detail with the appended figures.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0010] The disclosure will be described and explained with additional specificity and detail with the accompanying figures in which:
[0011] FIG. 1 is a schematic representation of a self-winding cable apparatus in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;
[0012] FIG. 2 is a block diagram illustrating an exemplary computing system for operating the self-winding cable apparatus in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;
[0013] FIG. 3 is a schematic representation of an electric driven portable front tine cultivator coupled to the self-winding cable apparatus in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure; and
[0014] FIG. 4 is a process flowchart illustrating an exemplary method for operating a self-winding cable apparatus in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.
[0015] Further, those skilled in the art will appreciate that elements in the figures are illustrated for simplicity and may not have necessarily been drawn to scale. Furthermore, in terms of the construction of the device, one or more components of the device may have been represented in the figures by conventional symbols, and the figures may show only those specific details that are pertinent to understanding the embodiments of the present disclosure so as not to obscure the figures with details that will be readily apparent to those skilled in the art having the benefit of the description herein.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0016] For the purpose of promoting an understanding of the principles of the disclosure, reference will now be made to the embodiment illustrated in the figures and specific language will be used to describe them. It will nevertheless be understood that no limitation of the scope of the disclosure is thereby intended. Such alterations and further modifications in the illustrated online platform, and such further applications of the principles of the disclosure as would normally occur to those skilled in the art are to be construed as being within the scope of the present disclosure.
[0017] The terms "comprises", "comprising", or any other variations thereof, are intended to cover a non-exclusive inclusion, such that a process or method that comprises a list of steps does not include only those steps but may include other steps not expressly listed or inherent to such a process or method. Similarly, one or more devices or subsystems or elements or structures or components preceded by "comprises... a" does not, without more constraints, preclude the existence of other devices, subsystems, elements, structures, components, additional devices, additional subsystems, additional elements, additional structures or additional components. Appearances of the phrase "in an embodiment", "in another embodiment" and similar language throughout this specification may, but not necessarily do, all refer to the same embodiment.
[0018] Unless otherwise defined, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by those skilled in the art to which this disclosure belongs. The system, methods, and examples provided herein are only illustrative and not intended to be limiting.
[0019] In the following specification and the claims, reference will be made to a number of terms, which shall be defined to have the following meanings. The singular forms “a”, “an”, and “the” include plural references unless the context clearly dictates otherwise.
[0020] A computer system (standalone, client or server computer system) configured by an application may constitute a “subsystem” that is configured and operated to perform certain operations. In one embodiment, the “subsystem” may be implemented mechanically or electronically, so a subsystem may comprise dedicated circuitry or logic that is permanently configured (within a special-purpose processor) to perform certain operations. In another embodiment, a “subsystem” may also comprise programmable logic or circuitry (as encompassed within a general-purpose processor or other programmable processor) that is temporarily configured by software to perform certain operations.
[0021] Accordingly, the term “subsystem” should be understood to encompass a tangible entity, be that an entity that is physically constructed permanently configured (hardwired) or temporarily configured (programmed) to operate in a certain manner and/or to perform certain operations described herein.
[0022] FIG. 1 is a schematic representation of a self-winding cable apparatus 100 in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. As used herein, the term “cable” refers to an insulated wire having a protective casing and used for transmitting electricity. In one embodiment, the cables are usually long and is rotatably mounted along a cable reel for storage. The self-winding cable apparatus 100 helps is automatic winding and unwinding of the cables without any entangling. Such self-winding cable apparatus 100 may be coupled to any agriculture machine for connecting an electrical energy source during operation.
[0023] The self-winding cable apparatus 100 includes a cable storage hub 102. The cable storage hub 102 is configured to store cable for electrical connection. In such embodiment, the cable is mounted around a reel and stored. During operation, the cable is reeled out from the cable storage hub 102 and used for connection to any electrical power source.
[0024] The self-winding cable apparatus 100 also includes an automatic retractor 104 connecting the cable storage hub 102 and a cable spool component 106. The automatic retractor 104 refers to an instrument which triggers automatic winding and unwinding of cable wires. The automatic retractor (104) is actuated by an electrically coupled stepper motor 112 for winding and unwinding operation. The cable spool component 106 refers to a round and drum-shaped object used to store extra cable wires.
[0025] The automatic retractor 104 is configured to actuate winding of the cable stored within the cable spool component 106 into the cable storage hub 102 upon receiving first set of torque information. In one embodiment, the first set of torque information includes information representative of loose winding of the cable with the cable spool component 106.
[0026] In such embodiment, the automatic retractor 104 reels in the extra loose cable from the cable spool component 106 into the cable storage hub 102. In one specific embodiment, the first set of torque information activates torque differential transmitter (TDX) component associated with the cable spool component 106. Furthermore, the activated torque differential transmitter (TDX) component triggers torque differential receiver (TDR) component associated with the automatic retractor (104) for winding operation.
[0027] The torque differential transmitter and the torque differential receiver operate on the Selsyn (synchro) principle. The torque transmitter (TX) accepts a torque input at shaft for transmission on three-phase electrical outputs. The torque receiver (RX) accepts a three-phase electrical representation of an angular input for conversion to a torque output at the shaft. Thus, the torque transmitter (TX) transmits a torque from an input shaft to a remote torque receiver output shaft.
[0028] The torque differential transmitter (TDX) sums an electrical angle input with a shaft angle input producing an electrical angle output. The torque differential receiver (TDR) sums two electrical angle inputs producing a shaft angle output. In such embodiment, a control transformer (CT) detects a null when the rotor is positioned at a right angle to the stator angle input. The control transformer (CT) is typically a component of a servo– feedback system.
[0029] A resolver outputs a quadrature sin(θ) and cos(θ) representation of the shaft angle input instead of a three-phase output. The three-phase output of the torque transmitter is converted to a resolver style output by a Scott-T transformer. As used herein, the “Scott-T transformer” is a type of circuit used to produce two-phase electric power (2 φ, 90-degree phase rotation) from a three-phase (3 φ, 120-degree phase rotation) source, or vice versa
[0030] The automatic retractor 104 is also configured to actuate unwinding of the cable from the cable spool component 106 into connected cable harness L guide 108 upon receiving second set of torque information. In one embodiment, the second set of torque information comprises information representative of tight winding of the cable within the cable spool component 106.
[0031] In such embodiment, the extra cable is reeled out towards the cable harness L guide 108 on detection of tightness of the cable. In one specific embodiment, the second set of torque information activates torque differential transmitter (TDX) component associated with the cable spool component 106. Furthermore, the activated torque differential transmitter (TDX) component triggers torque differential receiver (TDR) component associated with the automatic retractor 104 for unwinding operation.
[0032] The cable harness L guide 108 is configured to provide a guide pathway for wires coming out from the cable spool component 106. In one embodiment, the cable harness L guide 108 along with the cable spool component 106 is coupled with one or more torque sensors. The one or more torque sensors is configured to measure the torque force associated with coupled the cable harness L guide 108 and the cable spool component 106. As used herein, the term “torque sensors” are referred to transducers that are used for torque measurement (torque sensing), the transducers convert an input mechanical torque into an electrical output signal.
[0033] The detected torque force is processed to estimate the first set of torque information and the second set of torque information. In one specific embodiment, the looseness and tightness of the cable are detected by the one or more torque sensors. The self-winding cable apparatus 100 also includes a power socket 110 coupled at one end of the cable. The power socket 110 is configured to electrically couple the self-winding cable apparatus 100 to an electric energy source.
[0034] Furthermore, the self-winding cable apparatus 100 is coupled alongside with an open differential assembly. After implementation of the open differential assembly in tri or quad system, the open differential assembly satisfies design requirements and proves to be durable on rough terrain and critical operating conditions. In such embodiment, traction difference problem is not observed, and a vehicle could manoeuvre sharp turns without losing traction.
[0035] FIG. 2 is a block diagram illustrating an exemplary computing system 200 for operating the self-winding cable apparatus in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. The computing system 200 includes a hardware processor 208. The computing system 200 also includes a memory 202 coupled to the hardware processor 208. The memory 202 comprises a set of program instructions in the form of a plurality of subsystems and configured to be executed by the hardware processor 208.
[0036] The hardware processor(s) 208, as used herein, means any type of computational circuit, such as, but not limited to, a microprocessor, a microcontroller, a complex instruction set computing microprocessor, a reduced instruction set computing microprocessor, a very long instruction word microprocessor, an explicitly parallel instruction computing microprocessor, a digital signal processor, or any other type of processing circuit, or a combination thereof. Input/output (I/O) devices 210 (including but not limited to keyboards, displays, pointing devices, etc.) can be coupled to the computing system 100 either directly or through intervening I/O controllers.
[0037] The memory 202 includes a plurality of subsystems stored in the form of executable program which instructs the hardware processor 208 via bus 204 to perform the method steps. The plurality of subsystems has following subsystems: a torque sensing subsystem 212 and a processing subsystem 214.
[0038] Computer memory elements may include any suitable memory device(s) for storing data and executable program, such as read only memory, random access memory, erasable programmable read only memory, electrically erasable programmable read only memory, hard drive, removable media drive for handling memory cards and the like. Embodiments of the present subject matter may be implemented in conjunction with program modules, including functions, procedures, data structures, and application programs, for performing tasks, or defining abstract data types or low-level hardware contexts. Executable program stored on any of the above-mentioned storage media may be executable by the hardware processor(s) 208.
[0039] The plurality of subsystems includes a torque sensing subsystem 212. The torque sensing subsystem 212 is configured to sense torque force from the one or more torque sensors. In one embodiment, the cable harness L guide 108 along with the cable spool component 106 is coupled with one or more torque sensors. The torque sensing subsystem 212 senses the captured torque force.
[0040] The plurality of subsystems also includes a processing subsystem 214. The processing subsystem 214 is configured to compare sensed torque force at the cable harness L guide 108 and the cable spool component 106 with a pre-stored torque information. In one embodiment, a dual in-line memory module (DIMM) 206 stores the pre-stored torque information. The pre-stored information includes a specific torque measurement signifying tight winding and loose winding of the cable wires. This DIMM 206 includes pre-stored torque information values for tightening and loosening on cable wires.
[0041] The processing subsystem 214 is also configured to estimate the first set of torque information from compared torque force at the cable spool component 106. The processing subsystem 214 is also configured to estimate the second set of torque information from compared torque force at the cable harness L guide 108.
[0042] In one exemplary embodiment, as torque is applied at the cable harness L guide 108 for cable extension, the one or more torque sensors positioned with the cable harness L guide 108 senses torque force. The processing subsystem 214 compares the detected torque force with pre-stored torque information. In such exemplary embodiment, the compared result is used to estimate that the cable is tightly mounted in the cable spool component 106. The processing subsystem 214 is configured to actuate the automatic retractor 104 for unwinding operation based on the tightness of the cable.
[0043] In another exemplary embodiment, the one or more torque sensors positioned with the cable spool component 106 senses a torque force. The processing subsystem 214 compares the detected torque force with pre-stored torque information. In such exemplary embodiment, the compared result is used to estimate that the cable is loosely mounted or extended around the cable spool component 106. The processing subsystem 214 is configured to actuate the automatic retractor 104 for winding operation based on the looseness of the cable.
[0044] FIG. 3 is a schematic representation of an electric driven portable front tine cultivator 300 coupled to the self-winding cable apparatus 100 in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. In one specific embodiment, the self-winding cable apparatus 100 is electrically coupled to the electric driven portable front tine cultivator 300 for connecting to any electrical energy source.
[0045] The electric driven portable front tine cultivator may also be a rotavator or any cultivator, further may be used for agricultural, horticultural, viticultural or floricultural purpose. The electric driven portable front tine cultivator 300 as disclosed in FIG. 3 includes tyres 308 for movement, front tine blade 306 for cultivation, a handle 304 for actuating movement and an upper body fender 302. For operation, the electric driven portable front tine cultivator 300 is easily connected to the electrical power source through the coupled self-winding cable apparatus 100. Such coupling self-winding cable apparatus 100 completely removes use of non-renewable or fossil fuel based prime mover. A user may easily move the agriculture device via hand directional movement. In one embodiment, a damper weight may be used over the upper body fender 302 for balancing the whole electric driven portable front tine cultivator 300.
[0046] FIG. 4 is a process flowchart illustrating an exemplary method 400 for operating a self-winding cable apparatus in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. At step 402, a torque force is sensed from one or more torque sensors. In one aspect of the present embodiment, the torque force is sensed by a torque sensing subsystem 212.
[0047] At step 404, the sensed torque force is compared at the cable harness L guide 108 and the cable spool component 106 with a pre-stored torque information. In one aspect of the present embodiment, the sensed torque force is compared by a processing subsystem 214.
[0048] At step 406, the first set of torque information is estimated from compared torque force at the cable spool component 106. In one aspect of the present embodiment, the first set of torque information is estimated by the processing subsystem 214.
[0049] At step 408, the second set of torque information is estimated from compared torque force at the cable harness L guide 108. In one aspect of the present embodiment, the second set of torque information is estimated by the processing subsystem 214.
[0050] At step 410, the automatic retractor 104 is actuated for winding and unwinding operation based on the first set of torque information and the second set of torque information. In one aspect of the present embodiment, the automatic retractor 104 is actuated for winding and unwinding by the processing subsystem 214.
[0051] The self-winding cable apparatus 100 coupled with the agriculture machine 300 uses clean energy of electricity to operate, thereby eliminating the use of conventional fossil fuels. Furthermore, the design of the self-winding cable apparatus 100 makes the front tine cultivator 300 easily transportable as it is portable and light weight. Additionally, the usage of the design helps in zero carbon emission. Whereby the agricultural machine 300 gives nil footprint of pollutant onto working environment. As any user may use the machine by walk behind movement, a tractor is not needed for movement.
[0052] The cable in the self-winding cable apparatus 100 is tangle free and thereby increases the ease of operation with any harness cable. Moreover, various components used in the self-winding cable apparatus 100 are simple and economical.
[0053] The written description describes the subject matter herein to enable any person skilled in the art to make and use the embodiments. The scope of the subject matter embodiments is defined by the claims and may include other modifications that occur to those skilled in the art. Such other modifications are intended to be within the scope of the claims if they have similar elements that do not differ from the literal language of the claims or if they include equivalent elements with insubstantial differences from the literal language of the claims.
[0054] The embodiments herein can comprise hardware and software elements. The embodiments that are implemented in software include but are not limited to, firmware, resident software, microcode, etc. The functions performed by various modules described herein may be implemented in other modules or combinations of other modules. For the purposes of this description, a computer-usable or computer readable medium can be any apparatus that can comprise, store, communicate, propagate, or transport the program for use by or in connection with the instruction execution system, apparatus, or device.
[0055] The medium can be an electronic, magnetic, optical, electromagnetic, infrared, or semiconductor system (or apparatus or device) or a propagation medium. Examples of a computer-readable medium include a semiconductor or solid-state memory, magnetic tape, a removable computer diskette, a random-access memory (RAM), a read-only memory (ROM), a rigid magnetic disk and an optical disk. Current examples of optical disks include compact disk-read only memory (CD-ROM), compact disk-read/write (CD-R/W) and DVD.
[0056] Input/output (I/O) devices (as shown in FIG. 2) (including but not limited to keyboards, displays, pointing devices, etc.) can be coupled to the system either directly or through intervening I/O controllers. Network adapters may also be coupled to the system to enable the data processing system to become coupled to other data processing systems or remote printers or storage devices through intervening private or public networks. Modems, cable modem and Ethernet cards are just a few of the currently available types of network adapters.
[0057] A representative hardware environment for practicing the embodiments may include a hardware configuration of an information handling/computer system in accordance with the embodiments herein. The system herein comprises at least one processor or central processing unit (CPU). The CPUs are interconnected via system bus to various devices such as a random-access memory (RAM), read-only memory (ROM), and an input/output (I/O) adapter. The I/O adapter can connect to peripheral devices, such as disk units and tape drives, or other program storage devices that are readable by the system. The system can read the inventive instructions on the program storage devices and follow these instructions to execute the methodology of the embodiments herein.
[0058] The system further includes a user interface adapter that connects a keyboard, mouse, speaker, microphone, and/or other user interface devices such as a touch screen device (not shown) to the bus to gather user input. Additionally, a communication adapter connects the bus to a data processing network, and a display adapter connects the bus to a display device which may be embodied as an output device such as a monitor, printer, or transmitter, for example.
[0059] A description of an embodiment with several components in communication with each other does not imply that all such components are required. On the contrary, a variety of optional components are described to illustrate the wide variety of possible embodiments of the invention. When a single device or article is described herein, it will be apparent that more than one device/article (whether or not they cooperate) may be used in place of a single device/article. Similarly, where more than one device or article is described herein (whether or not they cooperate), it will be apparent that a single device/article may be used in place of the more than one device or article, or a different number of devices/articles may be used instead of the shown number of devices or programs. The functionality and/or the features of a device may be alternatively embodied by one or more other devices which are not explicitly described as having such functionality/features. Thus, other embodiments of the invention need not include the device itself.
[0060] The illustrated steps are set out to explain the exemplary embodiments shown, and it should be anticipated that ongoing technological development will change the manner in which particular functions are performed. These examples are presented herein for purposes of illustration, and not limitation. Further, the boundaries of the functional building blocks have been arbitrarily defined herein for the convenience of the description. Alternative boundaries can be defined so long as the specified functions and relationships thereof are appropriately performed.
[0061] The figures and the foregoing description give examples of embodiments. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that one or more of the described elements may well be combined into a single functional element. Alternatively, certain elements may be split into multiple functional elements. Elements from one embodiment may be added to another embodiment. For example, order of processes described herein may be changed and are not limited to the manner described herein. Moreover, the actions of any flow diagram need not be implemented in the order shown; nor do all of the acts need to be necessarily performed. Also, those acts that are not dependant on other acts may be performed in parallel with the other acts. The scope of embodiments is by no means limited by these specific examples.