Design of a Lightweight Waterproof (IP 67/68) Winch

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the design of a lightweight waterproof winch system, focusing on the challenges of finding suitable off-the-shelf options that meet specific weight and force requirements. Participants explore the feasibility of using hand winches versus electric winches, as well as the automation of the winch system.

Discussion Character

  • Debate/contested
  • Technical explanation
  • Conceptual clarification

Main Points Raised

  • One participant expresses the need for a lightweight waterproof winch, specifying a weight limit of ~10 lbs and a maximum force of ~500 lbs, while noting that available electric winches are too heavy.
  • Another participant questions the necessity of automation, suggesting that a hand winch could suffice, as they have one that meets the specified requirements.
  • A different participant argues that a hand winch cannot consistently deliver results within a tolerance of ±5mm, emphasizing the need for automation in the design.
  • One participant provides information about lightweight brushless DC motors, suggesting that automation is feasible, but reiterates the impracticality of using a hand winch in underwater conditions.
  • Several participants engage in a meta-discussion regarding the classification of the thread, debating whether it should be categorized as a schoolwork problem or a design inquiry.
  • There are repeated assertions that the original poster is being evasive about the details of their project, leading to further contention about the thread's classification.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants do not reach a consensus on whether the inquiry is related to schoolwork or a legitimate design project. There are competing views on the viability of hand winches versus automated solutions, and the discussion remains unresolved regarding the best approach to the design challenge.

Contextual Notes

Participants express differing opinions on the practicality of hand winches and the requirements for automation, with some emphasizing the need for precision in the winch's operation. The discussion reflects uncertainty about the definitions of automation and the specific requirements for the winch system.

Daniel Sadlier
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Hello,

I am currently designing a lightweight waterproof winch system using off the shelf electrical or hand winches.

My problem is that most electric winches that are waterproof are too heavy (design weight limit ~10lbs) and have a much higher force rating than needed (design max force ~500 lbs).

A hand winch could be used, but the process needs to be automated and it will probably take too long to couple it with an appropriate sized motor an enclose it in a sort of pressure housing.

Does anybody have an idea where I can find small scale IP rated winches? Or have any easy way to automate a hand winch?

Thanks!
 
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Daniel Sadlier said:
A hand winch could be used, but the process needs to be automated and it will probably take too long to couple it with an appropriate sized motor an enclose it in a sort of pressure housing.
What's wrong with just using a hand winch? I keep a hand winch in my Suburban that meets your specs.

This looks like a schoolwork project, so I'll move it to the schoolwork forums...
 
Can you not. Your speculation is incorrect and you just buried this thread.

As I said, the process needs to be automated as a hand winch can't consistently deliver results within +-5mm.
 
Daniel Sadlier said:
Can you not. Your speculation is incorrect and you just buried this thread.

As I said, the process needs to be automated as a hand winch can't consistently deliver results within +-5mm.
Say which what? There may be a language barrier here, but you can please say more about why a hand winch will not work. You will not be able to put an appropriate size electric motor on a winch within that weight limit. What does "automated" mean in your post? Again, there may be a language translation issue with that word. :smile:
 
A simple google search of brushless dc motors gives results of 1 kW motors of ~2-3 lbs. To automate something is to control it (passively or actively) electrically using a computer. As I said, again, a hand winch can't consistently deliver results within the tolerance and unless you plan on hand cranking the winch 1.5 meters underwater, hence the IP rating, it is quite impractical as well.

Can you please move my thread back to it's rightful place?
 
Daniel Sadlier said:
Can you please move my thread back to it's rightful place?
Sure. Why is it not related to school?
 
It isn't a school project nor is it a homework problem... The intended audience is also not students or tutors.
 
Daniel Sadlier said:
It isn't a school project nor is it a homework problem... The intended audience is also not students or tutors.
That doesn't answer my question. Why are you being evasive?
 
Because I have no intention of giving out details of my project other than the question I am asking. It's the other version of IP. Why are you moving people's threads without reason anyway? You're logic of moving the thread without any knowledge and then asking why you should move it back is equivalent of presuming somebody is guilty of a crime and then trying them for their innocence.

Either way, you've ruined this thread.
 
  • #10
Because we have to deal with students trying to cheat on their homework. All schoolwork-type threads go in the Homework Help forums, and must use the HH Template when posting. You have offered no evidence that this is for anything other than schoolwork, so that's where your thread goes.
 
  • #11
Besides, you get great help in our HH forums as long as your show effort. Post what you have found so far. What are you having trouble with?
 
  • #12
How does this sound in any way like a homework problem? It is strictly a design strategy/component sourcing question.

Do you go around to every question and move it to homework if they don't offer video evidence of their project?
 
  • #13
Daniel Sadlier said:
How does this sound in any way like a homework problem? It is strictly a design strategy/component sourcing question.

Do you go around to every question and move it to homework if they don't offer video evidence of their project?
Yep. What is your design project for? Can you post links to it? Why are you being so evasive? Why don't you just use a hand winch like I have in my truck? It is under 10 pounds, and can pull the weight you specified. Short leash, son.