How Do I Calculate the Pulley Ratio for a Complex Boat Pulley System?

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on calculating the pulley ratio for a complex boat pulley system. The primary method involves breaking the pulley into sections and summing the tensions (T) from each section. The user arrived at a ratio of 9T:1T and sought confirmation of this calculation. Key checks include ensuring the sum of forces equals zero in both the X and Y directions and verifying that the tension in each rope remains constant, indicating static equilibrium.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of static equilibrium principles
  • Familiarity with tension calculations in pulley systems
  • Basic knowledge of force vector analysis
  • Experience with mechanical design concepts
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the principles of static equilibrium in mechanical systems
  • Learn about tension distribution in multi-pulley systems
  • Explore advanced pulley system design techniques
  • Review examples of calculating pulley ratios in engineering contexts
USEFUL FOR

Mechanical engineers, boat designers, and anyone involved in the design and analysis of pulley systems will benefit from this discussion.

Darknes51986
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A guy at work gave me this drawing I have attached and asked me to find the pulley ratio. Do I need any other information such as rope lengths, pulley diameters, or load? I traded in my machine design book and don't remember exactly how to calculate the ratio. Is there anything else I can calculate involving the load that would be helpful if I knew the weight of the boat. Thanks for any info.
 

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  • pulley.JPG
    pulley.JPG
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Nope, you don't need anything other than what is in the picture.
 
So what I do is break up the pulley into sections and add up the tensions (T) right? With the tensions from each section I can get the ratio? Is this correct? I re-drew the drawing with my work on it. 9T:1T is my answer I just need someone to check that.
 

Attachments

  • pulley2.JPG
    pulley2.JPG
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Can anyone confirm my answer or is it off?
 
Check to verify the sum of the forces is equal to zero in both the X and Y directions. Also verify the tension in any given rope is constant. If both of these are good, then the system is in static equilibrium.
 

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