Mulyiplying the effect on the load in a rope system?

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    Load Rope System
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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around a mechanical system involving ropes and pulleys, specifically focusing on achieving a "multiplication" effect where a small movement on one side results in a larger movement on the load side. Participants explore the mechanics of pulley systems and their applications in lifting loads.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Technical explanation
  • Homework-related

Main Points Raised

  • Desmond seeks a mechanism that allows a 2-inch movement on one side to produce a 4-inch movement on the load side.
  • One participant explains that the current setup will only provide a reversal of force and suggests that a compound pulley system is necessary to achieve the desired mechanical advantage.
  • Another participant notes that typical pulley systems operate in the opposite manner, where pulling the rope a certain distance results in a lesser movement of the load.
  • Desmond expresses gratitude for the feedback and mentions that he has found helpful diagrams of compound pulley systems.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants generally agree that a compound pulley system is needed for the desired effect, but there is no consensus on the specific implementation or design details. The discussion includes differing perspectives on the mechanics of pulley systems.

Contextual Notes

Participants reference the need for a braced position for the system, indicating potential limitations in the setup. There are also mentions of typical pulley mechanics that may not align with Desmond's goals.

Who May Find This Useful

Individuals interested in mechanical systems, particularly those studying physics or engineering concepts related to pulleys and load lifting mechanisms.

Desmond108
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Alright, so this is a crude drawing of my current system set-up:

http://img233.imageshack.us/img233/3570/loadtx3.png

So what I want is a "multiplication" effect, like a 2 inch movement on the "A" side will cause a 4 inch movement on the load side.

So what should I put in the red circle to get this effect?
 
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Welcome to PF, Desmond.
The setup as shown will simply give you a reversal of force. That is, you will need to pull down on the user end of the rope with a force in excess of the load's weight. It doesn't matter what sort of wheel you put at the top.
To gain (or in your case lose) mechanical advantage, you need a compound pulley system.
Note that pulley systems are usually applied for the opposite of your goal. Pulling the rope 1 foot will result in a 6 inch movement of the load, but requires only half of the force.
Your goal is usually achieved by other means.
 
This sounds like homework.

Desmond, have a think about how you could use another pulley to lift the load more quickly than you're pulling. If not; have a look at some simple lifting arrangements on cranes.
 
Thanks a lot guys, I just looked at some diagrams of compound pulley systems and now I have what I need (well, I still got to put the system in a braced position).

You guys have been really helpful, I'm glad I joined PF.

My physics course at school in going to start soon so I'll probably be here more often then.
 
No problem.

Danger - you need to clear out your PM box.
 
brewnog said:
No problem.

Danger - you need to clear out your PM box.

Tell me about it. :rolleyes:
The problem is that I keep all of my PM's, because they're important to me. I used to clean out the box by saving them to HD. Then W killed my computer a couple of months ago, so I have to use either this one at work or hers at home. Either way, I don't have a place to stash them. I'm thinking to relocate one of my desktop or tower Mac's to a room with an electrical outlet and drop my stuff in there.
Unfortunately, my e-mail account is similarly plagued, so you can't even get hold of me that way. I'll gladly PM you my phone #, but there might be a problem with the time zones. It's a cell, so I have it on all of the time, but I might not be awake.
 

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