Winch

A non-limiting exemplary embodiment of a winch includes a bearing housing, a one way bearing having an outer ring attached to the bearing housing, a bearing hub having a cylindrical section attached to an inner ring of the one way bearing, a friction disk having a first surface adjacent a disc of the bearing hub, a crank spool having a first disk adjacent a second surface of the friction disk, a crank housing configured for rotatably retaining the crank spool, a crank shaft extending through the bearing hub, through the friction disk, and into the crank spool, wherein a first end of the crank shaft is coupled to the crank spool, and a crank mechanism coupled to a second end of the crank shaft.

Not applicable.

TECHNICAL FIELD

The instant disclosure pertains to a winch.

BACKGROUND

U.S. Pat. No. 10,295,299 to Vergara discloses a cocking mechanism comprising an actuator assembly, a hand crank assembly, and a bow string hook assembly. The actuator assembly further comprises clutch assembly having a bearing housing, a bearing cage, a support axle and bearing elements. The bearing housing is defined by an inner peripheral surface having a plurality of inwardly extending annular ramps, wherein the bearing elements contact a portion of the ramps to prevent rotation of the support axle in a first direction, but allows for rotation of the support axle in a second direction when the actuator assembly is in a locked configuration. This provides for immediate braking action against any unforeseen forward motion of the bow string of a crossbow such as when inadvertently or accidently releasing the removable hand crank assembly during the cocking operation.

U.S. Pat. No. 10,260,835 to Pulkrabek discloses a system for cocking mechanism for a crossbow that uses an elongated handle pivotally attached to the center support to move a traveler engaged with the draw string from a release configuration to a drawing configuration and into engagement with a trigger assembly. A ratcheting mechanism prevents the elongated handle from moving toward the open configuration as the crossbow is being cocked.

U.S. Pat. No. 10,175,023 to Yehle discloses a cocking system for retracting a string carrier on a crossbow that is substantially silent during operation.

U.S. Pat. No. 10,126,088 to Yehle discloses a crossbow including first and second flexible limbs attached to a center rail. A draw string extends across the center rail that translates between a released configuration and a drawn configuration. A string carrier including a catch is movable between a closed position that engages the draw string and an open position that releases the draw string. The string carrier slides along the center rail to engage with the draw string in the released configuration and slides to a retracted position that locates the draw string in the drawn configuration. A retaining mechanism retains the string carrier in the retracted position and the draw string in the drawn configuration. A trigger moves the catch from the closed position to the open position to fire the crossbow when the string carrier is in the retracted position.

U.S. Pat. No. 10,082,359 to Yehle discloses a torque control system for cocking a crossbow. The cocking mechanism includes a rotating member mounted to the center rail and coupled to a flexible tension member attached to a string carrier. A cocking handle is configured to engage with the rotating member to cock the crossbow. A torque control mechanism limits output torque applied to the rotating member such that rotating the cocking handle after the string carrier is in the retracted position does not move the draw string past the drawn configuration.

U.S. Pat. No. 10,077,965 to Yehle discloses a cocking system for a crossbow wherein string carrier slides along the center rail during movement with the draw string in the released configuration to a retracted position that locates the draw string in the drawn configuration. A trigger is positioned to move the catch from the closed position and the open position to fire the crossbow when the string carrier is in the retracted position. At least one cocking rope is configured to engage with the string carrier to retract the string carrier and the draw string to the drawn configuration. A retaining mechanism retains the string carrier in the retracted position and the draw string in the drawn configuration independent of the cocking ropes.

U.S. Pat. No. 8,443,790 to Pestrue discloses a crossbow having a bowstring cocking winch apparatus, a cocking winch apparatus usable with a crossbow, and a method of operating the apparatus are described. The cocking winch apparatus includes a projecting alignment member having a non-round cross-sectional shape, where the alignment member is removably securable to a butt portion of a crossbow stock by inserting the alignment member into a correspondingly-shaped hole formed in the stock. The cocking winch apparatus provides a straight and balanced draw to the crossbow bowstring, enabling a user to easily cock the bowstring by rotating a handle to draw the bowstring back, and to place it in cocked position in the crossbow trigger mechanism.

U.S. Pat. No. 6,116,580 to Hull discloses a mechanical winch having a ratchet lever having a single pawl which may be positioned in either one of two orientations in order to preclude clockwise or counterclockwise movement of the winch, drum or reel. In each orientation, the ratchet lever may also be positioned in a free wheeling position for the drum.

U.S. Pat. No. 3,986,588 to Kuzarov discloses an automobile mounted winch having a clutch-brake assembly comprising a disc shaped ratchet plate positioned between two friction shoes, acting as a clutch in one direction and a speed governor in another direction, and a stationary brake. A plurality of friction buttons extend through the ratchet plate in a generally circular pattern, with each button engaging both shoes. Each button has an expanded head portion, and the buttons are oppositely arranged in an alternating pattern to centrally locate the ratchet between the two shoes and provide proper frictional engagement of the buttons with the shoes.

SUMMARY

A non-limiting exemplary embodiment of a winch includes a bearing housing, a one way bearing disposed within the bearing housing, a bearing hub, a friction disk, a crank spool, a crank housing configured for rotatably retaining the crank spool, a crank shaft, and a crank handle coupled to a threaded second end of the crank shaft. In some embodiments, the one way bearing includes an outer ring attached to the bearing housing, and an inner ring. In certain embodiments, the bearing hub includes a cylindrical section and a disk. In some embodiments, at least a portion of the cylindrical section is disposed within and attached to the inner ring of the one way bearing. In certain embodiments, the friction disk includes opposing first and second surfaces, wherein the first surface is adjacent the disk of the bearing hub. In some embodiments, the crank spool includes opposing first and second disks, wherein the first disk is adjacent the second surface of the friction disk. In certain embodiments, the crank shaft extends through the bearing hub, through the friction disk, and into the crank spool, wherein a first end of the crank shaft is coupled to the crank spool.

Another non-limiting exemplary embodiment of a winch includes a bearing housing, a one way bearing disposed within the bearing housing, a bearing hub, a crank spool, a crank housing configured for rotatably retaining the crank spool, a crank shaft, and a threaded crank handle coupled to a threaded second end of the crank shaft. In some embodiments, the one way bearing includes an outer ring attached to the bearing housing, and an inner ring. In certain embodiments, the bearing hub includes a cylindrical section and a disk. In some embodiments, at least a portion of the cylindrical section is disposed within and attached to the inner ring of the one way bearing. In certain embodiments, the crank spool includes opposing first and second disks, wherein the first disk is adjacent the disk of the bearing hub. In some embodiments, the crank shaft extends through the bearing hub and into the crank spool, wherein a first end of the crank shaft is coupled to the crank spool.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

One or more non-limiting exemplary embodiments are disclosed herein with reference to the accompanying drawings, wherein like numerals indicate like, but not necessarily identical, elements. It should be clearly understood that the embodiments described with reference to the drawings are merely exemplary in that any one or more of them may be implemented in alternative manner as may become apparent to a person of ordinary skills. The figures, wherein some features may have been exaggerated or minimized to illustrate details of particular components, are not necessarily to scale. Specific structural and/or functional features and details disclosed herein are not to be interpreted as limiting, but should rather be treated as a basis for teaching one of ordinary skills. There is no intent, implied or otherwise, to limit the disclosure in any way, shape or form to the embodiments illustrated and described herein. Accordingly, any and all variants for providing structures and/or functionalities similar to those described herein are considered as being within the metes and bounds of the instant disclosure.

FIGS.1A and1Bare perspective views of a non-limiting exemplary embodiment of a winch10of the instant disclosure as view from opposite sides; andFIG.2is a perspective view of the winch10in an unassembled state illustrating a pre-assembled arrangement of the various components. As will be described in further detail infra, the winch10includes a bearing housing12, a one way bearing14, a bearing hub16, a friction disk18, a crank spool20, a crank housing22, a crank shaft24, and a crank handle26.

FIGS.3A and3Bare perspective views of a non-limiting exemplary embodiment of the bearing housing12as viewed from opposite sides, andFIGS.3C and3D, respectively, are side views of the bearing housing12corresponding toFIGS.3A and3B. In some embodiments, the bearing housing12includes a first and a second opening28and30, respectively, and a keyway32in an inner surface34of the first opening28.

FIGS.4A and4Bare perspective views of a non-limiting exemplary embodiment of the one way bearing14as viewed from opposite sides, andFIG.4Cis a side view of the one way bearing14. Since one way bearings are well known in the art, a detailed description of the structure of the one way bearing14is considered not necessary. Briefly, the one way bearing14is defined at least in part by an inner ring36and an outer ring38, wherein one of the rings36and38is rotatable relative to the other in a first direction but is inhibited from rotating relative to that other in a second direction opposite the first direction. For instance, the inner ring36may rotate in the first direction relative to a stationary outer ring38, but the inner ring36is inhibited from rotating in the second direction relative to the stationary outer ring38. And, the outer ring38may rotate in the second direction relative to a stationary inner ring36, but the outer ring38is inhibited from rotating in the first direction relative to the stationary inner ring36.

In some embodiments of the one way bearing14, an inner surface40of the inner ring36includes a keyway42, and an outer surface44of the outer ring38includes a key seat46. In certain embodiments, the bearing housing12is configured for housing, and forming a keyed joint with, the one way bearing14. In some embodiments, the first opening28is configured for housing, and forming a keyed joint with, the one way bearing14. Accordingly, perhaps as best illustrated inFIGS.6A and6B, the one way bearing14is placed within the first opening28with the outer surface44of the outer ring38abutting or adjacent to the inner surface34of the first opening28. In certain embodiments, the keyway32and the key seat46are aligned and coupled to each other with a key48to form a keyed joint. In some embodiments, a fastener50is provided for ensuring the integrity of the keyed joint, i.e., to secure the key48for ensuring that it does not dislodge.

It should be readily apparent that when the bearing housing12and the one way bearing14are so assembled as described supra, the inner ring36of the one way bearing14will be enabled to rotate in a first direction while the outer ring38of the one way bearing14is held stationary by the bearing housing12, and the inner ring36of the one way bearing14will be inhibited from rotating in a second direction opposite the first direction while the outer ring38of the one way bearing14is held stationary by the bearing housing12.

FIGS.5A and5Bare perspective views of a non-limiting exemplary embodiment of the bearing hub16as viewed from opposite sides, andFIGS.5C and5D, respectively, are side views of the bearing hub16corresponding toFIGS.5A and5B. In some embodiments, the bearing hub includes a cylindrical section52, a disk54, an outer surface56, and a key seat58in an outer surface60of the cylindrical section52. In certain embodiments, perhaps as best illustrated inFIGS.6A and6B, at least a portion of the cylindrical section52is disposed within the inner ring36of the one way bearing14. In some embodiments, the cylindrical section52extends through the inner ring36and at least a portion of the cylindrical section52farthest from the disk54protrudes from or extends out from the inner ring36. In other words, at least a portion of the cylindrical section52protrudes from or extends out of the inner ring36on the side opposite from the side where the cylindrical section52enters the inner ring36. The key seat58in the outer surface60and the keyway42in the inner surface40of the inner ring36are aligned and coupled to each other with a key62to form a keyed joint.

In a non-limiting exemplary embodiment, the second opening30in the bearing housing12is configured for rotatably retaining or housing at least a portion of the disk54of the bearing hub16.

FIGS.7A and7Bare perspective views of a non-limiting exemplary embodiment of the friction disk18as viewed from opposite sides. In some embodiments, the friction disk18includes opposing first and second surfaces64and66, respectively. In certain embodiments, the first surface64of the friction disk18abuts or is adjacent to the outer surface56of the disk54.

In a non-limiting exemplary embodiment, the second opening30in the bearing housing12is configured for rotatably retaining or housing both the entirety of the disk54of the bearing hub16and at least a portion of the friction disk18.

FIGS.8A and8Bare perspective views of a non-limiting exemplary embodiment of the crank spool20viewed from opposite sides, andFIGS.8C and8D, respectively, are side views of the crank spool20corresponding toFIGS.8A and8B. In some embodiments, the crank spool20includes opposing first and second disks68and70, respectively, and a cylindrical section72extending between the disks68and70. In certain embodiments, an outer surface74of the first disk68abuts or is adjacent to the second surface66of the friction disk18.

FIGS.9A and9Bare perspective views of a non-limiting exemplary embodiment of the crank housing22as viewed from opposite sides, andFIGS.9C and9D, respectively, are side views of the crank housing22corresponding toFIGS.9A and9B. In some embodiments, the crank housing22is defined at least in part by opposing first and second openings76and78, respectively. In certain embodiments, the crank housing22is configured for rotatably retaining the crank spool20. To that end, the first and second disks68and70of crank spool20, respectively, are rotatably housed or retained in the first and second openings76and78of the crank housing22.

In a non-limiting exemplary embodiment, the winch10includes a first crank bearing80disposed between an outer surface82of the first disk68of the crank spool20and an inner surface84of the first opening76in the crank housing22; and the winch10includes a second crank bearing86disposed between an outer surface88of the second disk70of the crank spool20and an inner surface90of the second opening78in the crank housing22.

It should be readily apparent that when the crank spool20and the crank housing22are so assembled as described supra, the crank spool20is enabled to rotate un-hindered in either direction when the crank housing22is held stationary.

FIG.10is a perspective view of a non-limiting exemplary embodiment of the crank shaft24having first and second ends or sections92and94, respectively. In some embodiments, the crank shaft24and the crank spool20are configured for being coupled or attached or connected to each other such that the rotation of one, i.e., crank spool20or crank shaft24, induces the other to also rotate. In certain embodiments, the crank spool20includes connection points96A and96B in the cylindrical section72thereof, and the crank shaft24includes connection points98A and98B in the first end92thereof. In some embodiments, the cylindrical section72of the crank spool includes a passage or opening100configured for receiving or housing at least a portion of the first end92of the crank shaft24.

In certain embodiments, the connection points96A and96B extend through a wall102of the cylindrical section72of the crank spool20. In other words, the connection points96A and96B extend from an outer surface104into the passage100of the cylindrical section72of the crank spool20. In some embodiments, the cylindrical section72of the crank spool20includes additional connection points, such as for example directly opposite the connection points96A and96B, configured for extending a dowel or a pin through the passage100. In certain embodiments, the crank spool20includes either only one or more than two connection points96.

In some embodiments, the connection points98A and98B extend partly through the crank shaft24. In certain embodiments, the connection points98A and98B extend through the crank shaft24. In some embodiments, the crank shaft24includes either only one or more than two connection points98.

In a non-limiting exemplary embodiment, the crank spool20and the crank shaft24are coupled or attached to each other by disposing or placing or extending at least a portion of the first end92of the crank shaft24within or through the passage100of the crank spool20. In some embodiments, the one or more connection points96and98are aligned with each other, and a connector106extending through or into at least portions of connection points96and98couples the crank spool20and the crank shaft24to each other. A non-limiting exemplary embodiment of connector106is illustrated inFIG.2as connectors106A and106B. In some embodiments, the number of connectors106correspond to the number of connection points96and98.

The above described manner of coupling together the crank spool20and the crank shaft24should not be considered a requirement or limiting. All alternative configurations of the first end92of crank shaft24and the passage100in the crank spool20that are known or become known to a person of ordinary skills are considered as being within the meets and bounds of the instant disclosure. Also, all alternative manners of coupling or attaching the first end92of crank shaft24and the passage100in the crank spool20with each other that are known or become known to a person of ordinary skills are considered as being within the meets and bounds of the instant disclosure.

In a non-limiting exemplary embodiment, the crank spool20and the crank shaft24may be formed as a unitary component. In another non-limiting exemplary embodiment a keyed joint is used for coupling or attaching the crank spool20and the crank shaft24to each other.

It should be clearly understood that while one or more of the figures may illustrate and/or the description of the instant disclosure may imply one or more specific configurations and/or geometries, this should not be construed as a limitation or a requirement. Any one or more means for coupling or attaching the crank spool20and the crank shaft24to each other, as may be known or become known to a person of ordinary skills, are considered as being within the metes and bound of the instant disclosure. For instance, the one or more connectors106may be any one or more of a dowel, a pin, a screw, a nut and bolt, a keyed joint, a slotted joint, among others. In a non-limiting exemplary embodiment, one or more of the connection points96and/or98have complimentary configurations and/or geometries. As such, the connector106will have a configuration and/or geometry that corresponds to or complements that of one or both connection points96and98. For instance, in some embodiments, the connection point96A may be circular and the connection point98A may be a polygon, then the connector106A will have both a circular section and a polygon section, wherein the circular section of the connector106A will complement or correspond to the circular shape of the connection point96A and the polygon section of the connector106A will complement or correspond to the polygon shape of the connection point96B.

In a non-limiting exemplary embodiment, the second end or section94of the crank shaft24is threaded. However, as will described infra, this should not be construed as a requirement or a limitation.

FIG.11Ais a perspective view illustrating a sub-assembly112of the winch10in a semi-assembled configuration, andFIG.11Billustrates a pre-assembled arrangement of the portion of the winch10shown inFIG.11A. The assembly of the components illustrated inFIGS.11A and11Bis relatively simple and straight forward as has been sectionally described supra. In a non-limiting exemplary embodiment, the bearing housing12and the one way bearing14are assembled as described supra. The one way bearing14and the bearing hub16are assembled as described supra forming a sub-assembly112of the bearing housing12, the one way bearing14, and the bearing hub16. The first surface64of the friction disk18is placed adjacent to or abutting the outer surface56of the disk54of the bearing hub16as described supra forming a sub-assembly112of the bearing housing12, the one way bearing14, the bearing hub16, and the friction disk18. The outer surface74of the first disk68of the crank spool20is placed adjacent to or abutting the second surface66of the friction disk18as described supra forming a sub-assembly112of the bearing housing12, the one way bearing14, the bearing hub16, the friction disk18, and the crank spool20. The first and second crank bearings80and86are placed or disposed on or around the first and second disks68and70, respectively, of the crank spool20as described supra forming a sub-assembly112of the bearing housing12, the one way bearing14, the bearing hub16, the friction disk18, the crank spool20, and the first and second crank bearing80and86. The crank spool20having the first and second crank bearing80and86around the first and second disks68and70, respectively, and the crank housing22are assembled as described supra forming a sub-assembly112of the bearing housing12, the one way bearing14, the bearing hub16, the friction disk18, the crank spool20, first and second crank bearings80and86, and the crank housing22.

The crank shaft24, starting with the first end92, is extended through the bearing hub16, the friction disk18, and into the cylindrical section72of the crank spool20. The crank spool20and the crank shaft24are coupled or attached to each other as described supra forming a sub-assembly112of the bearing housing12, the one way bearing14, the bearing hub16, the friction disk18, the crank spool20, the crank housing22, and the crank shaft24. The bearing housing12and the crank housing22are coupled or attached to each other ensuring the sub-assembly112remains intact, i.e., does not dis-assemble.

The sub-assembly112illustrated inFIG.11Aand as described supra, composed of at least the bearing housing12, the one way bearing14, the bearing hub16, the friction disk18, the crank spool20, first and second crank bearings80and86, the crank housing22, and the crank shaft24, is a substantial portion of the fully-assembled winch10. In other words, the sub-assembly112illustrated inFIG.11Aand as described supra, essentially is the winch10without a means, e.g., a crank handle, for rotating the crank shaft24.

Notwithstanding, the sub-assembly112illustrated inFIG.11Aand as described supra, is operational or functional in accordance with a non-limiting exemplary embodiment of the instant disclosure. For instance, rotating the crank shaft24in a first direction, e.g., manually, will rotate the crank spool20in the same direction. And, the one way bearing14will inhibit the crank spool20and the crank shaft24from rotating in a second direction opposite the first direction.

The above described components for the winch sub-assembly112or the winch10and/or the manner in which they are assembled or coupled or attached to make the winch sub-assembly112illustrated inFIGS.11A and11Bshould not be considered limiting or a requirement. All alternative components for the winch sub-assembly112or the winch10that are known or become known to a person of ordinary skills are considered as being within the metes and bounds of the instant disclosure. Also, all alternative manners of assembling the above described components and/or alternative components to create the winch sub-assembly112or the winch10that are known or become known to a person of ordinary skills are considered as being within the metes and bounds of the instant disclosure.

FIGS.12A and12Bare perspective views of a non-limiting exemplary embodiment of a crank mechanism108for the winch10as viewed from opposite sides; andFIGS.12C and12D, respectively, illustrate the crank mechanism108in a pre-assembled arrangement. In some embodiments, the crank mechanism includes a handle mount110, a crank handle26, a handle lock/release lever114, and a hand grip116.

FIGS.13A and13Bare perspective views of a non-limiting exemplary embodiment of the handle mount110as viewed from opposite sides;FIGS.13C and13D, respectively, are side views of the handle mount110corresponding toFIGS.13A and13B; andFIG.13Eis an end view of the handle mount110illustrated inFIGS.13A-13D.

FIGS.14A and14B, respectively, are a perspective view and a side view of a non-limiting exemplary embodiment of the crank handle26.

In some embodiments, the handle mount110includes an attachment section118and a channel120. In certain embodiments, the attachment section118is configured for coupling or attaching the handle mount110and the crank shaft24to each other. Accordingly, in some embodiments, the attachment section118includes a threaded opening122for attaching or coupling the handle mount110and the threaded second end or section94of the crank shaft24. However, a threaded coupling should not be considered as a requirement or a limitation. Alternate configurations for attaching or coupling the crank shaft24and the handle mount110to each other that are known or become known to a person of ordinary skills are considered as being within the metes and bounds of the instant disclosure.

In some embodiments, the crank handle26extends between first and second ends124and126, respectively. In certain embodiments, at least a portion of the first end124and at least a portion of the channel120in the handle mount110are configured for being coupled or attached to each other. For instance, in some embodiments, the channel120is configured for slidingly receiving the first end124of the crank handle26.

In certain embodiments, the handle lock/release lever114includes a thumb (or finger) pad128and a hook or similar structure130. In some embodiments, the crank handle26and the handle lock/release lever114are configured for coupling or attachment to each other proximate the first end124of the crank handle26. In certain embodiments, the crank handle26and the handle lock/release lever114are pivotally coupled or attached to each other with a dowel or pin132. However, this should not be considered as a requirement or a limitation. Any mechanism for pivotally coupling the crank handle26and the handle lock/release lever114to each other that are known or become known to a person of ordinary skills are considered as being within the metes and bounds of the instant disclosure.

In certain embodiments, a biasing element134, such as for example a spring, pivotally biases the crank handle26and the thumb pad128away from each other on a first side136of the crank handle26. It should be clearly understood that any form or type of a biasing element that are known or become known to a person of ordinary skills are considered as being within the metes and bounds of the instant disclosure.

In a non-limiting exemplary embodiment, the crank handle26and the handle lock/release lever114are configured such that when they are pivotally coupled and the crank handle26and the thumb pad128are biased away from each other on the first side136of the crank handle26, the hook130extends beyond or protrudes away from a second side138of the crank handle26proximate the first end124of the crank handle26. In some embodiments, the handle mount110includes an opening140in a wall142of the channel120. In certain embodiments, the opening140is configured for receiving or housing or latching or coupling with at least a portion of the hook130.

In a non-limiting exemplary embodiment, the first end124of the crank handle26with the protruding portion of the hook130are inserted into the channel120through an opening144, and slid into the channel120. In some embodiments, the handle lock/release lever114pivots the protruded portion of the hook130away from the wall142of the channel120and pivots the thumb pad128towards the first side136of the crank handle26. As the crank handle26continues to slide into the channel120, and when the retracted portion of the hook130reaches the opening140in the wall142, the biasing element134displaces the thumb pad128away from the first side136of the handle26such that at least a portion of the hook130protrudes or extends away from the second side138of the crank handle26and latches with the opening140on the wall142of the channel120. Thereafter, while the biasing element134keeps the thumb pad128displaced away from the first side136of the handle26, the coupling between the hook130and the opening140couples or attaches the handle mount110and the crank handle26to each other, and inhibits their separation. For separating the handle mount110and the crank handle26from each other, i.e., for removing the crank handle26from the handle mount110, the user depresses the thumb pad128towards the first side136of the crank handle26, which in turn extracts the hook130out of the opening140in the wall142, and slides the first end124of the crank handle26out of the channel120.

In a non-limiting exemplary embodiment, the channel120is open at both ends. In some embodiments, handle mount110and the crank handle26can be coupled with each other by sliding the first end136of the crank handle26into the channel120from either opening.

In a non-limiting exemplary embodiment, the hand grip116is rotatably coupled with the crank handle26proximate the second end138thereof.

The above described components for the crank mechanism108and/or the manner in which they are assembled or coupled or attached to make the crank mechanism108illustrated inFIGS.12A and12Bshould not be considered limiting and/or a requirement. All alternative components for the crank mechanism108that are known or become known to a person of ordinary skills are considered as being within the metes and bounds of the instant disclosure. Also, all alternative manners of assembling the above described components and/or alternative components to create the crank mechanism108that are known or become known to a person of ordinary skills are considered as being within the metes and bounds of the instant disclosure.

In view of the foregoing, it should be readily apparent that the winch10results from assembling or coupling or attaching together the winch sub-assembly112illustrated inFIG.11Aand the crank mechanism108illustrated inFIGS.12A and12B. More specifically, the winch10results from assembling or coupling or attaching together the second end94of the crank shaft24protruding or extending from the winch sub-assembly112illustrated inFIG.11Aand the opening122in the crank mechanism108illustrated inFIGS.12A and12B.

The above described components for the winch10and/or the manner in which they are assembled or coupled or attached to make the winch10should not be considered limiting or a requirement. All alternative components for the winch10that are known or become known to a person of ordinary skills are considered as being within the metes and bounds of the instant disclosure. Also, all alternative manners of assembling the above described components and/or alternative components to create the winch10that are known or become known to a person of ordinary skills are considered as being within the metes and bounds of the instant disclosure.

In a non-limiting exemplary embodiment, the handle mount110and the crank handle26are configured as a unitary component. In another non-limiting exemplary embodiment, the second end94of the crank shaft24and the first end124of the crank handle26are configured for coupling with each other, in which case the handle mount110may not be required. In some embodiments, the second end94of the crank shaft24and the first end124of the crank handle26have complementary threads. However, this should not be considered a requirement or limiting. All alternative manners of attaching or coupling together the crank shaft24and the crank handle26that are known or become known to a person of ordinary skills are considered as being within the metes and bounds of the instant disclosure. For example, the coupling may be a keyed joint or a slotted joint, among others.

While the crank shaft24is illustrated as substantially circular or cylindrical, this should not be construed as a requirement or a limitation. All alternative shapes, designs, etc., that are known or become known to a person of ordinary skills are considered as being within the metes and bounds of the instant disclosure. For example, in a non-limiting exemplary embodiment, the crank shaft24may have a polygonal profile, and therefore the components or passages through which the crank shaft24extends will be configured similarly so that the crank shaft24does not “slip” when rotated.

In a non-limiting exemplary embodiment, the winch10is used for pulling and releasing a load. Accordingly, a strap146, or something similar, having a first and a second end148and150, respectively, is provided for this purpose. The second end150of the strap146is configured for attaching the load.FIG.15In some embodiments, the first end148of the strap146is attached to the crank spool20such that the strap146winds on or unwinds from the cylindrical section72of the crank spool20when the crank spool20is rotated. In certain embodiments, the first end148of the strap146is attached to the cylindrical section72of the crank spool20. In some embodiments, a strap pin152extends through an opening in the first end148of the strap146, and the opposite ends of the strap pin152are attached to the first and second disks68and70of the crank spool20. All alternative configurations and manners of attaching the strap146to the crank spool20that are known or become known to a person of ordinary skill are considered as being within the metes and bounds of the instant disclosure.

The following is a non-limiting exemplary embodiment of the operation of the winch10. With a load attached to the second end150of the strap146, the hand grip116is used to rotate the crank mechanism108in a first direction for pulling the load. Since the crank shaft24and the crank mechanism108are threaded, the rotating crank mechanism108is linearly displaced towards the winch sub-assembly112until at least a portion of the handle mount110of the crank assembly108abuts or is adjacent to a portion of the cylindrical section52of the bearing hub16protruding from or extending out of the inner ring36of the one way bearing14. Continued rotation of the crank mechanism108generates: (i) a first compressive force acting on the disk54of the bearing hub12and on the first surface64of the friction disk18; and (ii) a second compressive force acting on the second surface66of the friction disk18and the outer surface74of the first disk68of the crank spool20. In some embodiments, the first compressive force creates a substantially frictionless bond between the bearing hub16and the friction disk18, and the second compressive force creates a substantially frictionless bond between the friction disk18and the crank spool20. Thus, the combination of the first and second compressive forces, now referred to as the combined compressive force, creates a substantially frictionless bond between the bearing hub16and the crank spool20. The continued rotation of the crank mechanism108in the first direction increases the combined compressive force, and the strap146winds or continues to wind on the crank spool20in the first direction, minimizes or eliminates any slack in the strap146, pulls the load, and the strap146is subjected to tension.

As described above, at least a portion of the handle mount110of the crank mechanism108abuts or is adjacent to a portion of the cylindrical section52of the bearing hub16protruding from or extending out of the inner ring36of the one way bearing14. Rotation of the crank mechanism108in the first direction will exert or induce a compressive force on the cylindrical section52of the bearing hub16protruding from or extending out of the inner ring36of the one way bearing14. It should be noted that this compressive force acting on the protruding portion of the cylindrical section52is at least one of the forces contributing to the above described combined compressive force.

Now then, if the user stops rotating the crank mechanism108in the first direction and releases or “let's go of” the hand grip116, the combined compressive force does not dissipate and continues to maintain the substantially frictionless bond between the bearing hub16and the crank spool20, and the strap146remains under tension due to the load attached to the second end thereof. However, the crank spool20does not rotate in a second direction opposite the first direction and, therefore, the strap146does not unwind from the crank spool20and the load is held at substantially the same location as when the hand grip116was released. The rotation of the crank spool20in the second direction and the unwinding of the strap146is inhibited by the one way bearing14, and more particularly by the inner ring36of the one way bearing14. And, the load continues to be held at substantially the same location as when the hand grip116was released.

Now, to enable the crank spool20to rotate in the second direction and unwind the strap146therefrom, the user rotates the crank mechanism108in the second direction whereby the combined compressive force starts to decrease. The reduction in the combined compressive force induces or enables at least some slippage between the bearing hub16and the friction disk16and/or between the friction disk18and the crank spool20, whereby the crank spool20can at least partially rotate in the second direction and at least a portion of the strap146can unwind from the crank spool20. It should be noted that the combined compressive force never dissipates completely while the strap146is under tension due to the load at the second end150thereof. If the user were to release the hand grip116or stop rotating the crank mechanism108in the second direction while the strap146remains under tension due to load at the second end150thereof, the combined compressive force continues to maintain the substantially frictionless bond between the bearing hub16and the crank spool20, and the one way bearing14, and more particularly the inner ring36of the one way bearing14, inhibits the crank spool20from rotating in the second direction and the strap146cannot unwind from the crank spool20. In a non-limiting exemplary embodiment, if there is slippage due to a partial reduction in the combined compressive force, the tension on the strap146will attempt to rotate the crank spool20, and the crank shaft24, in the second direction. However, any such rotation in the second direction will cause the second end94of the crank shaft24to “thread into” the handle mount110abutting or adjacent to the cylindrical section52of the bearing hub16that protrudes from or extends out of the inner ring36of the one way bearing14. This then ensures that the combined compressive force maintains the substantially frictionless bond between the bearing hub16and the crank spool20, and the one way bearing14will engage or “assert itself” or “kick-in” to inhibit further rotation of the crank spool20in the second direction and the unwinding of the strap146.

When the strap146is not under tension such as when there is no load at the second end150of the strap146, any portion of the strap146still wound on the cranks spool20cannot be unwound by simply pulling on the strap146because the one way bearing14will inhibit the crank spool20from rotating in the second direction. In other words, the one way bearing14, and more particularly the inner ring36of the one way bearing14, will inhibit “free wheeling” the strap146from the crank spool20. In a non-limiting exemplary embodiment, the winch10includes one or more knobs or anchors154A and154B on an outer surface156of the second disk70of the crank spool20. When the strap146needs to be removed, i.e., “free wheeled” from the crank spool20, the user grabs and holds on to the one or more of the knobs154with one hand and rotates the crank mechanism108in the second direction. Grabbing and holding the one or more knobs154while rotating the crank mechanism108in the second direction inhibits or prevents the crank spool20, and the crank shaft24, from also rotating and enables the crank mechanism108to decouple, e.g., unthread, from the second end94of the crank shaft24. As the crank mechanism108unwinds, the portion of the handle mount110of the crank mechanism108abutting the cylindrical section52of the bearing hub16protruding from the inner ring36of the one way bearing14separate from each other. Accordingly, the compressive force acting on the portion of the cylindrical section52of the bearing hub16protruding from the inner ring36of the one way bearing14decreases substantially and/or dissipates. Consequently, the combined compressive force also decreases substantially and/or dissipates, and the crank spool20can be rotated freely in the second direction without hinderance or interference from the one way bearing14. The user can simply grab the strap146and “free wheel” it from the crank spool20.

While there may be several instances or applications for using the winch10, one known application is for cocking a crossbow. In a non-limiting exemplary embodiment, the winch10is mounted on a crossbow and the second end150of the strap146is attached to the bowstring which is not cocked or drawn. The crank mechanism108is rotated in the first direction which causes the strap146to wind onto the cranks spool20and pull or draw the bowstring towards the butt of the crossbow for cocking. When the bowstring is fully drawn, it is attached to and held by the trigger mechanism of the crossbow. The user then detaches the second end150of the strap146from the cocked bowstring, and the crossbow made ready for firing. It should be noted that in this particular application, and in sharp contrast to the crossbow winchs known in the art, the user can stop rotating the crank mechanism108and pulling the bowstring at any time, and the partially drawn bowstring will be held at the location it was at when the user stopped rotating the crank mechanism108.

In a non-limiting exemplary embodiment, the friction disk18is configured for a substantially frictionless interface between the bearing hub16and the crank spool20. In particular, the friction disk18is configured for a substantially frictionless interface between the outer surface56of the disk54of the bearing hub16and the first surface64of the friction disk18; and also for a substantially frictionless interface between the second surface66of the friction disk18and the outer surface74of the first disk68of the crank spool20. Accordingly, in some embodiments, rotation of the crank spool20in a first direction will cause the friction disk18, the bearing hub16, and the inner ring36of the one way bearing14to rotate in the first direction; and rotation of the crank spool20in a second direction opposite the first direction will be inhibited by the one way bearing14, i.e., the inner ring36will inhibit rotation of the crank spool20in the second direction as described supra.

In another non-limiting exemplary embodiment, the winch10does not include the friction disk18. Accordingly, the outer surface56of the disk54of the bearing hub16and the outer surface74of the first disk68of the crank spool20are configured for providing a substantially frictionless interface therebetween. Accordingly, in some embodiments, rotation of the crank spool20in a first direction will cause the bearing hub16and the inner ring36of the one way bearing14to rotate in the first direction; and rotation of the crank spool20in a second direction opposite the first direction will be inhibited by the one way bearing14, i.e., the inner ring36will inhibit rotation of the crank spool20in the second direction as described supra.

In yet another non-limiting exemplary embodiment, the friction disk18is configured for enabling a substantially frictionless rotational interface with adjacent or abutting components at one or both opposing surfaces, i.e., first and second surfaces,64and66in a first direction; and the friction disk18is configured for at least partially inhibiting rotation in a second direction opposite the first direction at the interface with adjacent or abutting components.

In view thereof, modified and/or alternate configurations of the embodiments described herein may become apparent or obvious to one of ordinary skill. All such variations are considered as being within the metes and bounds of the instant disclosure. For instance, while reference may have been made to particular feature(s) and/or function(s), the disclosure is considered to also encompass any and all equivalents providing functionalities similar to those disclosed herein with reference to the accompanying drawings. Accordingly, the spirit, scope and intent of the instant disclosure is to embrace all such variations. Consequently, the metes and bounds of the instant disclosure are defined by the appended claims and any and all equivalents thereof.