James MacLean wrote: ...I have given the auto line tensioner a bit of thought....a bang bang sort of controller....the sensor...should be fairly simple....The controller...a simple 4 bit micro and a FET or relay to control the winch solenoid.... ===================== Yep, that's what I was thinking, Jim.
The sensor wouldn't have to be fabricated; sensors are available commercially from various sources, including: http://www.tensionmeters.com/elec.htm#MPHB-Series,%20Base%20Mount,%20Three%20Tension%20Sensors The sensor needs to be mounted on a sturdy frame that can be staked down. That would have to be machined, but it's a simple part. The controller should allow for integration of the readings over a variable interval, and should have circuitry to introduce hysteresis so that it pulses the winch solenoid at a pace that doesn't overload anything. When you think about it, the electronics aren't complicated. This could, at least in theory, address lots of issues. If the gadgets turned out to be not too expensive, it might catch on.
