Transient and steady-state analysis of a thin cable unwinding from a pay-out dispenser

When a cable unwinds from a spool dispenser, the cable demonstrates transient nonlinear behavior that makes a balloon. A precise analysis of the unwinding behavior of a wound cable is necessary in the design of a spool dispenser. In this study, the steady and transient states of a thin cable unwinding from a cylindrical spool dispenser are analyzed. Simulation results are compared with experimental results to verify complex unwinding behavior, such as tangling. Transient analysis results are in good agreement with experimental results. However, the steady-state solution is not in good agreement with experimental results because nonlinear transient equations are transformed into steady-state equations with the time-dependent terms neglected. Many solutions according to numerous sets of tension forces and radial slopes at the guide eyelet are found in these time-dependent terms. Transient solutions are necessary in the design of a realistic and accurate spool dispenser.