How does a winch release work?

Question

I am trying to make a catapult, and its being wound with a winch. do winches release, and unwind automatically, after unlatching it?

Thanks

Answer 1

I don't know your intent but would assume it's an academic project.  If that is the case don't use a modern winch because to ge the torque you need they would be geared.  Do a search on Wikipedia, http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Main_Page for Catapults and you'll probably find just what you need.  

Winches have to hold the load at all times.  This is accomplished with a simple ratchet mechanism.  Sailboat winches don't have a lock.  You have to hold it.  The release is just a matter of releasing the ratchet.

Good Luck!!

Answer 2

Some winches will release. but if you're using it for a catapult you don't want to use that feature for the trigger.  If you did the wire or rope or whatever it is that you are using would get ratnested due to the drum continuing to spin after the tension was released.  What you want to do is think of a way that the catapult can be held and thenm released without spooling the wire off of the drum.  Your trigger can be as simple as an axe and is limited only by your imagination.