Abstract: The traction unit comprises two pairs or sets of two or more capstans. The capstans of each pair or set have a common axis and the axes of each pair or set are in spaced apart parallel relationship. One of the capstans of each pair or set is larger in diameter than the other or one of the other capstans of the respective pair or set of capstans. Cycloidal gears, preferably an epicycloidal gear drive, is provided between the capstans of each pair or at least two of the capstans of each respective set, with one of the capstans of one pair or set being strapped to a capstan of the other pair or set of capstans or a differential coupling/load-power transmission is provided between a capstan of one pair or set and a capstan of the other pair or set.

Abstract: A multi-capstan winch has a pair of haulage capstans and at least one delivery capstan associated therewith. In delivering cable to the haulage capstans, the delivery capstan considerably reduces the loading on the cable, thereby allowing haulage capstans of a reduced diameter and weight. The delivery capstan is preferably coaxial with one of the haulage capstans, is a single groove capstan, has a relatively larger diameter than that of the haulage capstans, and has a cable wrap of greater than 180 degrees, but less than 306 degrees, preferably on the order of 220 degrees. Advantageously, the winch is driven by a chain of gears having the majority of the gears being mounted on shafts which lie substantially in a horizontal plane passing through the axes of the capstans.

Abstract: There is provided a winch which comprises at least one, preferably twin, haulage drums, at least one haulage wheel for delivering cable to the drum, and drive mechanism for rotating the haulage drum and the haulage wheel. Advantageously, the winch comprises twin haulage drums, a chain of gears for driving the haulage drums, the majority of the gears being mounted on shafts which lie substantially in a substantially horizontal plane passing substantially through the axes of the haulage drums, at least one haulage wheel for delivering cable to the twin haulage drums, and drive mechanism for rotating the twin haulage drums and the haulage wheel.