Adjustable Knee Ascender Webbing and Bungee System
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Solution Overview
Problem
Knee ascenders have a fixed or limited adjustable distance between the ascender and foot loop, restricting user mobility and requiring tool-based adjustments, which is inconvenient for field use and accommodating varying user heights.
Innovation Solution
An adjustable knee ascender design featuring a webbing material with an integrated adjusting mechanism and a retractable cord system, allowing for tool-free length adjustment and increased bungee travel, enabling a wide range of motion and accommodating different user heights.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If the distance between the knee ascender and foot loop is fixed, then the structure is simple and easy to manufacture, but the adaptability to different user heights and the range of motion are limited
Solution Approach 1:
The webbing length is made adjustable through a dynamic adjusting mechanism that allows the distance between the knee ascender and foot loop to be changed according to different user heights and preferences, transforming a static fixed structure into a dynamic adjustable one
Solution Approach 2:
The webbing is divided into multiple sections with adjustment capabilities, allowing independent modification of the distance between components to accommodate varying user requirements
2Ease of operation
If the webbing length is adjusted using tools or component swapping, then the length can be modified, but the ease of operation and convenience for field use are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The adjusting mechanism is designed to be operated directly by the user without requiring external tools or assistance, allowing self-adjustment in the field
Solution Approach 2:
The adjusting mechanism is pre-configured with adjustment holes or markings that guide the user through the adjustment process, eliminating the need for complex tool-based procedures
3Length of moving object
If the bungee cord length is limited, then the device structure is compact, but the range of motion and travel distance are restricted
Solution Approach 1:
The bungee cord length is made adjustable to allow different travel distances based on user requirements, transforming a fixed-length elastic cord into a dynamically adjustable system
Solution Approach 2:
The bungee system incorporates a retractable housing mechanism that adds a dimensional aspect to cord storage and deployment, allowing extended travel distance while maintaining compact storage
4Adaptability or versatility
If the webbing and bungee components are made longer to accommodate full range of motion, then the range of motion is improved, but the device becomes less economical and more complex
Solution Approach 1:
Adjustable-length webbing and bungee components allow a single device to accommodate multiple user heights and motion requirements, eliminating the need to manufacture multiple fixed-length versions
Solution Approach 2:
The adjusting mechanisms enable the same webbing and bungee components to serve multiple users with different height requirements, increasing the universal applicability of each component
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The adjustable design provides a convenient, economical, and versatile knee ascender that supports user weight and mobility, allowing for easy adjustment and replacement of components, enhancing climbing efficiency and safety by accommodating various user heights without the need for tools.
Implementation Method 1
a cord having a first end and a second end, constructed of materials having elastic properties; and the second end of the cord is attached to the mechanical ascender
Data Source
AI summary
A self-advancing knee ascender comprising:a piece of webbing having a first end and a second end, thereby defining a length;an adjusting mechanism arranged at a location on the webbing length;a webbing loop arranged at the second end of said webbing;a first linking mechanism removably attached to the webbing loop;a mechanical ascender attached to the first end of the webbing;a cord having a first end and a second end, constructed to have elastic properties, wherein the second end of the cord is attached to the mechanical ascender; anda second linking mechanism movably attached at a point along the cord.